Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Sindhudurg Fort, situated on the Maharashtra coast, is paramount to Maratha rule. Established in 1664 by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, this brilliant fort served as one of the defence centres to fight against the invading forces of the Maratha Empire. The fort of Sindhudurg is famous for its strategic location, architectural brilliance, and history. Sindhudurg Fort is one attraction that must be visited due to its scenic sea views, well-preserved fortifications, and fascinating stories. Exploring Sindhudurg offers a glimpse into fascinating stories of Maratha bravery, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travellers alike.
Sindhudurg Fort Location
Photo: Vaishnavi lakade / Wikimedia Commons
The Sindhudurg Fort is situated on an islet in the Arabian Sea, a little off the coast at Malvan in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra. Shivaji Maharaj chose this strategic location for his defences and proximity to Goa, which the Portuguese then ruled. The fort is enclosed by the vast expanse of the Arabian Sea, thus coming under natural protection and a breathtaking coastal panorama. To the visiting tourists, one would get a spectacular view of the sea and the Malvan coastline.
How To Reach Sindhudurg Fort
Photo: Siddharthgharat / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: Goa International Airport, located 130 km away, is the nearest airport. One can hire a taxi or public transport from the airport to Malvan and then take a boat to the fort.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Sindhudurg Fort is Kudal, about 25 km from Malvan. Kudal is well-connected to major cities, such as Mumbai and Pune. From Kudal, you may hire a taxi or take a bus to Malvan and then proceed for a boat trip to reach the fort.
By Road: Sindhudurg Fort is 146 km from Goa on the NH-66 highway from the major cities of Mumbai and Pune. Regular buses and private vehicles are available in Malvan; from there, a boat is available to the fort.
Places To Visit In And Around Sindhudurg Fort
Here are some captivating places to explore when visiting Sindhudurg Fort and its surroundings:
1. Tarkarli Beach
Photo: Asifkhan31416 / Wikimedia Commons
Tarkarli Beach is one of the most famous locations near Sindhudurg Fort. Known for its crystal-clear seas and golden sands, it is a hotspot for water sports like scuba diving, swimming, and paragliding. The beach is also famous for its beautiful sunset views, making it ideal for a relaxed evening. Tarkarli’s colourful coral reefs attract marine life lovers who want to explore the underwater world. Apart from water activities, the beach offers a peaceful environment ideal for long walks or a quiet lunch with family.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
2. Rock Garden
Photo: Ankur Panchbudhe / Wikimedia Commons
The Rock Garden in Malvan is located next to the Sindhudurg Fort, offering a different topography through which one can peek at the waves of the Arabian Sea as they crash against a rocky outcrop. The garden is highly landscaped with stone benches and walkways, offering a perfect venue for a relaxed evening. The place is ideal for photography and provides excellent sunset views. The garden also has small food stalls to enjoy snacks while watching the scene.
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
3. Malvan Marine Sanctuary
Photo: Luisa Denu / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Nature lovers visiting Sindhudurg Fort should explore the Malvan Marine Sanctuary, a 29 sq. km. haven of rich marine biodiversity. It is home to diverse species, such as corals, sea turtles, and vibrant fish varieties. The sanctuary offers thrilling snorkelling and scuba diving experiences, allowing visitors to discover its underwater beauty. Well-maintained and guided by experts, the refuge also provides tours for those interested in learning more about marine life. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy nature’s wonders during their trip to Sindhudurg.
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50
4. Jai Ganesh Mandir
Photo: DEZALB / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
One of the several beautiful temples in Malvan, near Sindhudurg Fort, is Jai Ganesh Mandir. It was built by the renowned astrologer Jayantrao Salgaonkar and worshipped Lord Ganesha. This temple is different from the others due to its golden idol of Lord Ganesha, which attracts thousands of devotees yearly. The temple’s architecture seems intricate, giving one a calm ambience to love to meditate or pray there. It is an ideal place where visitors can spend their spiritual retreat while appreciating the beauty surrounding the temple. The temple is very well-maintained, serene, and calming.
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
5. Devbagh Beach
Photo: Wunderphotos1951 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Devbagh Beach is a quiet jewel close to Sindhudurg Fort and is one of the lesser visited beach areas compared to the other beaches in the locale. The clean and quiet shoreline offers quality solitude. Devbagh Beach is known for dolphin-watching; boat trips are available so that the magnificent creatures of the deep can be seen. Devbagh Beach is ideal for water sports activities such as jet skiing and parasailing. Devbagh is a perfect haven for nature lovers.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Where To Stay
Photo: davidlee770924 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
There are various housing choices near Sindhudurg Fort, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxury villas. For an authentic experience, many tourists opt to stay in traditional homestays, where they can connect with locals and enjoy fresh Malvani food. The town of Malvan has several guesthouses and hotels that offer comfortable stays at reasonable prices. For a more luxurious experience, motels along Tarkarli Beach offer premium rooms with beautiful sea views.
Where To Eat
Photo: stevepb / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Malvan is famous for its delicious Malvani cuisine, known for its intense flavours and fish delicacies. Near Sindhudurg Fort, local restaurants and shacks offer traditional meals such as fish curry, sol kadhi, and fried crabs. Some famous places in the area include Athithi Bamboo, Chaitanya Restaurant, and Hotel Sagar Kinara. For a whole Malvani experience, try the local thali, which generally provides rice, chapati, fish soup, and kokum-based sol kadhi. Whether you’re a fan of seafood or veggie meals, the local places around Malvan will leave you hungry for more.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Debazoti1985 / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Sindhudurg Fort is between October and March, when the weather is nice and cool. The temperature is mild during these months, and the sea stays calm, making the boat ride to the fort entertaining. The summer season (June to September) brings heavy rainfall, which can make travel and viewing difficult, but the fort and surrounding areas become green and beautiful. Summer (April to May) can be hot and humid, but it’s still doable for those accustomed to warm climes. If you’re interested in water sports like swimming and scuba diving, the winter months offer excellent conditions.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Kanj Saurav / Wikimedia Commons
Average Trip Cost To Sindhudurg Fort
The average trip cost to Sindhudurg Fort can vary depending on your travel method and lodging choices. A cheap trip, including train travel, local stay, and food, can run from ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 per person for a two-day visit. For those who prefer plane trips and luxury destinations, the cost can range from ₹10,000 to ₹15,000. The entry fee to Sindhudurg Fort is small, while extra activities like water sports can add to the total cost. Overall, the trip can be adjusted based on your income and tastes.
Tips For Travellers
- Carry sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun while exploring the fort.
- Book your boat ride to Sindhudurg Fort in advance during peak tourist seasons.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking a lot inside the fort.
- Keep a water bottle with you, especially during summer.
- If visiting in the monsoon, carry rain gear as the region experiences heavy rainfall.
Sindhudurg Fort is a historical wonder, giving tourists a glimpse into the history of the Maratha Empire. This fort offers a fantastic experience, whether you’re here to explore the best things to do in Sindhudurg Fort or soak in the coast’s beauty. Book your journey through TripXL for more exciting activities and get the best deals on your next trip.
Cover Photo: Aparnavenugopal / Wikimedia Commons
