sindhudurg tourism information

• Destinations
• Hotels & Homestays
• Food & Drink
• People & Culture
• Mindful Travel
• Readers' Travel Awards
• Escape to Rajasthan
• READERS TRAVEL AWARDS
• #LOVEGREATBRITAIN
• TAJ SAFARIS
• BOUTIQUE HOTELS
• CNT TOP RESTAURANT AWARDS
• DESTINATION WEDDING GUIDE
• DON’T TRAVEL WITHOUT IT
• #UNDISCOVERAUSTRALIA
• ESSENTIALLY RAJASTHAN

Everything you need to plan your trip to Sindhudurg

By Anurag Mallick and Priya Ganapathy

After the initial ground breaking ceremony in 1990, it’s been a 22-year-long wait for air connectivity to Sindhudurg . On 9 Oct 2021, as Alliance Air takes off on its inaugural 1hr 25 min flight from Mumbai, an old dream would be realized, shaving off nearly 10 hours of road travel. You could be in Sindhudurg in about the same time it would take to get out of Mumbai! The opening of the Chipi-Parule Airport means not just better access to the Konkan and North Goa region but also valuable time saved to discover its attractions.

Flights from Mumbai to Sindhudurg launch in October

A short walk from Bhogwe Beach and 30 minutes from Kudal, Coco Shambhala Sindhudurg is a tropical oasis overlooking the Arabian Sea. It won the Best Debut Boutique Hotel Award in 2017 and was ranked by Condé Nast Traveller among the ‘25 Best Beach Villas in the World.’ The recognition is well deserved. An old village door opens to a flight of laterite steps that lead to four sea-facing luxury villas at split levels – Arka, Amaresha, Inaya and Varenya. Inspired by local vernacular architecture, each twin villa comes with two rooms, an open dining-cum-living space and a private plunge pool.

Where to stay in Sindhudurg

Loll in the cool sea breeze, spot birds from the balcony and pamper yourself at the spa. There’s no fixed mealtime or restaurant; food is customised to your tastes and served in your villa. Dine on delectable international cuisine and Konkan fare showcasing local produce. From kala chana amti, ambotik curry, kombdi vade, tisra sukka, Sindhudurg thali on a banana leaf to plum tomato-local carrot soup, curry leaf prawns and Malwani chili chocolate ganache; anything is possible. The perfect base for local explorations, Coco Shambhala has curated a signature activity – Stream Trekking . Across Sindhudurg district, lush jungles slope down from the Western Ghats to the sea and the monsoon leaves behind a slew of waterfalls and small ravines. Post the rains, head a few kilometeres inland to hike upstream and splash down small waterfalls through virgin tropical ravines for an experience like no other.

What to see in Sindhudurg

Out at sea, nearly two dozen rock features form an archipelago collectively known as Vengurla Rocks . As the rains ebb and the murky oceanic waters get clearer in October, scuba diving takes centerstage with some of the best coastal diving in India. The Sindhudurg coast has a ring of islands that culminate in the picturesque Burnt Island linked by a coral reef that provides excellent diving opportunities in winter. Set off by boat from the beach to explore Fisherman’s Cove, Fansaa Point, Temple Rock and other dive sites. Choose from Discover Scuba for beginners with a tutorial followed by a guided dive, PADI certification courses as well as open sea dives for the experienced.

Burnt Island has an old lighthouse built in 1870 by the British. Legend has it that the lighting apparatus did not reach on time so a log fire was lit as a source of light and that’s how the island was named. The old lighthouse remains dysfunctional and a new one was built in 1931 by John Oswald on a larger rock. Another islet Bird/Swift Island gets its name from the nesting site of more than one lakh Indian swiftlets and Bridled Tern that breed here. 

Nearly 300 years ago, a Dutch explorer left a poetic description of this deep and treacherous archipelago of large black rocks nine miles west of Mingrela (Vengurla) and the pirates who lay in wait to plunder unwary travellers: “Under the water lie rocks that are barely visible. The ones above are large and have an excrescence upon their trunks, which gives them a semblance to prehistoric monsters that lay crouched upon their backs. They seem restless as though their souls lay locked within and wait in anticipation, through the millennia, for the spell to be lifted.”

Take a closer look at Vengurla Rocks while cruising from Mumbai to Goa on India’s first domestic cruise liner Angriya , named after Kanhoji Angre, admiral of the Maratha Navy.

