Spot details

Murud

      Murud is a small tranquil fishing village, 165 km away from Mumbai lying on the lush green western coast of Maharashtra. The village, with its concrete and greenish beauty at one time used to the capital of the former state of Janjira, which is the Marathi corruption of the Arabic word Jazirah and which means an island.
      The name truly referred to the mighty island fortress in the sea though the whole area was once called Janjira. The smugness of Murud, Janjira Fort, was also at one time the iron grip of the Abyssinian Sidis who acted a major part in Mumbai’s history during the concluding part of the 17th century.
      The existing of the Abyssinians is still on to be experienced, as far as in the tales of Murud’s earlier period glory narrated by the old-timers, such as in the splendid Sidi Palace that erects even today on the outer edge of Murud village. Trip to Murud by the bus stop in Murud, the road is clean and narrow, which is lined by palm trees and hedges. The presence of the thatched houses is lying sleepily in the sunlight, at some distance, there lies the sea on the right of the thatched houses, and marvelously, you can have the splendid view of the obscure outlines of the Casa Fort. 
         For the last five to six years the tourism industry of Murud-Janjira is increased a many-fold times.This is mainly because of its short distance from Mumbai.These days it is a favourite destination for most of the people.Today it has developed itself as a good weekend picnic spot.Tourists not only from Mumbai and other places from India but people from abroad are also seen here and there number is multiplying every year.

       Murud is a peaceful fishing village with a pretty seashore and a helter-skelter of wooden cottages. It is a quiet little getaway that basks in the Konkan sunshine. The beach is edged with swaying betel palms, coconut fronds and groves of casuarinas. A temple dedicated to Dattatreya occupies prime position on a hillock, from where you can get a commanding view of the entire bay. Dominating the landscape is the palace of the Siddhi Nawabs, the Janjira fort and the Janjira caves.

Janjira Fort

       
       The Fort of Janjira on the sea is the only one of its kind. Janjira Jal-durg (sea fort) was constructed by Malik Ambar, an Abssinian minister in the service of the Sultan of Ahmednagar, who belonged to the famous Nizamshahi dynasty. The fort, built at the end of the 17th Century, is almost entirely intact even today, despite the ravages of wind and tide, a testimony to the marvels of ancient engineering.

       According to all accounts, the sea fort of Janjira could not be conquered by any of the kings ruling the neighbouring territories. Surprisingly, not even Shivaji could acquire it despite 13 expeditions to conquer the fort. His son, Sambhaji, tried a unique approach to capture the fort: digging an underwater tunnel to enter. But he too failed in his attempt. Not to be deterred, Sambhaji constructed another fort just across the bay, called Kansa. Most of the earth that was dug up to build the tunnel was used in the making of this second fort, which was to be the base for future attacks on the sea fort of Janjira. This fort took 22 years to build and is constructed on 22 acres of land.

       In a journey back in history, visitors can gain access to the Janjira fort from Rajapuri, a small village on the coast. After a short ride in a small boat, one can enter the fort through the main entrance. The fort is oval shaped instead of the usual oblong or square shape. The fort wall is about 40 feet high and has 19 rounded porches or arches, some of which still have cannons mounted on them, including the famous cannon 'Katlal Bhankari'. These cannons were largely responsible for repelling oncoming enemies from the sea. Inside the fort walls, the ruins of a mosque, a palace and bath with water channeled from streams, tell of ancient times when royal ladies occupied the quarters. The deep well with cold and sweet water - a wonder of nature in the midst of the saline sea, still provides water to quench the thirst of the weary visitor.

       Gazing into the horizon from the ramparts of this magnificent fort overlooking the sea, one cannot but acknowledge its great strength that withstood a number of invasions. This invincible fort remained unconquered until it became part of Indian territory after Independence from the
British in 1947.

       Other attractions for history buffs include the Palace of the Nawab. This luxurious cliff-top mansion built by the former Nawab of Janjira commands a panoramic view of the Arabian sea and the Janjira sea fort.

       Then there are the Janjira Caves, while nature lovers will enjoy Murud, the erstwhile capital of the state of Janjira. Murud is actually a tiny fishing village atop a small hillock with a heart-stopping view of the coast, with mile after mile of soft silvery sand. The beaches of Kashid and Nandgaon with their whispering casuarina, coconut and betel palms are a balm for the weary city dweller. In short, a perfect getaway.

Datta Mandir

      Dattatreya temple is located at a very short distance of 1km from Murud. To the north of Murud, on a beautiful hill this temple was built by Sri Brahmendra Swami-Kjanhoji Angres' spiritual Guru. Watching the sun setting in the sea from this place is an unforgettable experience. To the south, Alkapuri is a picnic spot. From there, a motorable road leads upto the shrine. Some distance from there, trekkers would love to visit another ancient Lord Shiv temple, 'Kshetra Pal'.

       Dattatreya has a great significance in the Hindu mythology. The story behind the birth of Dattatreya is found in many texts.

       The son of Atri and Anusua, Dattatreya, is widely worshipped by Hindus.

Nawab Palace

Situated at a distance of 1 km from Murud, Murud is fast becoming a hot tourist destination. As you enter the picturesque village, you will come across the Palace of Nawab on the right side of the road. The palace was built in 1885 and is still occupied by the descendants of the Nawab making it off limits to the public.
The Nawab of Janjira moved into the Ahmedganj Palace in 1885. The grand palace, designed with a fusion of Mughal and Gothic architectural styles is built on the edge of a cliff and offers a magnificent view of Murud and the Arabian Sea. Spread over a vast area of 45 acres, its grounds hold a marvelous mosque and the tombs of the previous rulers.

