Just 13km from Palghar station stands the majestic fort of Shirgaon. The fort, steeped in history, lords over the sea and a village. Marathas won this fort in 1739 along with the forts of Dahanu, Kelve and Tarapur. The Portuguese had dominance over this fort before Marathas. In 1818, the British captured this fort from the Marathas. The fort stands about 200feet tall and spans more than 150feet.
The Portuguese renovated this fort and increased its area by while keeping the original brick and red stone construction intact. The five-feet cannon on the northwest of citadel marks the history of the battles that took place over here.
The picturesque environs of the fort and cleanliness attract many historians apart from the regular tourists. The most exciting bit is the palm tree with six to seven branches, a rarity.
Shirgaon fort is well fortified and the walls are good condition. It took us an hour to see the fort. There are two towers located at the entrance of the fort from where one can geta a panaromic view of the place. The fort is small; it has a few rooms in it but they have not been well-maintained. There are many hidden caves in the walls of the fort. One cave leads to another.
How To reach
Shirgaon Fort is also located at a distance of 13 km from Palghar. It can be easily reached from Kelva, but if you opted for public transport instead of private transport you have go to Palghar and board a State transport (ST) bus to Satpati. It took us 30 minutes by ST bus to reach Shirgaon Fort.
The frequency of public transport is not good if you are travelling directly from Kelve beach to Shirgaon Fort. From Palghar station there are plenty of ST buses and tum tums to take you to Shirgaon Fort.
Where to stay
This fort can be one day picnic, but still you can stay at kelva village or palghar.
Where to eat
Carry your own food and water
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