In ancient times, the region was known as Maha-lavan , literally ‘Great Saltpan’, and the seaport from where salt was exported came to be known as Malvan. A 10-minute boat ride from the charming coastal town leads to  Sindhudurg Fort , the only sea fort built by Chhatrapati Shivaji. Spread over 47 acres, it is the largest sea fort in the world. The engineering feat was accomplished in just three years using basalt rock as building blocks and molten iron as mortar. Explore the massive fort complex, its viewpoints, bastions, walls and shrines like Shivrajeshwar, Mahadev and Jari-Mari Mandir and savour spicy ghar guti (home style) Malvani fare at the several family-run restaurants in Malvan. 

Aishwarya Venkatraman

Condé Nast Traveller

Mitali Joshi

After Sindhudurg, Shivaji built Nivati Fort on a vantage overlooking the Karli creek and Vengurla port. Much of Kille Nivati is in ruins except for the gates, bastion and remnants of the moat. The summit presents stunning views of the sea and a lighthouse called Nivati Rock mid-sea. As the Karli creek empties into the sea, a scenic 7km strip of land lies sandwiched between the river and the sea, as if protected by some divine power. True to its name, Devbag is literally ‘The Garden of the Gods’. Since the river and the jetty is Karli, the place on the far side ( taar ) became known as Tarkarli ! A major adventure sports hub, Tarkarli has many local operators like Sindhudurg Mahalaxmi Parasailing & Water Sports that offer banana boat rides, bumpy rides, jet skis and parasailing. 

A boat ride from Korjai jetty takes you down the creek to Tsunami Island . The ribbed mud patch is an avian hangout, chequered white with seagulls, stilts and sandpipers. However, the shallow islet has nothing to do with the sea storm but is just a marketing gimmick, like the rest of the touristy nooks namely, Dolphin Point and Crocodile Point.

Continue by boat to Panch Pandav Shivling Mandir , a laterite shrine accessible during high tide, allegedly built overnight by the Pandavas in exile. A short ride past the scenic confluence of Devbag Sangam leads to the quiet Bhogwe beach , a long swathe of untouched sand, south of Tarkarli. The ride culminates at Golden Rocks , a jagged gold-tinted rock feature jutting out of the sea, gilded by the sun. 

Parule , (once Parulya gramam ), a scenic village of great antiquity between Malvan and Vengurla, is centered around a unique Surya shrine. While Odisha’s Konark temple on India’s eastern coast was a tribute to the rising sun, the Adinarayan temple at Parule is dedicated to the setting sun. Until recently, the sun’s last rays fell upon the idol before disappearing over the horizon, but a temple renovation project put an end to this architectural marvel.

Stay at the rustic Maachli Farmstay at Parule and go on a morning nature trail to the local avath (village society) and Bandheshvaray temple of the gurakhi (shepherd) community. Hike to an ancient sacred grove – Dungoba or Dungeshwar Devrai , dedicated to a god of the Kolis (fishermen). For centuries, these protected forests have maintained an ecological balance and survived due to deep-rooted beliefs. Visitors are forbidden from plucking anything from the sanctuary and any violation means donating a golden leaf. Sunlight can’t penetrate the thick forest and one must crawl through dense undergrowth. At the open-to-sky shrine of Devchar, protector of the tribal community and master of the jungle, locals offer alcohol and beedis. Orange pennants and bells mark the main shrine and fishermen pray here before setting out to sea for a good catch and safe return.

Not far from the new airport stood Sahebachi Kathi (Saheb’s Wooden Pole), an 8ft long stake erected by the British for a geological survey and used by the Navy to ascertain India’s maritime boundaries. Some vandals removed it, assuming it was Shivaji’s marker to a gold cache buried at the base!

Fun fact: in 1868, at Vijaydurg nearby—the oldest fort in the Sindhudurg region—English astronomer Norman Lockyer observed the sun to discover helium. Since Vijaydurg lay in the path of total solar eclipse, special viewing platforms called Sahebache katte (Englishman’s platform) were erected and since 2009, 18 August is celebrated at Vijaydurg as World Helium Day.

