Dighi (Murud Janjira) - The sea fort
A trip to Murud - Janjira from Dighi is what can make your Harihareshwar - Shrivardhan - Diveagar trip truely unforgettable. A 20 minute ferry from Dighi will get you to this formidable sea fortress. Few forts in Maharashtra have a history as exciting as Murud-Janjira, the legendary sea-fort. The fort belonged to a dynasty of Siddhis who are believed to have their origins in Abyssinia, in far North Africa. This fort also hold the distinction of never been captured by force, be it the Marathas, British or the Dutch armies. Shivaji Maharaj made six unsuccessful attempts to conquer this fort. Later Sambhaji and even the Peshwas tried to conquer Mehroob, but in vain. The fort Janjira, thus remained unconquered and labeled as impregnable. You could see the splendor of this fort even today. There are a few majestic cannons, which have their own names, and remind you of the many ships they must have destroyed in wars. Janjira caves offer another attraction one cannot resist. But after that you are absolutely ready to hit the beach. Spend your time gleefully lapping amidst the waves and the lush coconut and palm trees, not forgetting the tranquility of the setting sun.One of the reasons why people look at the fort with awe is because the fort is located right in the middle of the sea, a rare change from other forts located along mountainous heights.
Shivaji Maharaj made six unsuccessful attempts to conquer this fort. Later Sambhaji and even the Peshwas tried to conquer Mehroob, but in vain. The fort Janjira, thus remained unconquered and labeled as impregnable. You could see the splendor of this fort even today. There are a few majestic cannons, which have their own names, and remind you of the many ships they must have destroyed in wars. Janjira caves offer another attraction one cannot resist. But after that you are absolutely ready to hit the beach. Spend your time gleefully lapping amidst the waves and the lush coconut and palm trees, not forgetting the tranquility of the setting sun.
Murud Janjira lies off the coast of Dighi in Raigad district and you could get a ferry from Dighi to reach Murud Janjira. The erstwhile fortress today serves as an ideal weekend getaway for city dwellers. Murud Janjira can be visited all year round. Although during the monsoons the water surges can get a touch risky.
In Murud MTDC has simple cottages and rooms near the beach. You can also stay with residents who have rooms and shacks on rent. Food is available at the MTDC resort, stalls on the beach and at shacks in the village.
