Sindhudurg Fort is an 'ocean fort' situated on a low rocky island off the
Malvan coast, in
Sindhudurg District of
Maharashtra. Built by
Chhatrapati Shivaji in 1664, it stands as a silent sentinel to the lingering memories associated with the maritime history of the glorious Maratha Empire. This imposing structure is a symbol of naval dominance of the Marathas over the
Arabian Sea.
At the entrance of the Sindhudurg Fort, there are three triangular and three grapnel types of stone anchors. Presently these anchors are cemented on the platform of the small jetty of the fort. Two other grapnel types of stone anchors are used as mooring stones.
The fort houses a temple dedicated to Shivaji, built by his son Rajaram. The hand and feet imprints of the king are found on one of its walls.
Sindhudurg Fort can be approached only through a narrow navigable channel, between two small islands of Dhontara and Padmagad. Ferries are available from the Malvan Port to the fort.
Vijaydurg Fort and the Padamgarh Fort are other sites of interest near the fort.
Rajapur Road Railway Station and Kudal Railway Station, on the Konkan Railways, are the nearest railway stations.