Where to shop in Sindhudurg

Drop by Sawantwadi Palace to see the continued royal patronage of Ganjifa cards, the precursor to playing cards. Pick up lacquerware toys from Chitare Ali, a lane of artisans near the picturesque Moti Talav. Just a few kilometers away at Thakar Adivasi Kala Kendra at Pinguli  ( 9029564382, 9987653909 ), Parashuram Vishram Gangawane showcases the 500-year-old loka kalas (folk arts) of the Thakar community – dona vadya (vessel instrument), dashavatara and chitrakathe. When Shivaji encountered the forest-dwelling tribe in the tekdis (hills) of the Sahyadris, he was astonished by their artistic sophistication. Artists painted on leaves using natural dyes and a narrator recounted tales while moving pictures were shown to the audience as Chitra-kathe. 

Craftsmen made leather cutout figures while singers and musicians set a background score to Jaiti (Shadow Puppetry). Images projected on a screen by campfire were reduced or enlarged by moving them forward or back to create drama; the enthralled crowds believed the shadows grew larger because of the conch being blown! Before cinema, such unique storytelling techniques were the purest form of entertainment. The Thakars received royal patronage from Shivaji and Sawantwadi’s rulers, who helped them develop their arts and showcase it over nine days at the Kelbai temple in Kudal. So much to see, so much time! Sindhudurg is calling, where are you?

Getting there   Fly 1hr 25 min on Alliance Air from Mumbai to Sindhudurg Airport at Chipi-Parule, just 27km off the Mumbai-Goa highway and 12km from Malvan.

Things to Do in Sindhudurg District, India - Sindhudurg District Attractions

Things to do in sindhudurg district, explore popular experiences, popular cities in sindhudurg district.

Top Attractions in Sindhudurg District

What travelers are saying

• Tarkarli Beach
• Kunkeshwar Beach
• Talashil Tondavali Beach
• Sindhudurg Fort
• Devbagh Beach
• Tsunami Island Vengurla
• Amboli Water Falls

What to See in Sindhudurg: A Must-See Destination

As an avid traveler who loves escaping to offbeat destinations, I recently visited the coastal Konkan region of Maharashtra. More specifically, I explored the mesmerizing Sindhudurg district and wanted to share my experiences with those looking to plan a trip here.

With its pristine beaches, imposing forts, tropical weather, lip-smacking cuisine, and warm locals - Sindhudurg has something for every type of traveler.

Why Visit Sindhudurg?

Nestled between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, Sindhudurg is blessed with abundant natural beauty. Its shoreline is dotted with secluded, sandy beaches surrounded by swaying palm trees. The district enjoys a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 34°C throughout the year.

But there's more to Sindhudurg beyond just beaches. It has a rich history as the erstwhile capital of the Maratha Empire. You can explore magnificent sea forts, ancient temples, spice gardens, and even scuba diving to discover coral reefs.

And as a foodie, I was spoilt for choice with the delicious Malvani cuisine made from coconut, fish, and kokum. Clearly, Sindhudurg has something for every travel style.

Places to Visit in Sindhudurg

Here are some of the top attractions and places I visited in Sindhudurg and would highly recommend:

1. Tarkarli Beach

With its pristine white sands and crystalline waters, Tarkarli is the prettiest beach in Sindhudurg. I spent hours simply strolling along the shore as gentle waves lapped at my feet. For adventure junkies, Tarkarli offers watersports like scuba diving , snorkeling, banana boat rides, etc. Don't miss the incredible sunset views here.

Also read - How to Reach Tarkali - My Journey

2. Malvan Beach & Town

The laidback beach town of Malvan oozes old-world charm with its colorful houses, narrow lanes, and quaint vibes. Laze at the clean, secluded Malvan beach or walk through the town sampling delicious Malvani cuisine. You must try malvani maachi maans (fish curry) and sol kadhi - a pink appetizer drink made from coconut milk.

3. Vijaydurg Fort

Constructed in the 1600s as a naval base, Vijaydurg Fort stands strong despite being lashed by the ocean for centuries. You need to trek for about an hour to reach the splendid fort positioned atop a hill surrounded by water on all sides. The views of the endless blue Arabian Sea from here are simply breathtaking.

4. Sindhudurg Fort

Built-in the late 17th century by Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj himself, Sindhudurg Fort is an architectural marvel standing tall on an islet in the sea. A visit here is like stepping back in time as you explore ruins of watchtowers, homes, sacred temples, market squares, etc.

5. Sawantwadi Palace

With its vibrant tangerine walls & gleaming tin roof, the 19th-century Sawantwadi Palace looks straight out of a fairy tale. Venturing inside, I was dazzled by intricately carved furniture, marble sculptures, Belgian glass chandeliers, and artistic palace grounds. Don’t miss the interesting museum within displaying royal memorabilia.

