If you are planning a vacation soon after the monsoon, come to Maharashtra and explore Murud Janjira Fort.
It is India’s strongest and indomitable marine fort located in a small village in the Raigad district.
From Marathas, the Portuguese to even Britishers, nobody could ever succeed in capturing this fort.
This undefeatable structure is surrounded by the Arabian sea from four sides and is built on an island that is only 165 km away from Mumbai.
When the water waves hit the walls of janjira, it feels as if they are challenging the fort once again.
But, they are not stronger enough to collapse the fort. This is something you should see with your naked eyes.
For that, you have to learn a bit about this marvelous ruin as you get only 45 minutes to explore the citadel.
How did The Murud Janjiri Fort Get its Name?
The fort has a very unique name that has nothing to do with the community living here.
It is made by mixing two words- Murud and Jazira-from Marathi and Arabic language respectively.
Jajira means an island in Arabic. But the real definition of murud-janjiri is a fort within the sea standing strong and defeating every enemy.
According to legends, Jazeera Mahroob Jazeera was the real name of this island fort.
Did You Know?
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and his son Sambhaji, both tried to enter the fort but failed eventually.
They even built a similar fort to keep an eye on Janjira. It took 22 years to build Kasa fort.
Who Built Murud Janjira Kila?
For the answer, you have to look back at the history of Murud janjira fort.
It was around the 16th century when the wooden version of janjira kila came into existence.
Initially, the fort was only for protection against pirates and was built by the chief of Koli community- Raja Ram Rao Patil.
Later, Nizam Shahi Sultan of Ahmednagar sent Piram Khan to capture the island fort. Piram was the admiral under Sultan’s reign.
However, he failed in his mission. Parim then entered the fort saying he is a merchant and brought his army hidden in the barrels.
One day, he intoxicated Patil and kolis by hosting a party for them and then captured the island.
Murud is today preserving the history and culture of Siddis, traders from Africa. Also known as Habshis, people of this community are now a part of India.
Why is Janjira Fort Famous?
There are ample reasons to visit one of the famous forts in India. First is the location of the fort.
The fort was cut out from an oval-shaped rock and covered around 22 acres of area. But what makes janjira kila famous is the features and architecture within it.
- More than 20 artillery towers are inside the fort which is still in good condition
- The granite walls of the fort are 12-meter-high
- Janjira had everything from schools, mosques, temples, and freshwater lakes, for comfortable living in Koli community
- The main gate is the main attraction because of a tiger-like sculpture on it
- There are 3 colossal cannons inside the janjira kila
( Landa Kasam, Chavri, and Kalalbangadi) - India’s 3rd largest cannon-Kalalbangadi weighing 22 tons is inside the fort. It is heatproof because of 5 different metals used for the construction.
- Fort has a secret exit gate which seems like a window from outside
- A secret dark base to observe enemies is also there.
- There are 2 freshwater lakes with drinkable water within the fort despite being surrounded by the salty sea.
Did You Know?
The Murud-Janjira Fort fell thrice during its construction but now it is the strongest standing structure of the past.
And do you know what made it strong? It was neither cement nor iron. The mix of sand, lime, glass, salt, and jaggery was used to keep the stones together.
How to Visit Murud Janjira Fort?
The island is well-connected to the nearest railway stations and roads. Roha is the closest one.
You can also prefer a bus service directly from Alibaug as the fort is only 55 km away.
Land at Rajapuri Jetty and take a boat. Since the fort is in middle, there is no other option than taking a boat.
You will easily get boat services from Murud beach in Rajapuri village. The trip will cost between Rs 20 and 50 per head.
But this would be the best trip ever. As the boat moves closer to the janjira kila, you’ll feel as if you are getting closer to history.
[ Tip:- Wear sunglasses and a hat as the temperature is really hot there.
Also, keep water bottles and some snacks as there’s no facility inside the fort. ]
When to Come?
Rainy and Monsoon seasons are definitely not the best time to come to janjira kila as the fort is in the middle of the sea.
Water waves can be harsh making the trip dangerous. You can come during summer but the weather is not comfortable then.
So, plan a trip after the monsoon during October and March month. This is an ideal time when the fort is covered with greenery and gives a scenic view too.
Janjira Fort Timings
Murud-Janjira fort remains open from 7 AM to 6:30 PM and entry is completely free of cost.
After the end of your trip to Janjira kila, head to nearby tourist attractions too.
Things to Do & Nearby Tourist Attractions
1. Murud Janjira Beach
Just drive 5 km from the fort and you will reach one of the most beautiful beaches of Maharashtra.
Golden sun rays falling into the seawater and the reflection of coconut trees make the water appear like a huge mirror.
This scenic view will treat your sore eyes. Murud beach is a perfect stop to end your trip with a sense of completion.
2. Garambi Falls
This beautiful waterfall will make you fall in love with it. Garambi is 100m high and is a pleasure to watch during the monsoon.
3. Victoria Jubilee Water Works
Also known as Garambi dam, this is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Maharashtra.
The dam serves the entire Murud village and also tourists who come to see something magnificent.
Greenery and calm voice of nature will erase all your worries.
4. Ahmedganj Palace
The Palace of Nawab and the treasure of gold is an abode to the bygone era of royal nawabs of the past.
It is spread across the 45-acre of land and sings the glory of the Siddi Dynasty. The palace is almost 137-year-old built in Mughal and Gothic architectural styles.
5. Kasa Fort
Though you can visit the fort on your own, Kasa is still worth exploring.
The fort was built to challenge the Murud-Janjira fort. Today, it is listed under important monuments by ASI.
6. Shop and Dine
Tourists usually take spices from Murud along with a glimpse of history. The place is known for its authentic curry masalas.
You can get everything fresh from Khatu mill. To satiate your sweet tooth, try barfis from Jai Hanuman Hotel.
If craving for more, head to Patil kanavl and Maruti naka to taste the succulent biryani and fresh fish.
Where to Stay
A one or two-day trip is enough to see Murud-Janjira fort and nearby tourist attractions. But, if your traveling goals are bigger and you wish to explore more, book your stay at beach resorts here.
There are plenty of budget resorts near Murud beach. From garden-view resorts to luxury resorts, options are many.
So, relax and unwind at Murud.