Underi
Range
N/A
Altitude
N/A
Difficulty
Medium
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About Underi
Khanderi & Underi Forts: Two islands near Thal (Alibaug). These 17th-century forts still stand proud in the Arabian Sea, with intact walls, after resisting the British and the Siddi. Khanderi features rare iron cannons with cart wheels (uncommon in Maharashtra). Underi was taken by the Siddi, sparking skirmishes with the Marathas. Underi made headlines in 2006 when the State Government sold it for Rs 2 crore to Ramesh Kundanmal (Dolphin Stone Crest Estate Pvt Ltd). The sale deed was later cancelled due to public protest.
Best time to visit
Visit Tip: Skip monsoons & rough seas.
History & Significance
**Underi Fort: A History of Battles & Transfers** Started by Siddi on Jan 9, 1680. *Battles:* * Marathas attacked on Jan 27, 1680 (failed). * During Sambhaji’s reign, another attack on Aug 18, 1680 (Siddi prevailed; 80 Marathas, including Maynak Bhandari’s son, killed). * A third attempt on July 18, 1681, damaged Siddi, but the fort held.**Control Changes:** * Captured by Naro Trimbak on Jan 28, who renamed it **Jaidurg**. * 1818: Went to the British. * 1824: Ownership given to Angre dynasty. * 1840: Returned to British control after Angres surrendered.
Places to See
Welcome! The fort shows signs of neglect, but many spots are intact. Start left for 3 rainwater ponds (one has stairs!). See palace ruins and a Tulsi Vrindawan. Cannons are scattered near bastions. Find a secret passage at the Southern bastion. The Western walls are damaged, but there's another door. The fort has 12 bastions total; 4 strong ones face the cardinal directions, each featuring a circular central platform.
Journey & Transport
Time to Reach
2 Hrs from Alibaug
How to Reach
How to Reach the Forts **1. Getting to Thal:** * Thal town is 8 km north of Alibaug. * The Thal diversion is 4 km from Alibaug on the Alibaug-Revas road. * ST buses run regularly between Alibaug and Thal.**2. Boat Ride to the Forts:** * Hire small boats from Thal beach (local fishermen). * **Khanderi:** Visit anytime (has a jetty). * **Underi:** Visit only during low tide (no jetty).**3. Tide Timings (Underi visits):** * **Fishermen Note:** Most leave by 6 AM. Inquire locally for current timings and be ready to bargain on price (costs may double). * **High Tide Calculation (Hindu Panchang):** Date x ¾ = High Tide (AM & PM). * *Example:* 4th day (Chaturthi) = (¾ x 4) = 3. High Tide at 3 AM/3 PM. * **Low Tide Calculation:** 6 hours after High Tide. * *Example:* High Tide at 3 AM/3 PM = Low Tide at 9 AM/9 PM. * **Low Tide Timings (Panchang Guide):** * Pratipada: 4:00–6:00 * Dwitiya: 5:00–7:00 * Tritiya: 5:30–8:00 * Chaturthi: 6:00–9:00 * Panchami: 7:00–9:30 * Shashti: 8:00–10:00 * Saptami: 8:30–11:00 * Ashtami: 9:00–12:00 * Navami: 10:00–12:30 * Dashmi: 11:00–13:00 * Ekadashi: 11:30–14:00 * Dwadshi: 12:00–15:00 * Tryodshi: 13:00–16:00 * Chartudshi: 13:00–16:00 * Poornima/Amavasya: 14:30–17:00
Important Notes
Plan a 2-3 day combined trip! Explore Alibaug, Khanderi, Underi, Khubladha, and Kihim Beach.
Facilities
- StayStay in Alibaug or Thal! They offer great resorts and restaurants.
- FoodAlibaug & Thal: BYOF! Resorts and restaurants available.
- WaterBring your own water.