Best Time to Visit Sindhudurg

Since it enjoys a hot & humid tropical climate all year round, any time is suitable for planning a Sindhudurg holiday.

However, I'd suggest:

October to February - For enjoying the beaches & watersports

June to September - If you wish to avoid crowds and benefit from budget stays

December to January - To experience local festivals like Shimga

No matter when you visit, Sindhudurg is sure to enchant you with its unspoiled beaches, brilliant forts steeped in history, tropical vibes, and a generous sprinkling of Malvani magic!

How to Reach Sindhudurg

Sindhudurg is easily accessible by:

Air:  The nearest airport is at Dabolim, Goa located at 115km. You can take buses or taxis to Sindhudurg from here.

Rail:  Kudal railway station serves as the gateway to Sindhudurg located at 43km. Frequent trains connect it to Mumbai and Goa.

Road:  Excellent network of state highways and buses connect Sindhudurg to major cities like Mumbai & Pune. I took an overnight Volvo bus from Mumbai to reach Malvan town in just 10 hours.

No matter how you get here, the mesmerizing natural beauty and old-world charm of Sindhudurg will have you spellbound!

Staying in Sindhudurg

You can choose from stylish beach resorts, affordable lodges, and homestays in Sindhudurg for a comfortable stay. I prefer staying in Malvan town or villages like Vayangani as they allow plunging straight into local culture. Book in advance during festivals and peak season.

Some great accommodation options I recommend based on personal experience are:

Nandan Farms Stay (for families)

Atithi Parinay Homestay (budget pick)

Pravas Resort (sprawling property with private beach access)

Shanti Village (for experiential rural stay)

The Takeaway

Still untouched by mainstream tourism, Sindhudurg is a hidden gem offering tranquil beaches, magnificent forts, and a slice of tropical paradise. Its slow pace of life, lush nature, small villages, and delicious cuisine left me completely refreshed and longing for more.

I highly recommend visiting Sindhudurg district for an offbeat trip where you can soak in history, and culture along with hitting the beach. Trust me, the spectacular sunrises and sunsets over the Arabian Sea alone make it worth the effort to visit this coastal Maharashtrian paradise!

Let me know in the comments if you have any other questions about planning an amazing trip to Sindhudurg.

• Travel Tips

Related Posts

Best Time to Visit Tadoba National Park

Best Time to Visit Gokarna

Best Time to Visit Shillong

THE 10 BEST Sindhudurg District Sights & Landmarks

Sindhudurg district landmarks.

• Sacred & Religious Sites
• Points of Interest & Landmarks
• Historic Sites
• Ancient Ruins
• Educational sites
• Lighthouses
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Good for Couples
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Vijaydurg Fort

2. Rock Garden

3. Sindhudurg Fort

4. Kunkeshwar Temple

5. Rameshwar Temple

6. Jay Ganesh Mandir

7. Vengurla's Lighthouse

8. Bhagwati Temple

9. Sateri Devi Jal Mandir

10. Vengurla's Jetty

11. Shri Sateri Temple

12. Vimleshwar Shiva Temple

13. Gajbadevi Temple

14. Shree Shivchhatrapati Temple

15. Sargeshwar Shiva Temple

16. Shri Kamakshi Temple

17. Fruit Research Center

18. Shri Wagheshwar Temple

19. Shri Bhadrakali Temple

20. Ghumadai Temple

21. Maruti Mandir

22. Bhardi Devi Temple

23. Shree Mahapurush Mandir

24. Dutch Factory

25. Shri Dev Vetoba Temple

26. shri jarimari temple.

27. Shri Dev Rameshwar Temple

28. Bhagawati Mandir

What travellers are saying.

