Located on an oval-shaped rock off the Arabian Sea coast near the port town of Murud, the majestic Murud Janjira fort stands firm as a testimony to its architectural marvel and the history of the Konkan region. Its name Janjira is derived from the Arabic word Jazeera, which means an island. Murud Janjira, renowned for being the only fort along India’s Western coast that remained undefeated despite Dutch, Maratha, and English East India Company attacks, encapsulates a history that attracts countless history buffs and tourists alike.
Murud Janjira dates back to the 15th century when it was constructed by a local Maratha-Fisherman. It was later captured by the Siddis of Janjira (an African tribe of Siddi), who fortified it extensively to withstand enemy onslaught. This incredible fortress boasts 26 rounded bastions still intact and originally had a small wooden structure constructed by a Koli chief in the late 15th century. In the 17th century, it was captured by Siddi Johar, an Abyssinian origin Siddi, and became an invincible stronghold that stood the tests of time and war during the reigns of various colonial and regional powers.
The tourism history at Murud Janjira is closely linked to its accessibility and the preservation of the fort itself. For many years, it was a regional attraction primarily due to its inaccessibility and the lack of tourist infrastructure. However, with the improvement in transportation and the growing awareness about the fort’s historical significance, it has become a popular destination for those visiting Alibaug and the surrounding Konkan areas.
Tourism began to dramatically increase in the late 20th century as more people from the nearby cities of Mumbai and Pune started exploring getaway opportunities. Local government and tourism boards began investing in developing the necessary infrastructure to facilitate tourism, which included better roads, local guides, and the facilitation of boats to ferry visitors to and from the fort.
Visitors to Murud Janjira partake in picturesque boat rides from the nearby Rajapuri jetty to reach the island fort. The journey to the fort is as entrancing as the destination, with seagulls accompanying the small boats and clear waters revealing a diverse aquatic ecosystem below.
Ecotourism and sustainable travel are emerging as significant trends in tourism, with visitors increasingly seeking experiences that are environmentally responsible and culturally respectful. This is evident even in the region around Murud Janjira, where there's a growing focus on conservation efforts and promotion of the local culture without compromising the well-being of the natural and historical sites.
Moreover, there has been a rise in the usage of digital platforms for tourism promotion. Social media and online travel forums have played a crucial role in the discovery and sharing of experiences related to the fort. The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) and other private tour operators are leveraging these trends and providing detailed online information, virtual tours, and booking services to ease the travel process for domestic and international tourists.
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected global tourism, but with the easing of travel restrictions, there has been a resurgence of interest in less crowded, open-air sites. Murud Janjira, with its open sky and wide ramparts, has become an attractive destination for those looking to travel after the pandemic while adhering to social distancing norms.
The fort can be visited throughout the year although the post-monsoon period from September to early March is considered the best time due to the pleasant weather. While there, visitors can explore the majestic gates, the palace ruins, and the deep wells that once held sweet water amidst the saline sea. Guides are readily available to enrich your visit with tales and legends of the fort’s glories and battles.
Lastly, the local cuisine, especially the seafood, is a must-try for visitors, reflecting the richness of the coastal culture and flavors which have been savored by generations that lived in the shadow of this historic fort.