Birla Mandir (Salav)

30 kms from murud, in salav village, to the left is this beautiful temple within the Vikram Ispat premises. The towering dome in exquisite white granite is visible from a long distance. Situated on a small hillock, you can walk up to the temple over well-paved stairs. The surroundings of the temple are made up of a well-planned garden and colourful fountains. The prayer hall is open on all sides and the roof is made of transparent Polycorp sheet. The temple has idols of Shree Radha-Krishnna, Shree Shiv-Parvati, Goddess Druga and Lord Surya. Life-size statue of Late Aditya Birla Stands in the garden. The pooja and prayer can be attended at 9am and 7.15pm every day. Entry into the temple premises is open from 6am to 11.30am and 4.30pm to 9.pm only. ST buses, 3 or 6 seaters are available from Alibag and 3 or 6 seaters can be hired from Revdanda Bus Station.

Phansad Wild Life Sanctuary

        Phansad Wild Life Sanctuary, in Raigad district is about 152 kms from Mumbai via Panvel, Pen and Alibaug. The sanctuary is spread across an area of 52.71 sq. km. Phansad is located in the Murud and Roha talukas of Raigad District in Maharashtra. As you drive further from Kashid towards Murud- Janjira, you come across the board of the Phansad Vanyajeev Abhyaranya or Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary.
        The entire forests and sanctuary were earlier private hunting block of the erstwhile Siddhi Nawab of the Janjira state. The Nawab constructed roads, water bodies, and evacuated several villages from the sanctuary.

There are 4 major nature trails (approx 12km each) in the sanctuar, passing through various habitats, providing an opportunity to experience the wild life


        The Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary  is an amazing revelation. Primarily a bird  sanctuary, Phansad is also home to a whole array of insects, amphibians and mammals. 

        The gentle hills of this Protected Area are located between the northern Sahyadri range and the western coast of India and though these hills are not directly connected to the main Western Ghats range, the species found here are quite similar. The forest is mainly moist teak, southern moist mixed deciduous forest and west coast semi-evergreen. Ain, teak, kinjal,  dhavada, jamba, hirda are some of the main species found here. Mango and ficus are  found along the stream. There is also a patch of mangrove vegetation to the southwest. A number of endemic flora and fauna species are found here.  One can see wild boars digging up roots, frogs that are endemic to the Western Ghats, limbless amphibians or caecelians, and White-bellied Sea Eagles soaring high above.

        Barking deer, sambar and leopard are also found in this coastal woodland ecosystem. Insect-lovers will enjoy discovering the varied species on offer. Phansad's star attraction is, of course, the beautiful giant Indian squirrel but this arboreal animal is shy and wary and not so easy to discover. If one is really lucky, you can watch one slide down a tree before it slips away into the dense undergrowth.  This is definitely a birding paradise with a number of species including the Black Eagle, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Pompadour  Green Pigeon, Yellow Footed Green Pigeon,  Asian Paradise Flycatcher, Forest Wagtail,  Black Drongo, Shikra, Brahmini Kite, iora,  Spotted Owlet, Plum-headed Parakeet,  Common Wood Shrike, Golden Oriole,  Paddy field Pipit and Green Billed Malkoha found here. About 90 butterfly species such  as southern birdwing, the tiny pale grass-  blue, the large blue mormon, painted lady,  spot sword tail , Common Map, Black Prince, Nawab, Blue Mormon and a number of poisonous and non poisonous snakes. About 710 species of plants have been identified here.and common map can be  seen here. An ideal time to observe them is  the morning when they bask in the sun.  There aer 148 types of birds (including the interesting Pied hornbill, Three toed Kingfisher, Malkoha, Pitta)       
         The rulers of the janjira state had preserved  this forest as a hunting reserve. After years of  exploitation and degradation, it was declared a sanctuary in 1986. The ruins of the Siddi Nawab's bungalow at Kesauli offers a splendid view of the Kashid beach. A temple of the Dhawir Vardhini who is revered by the Aajri tribals is located inside the reserve. Winter is the best time to visit the park for bird and animal sightings.  Explore this sanctuary and take in the fresh earthy smell of the jungle air... enjoy the sight of birds and butterflies and a whole variety of insects and amphibians. Phansad is a wilderness not frequented by too many people and the forest reflects this with its green vistas and varied wildlife that will tempt you to stay back.

Garambi Fall

        Garambi,  A charming destination for water enthusiasts, Grambi falls located near to Murud in Maharashtra. This marvelous cascade, which falls from a height of 100 feet offers a breath taking view.

        It is very fun to have soak and drench oneself in this amazing gift of the nature. Another interesting aspect of this waterfall is that, its water is supposed to be very pure and one can even drink water from it. Garambhi waterfalls are bounded by woody forest and the surroundings offers a panoramic view. One can spent hours here by enjoying the chirping of birds and the music of running water.

        During monsoon, this waterfall takes a majestic look and the enchanting site will definitely fetch the tourist back for further visit.

        Garambi Dam is built by Nawab Sir Siddi Ahmed Khan, the last ruler of the east while Siddi reign. This dam is dedicated to Queen Victoria’s memory and so it has gained the popular appeal of Victoria Jubilee Water Works.

        A dream project of Late Ahammad Khan who is one among the progressive rulers of the Siddi Dynasty, Garabhi dam is the source of water supply to the town.

        The dam is situated on the backdrop of lush vegetation. The chirping of birds, sweet sound of the gushing water and all around greenery, the nature surrounds the dam is at its very best. Truly the dam site is a scenic valley to be visited.