• Sindhudurg Fort
• Rock Garden
• Rameshwar Temple
• Jay Ganesh Mandir
• Shri Sateri Temple
• Vijaydurg Fort

Nestled amidst the sea, Sindhudurg stands tall as a remarkable part of Maharashtra. This eternal place is an aide-memoire of royalty and grand history. Carved out of the erstwhile Ratnagiri District, Sindhudurg falls under Konkan division. The city is surrounded by Ratnagiri district on the north, Goa on the south, the Arabian Sea by the west, and crest of the Sahyadri Range by the east.  Sindhudurg is made up of exotic beaches and royal forts. In ancient times, from the Sindhudurg fort to Vijaydurg fort, Sindhudurg’s importance lay significantly in the numerous sea forts and sky-high edifices.  Also, the astonishing Mangeli waterfall, Napapne waterfall, Shivapur waterfall, etc. are an epitome of the place’s natural beauty.  When it comes to  tourist attractions in Maharashtra , Sindhudurg has a whopping range of places to visit. Dating back to the 17th century, Maratha warrior King, Chhatrapati Shivaji established Sindhudurg fort over a rocky island location. The fort is flanked by the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea on respective sides. Also, the traditional and authentic side of Sindhudurg embellishes with Navadurga temple and India’s oldest Sai temple. With an impressive coastline, the city features several beaches, like the Tarkarli beach, Nivati beach, among others. A city filled with grandiose and adventure, one will never run out of things to do in Sindhudurg. To quench the adrenaline rush, you can head to Tarkarli for scuba diving, Nivati for snorkelling, and other activities. Also, your nature-loving soul would be mesmerized by the safari organised amidst the dense forests of Sindhudurg. You will come across several wild animals like leopard, wild boar, mongoose, elephants, etc.  However, the climate of Sindhudurg plays an important role in exploring the niceties. The climate is semi-tropical and it remains warm and humid throughout the year. The proximity to the Arabian sea results in heavy rainfall and proximity to Sahyadri brings cold and misty weather. The temperature usually drops to 15 degrees Celsius in winters and rises to 32 degrees Celsius in summers.

Sindhudurg Reviews

Sindhudurg Tourism

Why choose thrillophilia, best domestic packages, best international packages, domestic honeymoon packages, international honeymoon packages, places to visit in india, international places to visit, international things to do, popular on thrillophilia.

Travellers of India

Indian travel diaries, suggestions.

Sindhudurg Fort: An Oceanic Marvel and Historical Gem of Maharashtra

Nestled gracefully along the azure shores of the Arabian Sea, Sindhudurg Fort stands as a living testament to maritime history, architectural brilliance, and the coastal beauty of Maharashtra. This magnificent sea fort has not only guarded the Konkan coast for centuries but also beckoned adventurers, history buffs, and those looking to immerse themselves in the history and splendor of the sea.

History of Sindhudurg Fort: Sindhudurg Fort, meaning “Fort in the Sea,” was commissioned by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1664. This historic endeavor aimed to bolster maritime defenses along the Konkan coast. The fort was strategically constructed on the island of Kurte, near the Malvan town. Over the centuries, it played a pivotal role in various maritime battles and has remained a symbol of the Maratha naval power.

Architecture and Structures: The architectural marvel of Sindhudurg Fort is a testament to the engineering prowess of its time. Constructed entirely from locally sourced laterite stone and lead, it is renowned for its innovative design. The fort comprises an intricate network of bastions, a prominent citadel with a temple, freshwater reservoirs, and a well-preserved secret passage. Its robust walls, measuring 48 feet high and 12 feet thick, withstand the relentless onslaught of sea waves.

Cultural and Historical Significance: Beyond its historical value, Sindhudurg Fort holds cultural significance as a representation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s vision and determination. It has become an icon of maritime heritage, celebrating the Maratha spirit. The temple dedicated to the deity Bhavani within the fort adds a spiritual dimension to its historical importance.

Visitor Information: Reaching Sindhudurg Fort involves a short boat ride from the coastal town of Malvan, which is well-connected to major cities in Maharashtra. The fort is open year-round, and visitors are required to pay a nominal entry fee to explore its treasures.

Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Sindhudurg Fort is during the post-monsoon and winter months, from October to March. The weather is pleasant, and the sea remains calm, facilitating boat rides to the fort. This period also allows you to explore the fort’s historical riches comfortably.

Nearby Attractions: The vicinity of Sindhudurg Fort offers a plethora of attractions. The pristine beaches of Malvan, the serene Tarkarli Beach, and the Sargeshwar Shiva Temple are popular places to explore. Snorkeling and scuba diving activities are also available for water sports enthusiasts.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

1. How do I reach Sindhudurg Fort?

Sindhudurg Fort is accessible by a short boat ride from Malvan. Malvan is well-connected to major cities in Maharashtra.

2. Is there an entry fee to visit Sindhudurg Fort?

Yes, there is a nominal entry fee for visitors to explore the fort.

