Alibaug - Weekend Getaway from Mumbai

Mumbai is becoming warmer day by day and monsoon seems to be far away. I was looking for a place to chill out near Mumbai. While discussing the potential places around Mumbai, my friend suggested Alibaug, a popular coastal getaway just a short distance from Mumbai.

Alibaug can be reached by road, but the more exciting option is to take a ferry from the Gateway of India. Naturally, we chose the sea route.

From Gateway of India to Alibaug

Our journey began at around 11 AM from the Gateway of India. We bought tickets for an Apollo catamaran for ₹110 from the booking stalls opposite the Gateway.

The ride itself was an experience. Within an hour, we reached Mandwa Jetty, where buses arranged by the ferry operator were waiting to take passengers onward to Alibaug.

It took another 30 minutes by bus to reach Alibaug.

The entire journey was lively, with the jetty and buses packed with families and groups of friends escaping Mumbai for a weekend of fun.

From the Alibaug bus stop, Alibaug Beach is within walking distance, so we decided to explore the town on foot.

As we walked through the streets, I couldn't help but notice how much the landscape reminded me of my hometown in Kerala. Tall coconut trees, mango trees and the relaxed atmosphere gave the town a familiar, almost nostalgic feeling.

Alibaug Beach and the Walk to Kolaba Fort

We reached Alibaug Beach by evening. Fortunately, it was low tide, which meant we could actually walk across the exposed seabed towards Kolaba Fort.

Walking across the dry sea towards a historic fort rising from the water was one of the highlights of the trip.

The beach also had remarkably dark sand, giving it a character quite different from many of the beaches around Mumbai.

Walking across the dry sea

During high tide, walking to the fort isn't possible. Horse carts are available for visitors who want to make the journey across the shallow waters.

Exploring Kolaba Fort

Standing offshore from Alibaug Beach, Kolaba Fort is one of the region's most fascinating historical landmarks.

The fort is closely associated with Kanhoji Angre, the celebrated admiral of the Maratha navy. During the 17th and early 18th centuries, Kolaba served as an important naval base from which Angre's forces challenged British and Portuguese ships along the Konkan coast.

As we entered the fort, it was easy to imagine how strategically important this location must once have been.

We climbed towards the top and walked along the massive fort walls. From up there, the views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding coastline were breathtaking.

One of the interesting features inside Kolaba Fort is its freshwater reservoir. 

Reservoir of fresh water 

                             

The fort also has multiple entrances, each adding to its architectural character.

  

 Another entrance to Kolaba Fort

The Beautiful Siddhivinayak Temple

Another attraction within Kolaba Fort is the Siddhivinayak Temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha.

The temple is traditionally associated with Kanhoji Angre's period and continues to function today.

The beautiful temple, surrounded by the weathered walls of the fort, creates a fascinating contrast between spirituality and military history.

Beautiful temple of Shri Ganesh

An Unexpected Bonus: A Film Shoot

Our visit became even more interesting when we discovered that a shooting was taking place inside the fort.

Watching a film production happening against the backdrop of a centuries-old fort was an unexpected bonus and added another memorable moment to our trip.

Sunset, Swimming and Leisure

We left Kolaba Fort at around 6 PM.

By then, it was time for one of the best parts of any beach trip—a refreshing dip in the sea. 

The water was wonderfully clear, and after walking around the fort, getting into the sea was an absolute treat. It was the perfect way to unwind before heading back.

For adventure lovers, Alibaug also offers several water sports activities, including banana boat rides, stand-up paddleboarding and bumper boat rides.

If you enjoy spending time in the water, Alibaug has plenty to keep you occupied.

More Places to Explore Around Alibaug:

1) Sagargad is another hill fort not too far from here, which is in ruins but worth visiting.

2)  Religious locations in Alibaug include Kanakeshwar Devasthan temple and Vikram Vinayak temple.

3) Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary is less than 30 kms away from Alibag .
4) Alibag has many beaches in its vicinity that include the Versoli Beach, Nagaon Beach, Akshi Beach and Kashid Beach.

Alibaug: A Little Escape from Mumbai

For anyone living in Mumbai and looking for a quick break from the city's heat and chaos, Alibaug makes for a wonderful weekend escape.