Khanderi

**Khanderi Fort: A Naval Powerhouse** Shivaji Maharaj chose Khanderi island (1672) to fortify against the British trade route to Mumbai. After a brief retreat, Marathas returned in 1679 under Maynak Bhandari, garrisoning 150 men to complete the fort. The British attempted a siege and blocked supplies. Marathas, leveraging improved naval strategy and shallow vessels, secured supplies during low tide, defended by Daulat Khan from Khubladha fort (Thal). The fort was completed, and a truce signed with the British in 1680. Later battles: * 1701: Siddi Yakut Khan attacked but retreated. * 1718: British fleet attacked; Mankoji Suryavanshi defended the fort with 500 men for a month, forcing a British retreat. * 1814-1817: Control shifted between Peshwas and Angres. * 1818: Finally captured by the British.

**Khanderi Fort Highlights** Sail from Thal to Khanderi and spot the walls and Lighthouse! The island has northern and southern mounds, with the jetty in the center. Look out for a buried canon near the entrance. Explore via a trail along the ramparts. **Must-See Spots:** * **Temple of Vetala (Spirits):** Right of the jetty. Worships a huge stone (Vetala/spirit) said to grow yearly. Pilgrimage festival during Holi. * **Ramparts & Canons:** Walk the walls\! Find around 16 bastions and canons, some with cart wheels. Stairs allow descent inside. * **Lighthouse:** Built in 1867 and active since. It's 25m high\! Great view of the fort and surroundings. * **Unique History:** The fort was managed by the Mumbai Port Trust under British rule. A helipad is installed, with a small door below leading to the beach for fort wall views. * **The "Metallic" Rock:** Start right from the Jetty and complete the round to find this amazing rock. Strike it with another stone to hear a metal vessel sound\!