Padmadurg fort, also known as Kasa fort, a hidden gem in the Arabian Sea that was built by the legendary warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji to dominate the naval routes in the region.
Located about 157 km south of Mumbai city, this island fortification is a must-visit destination for history buffs and beach bums alike.
It’s believed to have been constructed between 1672 and 1673 C.E, with the finishing touches completed by 1676 C.E. But don’t let its age fool you; Padmadurg still packs a punch with its six bastions and 42 rusty cannons that have withstood the test of time.
Getting to the fort may not be the easiest task, but that only adds to the excitement of the journey. Visitors need to hire a personal boat and obtain permission from the Navy or Coast Guard before setting off on their sea adventure. And if you’re lucky, you might just catch a glimpse of some of the 250 historical cannonballs that were found during a cleanup in 2012.
But be warned, Padmadurg is not as grand as its neighbor, Janjira fort. It’s more of a desolate, lonely and abandoned relic that’s drifting somewhere in the dreams of a bygone era. The high outer walls are now in shambles, and the fortification wall of 100 meters has collapsed. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the view and imagine what life was like during Shivaji’s reign.
If you’re up for a picnic with a difference, Padmadurg is the perfect spot. Just be sure to bring your own snacks and refreshments as there are no shops or cafes on the island. And don’t forget to ask the Customs or Navy for permission before you disembark.
To get to Padmadurg, the nearest international airport is in Mumbai, and the closest railway station is at Mangaon on the Konkan railway route, 60 km away. Boats are mainly available from Murud-Koliwada, and there are no direct boat fares to the fort, so you’ll need to hire a personal boat.
So, are you ready to set sail and explore the mysteries of Padmadurg? We can’t wait to hear about your adventures on the high seas and discover what hidden treasures you uncover.
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