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Several significant seaside forts exist in India where historical and architectural elements combine with seaside views. These sea forts in India were built to protect vital ports from invaders while withstanding the strong ocean waves. From intricate alleys to grand jharokhas, every corner of these forts tells stories of the past. These exceptional maritime structures provide visitors with unforgettable waterfront encounters, including historical sightseeing overlooking the Indian Seas.
Top 10 Sea Forts In India
Let’s explore India’s 10 most stunning seaside forts, where history meets the roaring waves, and architectural brilliance stands tall against time.
1. Murud-Janjira Fort, Maharashtra
Photo: Adinath Gilande / Pexels
Murud-Janjira Fort is a formidable island fort known for its impressive architecture and history of being unconquered. The fort’s robust walls and strategic location made it a significant naval defence structure. It was constructed on an oval-shaped rock island and remains an architectural marvel. The fort houses 19 bastions, towering at 40 feet, and numerous cannons used in battle. Visitors can explore the ruined structures, hidden passageways, and temples within its walls, giving a glimpse into the life of the warriors who defended it.
Nearest Airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai
Nearest Railway Station: Roha Railway Station
2. Sindhudurg Fort, Maharashtra
Photo: Aparnavenugopal / Wikimedia Commons
Sindhudurg Fort, built on a rocky island, is the best sea fort in India, which showcases the brilliance of Maratha naval defence and remains a symbol of Shivaji Maharaj’s strategic foresight. The fort spans 48 acres and is fortified with large, largely intact walls. A hidden entrance and underground escape tunnels demonstrate the architectural genius of the time. The fort also has a unique temple dedicated to Shivaji Maharaj, where his hand and footprints are preserved.
Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport, Goa
Nearest Railway Station: Kudal Railway Station
3. Aguada Fort, Goa
Photo: Danger54 / Wikimedia Commons
Aguada Fort, perched at the mouth of the Mandovi River, is one of India’s most well-preserved Portuguese forts, offering views of the Arabian Sea. This is one of the top sea forts in India and was designed to provide fresh water to passing ships, which is why the name ‘Aguada’ is derived from the Portuguese word for water. The fort includes an extensive storage system that holds 2,376,000 gallons of water. It also houses a four-storey lighthouse, the oldest in Asia.
Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport / Dabolim Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Karmali Railway Station
4. Bekal Fort, Kerala
Photo: Anand Singh / Wikimedia Commons
Bekal Fort, Kerala’s largest and best-preserved fort, is known for its keyhole-shaped structure and stunning panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. The fort was primarily built as a defence post, evident in the presence of extensive trenches and tunnels for strategic movement. The fort’s seaside location makes it one of Kerala’s most visually stunning places. It has also been featured in several Indian films, adding to its cultural significance and stands to be the most popular sea forts in India.
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Bekal Fort Railway Station
5. Diu Fort, Daman and Diu
Photo: Ankit Rainloure / Pexels
Diu Fort served as a crucial stronghold along India’s western coastline, featuring high stone walls and ancient cannons. The fort was constructed to protect Portuguese interests from invasions by Mughal and other regional forces. One of the most impressive aspects of the fort is its triple moat system, which made direct attacks nearly impossible. Inside the fort, visitors can explore old barracks, underground escape routes, and a grand lighthouse. Diu Fort is one of the most famous sea forts in India, offering a panoramic view of the Arabian
Nearest Airport: Diu Airport / DIU
Nearest Railway Station: Veraval Railway Station
6. Vijaydurg Fort, Maharashtra
Photo: Designbymind / Wikimedia Commons
Vijaydurg Fort, often called the “Gibraltar of the East”, is a testament to Maratha’s naval strength. Strategically located along the Konkan coast, the fort features massive walls and a unique undersea wall designed to damage invading ships. The fort was crucial in Maratha naval battles, serving as an important dockyard where warships were built. It is also believed to be the site where Helium was first discovered by French astronomer Jules Janssen in 1868. Vijaydurg Fort is a keepsake to its name and is one of the most historical sea forts in India.
Nearest Airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai; Dabolim Airport, Goa
Nearest Railway Station: Kankavli Railway Station
7. Devgad Fort, Maharashtra
Photo: Mvkulkarni23 / Wikimedia Commons
Devgad Fort, situated near the town of Devgad, served as a coastal defence structure and played a role in monitoring maritime activities along the Arabian Sea. It was primarily used to monitor enemy movements and protect trade routes. The fort is surrounded by thick vegetation and features ancient ramparts and bastions that still stand strong today. Nearby attractions include Devgad Beach and the famous Alphonso mango orchards, which makes this fort a must-visit Indian Sea fort.
Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport / Dabolim Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kankavli Railway Station
8. Alibag Fort / Kolaba Fort, Maharashtra
Photo: Chirag Upadhyay / Wikimedia Commons
Alibag Fort is situated 2 kms off the coast of Alibag and is also known as Kolaba Fort. This sea fort in India served as a naval station and played a crucial role in Maratha maritime activities. It features high walls, numerous bastions, temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha and other deities, and freshwater wells within its premises, which is rare for a sea fort. During low tide, the fort is accessible by foot, while during high tide, boats are used to reach it.
Nearest Airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai
Nearest Railway Station: Pen Railway Station
9. Chapora Fort, Goa
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
Adil Shah of Bijapur originally built Chapora Fort; the Portuguese later reconstructed the fort in 1617 to strengthen their control over Goa. It was strategically significant, providing a resilient stronghold against attacks from the Marathas. Chapora Fort is easily one of the best sea forts in India, providing beautiful sunset views from the fort. Being easily accessible, the fort draws large crowds in the evening to capture images and spend a relaxing time.
Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport / Dabolim Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Thivim Railway Station
10. Manora Fort, Tamil Nadu
Photo: RealinRear / Wikimedia Commons
Manora Fort, located in Tamil Nadu’s Thanjavur district, is a stunning coastal fortress that showcases a unique architectural style. The fort symbolises his victory over Napoleon’s forces. The fort has an eight-storey hexagonal tower that rises 75 feet high, offering beautiful views of the Bay of Bengal. This was originally used as a watchtower to monitor naval threats and served as a lighthouse guiding ships.
Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Pattukkottai Railway Station
India is home to some of the most stunning sea forts, from the mighty Sindhudurg Fort in Maharashtra to the picturesque Bekal Fort in Kerala. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature admirer, or an adventure seeker, these sea forts in India offer a unique glimpse into India’s rich maritime past. Book your trip with TripXL and journey through India’s historic seaside forts, where history meets adventure.
Cover Photo: Nirmal Rajendharkumar / Pexels
