Korlai fort Lighthouse

Korlai Fort and Lighthouse are historic coastal landmarks near Alibaug, known for their scenic views and cultural significance. The Portuguese built the Korlai Fort in the village of Korlai in the Raigad district of Maharashtra. Many interesting historical sites are close to Mumbai, and this is one of the best places to visit in Alibaug.

Things to See at Korlai Fort

•    Known for its stunning sea scenery and sandy beaches.

•    Features an ancient water cistern named Santa Cruz in the northern region.

•    The Korlai lighthouse, still operational, is accessible from the southern gate.

•    The unique dialect of Portuguese Creole, Kristi, still shows remnants of Portuguese occupation.

•    The ruins transport visitors back in time, captivating their curiosity.

Best Time to Visit the Fort

You can visit the fort any time of the year, but the best times are in the winter and during the monsoons. Alibaug tour packages often highlight these seasons for travel. During the summer, it can get up to 40 degrees Celsius, making walking around the spot uncomfortable.

History of Korlai Fort

The Portuguese built Korlai Fort, originally famous as Ceul Rock, in 1521 with the consent of the Ahmednagar Sultanate. It served as a mutually dependent base until 1594, when tensions escalated. Abranches, a Portuguese captain with 1,500 soldiers and 1,500 locals, took over.

The attackers destroyed the fort except for its central watchtower upon surrender. It was ruled by the Marathas from 1739 to 1818, then by the East India Company and the British Raj until India's freedom. Some parts of the fort were restored for weekends and vacations. 

Construction of the Fort

Fifty years ago, the 2828-foot Korlai fortification protected 7000 horses and soldiers. This fort's main gateway has a bronze lion and eagle. Fort has eleven gates. This bastion construction separates the fort into three halves. It became a church around 1630 and served until 1728. 

The fort was strategically important as it guarded the bay's mouth. Sambhaji, son of Shivaji, tried to take over but failed. The Marathas held it from 1739-1818. The fort has an essential inscription over the doorway, a coat of arms, and Portuguese stars in the middle of seven castles. People describe the ruins of the fort as a magnificent fortress as strong as any other in the world.

About Korlai Lighthouse

From the southern gate of the fort, visitors can visit the Korlai Lighthouse, which is still in operation. The tall lighthouse is in a well-kept yard with a properly landscaped garden. The Korlai Lighthouse was built in 1955 AD and is fully automatic. The top radar keeps an eye on the water around it and takes pictures all the time that are sent straight to the coast guards by satellite.

How to Reach Korlai Fort?

Korlai Fort is easily accessible from major cities like Mumbai and Pune, with daily local buses. Nearby towns include Murud, Roha, and Alibaug. The nearest railway station is in Pen, 50 kilometers away. To reach the fort from Alibaug, take the first right after crossing the Kundalika River. 

The road is poorly constructed and narrow, with only one car crossing at a time. Limited parking is available, and visitors must hike up 100 steps, which takes around 15 minutes and is suitable for kids.