Murud Janjira Fort: The Unconquered Fort Near Murud

If you are looking for a historical and adventurous destination near Mumbai or Pune, you should definitely visit Janjira Fort, also known as the unconquered fort. Janjira Fort is a majestic fortification located on an island in the Arabian Sea, near the coastal town of Murud in Maharashtra. It is one of the most impressive and unique forts in India, as it has never been conquered by any enemy in its history.

Janjira Fort was built by the Sidis, a community of African origin who came to India as slaves and soldiers and rose to prominence as naval commanders and rulers. The fort was originally a small wooden structure built by the local fishermen to protect themselves from pirates. The Sidis captured it in the late 15th century and expanded it into a massive stone fortress with 19 bastions, several cannons, palaces, mosques, and water tanks.

Janjira Fort: The Unconquered Fort Near Murud

Janjira Fort was a strategic naval base that controlled the trade routes between India and Africa, Europe, and Persia. The fort witnessed many fierce battles with the Portuguese, the Dutch, the British, the Mughals, and the Marathas, but none of them could breach its walls or capture its inhabitants. The fort remained under the control of the Sidis until 1947 when India became independent. The last resident family of the Fort moved to the mainland in 1980. The current family of the loyal heir is still there. The king's name is Siddi Shah Mehmood, and they reside in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. They also have a huge palace in Murud.

Google Map location for Murud-Janjira Fort

Today, Janjira Fort is a popular tourist attraction that attracts visitors from all over the country and abroad. The fort can be reached by a short boat ride from Murud Beach. The boat ride itself is an exciting experience, as you have to climb onto a small wooden boat that sails through the choppy waters of the sea. The boatmen will also entertain you with stories and legends about the fort.

Once you reach the island, you can explore the ruins of the fort and admire its architecture and engineering. You can see the massive walls and bastions that still stand strong after centuries of exposure to salt water and wind. You can also see the cannons that once guarded the fort against enemy attacks. Some of them have interesting names like Kalal Bangadi, Chavri, and Landa Kasam. You can also visit the palaces where the Sidi rulers lived in luxury and splendour. You can also see the mosques where they prayed and the water tanks where they stored fresh water.

One of the most fascinating features of Janjira Fort is the secret tunnel that connects it to another fort on the mainland. The tunnel was used as an escape route in case of emergency or siege. However, the tunnel is now submerged underwater and cannot be accessed by visitors.

Janjira Fort is not only a historical monument but also a natural wonder. The island is surrounded by coral reefs that are home to various marine life forms. You can also spot dolphins, turtles, and sea birds around the island. The island also has a rich flora and fauna that includes mangroves, coconut trees, and various birds and animals.

Janjira Fort is a must-visit place for anyone who loves history, adventure, and nature. It is a place where you can witness the glory and courage of a community that defied all odds and remained unconquered for centuries. It is also a place where you can enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of nature amidst the ruins of a magnificent fort.