According to media reports, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will also watch the ‘Operational Demonstrations’ by Indian Navy’s ships, submarines, aircraft and special forces from Tarkarli beach.

He will also unveil a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji in the Rajkot fort located in the vicinity, media reports said.

While the event has garnered a lot of attention, did you know that Sindhudurg fort, Tarkarli beach and other nearby destinations are part of an interesting tourist circuit which is little known beyond the state’s boundaries?

The region, known for its history, forts and beaches, and cuisine, is a perfect winter getaway. It may also be clubbed with a visit to the neighbouring state of Goa.

Things to see and do

Sindhudurg

The fort stands on an island in the middle of the sea. Commissioned by the Maratha leader Chhatrapati Shivaji, the fort was built between 1664 and 1667.

Although now in ruins, it was a formidable fort in its heyday, with a 3km long rampart and guarded by walls that were 30 feet high and 12 feet thick.

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The main entrance was cleverly concealed from view; the walls had been designed in a way to indicate there were more guard towers than actual numbers.

According to local people, one of the deep wells inside the fort connected to a tunnel which ran under the sea to open in a village on the mainland.

Today, you will find ruins of various structures, cannons, three sweet water ponds, and several shrines.

There is also a temple dedicated to Shivaji Maharaj as well as memorials containing a handprint and the footprints of the leader, dating back to the days when the fort’s foundation was being laid, according to local belief.

Be ready to do some climbing up and down if you want to see all the attractions and some of the ruins, such as the tallest guard tower.

The food and beverage kiosks at the main entrance serve local delicacies, such as vada pav, kokum sherbet, kairi panna, etc.

The sea fort has to be reached by boat from the mainland.

Wearing comfortable walking shoes, sun protective gear, and carrying drinking water are must, if you plan to explore the fort.

Tarkarli

The turquoise sea lapping up the silver sand beach framed by casuarina groves make it one of the most picturesque beaches of the Konkan.

Off the coast, the crystal clear water offers a peek into the depths of the sea, thus making scuba diving a popular activity here. Water sports are also held here.

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Usually uncrowded, the beach is good for relaxation.

The well-appointed tourist complex operated by Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) is next to the beach and is known to run scuba diving sessions.  There are also private hotels, resorts and homestays in and around the beach town.

Malvan

The town retains an old world rustic charm despite its importance as a fishing and commercial centre. The town is the best place to sample the typical Malvani cuisine, largely known for its seafood preparations and liberal use of fresh coconut and coconut milk in its dishes. While eating, if you find Malvani dishes a tad spicy, cool it down with a glass of sol kadhi.

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Another must buy are the cashew nuts, often coated with chocolate and other flavours.

The town can be a base for exploring Sindhudurg, Rajkot fort, Tarkarli, and other beaches.

Devbag

Not to be confused with the more popular destination with the same name in Karnataka, Devbag in Maharashtra is a quaint fishing village, about 50km by road from Malvan town.

Sandwiched between the Karli River and the Arabian Sea, it is a slow traveller’s delight.

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The simple homestays offer clean and comfortable accommodation.

Relax amid the coconut groves, enjoy home-cooked food, and explore the village on foot or on a cycle for a relaxed holiday.

And if you must go on some sightseeing spree, try boating in the backwaters, visit the Bhogwe Beach, Nivati rocks and the Tsunami Beach, among other things.

Getting there 

Sindhudurg and its nearby attractions are well over 500km from Mumbai by road and may take over 10 hours. The best way to reach is by the Konkan Railway. Kudal is the most convenient station from where you may hire a local car to reach Malvan, Tarkarli or Devbag.