3. Can I take a guided tour of the fort?

Yes, guided tours of Sindhudurg Fort are available. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the fort’s history and architecture.

4. Are there any water sports or activities available near Sindhudurg Fort?

Yes, the coastal region around Sindhudurg Fort offers water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving, allowing visitors to explore the underwater beauty of the Arabian Sea.

5. What are the nearby attractions to explore along with Sindhudurg Fort?

Nearby attractions include the beautiful beaches of Malvan, Tarkarli Beach, Sargeshwar Shiva Temple, and various water sports activities.

Conclusion: Sindhudurg Fort invites you to embark on a captivating journey through maritime history, architectural splendor, and the mesmerizing coastal landscapes of Maharashtra. It is more than just a fort; it’s a living testament to the vision and valor of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the enduring legacy of the Maratha maritime prowess. As you traverse its historic walls and experience the gentle caress of the Arabian Sea, you are not just visiting a historical site; you are becoming part of a timeless narrative of courage, ingenuity, and the enchantment of Maharashtra’s coastal heritage.

Featured Image – https://en.wikipedia.org/

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 5 / 5. Vote count: 1

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

"Travellers of India is a hub bringing globetrotters around the world together so as to reveal interesting and entertaining things about a destination, its people, and their culture. We aim to inspire Travellers around the world to delve deep into the world around them, bringing the world closer to everyone, and in doing so, making a difference in the travel genre. At Travellers of India, we focus on helping Travellers get an understanding about various destinations, things to do, travel plans, and so on. In doing so, we believe to make it simpler for everyone, and in turn, helping them experience a great and memorable journey! Here I found the best Quote about travelling “There are a Lot of stories out there waiting for you to live them” Happy Travelling".

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

You might be interested in

Vishalgad Fort: Where History Echoes Amidst the Western Ghats

Panhala Fort: The Crown Jewel of Maharashtra’s History and Heritage

Tikona Fort: A Majestic Citadel Amidst the Sahyadris

Karnala Fort: A Soaring Sentinel Amidst Nature’s Canvas

Best 15 Places to Visit in Sindhudurg

Places to visit in sindhudurg.

Tarkarli Beach 

Sindhudurg Fort 

Rock Garden 

Devbag Beach 

Achra Beach

Achra Beach 

Adari-Malwan Ganesh Mandir 

Amboli Water Falls 

Bhogwe Beach

Bhogwe Beach 

Kunkeshwar Temple 

Nivati Beach 

Talashil Beach 

Tondavali Beach 

Tsunami Island

Tsunami Island 

Vengurla’s Lighthouse

Vengurla’s Lighthouse 

Vijaydurg Fort 

The 2022 season of mangoes is here, Look no further to buy the famous mango in Sindhudurg you get best mangoes from “ mangokatta “ call to: 9960317109

6 thoughts on “Best 15 Places to Visit in Sindhudurg”

thanks for information…it’s really help me to find good places

tarkarli beach is awesome…you must visit once

sindhudurg is really good place to spend vacations 😍 especially Ganesh chaturthi

amazing post.

great places must visit once

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Sindhudurg Tourism and Travel Guide

Trips and itineraries for sindhudurg.

Top Places To Visit in Sindhudurg

Weekend Getaways from Sindhudurg

• Skip to content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Konkan Tourism Tips & News

Sindhudurg Fort Information – | History | Travel Guide

Konkan Forts / by Mrunal & Jiten / 2 Comments

Last Updated on November 20, 2023 by Mrunal & Jiten

India is a country of glorious forts. They are located all around the country and tell the story of life and times of Kings and monarchs in the last few centuries. Let us take you through Sindhudurg Fort Information.

The reason for building Forts was:

• Establishing an empire
• Sustaining this empire
• Blocking enemy attacks
• Collecting tax – as most forts were near important traveling routes
• Future security

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj built 111 of them in just 35 years in Maharashtra! These forts have now come under the Western Ghats World Heritage site, and so no factories or industries will damage this area.

Fortress lies on the shore of malvan town of sindhudurg district in the konkan region of maharashtra.

If you are a history-lover, why not visit one of the most amazing forts on the Konkan coast, the Sindhudurg Fort.  Built by the great Maratha ruler this fort lies on the shores of the Arabian Sea, some 350kms from Mumbai.

