Murud Janjira

Overview:

Situated in Raigad district of Maharashtra is the small coastal village of Murud, a picturesque holiday spot, famous for its, vast glittering coastline of sandy beach fenced by hot springs, betel nut trees, swaying coconut palms and remnants of ancient forts, all in the cusp of majestic mountains and lush greenery. At a distance of forty two kilometers from Alibag, a multitude of tourists are choosing to stay in and around Murud. The vast expansion of Murud beach with its crystal clear bluish water is pristinely beautiful, clean and safe for swimming. Sun rises and sun sets, through the mountains in the east, and against the back ground of the remarkable forts make for an unforgettable sight. Excluding the beach, Murud is prominently famous for its proximity to Janjira off the coast of Rajapuri. Murud also has a number of temples and churches that have contested and surpassed the rampage of time. The atmosphere of Murud-Janjira is serene and pollution free, with a bearable warm weather which continuously cooled by the gentle sea breeze. Travellers beckoned by the sun, sand, the historic forts and the balmy weather, should hire a cab from Mumbai to undertake a short trip to Murud Janjira and enjoy a surreal experience that will remain in their cherished memories for a lifetime. The distance between this popular getaway destination and the state capital is a little over a hundred and fifty kilometers, and the ride from Mumbai to Murud Janjira by car takes around four hours, via Mumbai-Pune Expressway and a shorter route of hundred and fifty kilometers can be decided via ‘Rashtriya Maha Marg’, which make the journey a three hour drive. Car rentals and taxi cabs are a preferred choice for travelling to Murud Janjira from Mumbai as they ensure a comfortable journey and allow people to travel and explore all the wonders of Murud-Janjira at their own pace. Traversing further, the adventure, casual, historically and religiously inclined transients would find the mega polis of Pune catering to all their needs. Cabs from Pune airport to Murud or vice a versa, can easily be availed at economical rates. Pune is hundred and sixty two kilometers and a good three hours drive from Murud via SH60 and the Mumbai-Pune Expressway.

Places to Visit:

Located on an oval-shaped rock off the Arabian Sea coast near the port town of Murud, Murud-Janjira Fort is the most conspicuous and prominent landmark of Murud. Considered to be one of the strongest marine forts along India's Western coast, Janjira is famous for being undefeated and unconquerable despite Maratha, Dutch and English East India Company attacks. Sailboats from Rajapuri jetty are used to transfer visitors from the mainland to the main gate of the fort which can be seen only when quite close to it. The fort also has a small postern gate towards the open sea for escape. Surrounded by the Arabian Sea on all sides, it was built in the 16th century during the Siddi Dynasty. The fort is replete with nineteen rounded bastions which are still intact, homing numerous rusting cannons of native and European make. The premises of the fort houses quarters for officers, a mosque and a big water tank. Flanking the main gate, on the outer wall there is an artistic sculpture depicting a tiger-like beast clasping elephants in its claws. Prominent "Ahok-Chakras" feature on all major gates of the Janjira Fort.

The Nawab Palace, also called the Ahmedganj Palace, is yet another popular tourist spot in Murud. Built by a Koli chief in the late 15th century, the fort was originally a small wooden structure and was later strengthened by the Abyssinian-origin Siddi regent, Malik Ambar of Ahmednagar kings. Boasting a blend of Mughal and Gothic architectural styles, the construction of the palace of the Nawabs is unique and very strong. It is still in good shape and has secret gates to escape or hide.

Next in line is the Datta Mandir. This red-domed temple, built by Swami Bramhendra, is perched atop a hill. It houses a three-headed idol of Sri Dutta, who represents the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. Garambi Falls, a gorgeous waterfall surrounded by forests, is also worth visiting. The water here plunges down a hundred feet creating a sight to behold. Other places of tourist interest in Murud include Garamdi Dam, Kasa Fort, Gol Gumbaz, and Nandgaon.

Things To Do:

The silvery sands began to glow throughout the day under the sun. An early morning full tide bath in the warm water can wash away all sorts of fatigue and stress. The 2 kilometer long Murud beach with the languor of the waves and the music of the sea, looks like a festooned ornament, and offers a wonderful experience.

Visitors can shop for masala and other traditional spices and savor some barfi and some coconut chikki.

Tourists seeking solitude and peace may even travel to the quiet, virgin beaches at Nandgaon. Located about 9 kms away from Murud, Nandgaon is easy to miss. It is advisable to hire rental cab drivers as they usually possess a thorough knowledge of the area.

Another little getaway 17 kilometers from Murud is Kashid beach. Less frequented by tourists, this un-spoilt beach personifies serenity and beauty.