Shirgaon fort: A relic that lords over the sea

Off road

Sonal D'Cunha. Vasai

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.

A visit to this historical fort during is incomplete without a swim in sea it watches over. Just five km away is the well-known Mahim Sea. On your visit to Shirgaon fort, don't forget to sample the local cuisine. The villagers welcome its visitors with an open heart. On your way home, you can take along some fresh vegetables.