When on this historical tour, you can also relax at the Tarkali beach and learn some new skills like Scuba diving at IISDA. There are places nearby for kids as well.

History of Sindhudurg Fort

Table of Contents

During 1600 the British and the Portuguese merchant tried annexing territories through intimidation techniques along the Maharashtra coastal line. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj chanced upon this island Kurte and decided to build a fort to fortify these areas. Construction began in the year 1664.

This fort witnessed many battles and remained with the Marathas for many years. The British captured it in 1765. At present, the fort is under the care of the Archaeological survey department of India.

The architecture of Sindhudurg Fort

One cannot but be overawed by the huge ramparts of Sindhudurg Fort. Did you know that more than 500 khandis (4000 pounds) of lead came from British Godam of Rajapur and sprayed at the base for a strong foundation. The fort measures cover 48 acres of land and are 3 km long.  The walls here are 30 feet in height and 12 feet thick.   Quite majestic and it provided security to its residents for many-many years.

More features of the Fort:

Discover the concealed main entrance, made of hardwood called Oomber. It is not easily visible from the outside. The thick and high walls were built in such a way that both the sea and the invaders were not able to breach them.

The fort consists of 52 bastions.  The defense wall of the fort is in a zigzag pattern.  There are two watch towers at a distance of half a mile to each other. There are four water wells to quench the thirst of the occupiers, about 150 houses inside the fort.

The flooring was designed in such a way that water drained into the sea without flooding the fort during the rainy season.  Even today you can find Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj right hand and left foot impressions in one of the ramparts.

There are many more archaeological features in this site and taking a guide along can help you explore all the interesting facets of this fort.

Places to Visit in Sindhudurg District

A visit to this fort also gives you an opportunity to visit other amazing places nearby.  Here are some Sindhudurg tourism attractions.

Tsunami Island

It is just 0.5 kms from the fort.  The sea here is calm except for the cacophony of tourists who are attracted to this island in hordes.  You can take up adventure and sports activities here such jet-ski, speed boat, kayak rider, water scooter, and bumper boat.

According to locals the sand here has magnetic properties and is a cure for joint problems Food stalls with local snacks and food like chutney Pola is worth trying.

Tarkarli Beach

Tarkarli beach is just 10 km away from the fort.  This Coral beach is one of the most beautiful beaches on the Konkan coast. White sands, swaying Suru trees, and amazing sunset views, some things that may be a part of the best beach experience ever! There is more – Malvan food, Dolphin and turtles sightings

Indian Institute of Scuba Diving and Aquatic sports scuba diving|(IISDA)

This institute is located on the Tarkali beach itself.  It is the first such institute/resort in India dedicated to Scuba diving and other aquatic sport.  Among its amenities, you will find a 25ft scuba diving pool, classrooms, a seaside restaurant, deluxe suites, and twin sharing AC rooms and a Conference hall.  The Conference room has facilities for multimedia presentation as well.

Learn how to scuba drive here as both basic and advance training is provided in the institute  After training you will also be taken by a coach to the open sea for some real-life experience.

Malvan Marine Wildlife Sanctuary

Have a look at the rich diversity of Flora and Fauna on the Konkan coast at this sanctuary.  It is spread over 3.18 sq kms. Sindhudurg Fort is part of this sanctuary that also includes, Padamged island and some nearby rocky areas. What to see there:

• 30 species of fish displayed here including some commercial ones like Rohita, Labeo Rohita, Tor Putitora(Mahasir), Labeo Calbasu, Singhada, Labeo
• Marine life includes sea anemones, polychaetes, seaweed, mangroves, pearl oysters and coral.
• Trees and plant varieties such as Tea, Mango, Dhawada, Ain, Khalam, Kadamba, Neem, Jamun and Palas, Shisam, Mohan and Hedu

Raghunath market

Raghunath market is about 1 ½ kms from the fort.  It is more than 150 years old. Check out the Arts handicrafts shops, Bronze ware, Kolhapuri chappal, jewllery and khadi clothes in this market. Also try to Konkani food such as konkam sharbat, Awala Juice, Agul, Malvani Khaja and Sukha Bangda here

Note, roads inside the market are narrow and are best covered by foot.

