If there is one destination that Maharashtra can boast off for its historical inheritance, sea-fort and sublime beaches, Murud tops the list !
Situated in the Raigad district of Maharashtra and approx. 182 kilometers from Pune, this tourist destination is best known for its exquisite beaches and proximity to the Janjira fort.
Murud – Janjira is an island-fort situated near Murud, one of the popular heritage destinations to visit in close proximity of Mumbai and Pune. The fort, built at the end of the 17th century is almost entirely intact even today. During its culmination, this island fort boasted of having 572 cannons but now it has around 26 rounded bastions.
The main attractions of the Janjira (island in Arabic) are the three enormously huge cannons named Kalalbangdi, Chavri and Landa Kasam said to be feared for their distinctive shooting range. The island-fort also has its entrance gate towards the open sea; intricately adorned with ancient carvings. This fort can be accessed by boat from Rajapuri village, about two kilometers from Janjira Fort.
This one of a kind fort in the sea is situated on an oval-shaped rock. Inside the fort are the ruins of a mosque, a palace, bath with water channelled from streams and royal quarters that was mainly occupied by the ladies. A deep well still functional, provides fresh water despite the fort being surrounded by salt water. On shore is a luxurious cliff-top mansion, the Palace of the Nawab giving a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea and the Janjira sea-fort.
Although tourists essentially visit Murud to soak in this heritage site and experience the boat ride to the fort, the other attractions are the Murud-Janjira beach, Datta Mandir housing the Trinity Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara, the Ahmedganj Palace constructed in Gothic and Mughal architectural styles, Garambi falls, Kasa Fort and Siddhi Vinayak Temple.
The lush green surroundings attract many; yet it is advisable to stay clear of the carnivorous plants that are commonly found there. The city of Murud also has many hotels, resorts and bungalows resting tourists throughout the year but avoid visiting it in the monsoons.
Unlike the normal souvenirs, tourists travel back home with loads of spices, dried fish and wonderful memories of the sunrise and sunset. The clear golden sandy beaches, authentic and exquisite Konkan cuisine, Murud-Janjira makes a perfect destination for a road trip.
Time to pack your bags readers !!
#All views expressed in this column are the authors.
Reach her at loveleen@pune365.com or tweet @KaurKaur18
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