Sindhudurg Fort is a historic sea fort located near Malvan town in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra. It was built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the 17th century to strengthen the Maratha Navy and protect the Konkan coastline from enemy attacks. The fort stands on a rocky island known as Kurte Island, about half a kilometer from the Malvan shore in the Arabian Sea.
The name Sindhudurg means “Fort in the Sea.” It was designed as a major naval base and played an important role in controlling sea routes along the western coast. The fort covers an area of about 48 acres and is surrounded by high stone walls that rise directly from the sea.
Today, Sindhudurg Fort is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). It attracts tourists, historians, and architecture enthusiasts for its strategic design, strong construction, and scenic coastal surroundings.
A Glimpse into History
Sindhudurg Fort was built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj between 1664 and 1667 CE. The main purpose was to secure the Maratha Empire’s western coastline and strengthen its naval defense against Portuguese, British, and Siddhi attacks.
The fort’s construction was supervised by Hiroji Indulkar, one of Shivaji’s trusted architects. Around 100 Portuguese masons, 3,000 local workers, and large quantities of lime and stone were used in building the fort. It took almost three years to complete. The structure was designed to withstand strong sea waves and enemy fire.
Sindhudurg became the main base of the Maratha Navy and later played a key role in the region’s maritime trade and defense. After Shivaji Maharaj’s reign, the fort remained under Maratha control for many years, including during the rule of the Peshwas. Later, it came under British control in the early 19th century after the decline of Maratha power.
Inside the fort, there is a temple dedicated to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, built by his son Rajaram Maharaj. It is the only temple in India where Shivaji Maharaj is worshipped as a deity. This makes the fort historically and culturally significant.
Today, Sindhudurg Fort stands as an important heritage site that reflects Maratha naval strength and architectural skill.
Location and What Makes It Unique
Sindhudurg Fort is located on Kurte Island, about 550 meters off the Malvan coast in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra, India. It lies along the Konkan coastline, facing the Arabian Sea. The fort is surrounded by water on all sides and can be reached only by boat from Malvan jetty.
The fort covers an area of nearly 48 acres with a perimeter wall stretching around 3 kilometers. Its stone walls rise directly from the sea, forming a strong natural defense. The construction used lime, laterite stones, and lead, making it highly durable even after centuries of exposure to sea waves and monsoon winds.
A unique feature of the fort is its hidden main entrance (Dilli Darwaza), which was designed to confuse enemies. The gateway blends perfectly with the walls and can be recognized only by those familiar with the fort’s layout. Inside, there are temples, freshwater wells, and residential structures, showing that the fort once supported a large garrison.
Another highlight is the Shivaji Maharaj Temple, the only temple in India dedicated to the Maratha king. Visitors can also see Shivaji’s hand and foot impressions preserved on a stone slab inside the temple.
How to Reach Sindhudurg Fort
Sindhudurg Fort is easily accessible from Malvan town, which is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The final stretch to the fort is covered by a short boat ride from Malvan jetty.
By Air
The nearest airport is Chipi–Sindhudurg Airport, located about 35 kilometers from Malvan. It has regular flights from Mumbai, Pune, and other major cities in Maharashtra.
Another option is Dabolim Airport (Goa Airport), around 130 kilometers away. Taxis and buses are available from both airports to reach Malvan.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Kudal Railway Station, around 30 kilometers from Malvan. It lies on the Konkan Railway line connecting Mumbai, Goa, and Mangalore.
From Kudal, travelers can hire taxis, auto-rickshaws, or take local buses to reach Malvan jetty.
By Road
Malvan is connected by good roads to major cities in Maharashtra and Goa.
- From Mumbai – about 530 km (10–11 hours) via NH-66.
- From Pune – about 390 km (8–9 hours).
- From Goa – about 135 km (3–4 hours).
State Transport (MSRTC) and private buses run regularly to Malvan from Mumbai, Pune, Kolhapur, and Panaji.
By Boat
Boats to Sindhudurg Fort are available from the Malvan Jetty. The ride takes about 10–15 minutes, depending on sea conditions. Boat services usually operate between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
Life jackets are provided, and boat schedules may change during the monsoon season (June to September) due to rough sea conditions.
Best time to visit Sindhudurg Fort
The best time to visit Sindhudurg Fort is from October to March. During this period, the weather remains pleasant, and the sea is calm for boat rides. The temperature usually stays between 20°C and 30°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing and exploring the fort.
The monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rainfall and rough sea waves. Boat services to the fort are often suspended during this time for safety reasons. Travelers planning a visit should always check local weather conditions before arriving.
The summer months (April to May) can be hot and humid along the Konkan coast, but early mornings and evenings are still suitable for a short visit.
What to Explore Inside the Fort
Sindhudurg Fort offers several points of interest for visitors. It showcases Maratha architecture, strategic defense planning, and elements of daily life from the 17th century.
Main Entrance & Architecture
The fort’s main entrance, known as Dilli Darwaza, is one of its most remarkable features. It is built in such a way that it remains hidden from direct view until you approach closely. This was done to confuse attackers and protect the fort from surprise invasions.
Sindhudurg’s walls are made of large laterite stones bonded with lime and lead. The walls rise up to 30 feet high and are about 12 feet thick, forming a strong barrier against sea waves and enemy attacks. The fort also has four small entrancesand several secret pathways used by soldiers for movement and defense.
Ramparts, Watchtowers & Sea Walls
The fort’s ramparts stretch along the island’s perimeter and provide panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. From here, you can see the nearby Padmagad and Rajkot forts, which were part of Shivaji’s coastal defense network.
There are watchtowers positioned at key points for monitoring ships and enemy movement. The sea walls are built with precision so that waves crash directly against them, reducing the impact on the inner structures. Even after more than three centuries, these walls remain in remarkable condition.
Temples, Tanks & Inner Structures
Inside the fort, there are three freshwater wells that never run dry, even though the fort stands in the middle of the sea. These wells supplied water to soldiers and residents during the fort’s active years.
The most significant structure is the Shivaji Maharaj Temple, built by Rajaram Maharaj in honor of his father. It contains Shivaji’s hand and foot impressions on a stone slab, preserved carefully inside the shrine. Apart from this, there are temples dedicated to Shri Bhavani, Shri Mahapurush, and Shri Jarimari.
Remains of residential houses, storage rooms, and open courtyards can also be seen inside the fort, offering a glimpse into life during the Maratha era.
Scenic Sea Views & Photography Spots
Sindhudurg Fort is surrounded by clear blue waters, making it a popular spot for photography. The north and west ramparts offer the best views of the sea and Malvan coast. On clear days, you can see fishing boats, nearby beaches, and the horizon stretching endlessly over the Arabian Sea.
Sunrise and sunset views from the fort are especially beautiful. Many visitors prefer to take the first or last boat of the day to capture these moments.
Things to Do Around the Fort
A visit to Sindhudurg Fort can easily be combined with nearby beaches, temples, and small coastal villages. The Malvan region offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty that attracts visitors throughout the year.
Boat Ride & Beach-Time
The boat ride to Sindhudurg Fort from Malvan Jetty is the first highlight of the trip. It takes about 10–15 minutes and offers a scenic view of the fort walls rising from the sea. The clear waters and gentle waves make the short journey enjoyable.
Once you return to Malvan, you can relax at nearby beaches like:
- Malvan Beach – clean and calm, ideal for short walks and sunset views.
- Tarkarli Beach – located about 8 km away, known for snorkeling, scuba diving, and water sports.
- Chivla Beach – less crowded, suitable for swimming and photography.
Several local operators also offer glass-bottom boat rides, dolphin spotting trips, and parasailing activities during the winter season.
Read more: 10 Top places to visit in Konkan
Nearby Attractions & Villages
There are many interesting places near Sindhudurg Fort worth visiting:
- Rock Garden, Malvan – a landscaped seaside garden offering sunset views.
- Tarkarli Village – famous for water sports and the confluence of the Karli River with the Arabian Sea.
- Devbag Beach – located further south, known for backwater rides and island picnics.
- Rameshwar Temple, Achara – an ancient Shiva temple about 20 km from Malvan.
- Kunkeshwar Temple – a sea-facing temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, about 45 km away.
These nearby destinations allow visitors to experience both the natural beauty and cultural side of the Sindhudurg region.
Local Food & Cultural Experience
Malvan is well known for its Konkani cuisine, especially Malvani seafood. Popular local dishes include:
- Fish thali (usually with surmai, pomfret, or bangda)
- Solkadhi (a drink made from kokum and coconut milk)
- Prawns fry and crab curry
- Kombdi Vade (spicy chicken curry with fried bread)
Vegetarian options like bhakri, modak, and amti are also common.
