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Korlai Fort, Kashid Overview
The Korlai Fort is one of the few remaining structures of the colonial regime and was constructed in the year 1521 on an island to protect the Revdanda creek from attacks of the enemies. The fort is situated on an elevated surface overlooking the mighty Arabian Sea and served as a military fortification for the Portuguese armies during the year 1500. The island on which it is positioned was referred to as Morro De Chaul by the Portuguese, which translates into ‘a small hill populated by Portuguese’. The forces of nature have been harsh on this magnificent structure and have withered its charm away. However, various establishments within the fort resonate the rich history and bravery shown by the armies of the bygone era.
The Korlai Fort is massive and intimidating. The fort occupies an area of about 2828 feet in length and 89 feet in breadth and overlooks a small hamlet belonging to the fishermen. It is said that in the past, the fort was large enough to accommodate more than 7000 horses and many men. Being built on hilly terrain, the fort had a strategic advantage over the infiltrators. The slope around the fort, towering lighthouse and eleven humongous gateways made it difficult for the enemies to trespass into the fort premises.
From the top of the fort, you will get a mesmerizing view the blue sea water glistening in the sun and the waves hitting the rocky shore of the beach. The ambience around the fort is serene and the clean waters of the sea with ruins of the fort in the backdrop makes this place an amazing place to unwind from a stressful day. This place is the perfect destination for photographers and nature lovers, and evenings are the best time to visit if you wish to enjoy the beautiful sunset over the horizon. It is a must-visit place for those looking for a break from the fast-paced city life.
More on Korlai Fort
History of Korlai Fort
Korlai Fort was formerly known as Ceul Rock and was constructed by the Portuguese under the supervision of Ahmednagar Sultanate. The construction of the fort was completed by the year 1521 and it was supposed to serve as a mutually dependent and controlled site of trade and operation of the two regimes, namely Portuguese and the Muslims. However, the situation got messy between both the regimes in 1594. A Portuguese captain named Abraches marched to the fort with 1500 soldiers and annexed the fort. It is said that the army camped inside the fort tried to prevent the attack by positioning a dead elephant at the main gate and a dead horse at the inner gate.
The Portuguese army vandalized most parts of the fort except for the watchtower situated in the centre of the fort. Sambhaji Maharaja, who was the son of Maharaj Shivaji initiated an attack on the fort on 6th December 1687 but failed terribly. Finally, in 1739, the Marathas took over the fort from the Portuguese and ruled the area till 1818.
The fort was under the control of East Indian Company and British Raj from 1818 till the time of Independence of India. Few sections of the Fort like churches were renovated and were used by the general public on holidays and weekends. The Fort has been a part of various kingships and hence, is of keen interest to many historians and travellers.
Construction of Korlai Fort
The Korlai Fort is a massive fortification that is 2828 feet long and 89 feet wide. It is said to have accommodated around 7000 horses and many men in the past. You will be fascinated to see a bronze lion statue place in a guarding position near the main entrance of the fort. A bronze eagle is also installed over the tallest watchtower.
The fort constitutes eleven gateways of which four are situated outside and seven inside. The area within the fort is divided into three sections by fortifications. The fort also houses a church which was constructed in 1630 and was vandalized in 1728. However, during the British rule, it was renovated and used for prayer services on weekends.
There are many Portuguese inscriptions located within the fort premises. One is situated over the doorway, surmounted by a coat of arms. The other two undecipherable inscriptions are located near the main entrance and at the altar of the chapel. The fort, although in ruins, is an endearing historical site.
Korlai Lighthouse
One for the few remaining structures of the fort is the lighthouse. A spiral staircase leads to the top of the lighthouse and from here, you can get an amazing view of the sea and the beach. The tower is surrounded by a splendid garden which is packed with a variety of flowers and shrubs.
Things to See at Korlai Fort
Korlai Fort is known for its raw beauty and rich history. Various tourists visit this place to get an enchanting view of Revdanda creek, glistening waters of Arabian Sea and of course the ruins of the fort. The fort is one of the major attractions of the place mainly due to the long history associated with it. World-famous water reservoir, Santa Cruz is also located towards the northern end of this fort.
Of the few enchanting establishments within the fort is the lighthouse. It is operational to date and can be reached from the southern gate of the fort. The fort also houses few inscriptions written in Kristi dialect of Portuguese. They can be traced near the main door and at the altar of the church. You will be fascinated to know that Kristi dialect is still used by a few residents of Korlai.
Best Time to Visit Korlai Fort
There is no restriction to entering the fort and can be visited during any time of the year. However, the best time to visit Korlai Fort is during the monsoon and winter months. Summer season is quite hot and the heat is unbearable. The temperature might soar up to 40 degrees Celcius during May-July.
Tips for Visiting Korlai Fort
1. The most convenient way to enter the fort is thought its southern gate located towards the lighthouse. This gate is easily accessible by those travelling to the site via bus.
2. Wear comfortable footwear as the best and the only way to explore the fort is by foot.
3. If you are keen to know about the fort and its rich history then it is recommended to hire a guide, who will also assist you with the directions within the fort.
4. There aren’t plenty of eateries around the fort, however, you can buy a few snacks and cold drinks from a shop located beside the lighthouse.
6. If visiting during the summers, beware of the snakes.
How to Reach Korlai Fort?
The Korlai Fort is easily accessible from major cities such as Mumbai and Pune via road. Both private and state buses provide efficient and timely services from these cities to Korlai Fort. Nearby towns such as Murud, Roha and Alibaug are also well connected by state transport. The nearest railway station is in Pen, which is situated about 50 kilometres from Korlai.
If you are planning to visit the fort from Alibaug then you will have to first head towards Kundalika River and after crossing it, take the first right. Once you reach the village you can ask any stranger about the fort and s/he will guide you accordingly. The road that connects Alibaug to Korlai is bumpy with many potholes, however, the picturesque view of the fort compensates for a bad journey.
The fortress does not have a large parking space and can accommodate only ten cars. From here, you will have to climb around 100 stairs to reach the fort.
