Located 96 km south of Mumbai, Alibag is a prized beach resort for weekend getaways. The town is equally renowned for its coastal fortresses, monuments to its rich historical past linked to the Marathas and their defence against foreign invaders. It's an excellent destination to unwind far from the relentless energy of India's economic capital.

History

Alibag's founding traces back to the 17th century, during the rise of the Maratha Kingdom. The town was established by Admiral Kanhoji Angria, an emblematic figure in Maratha naval history who left an indelible mark on the region.

Under his command, Alibag's coastline became the stage for several major naval battles. In 1706, he clashed with the king of Janjira; in 1722, British and Portuguese forces besieged Kalaba Fort, followed by another English naval assault in 1730. Despite these repeated onslaughts, the Marathas emerged victorious. The imposing fortresses that surround Alibag today stand as testament to this strategic era. In recognition of his exploits, King Shivaji Maharaj granted him the city of Alibag along with several surrounding territories.

The origin of the name "Alibag" reveals another fascinating chapter of its past. According to ethnographic researchers, the town owes its name to a Jewish resident, Ali, from the Bene tribe. He lived in an Israeli neighbourhood and owned a lush garden filled with mango and coconut trees. This place became so renowned that locals called it Alichi Bagh—"Ali's garden" in Marathi—which evolved over time into Alibaug, and eventually Alibag.

Today, a Flourishing Tourist Hub

With its endless stretches of white sand, Alibag has become a coveted beach destination in the Konkan region of Maharashtra. Administratively, it serves as the district headquarters of Raigad. India's Ministry of Tourism promotes Alibag as a charming coastal town, close to Mumbai yet removed from urban pollution, connected to major Indian cities by quality road networks. In short, a place where life flows at a gentler pace. Its key attractions include sandy beaches, Maratha fortresses and Hindu temples.

What to See and Do in Alibag?

A stay in Alibag is enchanting and full of surprises. The town deserves to be lingered in for several days.

Endless Beaches

Varsoli Beach

Varsoli Beach stretches across a spectacular coastline where crystal-clear waters meet fine sand shaded by casuarina trees and palm groves. In recent years, the beach has attracted a steady stream of hotels and holiday resorts.

Nagaon Beach

Spanning roughly 3 km, Nagaon Beach has earned a reputation as the epicentre of water sports. This is where to be for surfing, parasailing or snorkelling among stunning coral reefs.

Kihim Beach

Fringed by dense jungle typical of tropical climates, Kihim Beach is arguably the most picturesque in the town. Walking along its shores is pure joy for birdwatchers, butterfly enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Don't miss the sunset here.

Alibaug Beach

Alibaug Beach is the town's main beach. Young couples stroll hand-in-hand across the golden sand, while families venture out on inflatable boats. Just steps from the shore stands the Kolaba Fort.

Military Heritage

Kolaba Fort

Rising majestically above the Arabian Sea, Kalaba Fortress is undoubtedly a symbol of the town. More than 300 years of history stretch before you. Founded in 1680, its towering ramparts were designed to protect the borders of the young Maratha kingdom under Shivaji Maharaj. Accessible only by boat.

Murud-Janjira Fortress

About 50 km from the town centre, Murud-Janjira Fort is a brilliant example of Janjira architecture. Twenty-three massive bastions were installed to reinforce the walls, ranging in height from 9 to 12 metres. The original wooden structure was renovated in the 17th century by Sirul Khán, the Janjira king of that era.

Khanderi Fortress

If you stay longer than a day in Alibag, Khanderi Island is well worth a visit. It fell to the Marathas in 1679, who built an imposing citadel there to counter the territorial ambitions of the Siddis.

Cultural and Religious Heritage

Temples

Several sacred sites, including the Birla Shrine, the Balaji Shrine and the Kanakeshwar Shrine, await discovery during your stay in Alibag. For historical significance, the Birla Shrine is a reliable choice; yet for sheer romance, the Kanakeshwar Shrine takes the crown. Hidden deep within dense forest teeming with rare fauna and flora, this temple will keep your eyes so busy studying the strange and wonderful species that inhabit the forest, you won't have time to count the 700 steps (the shrine perches atop a hillside).

The Magnetic Observatory

British colonial rule left few traces in Alibag. Among them stands the Magnetic Observatory, established in 1904. For your information, it's the only observatory of its kind in Asia. A must-see if you're travelling with children!

Practical Information

When to Visit Alibag?

The best time to visit Alibag is during the coolest and driest months, from November to February. From March onwards, temperatures begin to climb and heat can become oppressive. June brings the monsoon with heavy rainfall.

Alibag is extremely popular on weekends and during school holidays in April and May, so it's best to avoid these periods.

The fastest way to reach Alibag from Mumbai is by boat from Mandwa in the Colaba district. The ferry crossing takes approximately one hour, while a speedboat takes only around twenty minutes.

By car, Alibag sits on the NH-17 highway connecting Mumbai to Goa. Allow roughly 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic.

You'll Love…

- Capturing the iconic Kolaba Fort in photographs;

- Taking a pleasure cruise on a catamaran or banana boat;

- Renting a jet-ski on Nagaon Beach;

- Watching the sunset from Kihim Beach;

- Riding a bumper boat;

- Savouring a plate of fresh seafood.