MURUD, MAHARASHTRA – LAND OF SERENE BEACHES AND TIMELESS FORTS

Murud is a coastal village located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, India. Situated on the Konkan coastline, Murud is known for its pristine beaches, historic forts, and natural beauty. The village offers a perfect blend of rich cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and a laid-back beachside ambiance, making it a popular tourist destination. With its historical significance, charming coastal atmosphere, and picturesque surroundings, Murud captivates visitors with its unique charm and attractions.
What to Expect
When visiting Murud in Maharashtra, here’s what you can expect:
- Stunning Beaches: Murud is renowned for its beautiful beaches with golden sand and clear waters. Expect serene and picturesque coastal landscapes where you can relax, sunbathe, and indulge in water activities like swimming and beach sports.
- Historic Forts: Murud is home to the iconic Murud-Janjira Fort, which is situated on an island just off the coast. Expect to explore this impressive fort, known for its architectural marvels, intriguing history, and panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
- Water Sports and Adventure: Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy various water sports activities such as jet skiing, banana boat rides, and parasailing. The calm and clean waters of Murud make it an ideal destination for thrilling water adventures.
- Scenic Boat Rides: Take a boat ride from Murud to visit the Murud-Janjira Fort or explore the nearby coastline. Enjoy the refreshing sea breeze, panoramic views of the shoreline, and the thrill of being out on the water.
- Local Cuisine: Indulge in delicious coastal cuisine in Murud, with a focus on fresh seafood delicacies. Try local specialties like Malvani fish curry, prawn fry, and solkadhi (a refreshing drink made from kokum).
- Nature Walks and Trekking: Murud offers scenic trails and pathways that are perfect for nature walks and trekking. Explore the lush greenery, enjoy breathtaking views, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.
- Visit Murud Beach Temple: Pay a visit to the Murud Beach Temple, which is located near the beach and holds religious significance for the local community. Experience the tranquility and spirituality of the temple.
- Fishing Village Experience: Murud is a traditional fishing village, and you can witness the livelihoods of local fishermen and their daily activities. Observe their traditional fishing techniques and interact with the friendly villagers to learn more about their way of life.
- Sunset Views: The beaches of Murud provide stunning sunset views. Sit back, relax, and witness the captivating colors of the setting sun as it paints the sky with hues of orange, pink, and gold.
Experiences and Activities Enjoyed by Tourists
When visiting Murud in Maharashtra, tourists can enjoy a range of experiences and activities. Here are some popular ones:
- Exploring Murud-Janjira Fort: Take a boat ride to the majestic Murud-Janjira Fort and explore its intriguing architecture and historical significance. Learn about its fascinating past, walk through its ancient gates, and enjoy panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
- Relaxing on Murud Beach: Spend leisurely hours on the sandy shores of Murud Beach. Sunbathe, read a book, or simply soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Enjoy long walks along the coastline, collect seashells, or build sandcastles with your family.
- Water Sports and Activities: Engage in thrilling water sports and activities available at Murud Beach. Try jet skiing, banana boat rides, kayaking, or parasailing for an adrenaline-pumping experience.
- Village Walks: Take a stroll through the village of Murud to experience the local way of life. Interact with friendly villagers, witness traditional activities, and immerse yourself in the village’s cultural heritage.
- Visit Garambi Falls: Embark on a short trek to Garambi Falls, located near Murud. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Take a refreshing dip in the cool waters and relish the natural ambiance.
- Dolphin Spotting: Experience the thrill of dolphin spotting during a boat ride in the Arabian Sea. Keep an eye out for playful dolphins as they swim and jump alongside the boat, creating delightful moments.
- Visit Kasa Fort: Venture to Kasa Fort, located near Murud, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Explore the ruins of the fort and appreciate its historical significance.
- Taste Local Cuisine: Indulge in the flavors of Malvani cuisine, known for its delectable seafood dishes. Try local specialties like Malvani fish curry, bombil fry (fried Bombay duck), and solkadhi (a tangy coconut-based drink).
Top Attractions and Must Visit Places
When visiting Murud in Maharashtra, there are several top attractions and must-visit places nearby that you can explore. Here are some of them:
- Kashid Beach: Located around 18 kilometers from Murud, Kashid Beach is a popular destination known for its pristine white sands and clear turquoise waters. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports activities in this picturesque coastal area.
- Alibaug: Situated approximately 50 kilometers from Murud, Alibaug is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic forts, and delicious seafood. Visit Alibaug Beach, Kolaba Fort, and enjoy the laid-back beachside ambiance.
- Harihareshwar: Located about 55 kilometers from Murud, Harihareshwar is a serene beach town known for its tranquil beaches and religious significance. The Harihareshwar Temple, situated on the beach, is a popular pilgrimage site attracting devotees.
- Janjira Island: Take a boat ride from Murud to Janjira Island, where the iconic Murud-Janjira Fort is located. Explore the fort’s architectural marvels, learn about its history, and admire the breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea.
- Nandgaon: Situated approximately 20 kilometers from Murud, Nandgaon is a coastal village known for its pristine beaches and tranquil atmosphere. Enjoy the serene surroundings and indulge in water activities like swimming and beach walks.
- Korlai Fort: Located about 45 kilometers from Murud, Korlai Fort is a historic Portuguese fort known for its unique architecture and scenic views. Explore the ruins of the fort, walk along the ramparts, and capture panoramic vistas of the Arabian Sea.
- Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary: Situated around 35 kilometers from Murud, Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Explore the sanctuary’s rich biodiversity, spot various species of birds, butterflies, and mammals, and enjoy nature trails.
- Revdanda Beach: Visit Revdanda Beach, located approximately 30 kilometers from Murud, known for its serene and less crowded atmosphere. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings, take long walks along the shore, and witness beautiful sunsets.
- Murud-Janjira Palace: While visiting the Murud-Janjira Fort, also explore the nearby Murud-Janjira Palace. It showcases the grandeur and lifestyle of the erstwhile Nawabs and offers a glimpse into the region’s history.
- Diveagar: Situated around 70 kilometers from Murud, Diveagar is a popular beach destination known for its pristine shoreline and tranquil ambiance. Enjoy water activities, visit the famous Diveagar Ganpati Temple, and relish the local cuisine.
How to Reach
To reach Murud in Maharashtra, here are the general transportation options:
By Air: The nearest airport to Murud is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai, which is approximately 150 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-booked private car to reach Murud.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Murud is Roha Railway Station, located about 40 kilometers away. Roha is well-connected to major cities like Mumbai and Pune. From Roha, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Murud.
By Road: Murud is well-connected by road, and you can reach there by private car, taxi, or state transport buses. The village is around 150 kilometers from Mumbai. If you are traveling from Pune, the distance is approximately 180 kilometers.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Murud in Maharashtra is during the winter and early summer months, which fall between November and February. During this time, the weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and low humidity, making it comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
It’s important to note that the winter months (November to February) are the most popular among tourists due to the pleasant weather and favorable conditions for outdoor activities. If you prefer a quieter and more budget-friendly experience, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) or the post-monsoon season (October and early November).