Padmadurg Fort, also known as Kasa Fort, is a lesser-known sea fort located off the coast of Murud, Maharashtra. Built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the 17th century, Padmadurg was meant to serve as a rival fort to the mighty Murud-Janjira Fort, which was controlled by the Siddis.

This fort is one of Shivaji’s five naval forts, and although it is partially in ruins, it remains an architectural marvel in the Arabian Sea. Due to limited access, visiting Padmadurg requires special permission from the Indian Navy.

 

📜 1. History of Padmadurg Fort

🏰 Early & Medieval History

• Padmadurg Fort was built in 1676 by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as a strategic naval fort.
• It was meant to challenge the powerful Murud-Janjira Fort, which was ruled by the Siddis of Janjira.
• The fort was designed to attack enemy ships and protect Maratha trade routes.

⚔️ Maratha & British Era

• Despite its strong structure and strategic location, Padmadurg could not overpower Murud-Janjira.
• After Shivaji Maharaj’s death, the fort lost its importance and was later taken over by the British.
• Today, the fort remains in ruins, but its walls and bastions still stand strong.

🏛️ Current Status

• Padmadurg Fort is now under the Indian Navy’s jurisdiction, and visitors require special permission to enter.
• The fort is partially submerged, making it difficult to access without a local guide and a boat.
• It is one of the few remaining naval forts of the Marathas, offering a unique experience.

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🚗 2. How to Reach Padmadurg Fort

📍 Nearest Cities & Distances

Location	Distance from Padmadurg Fort	Approx. Travel Time
Murud	4 km	20 minutes (by boat)
Alibaug	55 km	1.5 hours
Mumbai	150 km	4 hours
Pune	180 km	5 hours

⛵ By Boat (Only Way to Reach)

• Padmadurg is accessible only by boat from Murud.
• You need special permission from the Indian Navy to visit.
• Boats are not regularly available, and you must hire a local fisherman’s boat to reach the fort.

🚖 By Road to Murud

• From Mumbai: Take the Mumbai-Goa Highway (NH-66) and then the Murud-Janjira road.
• From Pune: Drive via Tamhini Ghat and Roha to reach Murud.
• From Alibaug: Take the Alibaug-Murud coastal road.

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🥾 3. Exploring Padmadurg Fort

🗺️ Trekking & Difficulty

Route	Starting Point	Difficulty Level	Time Required
Murud Boat Route	Murud Jetty	Moderate (Due to Sea Conditions)	30-40 minutes by boat

⏳ Best Time for Visit

✅ Winter (October - March) – Best season, calm sea and pleasant weather ❄️
✅ Post-Monsoon (September - October) – Ideal for a scenic boat ride 🌿
❌ Avoid Monsoon (June - August) – Strong waves, boat rides unavailable 🌊

🔍 Travel Tips

✔️ Get prior permission from the Indian Navy.
✔️ Hire a local guide to arrange a boat.
✔️ Wear a life jacket during the boat ride.
✔️ Carry waterproof bags for valuables.

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🤩 4. Why You Must Visit Padmadurg Fort?

✅ One of the Five Naval Forts of Shivaji Maharaj – A unique historical site.
✅ Stunning Ocean Views – Offers 360-degree views of the Arabian Sea & Murud-Janjira.
✅ Less Crowded & Offbeat – A hidden gem in Maharashtra’s coastal region.
✅ Adventure Experience – Only accessible via boat, adding to the thrill.
✅ Historic Maratha Naval Defense Structure – A testament to Maratha naval power.

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🏰 5. Important Fort Details

🚪 Fort Gates (Darwazas)

Gate Name	Significance
Main Entrance Gate	The only access point to the fort, now partially submerged.

🛡️ Fort Towers & Structures

Structure	Significance
Bastions	Used for defense and placing cannons.
Rock Cut Water Tanks	Ancient reservoirs for drinking water storage.
Watchtowers	Used to monitor enemy ships.

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🚨 6. When to Avoid Visiting Padmadurg Fort

❌ During Monsoons (June-August) – Rough sea conditions, no boat access.
❌ Without Permission – Since it’s under the Indian Navy, unauthorized visits are not allowed.
❌ Late Evenings/Night – No lighting, unsafe due to the sea.

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⚠️ 7. Who Should Avoid This Trip?

🚷 People with seasickness – The boat ride can be rough.
🚷 Young kids & elderly people – Difficult access and uneven terrain.
🚷 People with fear of deep water – The fort is surrounded by the Arabian Sea.

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🎒 8. What to Carry for the Trip?

✔️ Waterproof bag for valuables.
✔️ Life jacket (provided by the boat operator).
✔️ Sunglasses, cap, and sunscreen (to protect from sun exposure).
✔️ Trekking shoes for walking around the fort.
✔️ Snacks & drinking water (no shops on the fort).
✔️ Camera & power bank (for capturing scenic views).

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💭 Final Thoughts

Padmadurg Fort is a hidden marvel of the Arabian Sea, offering a unique mix of history, adventure, and natural beauty. While it is not as easily accessible as other forts, it is worth visiting for history enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

📍 Plan your trip wisely, get the required permissions, and explore this forgotten sea fort of the Marathas! 🚤🏰