Vijaydurg Fort

A fort once that dominated the coastal region of Sindhudurg. Constructed by the regime of Raja Bhoj,the fencing compound wall constructed at 8-10 m depth undersea, 300ft from the fort is another architectural wonder. The wall constructed with laterite stones is 122 mtr long, 3 mtr high & 7 mtr in breadth. Majority of attacking ships met their watery grave after colliding on this wall as this wall is not visible above the sea level.The 200m long, undersea/underland tunnel from the fort to the Dhulap’s palatial house in the village is man-made. The roof of the tunnel has been pinched to protect it from land-slides and it is also well ventilated. Now the tunnel is partially blocked. Using latest technology if this tunnel is cleared it will be a major tourist attraction and will be of great help for architectural students/history lovers.

Shivaji Maharaj won this fort from Adilshah of Bijapur and named it Vijay durg. The hindu name of Vijay means Victory. Shivaji then extented the area of the fort by constructing 3 fort walls on the eastern side. This fort was also known as "Eastern Gibraltar" as this fort was impregnable for a long time like the fort "Gibraltar" in Europe. This impregnable fort has some locational advantages. One such advantage is 40 km long waghotan/kharepatan Creek. The big ships cannot enter the shallow water of this creek and hence Maratha warships were anchored in this creek. These ships were invisible from deep sea.

Today this fort is and historical delight. Facing the sea, had the most beautiful scenic pleasure of witnessing the sunset on the Arabian sea. A part of our history curriculum, it is a must see.