7 Must-Visit Sea Forts of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Maharashtra

• Shivaji Maharaj built sea forts to secure the Konkan coastline
• Forts like Sindhudurg and Vijaydurg boosted Maratha naval power
• These forts remain major heritage sites in Maharashtra today

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When we think of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, images of hill forts and guerrilla warfare in the Sahyadris often come to mind. But beyond his land campaigns, Shivaji Maharaj demonstrated remarkable foresight at sea. At a time when European powers, the Siddis of Janjira and regional sultanates were battling for control of the Arabian Sea, he understood a crucial truth: without naval strength, Swarajya would remain vulnerable.

To secure the Konkan coastline and safeguard maritime trade, Shivaji built, strengthened and captured a network of sea forts. These island bastions became the backbone of the early Maratha Navy and helped establish indigenous naval dominance in western India.

Here’s a closer look at seven of his most strategic sea forts — many of which remain major heritage and travel attractions in Maharashtra today.

Sindhudurg Fort

1. Sindhudurg Fort: The naval capital of the Marathas

Built in 1664 on Kurte Island near Malvan, Sindhudurg is widely regarded as Shivaji Maharaj’s most ambitious maritime project. Constructed in just three years, the fort was designed to counter naval threats from the Portuguese, British and Siddis.

Its massive laterite walls rise directly from the sea, blending so seamlessly with the coastline that the entrance remains cleverly concealed. The fort features over 40 bastions, freshwater wells within its premises and a complex internal layout designed to confuse invaders.

Today, Sindhudurg is not just a military marvel but also home to a rare temple dedicated to Shivaji Maharaj — making it both a historic and spiritual landmark.

Vijaydurg Fort

2. Vijaydurg Fort: The ‘Eastern Gibraltar’

Originally known as Gheria, this fort was captured by Shivaji in 1653 from the Adil Shahi rulers and renamed Vijaydurg, meaning “Fort of Victory.” Located along the Devgad coast, it became one of the most powerful naval bases of the Maratha Empire.

With triple-layered fortifications and a natural creek offering safe anchorage for warships, Vijaydurg played a crucial role in controlling maritime trade routes. Historians also note the presence of an underwater defensive wall — a remarkable example of advanced coastal defence strategy for its time.

Suvarnadurg Fort

3. Suvarnadurg Fort: Guardian of the Konkan trade routes

Built in 1660 near Dapoli in Ratnagiri district, Suvarnadurg — meaning “Golden Fort” — was strategically positioned to guard the northern entrance of the Kanakadurga Creek.

Its location allowed the Marathas to monitor ship movements and protect coastal trade. Surrounded by the Arabian Sea, the fort’s robust stone walls and bastions made it extremely difficult to attack. Over time, it emerged as an important naval outpost and symbol of Maratha maritime vigilance.

Padmadurg Fort

4. Padmadurg Fort: A counter to the Siddis

Also known as Kasa Fort, Padmadurg was constructed on an island near Murud specifically to challenge the naval dominance of the Siddis of Janjira.

By building Padmadurg within close proximity to the powerful Janjira stronghold, Shivaji Maharaj sent a clear strategic message. The fort allowed the Marathas to monitor enemy movement and strengthen their presence along this contested stretch of coastline.

Today, Padmadurg stands as a reminder of the intense maritime rivalry that once defined the Konkan waters.

Kolaba Fort

5. Kolaba Fort: The tidal fortress of Alibaug

Located just off the coast of Alibaug, Kolaba Fort became a significant naval station under the Marathas. One of its most fascinating features is accessibility — visitors can walk to the fort during low tide, while at high tide it is surrounded by water.

Kolaba later became associated with the famed Maratha naval commander Kanhoji Angre, who used it as a base to challenge British naval forces. Its cannons, bastions and temples still draw travellers interested in maritime history.

6. Khanderi Fort: The harbour sentinel

Situated near Mumbai harbour, Khanderi Fort played a crucial role in controlling sea access to the region. Its strategic position led to multiple confrontations involving the British East India Company and the Siddis.

By fortifying Khanderi, Shivaji strengthened his grip over key shipping routes, reinforcing Maratha naval presence near what would later become one of India’s most important ports.

7. Underi Fort: A contested coastal stronghold

Built near Khanderi, Underi Fort frequently changed hands between the Marathas and the Siddis, highlighting its strategic importance.

Though smaller compared to some other sea forts, Underi played a decisive role in regional naval battles. Its proximity to Khanderi made the two forts a powerful defensive pair guarding the Konkan coastline.

Why Shivaji’s sea forts still matter

Shivaji Maharaj’s coastal fortification strategy was revolutionary for 17th-century India. At a time when maritime power was largely dominated by European forces, he laid the foundation for an indigenous naval defence system.