Are you ready to explore an incredible piece of history that will leave you awestruck and inspired? Let me introduce you to Jaigad Fort, also known as the Fort of Victory. This 16th-century marvel is spread across 13 acres in the coastal region of Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, and is a must-visit spot on your travel bucket list.
Located near Jaigad Village and just 20 km to the north-west of Ganpatipule, Jaigad Fort stands tall on a cliff overlooking the mesmerizing Arabian Sea, where River Shastri meets the sea. Its magnificence will surely amaze you, and you’ll find yourself thinking, “How did they build such a masterpiece?” This engineering marvel was built to protect the creek, with another fort named the Vijaygad Fort to the North and the Jaigad Fort to the South of the creek.
Now, the fort comes under the Archaeological Survey of India, and most of the ruins are studied by them. Although the fort is in ruins, some of the architecture has outlived the tests of time and weather. The fort consists of a high upper fortress connected by bastions on the edge of the cliff, the lower line of defence on the shore, and two sweet water wells.
The steep stairways lead to the upper fortress from where the beautiful creek can be seen. It’s a perfect spot for some stunning Instagram-worthy pictures. You can also visit the Jaigad lighthouse, built in close vicinity to the fort, which is a must-visit spot.
Legend has it that Jaigad Fort was built only after a human sacrifice. The young boy, Jaiba Malhar, who sacrificed his life willingly, is believed to be resting in one of the ramparts of the fort. The name “Jaigad” was thus derived from the young boy’s name. I don’t know about you, but I prefer to think that the fort was built with the help of some clever architects and builders.
The fort was under the control of Naiks belonging to Sangameshwar, who fought fiercely against the Portuguese and the Bijapur Sultanate to protect it. Later, it became a part of the Shivaji dominion and was managed by Balaji Vishwanath Peshwa, who surrendered it to Kanhoji Angre in 1713. In 1818, the fort was captured by the British during the third Anglo Maratha War.
If you’re staying in Ganpatipule, you can easily reach Jaigad Fort by auto or taxi. You can also reach here using private vehicles or MSRTC buses from Ratnagiri, but be prepared for some bumpy roads due to frequent potholes. Private or tourist vehicles can be driven till the fort by road via NH-17. The fort is about 35 km north-west of the Nivali Phata.
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