Vijaydurg Fort is a historic sea fort located on the Konkan coastline of Maharashtra. Originally built by Raja Bhoj II of the Shilahar dynasty between 1193 and 1205, it was later captured and fortified by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1653, who named it the “Fort of Victory”. Recognized for its strategic naval importance, Vijaydurg Fort was recently included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list under “Maratha Military Landscapes of India.”

History and Construction

  • Original Construction: Built between 1193–1205 by Raja Bhoj II of the Shilahar dynasty.

  • Maratha Era: Captured by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1653 and strengthened into a major naval base.

Architectural and Military Features

  • Strategic Location: Situated at the mouth of the Vaghotan River, surrounded on three sides by the Arabian Sea.

  • Multi-layered Defenses: Includes three walls, 27 bastions, and angled walls designed to deflect cannon fire.

  • Innovative Defenses: Features tidal gates to flood areas, hidden underwater walls to damage enemy ships, and loopholes for defenders.

  • Self-sustainability: Equipped with water tanks and granaries to withstand long sieges.

Things to Do

  • Explore the 27 bastions and ancient walls.

  • Walk along the sea-facing ramparts and enjoy panoramic Arabian Sea views.

  • Visit the underground water tanks and granaries.

  • Capture photography of historical structures and the coastline.

  • Learn about Maratha naval strategies through on-site guides or information boards.

Nearby Attractions (with distance)

  • Tarkarli Beach: 35 km – famous for snorkeling and water sports.

  • Sindhudurg Fort: 52 km – another historic sea fort on the Konkan coast.

  • Malvan Marine Sanctuary: 50 km – a hotspot for marine biodiversity.

  • Devbagh Beach: 30 km – ideal for family outings and beach activities.

Best Time to Visit

  • October to March: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and photography.

  • Avoid Monsoon (June–September): Heavy rains can make roads slippery and restrict fort access.

Why Visit

  • Witness one of the oldest and most strategically advanced sea forts in India.

  • Experience the historical grandeur of the Maratha navy.

  • Explore UNESCO-recognized heritage with rich architectural and military significance.

  • Enjoy scenic views of the Arabian Sea and Konkan coastline.

How to Reach

  • By Road: Accessible via Devgad or Vijaydurg towns; well-connected by local buses and taxis.

  • Nearest Railway Stations: Rajapur Road (63 km), Kankavli (77 km).

  • By Air: Goa International Airport (195 km) or Ratnagiri Airport (120 km), followed by road travel.