About Rajkot Fort
Rajkot Fort which is also called Malvan Castle, is located on a rocky hill northwest of Malvan town in Maharashtra. It stands close to the sea, with water on three sides, and is only about half a kilometre from the Malvan jetty by the coastal route. Built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj between 1664 and 1667, this fort once helped guard the stronger Sindhudurg Fort nearby.
Today, you can spot only one bastion remains, which has a flagpost and is used to warn boats of the rocky coastline. The fort also has a rock garden where you can watch the waves crash on the rocks apart from enjoying the sea view. Near the fort, you can spot a Lord Ganesh temple with an idol made of pure gold, as well as a temple dedicated to Mauni Maharaj. You can also admire the massive 91-feet tall bronze statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj which has been designed to survive strong coastal winds and storms. This statue shows Shivaji holding a 29-foot sword and stands as a symbol of pride and strength, making the site one of the best forts in Maharashtra.
Why Visit?
- Some of the stones used in the making of the Sindhudurg Fort were cut from Rajkot fort.
- This Fort was built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj between 1664 and 1667.
- The British wanted to build a shipyard in Rajkot which is why they asked the Chatrapati of Karveer for approval in 1766.
- According to references, a cannon and some remains were discovered at Rajkot in 1862.
Rajkot Fort Highlights
• Visit Rajkot Fort, also called Malvan Castle which was built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as a sea-facing outpost to protect Sindhudurg Fort.
• Explore the only surviving bastion with a flagpost which was used to warn passing boats of the rocky shoreline.
• Walk through the remains of a British-era building (1812) now used by local fishermen to dry fish.
• Admire the newly built 91-feet-tall bronze statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, holding a 29-foot sword and designed to withstand Konkan’s storms.
• Offer prayers to the golden idol at the Lord Ganesh temple along with visiting the Mauni Maharaj Temple nearby.
How To Reach Rajkot Fort
By car/taxi: Rajkot Fort is about 2.7 kilometres from Malvan in Mumbai city. Thus, it will take you about 10 minutes via Kacheri Road whether you drive a car or take a taxi or bike.
Best Time To Visit Rajkot Fort
1. Peak Season (November to February)
- Weather Insights: Cool breeze, clear skies, mild temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C.
- Things to Do: Visit the 91-ft Shivaji statue, explore the fort’s bastion, enjoy the breeze in the rock garden, and watch the stunning sunset over the sea.
2. Moderate Season (March to June)
- Weather Insights: Hot and humid, temperatures between 25°C and 35°C.
- Things to Do: Walk through the old fort ruins, offer prayers at the Ganesh temple, and capture views from the flag bastion.
3. Off Season (July to October)
- Weather Insights: Heavy monsoon rains, temperatures between 22°C and 30°C, strong sea winds.
- Things to Do: Witness the fort surrounded by greenery, feel the thrill of waves crashing near the bastion.
Rajkot Fort Other Essential Information
- Wear light clothes and sturdy shoes, as you'll need to walk up rocky paths and climb uneven stone steps.
- Plan your visit during daylight hours since the fort is not open at night and the area can get dark quickly.
- Try not to touch or scratch the fort’s old walls to help preserve this historical site for others to enjoy.
- Skip visiting during the summer months, as the heat can be harsh and tiring.
- Consider hiring a local guide as they can share stories about the fort’s past as well as show you hidden corners you might miss.
Admire the Grand Shivaji Maharaj Statue
You can appreciate the newly built 91-feet tall bronze statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj near the fort. It shows him holding a 29-foot sword other than standing strong against sea winds. It is near the statue where you can click great photos as it reflects Shivaji’s powerful legacy.
Watch the Sunset from the Rock Garden
Spend time at the peaceful rock garden near the sea. Here, you can sit and watch the waves crash against the rocks while enjoying the cool breeze. It is also a perfect spot to relax, take pictures, and view the beautiful sunset over the coast.
Visit the Ganesh Temple with a Golden Idol
You can offer prayers at the Lord Ganesh temple near the fort, where the idol is made of pure gold. Many visitors come here at this small, peaceful as well as sacred shrine for blessings before exploring more of the fort or the nearby temples.
Explore the Bastion and Ruins of the Fort
Climb up to see the only remaining bastion of the fort with a flagpost that still warns passing boats of the rocky coastline. You can also walk past British-era building ruins from 1812 which are now used by fishermen to dry fish along with learning about the fort’s past.
Tourism Board Alliances
Rajkot Fort FAQs
What is the height of Shivaji statue in Rajkot?
The Shivaji statue at Rajkot Fort stands 91 feet tall. It was unveiled without any grand ceremony. This statue honours Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and has become a major attraction for visitors exploring the fort in Malvan.
When was Rajkot Fort built?
Rajkot Fort was built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj between 1664 and 1667 to protect the Malvan region. It stands on a natural hill and later became significant in 1766 during a British treaty which involved plans for a ship-building yard.
What happened in Rajkot Fort?
Rajkot Fort in Malvan was closed to the public after part of the platform near the newly built 91-foot Shivaji statue collapsed. This incident then raised safety concerns and prompted an investigation less than two months after its inauguration.