Visitors can explore Malvan market, known for kokum syrup, cashew nuts, spices, and handmade sweets. The region also celebrates traditional festivals such as Ganesh Chaturthi and Shimga, showcasing local music and folk dances.
Travel Tips & Essentials (What to Carry, Safety, Permits)
- Entry: Visitors need to buy a boat ticket from Malvan Jetty; it includes the fort entry fee.
- Timings: Boats usually operate between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, depending on sea conditions.
- Safety: Life jackets are mandatory during the boat ride. Avoid visiting during heavy monsoon months.
- Clothing: Wear light, comfortable clothes and non-slippery footwear, as parts of the fort can be uneven.
- Essentials: Carry drinking water, a hat, and sunscreen, as shade is limited inside the fort.
- Photography: Cameras are allowed. Drones may require prior permission.
- Waste Disposal: Do not litter inside the fort; use bins provided near the entry point.
No special permit is needed for Indian or foreign tourists, but visitors should follow local safety guidelines during the boat transfer.
Where to Stay & Spend the Night
Malvan and Tarkarli offer a range of accommodation options for different budgets:
- Beach Resorts & Hotels: Comfortable stays near Tarkarli and Chivla Beach with sea-view rooms and dining facilities.
- Homestays: Popular among travelers looking for local hospitality and home-cooked Malvani food.
- Budget Lodges & Guesthouses: Available near Malvan Market and Jetty area for short stays.
- MTDC Tarkarli Resort: A well-known government-run property with cottages, direct beach access, and basic amenities.
It is best to book in advance during weekends and holiday seasons, as the region attracts both domestic and international tourists.
Suggested Itinerary (Day Trip / Overnight)
Day Trip Plan
A day trip to Sindhudurg Fort is ideal for travelers staying in or around Malvan or Tarkarli.
Morning
- Reach Malvan Jetty by 8:00 AM.
- Take the first ferry to Sindhudurg Fort.
- Explore the fort’s main attractions – Dilli Darwaza, Shivaji Temple, freshwater wells, and ramparts.
- Spend around 1.5 to 2 hours inside the fort.
Afternoon
- Return to Malvan by boat.
- Have lunch at a local restaurant and try Malvani seafood thali or vegetarian Konkani meals.
- Visit Rock Garden or relax at Chivla Beach.
Evening
- Watch the sunset from Malvan Beach or Tarkarli Beach.
- Return to your hotel or head back to your next destination.
Overnight Plan
If you wish to explore nearby places at a relaxed pace, an overnight stay is recommended.
Day 1
- Arrive in Malvan by noon.
- Visit Tarkarli Beach for water sports or a dolphin ride.
- Stay overnight at a beach resort or homestay.
Day 2
- Start early and visit Sindhudurg Fort (first ferry).
- Explore the fort and take photos of the coastal landscape.
- In the afternoon, visit Devbag Beach or Kunkeshwar Temple before returning.
This plan allows enough time to explore the fort, beaches, and local attractions without rushing.
FAQs on Sindhudurg Fort
What is Sindhudurg Fort?
Sindhudurg Fort is a 17th-century sea fort built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to protect the Konkan coast and strengthen the Maratha Navy.
Who built Sindhudurg Fort?
The fort was designed and constructed under the supervision of Hiroji Indulkar, one of Shivaji Maharaj’s chief architects.
Where is Sindhudurg Fort located?
It is located on Kurte Island, about 550 meters off the Malvan coast in Sindhudurg district, Maharashtra, India.
What is the distance from Malvan to Sindhudurg Fort?
The fort lies about 550 meters from Malvan Jetty, accessible by a short 10–15-minute ferry ride.
What are the ferry details for Sindhudurg Fort?
Ferries operate daily from Malvan Jetty between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Tickets include both boat and fort entry fees. Service may be suspended during monsoon months (June–September).
What are the fort timings?
Sindhudurg Fort is open for visitors from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Entry beyond these hours is not permitted.
Is there a Sindhudurg Fort map available?
Yes. A simple map is displayed at the Malvan Jetty ticket counter and near the fort entrance. You can also find a digital map on Google Maps by searching “Sindhudurg Fort, Malvan.”
Are photos allowed inside Sindhudurg Fort?
Yes, photography is allowed. The fort offers excellent views of the Arabian Sea, Malvan coast, and nearby islands, making it popular among photographers.
Sources:
Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC)
Sindhudurg District Official Website (Government of Maharashtra)
Travel Setu – Sindhudurg Fort Tourism Guide
