Murud Janjira Fort

Tourists can find the strong Murud Janjira Fort on a rock off the coast of the village of Murud, 55 km from Alibag in Maharashtra. This fort stands tall on a massive rock in the blue Arabian Sea. It has stood the test of time and the test of strength in the past. On your way along the Konkan coast in Maharashtra, you have to stop at this fort, which is one of the must-see places to visit in Alibaug.

What is Murud Janjira famous for?

Murud Janjira's rock-island sea fort features 19 unbroken circular bastions. Despite Portuguese, British, and Marathas attacks, the fort held. Its architecture, underground passageways, and freshwater lakes make it an interesting historical site.

How long does it take to look around the Fort? 

The boat ride and going through the fort's historical buildings usually take about an hour and a half to two hours.

Structure of Murud Janjira Fort

The Murud Janjira Fort, refurbished in the 17th century, has three massive canons: Kalal Bangadi, Chavri, and Landa Kasam. These five-metal canons could fire 12 kilometers into the sea. The main gate, facing the jetty, and the ruinous Durbar Hall are important fort entrances. Once a three-story court, the main entrance leads to Durbar Hall. The 'Darya Darwaza' (seaside doorway) was likely an emergency exit.

Best Time to Visit Murud Janjira Fort

Maharashtra is known for being very hot in the summer. Since it crosses the sea, going there during the monsoon is not a good idea because the boat service stops during storms and heavy rain for safety reasons. Travel companies plan many Alibaug tour packages from October to March when the weather is warmer and the best time to visit the fort.

History of Janjira Killa

Murud Janjira Fort, a strategic location in Ahmednagar, has a long history dating back to the 15th century. Local fishermen built a wooden garrison called Medhekot to protect themselves and their families from pirate attacks.

The Nizam Shahi Sultan of Ahmednagar wanted the fort to be a stronghold due to its vast area and strategic positions. General Piram Khan captured the fort, and Malik Ambar, an Abyssinian regent, ordered the construction of a solid rock fortress. Authorities named the fort Jazeere Mahroob Jazeera after completing massive renovations. Despite Maratha, Portuguese, and British attempts, the Siddi overlords remained powerful and defied the sovereign to establish a Sultanate of Janjira.

How to Reach Murud Janjira Fort?

As an offshore fort, Murud Janjira Fort must be reached by boat. From Rajapuri jetty on Murud beach, boats transport passengers. The boatmen will offer you 1-2 hours to cruise.

Boats from Rajapuri Jetty cost INR 20-50 per person, depending on crowd, season, and other factors. However, booking a complete boat by one party may be profitable. Visitors reach the Murud-Janjira fort's massive main entrance via water.