Vajragad (Vasai)
Range
N/A
Altitude
199m
Difficulty
Easy
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About Vajragad (Vasai)
Vajragad (Vasai) Fort was built on a small hill in Girij Village during the Vasai Campaign. Its purpose: to watch the coast between Vasai and Arnala forts and hold strong against the Portuguese. Today, it’s mostly ruins. Find the Lord Dattatreya temple here, earning it nicknames: Girij Dongri, Datta Dongri, and Hira Dongri.
Best time to visit
All year round / Check local forecast
History & Significance
Built by the Portuguese in 1526 AD, Vasai fort became the center of their regime. To control the area, they established a chain of forts at Shirgaon, Mahim, and Kelve. Forceful religious conversion led locals to seek help from the Peshwas. In 1737 AD, Chimaji Appa led the successful "Vasai Campaign" to end Portuguese rule, aided by Gangaji Naik, Shankarji Phadke, and Baji Rethekar.
Places to See
Vajragad Fort: Quick Info Location: Small hill NE of Girij village. Access: Proper carved steps. 10-15 min walk from base village to main entrance. Current State: Main entrance & bastions are in ruins. Features: Toilets on the right bastion; left bastion is overgrown (access via diversion from staircase). Construction used huge rocks, minimal limestone (built during wartime). Summit Highlights: Square stone water tank (ample water). Temples of Lord Bhavaangadeshwar (summit) and Lord Hanuman (under a tree). Views: Facing North, see Arnala fort. Facing South, see Vasai fort and surrounding areas.
Journey & Transport
How to Reach
REACHING VAJRAGAD: Take the Mumbai Western Railway to Vasai or Nallasopara station. BASE VILLAGE: Girij * From Vasai: 14 km * From Nallasopara: 8 kmTRANSPORT: Bus or auto rickshaw available from Vasai West or Nallasopara West to Girij.
Facilities
- StayNo Accommodation on Fort
- FoodBYOF
- WaterDrinking water is available year-round.