Kolaba Fort, also known as Alibaug Fort, is one of the most famous coastal forts in Maharashtra, located just off the shore of Alibaug Beach. Built in the 17th century by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, this fort played a crucial role in the Maratha navy and trade defense system.

Kolaba Fort stands as a magnificent example of coastal defense architecture, offering stunning sea views, temples, and historical ruins. The fort can be accessed on foot during low tide and by boat during high tide, making it a unique and exciting experience.

📜 1. History of Kolaba Fort

🏰 Early & Medieval History

• Kolaba Fort was built in 1680 by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as part of his naval expansion along the Konkan coast.
• It was strategically located to monitor trade routes and defend against foreign invasions.

⚔️ Maratha & British Era

• After Shivaji Maharaj’s death in 1680, the fort was controlled by his son Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.
• In 1729, Kanhoji Angre, the commander of the Maratha navy, used the fort as his naval headquarters.
• In 1842, the British captured the fort, but they did not destroy it, leaving much of its structure intact.

🏛️ Current Status

• Today, Kolaba Fort is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
• Many structures inside the fort, including temples, water tanks, and bastions, remain intact.
• It is a popular tourist attraction and a must-visit spot for history lovers and photographers.

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🚗 2. How to Reach Kolaba Fort

📍 Nearest Cities & Distances

Location	Distance from Kolaba Fort	Approx. Travel Time
Alibaug	2 km	10 minutes
Mumbai	95 km	2.5 hours
Pune	140 km	3.5 hours

🛶 By Foot (Low Tide Access)

• During low tide, you can walk to Kolaba Fort from Alibaug Beach.
• The distance is around 1-1.5 km, and it takes 20-30 minutes to reach the fort.

⛵ By Boat (High Tide Access)

• During high tide, walking is not possible, and you must take a boat from Alibaug Beach.
• Boat rides cost ₹50 - ₹100 per person and take around 10 minutes.

🚖 By Road to Alibaug

• From Mumbai: Take the Mumbai-Goa Highway (NH-66) and then the Alibaug-Murud Road.
• From Pune: Drive via Tamhini Ghat and Pen to reach Alibaug.
• From Mumbai (Sea Route): You can take a ferry from Gateway of India to Mandwa Jetty, then take a bus/taxi to Alibaug.

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🥾 3. Trekking & Exploring Kolaba Fort

🗺️ Route & Difficulty

Route	Starting Point	Difficulty Level	Time Required
Low Tide Walking Route	Alibaug Beach	Easy	30 minutes
Boat Ride Route	Alibaug Jetty	Easy	10 minutes

⏳ Best Time to Visit

✅ Winter (October - March) – Best time, pleasant weather ❄️
✅ Post-Monsoon (September - October) – Scenic views & clear skies 🌿
❌ Avoid Monsoon (June - August) – High tides, risky boat rides 🌊

🔍 Travel Tips

✔️ Check the tide timings before planning your trip.
✔️ Wear waterproof shoes if walking during low tide.
✔️ Carry waterproof bags for phones and cameras.

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🤩 4. Why You Must Visit Kolaba Fort?

✅ One of the Few Coastal Forts Built by Shivaji Maharaj – A significant part of Maratha naval history.
✅ Unique Low Tide Walk – Experience walking through the sea to reach the fort.
✅ Scenic Ocean Views – Offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea.
✅ Well-Preserved Temples & Bastions – Visit the Goddess Mahishasura Mardini temple & freshwater wells inside the fort.
✅ Perfect for Photography & History Enthusiasts – Explore ancient inscriptions, cannons, and ruins.

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🏰 5. Important Fort Details

🚪 Fort Gates (Darwazas)

Gate Name	Significance
Main Entrance Gate	Faces Alibaug Beach, still intact.
Sea-Facing Gate	Opens towards the Arabian Sea, used for naval operations.

🛡️ Fort Towers & Structures

Structure	Significance
Mahishasura Mardini Temple	Ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Mahishasura Mardini.
Freshwater Wells	Rare wells inside a sea fort, still provide drinking water.
Old Cannons	Rusted but preserved, once used for defense.

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🚨 6. When to Avoid Visiting Kolaba Fort

❌ During Heavy Monsoons (June-August) – High tides and strong currents make boat rides risky.
❌ Late Evenings/Night – The fort closes before sunset, and no one is allowed to stay overnight.
❌ During Extreme Low Tide – Walking path can be too muddy and slippery.

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⚠️ 7. Who Should Avoid This Trip?

🚷 People with mobility issues – Walking on the seabed can be challenging.
🚷 Elderly people – Uneven surfaces inside the fort.
🚷 People with seasickness – Avoid the boat ride during rough sea conditions.

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🎒 8. What to Carry for the Trip?

✔️ Waterproof bag for valuables.
✔️ Comfortable footwear (Waterproof shoes recommended).
✔️ Sunglasses, cap, and sunscreen (to protect from sun exposure).
✔️ Drinking water & snacks (No food stalls inside the fort).
✔️ Camera & power bank (for capturing beautiful views).
✔️ Extra clothes (if walking during low tide).

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💭 Final Thoughts

Kolaba Fort is a historic and scenic destination, offering a unique coastal fort experience. Whether you’re a history buff, trekker, or photographer, this fort is one of the best places to visit in Alibaug.

📍 Plan your trip wisely, check the tide timings, and enjoy a walk through history! 🚶‍♂️🏰🌊