Devbagh Beach, Talashil Tondavali Beach, Nivati Beach

Some other popular beaches nearby are:

• Devbagh beach is clean and affordable than most other beaches. Take an early morning boat trip to this place if you want to see the dolphins.
• At Talashil beach, the sea looks clean and milky white. One of the remotest beaches, your search for some peace and tranquility can be availed here.  Of course, public facilities are not good, so taking children could be a bad idea.
• Nivati beach is another clean and tranquil beach a must-visit if you are visiting the Sindhudurg Fort. The water here is ideal for swimming.

Karali Backwaters

One can take a boat ride on the Karli Backwaters just 2.2kms from the fort.  The Karali River meets the Arabian Sea here and the water is very swift.  You can also look out of dolphins during your boat ride here.  Take a look at the beautiful forests on both sides of these backwaters.

Rock Garden

The rock garden is on the rocky side of Malvan. The best place for kids! Surprisingly, there is no sand here. A well-maintained garden and slides for kids. Kids can also enjoy a toy train ride here.

How to reach the fort from Pune and Mumbai

By Rail: First, you have to take a taxi from Pune to Mangoan.  From Mangoan you can take the Mandovi express to Sindhudurg.

By Road: distance 361kms.  There are not direct buses on this route.  One has to come to Kankvali from Pune and then take a taxi to Sindhudurg Fort from there.

From Mumbai:

By Air:  Distance: 338 kms. There is a Goair flight from Mumbai to Goa and from there you can take a taxi to Sindhudurg.  The Mumbai flight reaches Goa in just under 5 hours.

By Rail: distance: 541 kms. 23 trains ply in this route and you can reach from Mumbai to this fort in 7 hours.

By Road: 504 kms.  There are no proper buses plying on this route.  It is best to take a private taxi from Mumbai to Kankavali and take another taxi to Sindhudurg from Kankavali

Nearby hotels to stay

Here are a few hotels that you can stay for Sindhudurg tourism.

Sand N Shine Beach restaurant – 7.8 km from the famous fort

Amenities: Breakfast available, free parking, free Wi-Fi, nonsmoking rooms, air conditioning, beach front for viewing

Tarkali Holiday Homes – 3.8 km from the fort

Amenities:  free parking, air conditioning, nonsmoking rooms, room service

Hotel Sagar Kinara Malvan – 1.4km from fort

Amenities: Free internet, free parking, airport transportation, air conditioning, room service

Hotel Chivala Beach – 2.0 km from the fort

Amenities: Airport transportation, Public Wi-Fi, free parking, breakfast, air conditioning, room service

Hotel W Goa 57 km from the fort

Features: Overlooking beach, breakfast, pool, free Wi-Fi, breakfast included air conditioning 5-star accommodation.

Hotel Riva Resort 50 km from the fort

Facilities: 3 stars, pool, air-conditioning free Wi-Fi, breakfast

Ending line (Conclusion)

A trip to Sindhudurg Fort is a complete holiday!  The historical trip, relaxation at the beach , shopping, nature gazing and food trail all rolled into one. Set-off today, as there are more adventures awaiting you at this magnificent fortification of the Maratha Empire. Please leave your comments and add if anything is missing.

About Mrunal & Jiten

Welcome to Konkan.me! We are Mrunal & Jiten, an Indian with a passion for travel. Our story started when we got married in 2011. Konkan is our hometown and we spend our holidays near scenic beaches and places in Konkan.

So follow us and enjoy life with us.

Reader Interactions

August 3, 2019 at 6:40 am

November 17, 2020 at 11:25 am

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• SKIP TO MAIN CONTENT
• महाराष्ट्र शासन
• Govt. of Maharashtra

• A+ Font Size Increase
• A Normal Font - Selected
• A- Font Size Decrease
• A High Contrast
• A Normal Contrast - Selected

Culture & Heritage

Typical village life.

We find typical village life at Sindhudurg village. Most of houses are made up of red stones and slide roof specially built for rainy season. Most of population dependent on farming , fishing . Most of the district area is covered by dense rainforests. Area is most suitable habitat for wild animals like leopard, wild cats, rabbits, wild hen and some times wild buffaloes also appear in winter season.Sindhudurg district is also known for tropical fruits like the world famous Alphonso mangoes, cashews, Jamuns etc.The district has been endowed with great natural beauty with its long beautiful seashore, picturesque mountains and lush green forests.

Wooden Toys

Wooden toys is one of the traditional art in Sawatwadi. The people were migrated from karwar and goa community called ‘Chittar’ . Wooden toys made unique identity of Sindhudurg in Maharashtra state.