| One of the great symbols of Maharashtra?s rich historical past is the mighty Sindhudurg fort. Also known as the Malvan Fort, this magnificent citadel is located just half km from the mainland port of Malvan. Shivaji wanted to build an impregnable island fort, at a considerable distance from the unconquerable Janjira fort and thus selected the rocky island of Kurute. The 2 km long ramparts of this fort stretches across the undulating periphery of this large and rocky island. The foundations of the fort were strengthened by using molten lead mixed with mortar. More than 4000 mounds of iron were used for casting. The construction of this colossal fort began in 1664 and took 3 years to complete. It is believed that the great warrior king himself lent a hand in building the fort. Sindhudurg covers an extensive area of 48 acres with almost 2 miles of fortified rampart walls, 29 feet high and 12 feet thick comprising of observation towers apart from 52 enormous imposing semicircular bastions with fine embrasures for cannons. The top of the ramparts was accessible by stone staircases at various points. Some bastions contain hidden exit ways that take you out of the fort. The entrance to the fort is by Dilli Darwaja to the northeast. The main gate is so well camouflaged within the folds of the rampart walls that it is visible only at really close quarters. A shrine to Goddess Jarimari guards the entrance to the Fort. On the right, perched atop the main gate, is the fort's most prized relic - the footprint and palm impression of the much-revered Shivaji Maharaj, set on a slab of dry lime. Apart from the customary shrines of Bhawani, Mahadeo, Jarimari and Mahapurush, Sindhudurg enjoys the distinction of having the only temple dedicated to Chhatrapati Shivaji. As you explore the fort, you will come across ruins of ancient temples, wells and cisterns. Some of the temples are still in use and are maintained by the 20 odd families that live on this island fort, which contribute to the living legend of an over 200 years history. The magnificent Sindhudurg is just 510 km from Mumbai on the Goa Highway. You can take a ferry from the Malvan Port to the island fort. | 
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