Kolaba Fort

Kolaba Fort is the icon of Alibaug, a mighty sea fort standing a kilometre or two off the town beach that you can walk out to across the sand at low tide. Built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj around 1680 and completed under Sambhaji Maharaj, it was one of the chief naval stations of the Marathas, from where Kanhoji Angre and his fleet challenged the Siddis, the British and the Portuguese. Its weathered ramparts rise about 25 feet, and within the walls you will find a Ganesh temple, a dargah, freshwater wells that survive amid the sea, and carvings of animals and birds on the stone. Walking to the fort as the tide recedes, exploring its bastions and gates, and imagining the sea battles it witnessed is the quintessential Alibaug experience. It suits history lovers, families and photographers alike. Time your visit strictly to the low tide, wear footwear you can walk on wet sand in, and start back before the water returns. Visit in the October to March season, and combine it with the town beach, synagogue and seafood.