Colaba

Kolaba Fort History Highlights: Commissioned by Shivaji Maharaj (work started March 19, 1680) after South Konkan's liberation, the fort became a key naval base by 1662. Completed by Sambhaji Maharaj (June 1681), the fort was commanded by Darya Sagar and Manik Bhandari, becoming the center for Maratha attacks on British ships. In 1713, it was ceded to Kanhoji Angre via a treaty with Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath, becoming his main raid base. A joint British-Portuguese expedition in 1721 failed. Angre died here on July 4, 1729. Major fires occurred in 1729 (near Pinjara Bastion) and 1787 (destroying Angre Wada). In 1842, the British auctioned the wooden structures, using the stone for Alibag water works construction. Described by Hamilton as a rock-built fort, an island at high tide.

Kolaba Fort: Seaside Gem * **Location/Access:** Accessible via two main entrances (sea side/Alibag). At low tide, wade through waist-deep water; at high tide, use a boat. Visit during low tide timings\! * **Key Features:** 25 ft average wall height. Unique freshwater wells inside, despite being a seaside fort. * **Historical/Religious Sites:** Siddhivinayak temple (built by Raghoji Angre in 1759) and Haji Kamaluddin Shah Dargah are on the premises. * **Artifacts:** Two English Cannons (Inscription: "Dowson Hardy Field, Low Moor Ironworks, Yorkshire, England") are near the northern wall. * **Local Life:** Locals reside here, maintaining the fort. Known for Ganesh festival celebrations.