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Murud Janjira

Murud Janjira is the famous fort located on an island in the close proximity of the harbour city Murud, located in the Maharashtra's Raigad district. This fort was dominated by the Siddis. Being located at a distance of 165 kms from south part of Mumbai, Janjira is one of the strongest sea forts in India. In India's Western coast, this is the only fort that left unbeatable regardless of Maratha, English East India Company and Dutch attacks.

Murud Janjira is surrounded by a beautiful Arabic sea warmly playing with blue water waves and lush gardens of coconut trees. Its golden shore is filled with sand where one can walk gently and enjoy the nature to its full.

History of Fort 

The ‘Janjira’ name is derived from the Arabic word ‘Jazeera’. In olden days, in Marathi language, Murud was known as ‘Habsan’. The name Murud Janjira is the combination of the Arabic and Konkani words for Island, ‘morod’ and ‘jazeera. In 15th century, Janjira fort was made by a local Maratha-Fisherman, Ram Patil who was a brave man and was admired for his courageous acts amongst the local fishermen. In order to protect his folks from thieves and pirates he built this fort.

Later, Ahmadnagar’s ruler, Nizamshah captured the fort with the help of his Siddi commander, Piram Khan, who attacked the fort with three ships equipped with essential armoury and armed forces. The fort was known as 'Jazeere Mahroob Jazeera ' which in Arabic stands for an Island.  At last, Siddis became free, owned faithfulness to Mughals and Adishah as dictated by the era.

The title ‘Commander of the fort’ was given to Siddhi Ambersatak. Sidi Yaqub and Yahya Saleh were responsible for major historical figures in Murud-Janjira. The fort was created by a concoction of sand, gul and lead.

Architecture of Fort

Architecture of the fort is unique and very strong. Initially, the Janjira fort was a little construction of wood and built in late 15th century by a Koli chief. The major gate of the fort faces towards Rajapuri on the seashore. Its back gate is small and faces open sea for hide and run away. The fort has total 19 round shaped citadels which are still in good condition. The fort in its prime had all essential facilities like quarters for officers, palaces, mosque and a big fresh water tank. Next to the main gate, there is wall containing a sculpture represent a tiger-like animal grip elephants in its scrapes. This sculpture’s significance is hard to understand and looks on various fort gates in Maharashtra state.

All major gates of this fort contain prominent "Ashok-Chakras". The palace of the Nawabs of Janjira at Murud is still intact. The palace was independent and must have hold of the locals.

Attraction Near the Fort

Ahemadganj Palace

The palace is built in 1885 and spread over a huge area of 45 acres, the palace grounds owns an amazing mosque and the tombs of the earlier rulers. An amalgamation of Mughal and gothic style architecture makes the palace a graceful mansion.

Garambi Falls

Garambi Falls is a very famous tourist spot near the fort which is surrounded by lush forests and is known for its swiftly falling water. It is a magnificent place to enjoy the beauty of nature.

How to Reach

By Air

Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai is the closest International Airport from Murud Janjira which is almost 165 Kms. Connecting flights to major Indian cities like Delhi, Bangalore, Bhubaneswar, Ahmedabad; Chandigarh etc are available from here.

By Rail

Roha railway station is the nearest railway station from Murud Janjira and it is well connected to the all the major cities like, Kochuveli, Sawantwadi, Trivandrum, Ratnagiri and Bhavnagar. Major trains which pass from this railway station are Rajya Rani Express, Netravati Express, Bvc Kcvl Express, etc.

By Road

Murud Janjira is linked to other major cities through a good road network. Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (SSRTC) and some private luxury travel services are available on regular basis at affordable prices.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Murud Janjira is the winter season. During this period, the temperature remains comfortable and is appropriate for visiting the attractions. October to March is the perfect months for tourists as this is the time when the nature in this area is at its best. One can enjoy greenery, sunlight, clear sky, and can have a wonderful experience.

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

You can visit the fort between 7 AM to 6 PM every day except Friday. On Friday, it closes at 2 o’clock in the afternoon.

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Best Time To Visit Rajasthan 1
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Best Time To Visit Rajasthan 1
Best Time To Visit Rajasthan 2
Best Time To Visit Rajasthan 1
Best Time To Visit Rajasthan 2

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