Origin and History of Alibaug: Everything You Need to Know

Where Is Alibaug Located?

Alibaug is a charming coastal town in the Konkan region of Maharashtra. It's bordered by the Arabian Sea on the north and west, the Kundalika River and Roha to the south, and the Amba River to the east. Alibaug is easily accessible by road and sea, with the nearest airports being Mumbai and Pune, and the closest railway station at Pen.

How Alibaug Got Its Name

The name "Alibaug or Alibag" comes from a Bene Israeli man named Ali (or Eli), who owned several mango and coconut plantations in the area. He also dug many wells for the community. The area became known as “Alichi Bagh” (Ali’s Garden), which eventually evolved into “Alibaug.”
Even today, you can find a few of Ali’s original wells in the town, including one near the Mamlatdar’s office and another near the Ganpati Temple.

The Formation of Alibaug Town

It’s believed that much of the land where Alibaug stands today was once under the sea. The original settlement was near Ramnath. The area later developed into a proper town in the late 1600s, during the time of Maratha naval chief Kanhoji Angre.

Chaul: An Ancient Port

Chaul, a small village in Alibaug, was a major trading hub since the 1st century CE. It had strong international trade ties and was frequently mentioned by foreign travelers. Known as “Chemula” in ancient times, it played a key role in the region’s economy and saw several power struggles between the Marathas, Portuguese, Mughals, and Siddis.

Cultural Diversity in Alibaug

Alibaug has always been a melting pot of cultures. It is home to various communities:

• Hindus: Mostly from the Bhandari, Sonar, Koli, and Kunbi communities.
• Muslims: Particularly the Kokni Muslims in Revdanda, originally Arab traders.
• Jews: The Bene Israeli community, believed to have arrived after a shipwreck in the 1st or 2nd century CE.
• Christians: Portuguese influence led to the growth of Christianity; some still speak a unique creole called “Christi.”
• Parsis and Jains: Settled in areas like Chaul and Revadanda.
  
  

Famous Forts in Alibaug

Alibaug is home to many historic forts that tell the story of its strategic importance:

1. Murud Janjira Fort

• Located in the sea off Murud, it was never conquered until the British takeover in 1818.
• Known for its strong walls, giant cannons, and freshwater lakes inside.
  

2. Revdanda Fort

• Built by the Portuguese in the 1520s near the Kundalika River.
• Also houses churches and has historical inscriptions.
  

3. Korlai Fort

• Located across the river from Revdanda.
• Witnessed many battles between the Portuguese, Marathas, and Siddis.
  

4. Kolaba Fort (Alibaug Fort)

• Built by Shivaji Maharaj in 1681.
• Served as a naval base under Kanhoji Angre.
• Features freshwater wells despite being surrounded by seawater.
  

5. Hirakot Fort

• Built by Kanhoji Angre and used as his headquarters.
• Known as “Diamond Fort” due to its shiny black basalt walls.
  

6. Khanderi and Underi Forts

• Built on islands, these forts guarded the coast and saw multiple battles between the Marathas, Siddis, and British.
• Khanderi was renamed Kanhoji Angre Island in 1998.
  

7. Khubladha Fort

• Built to support Khanderi Fort and protect it from land attacks.
• Changed hands several times between the Siddis, Marathas, and British.
  
  

Religious & Cultural Sites

1. Kankeshwar Temple

• A famous Shiva temple located on a hill 13 km from Alibaug.
• Known for its scenic views and sacred water tank.
  

2. Ass-Curse Stones (Gadhegals)

• Found in Akshi, these ancient stones carry inscriptions and warnings.
• Depict donkeys as symbols of curses for violating orders, a unique local tradition.
  

3. Alibag Magnetic Observatory

• One of the world’s oldest geomagnetic observatories.
• Originally set up in Mumbai and moved to Alibaug in 1906.
• It still collects valuable data on geomagnetic storms caused by solar activity.
  
  

Why Alibaug Is Unique

Alibaug isn't just a weekend getaway- it’s a place with deep roots. From ancient ports and invincible forts to diverse communities and living traditions, it’s a destination that connects history with nature and culture.

Whether you’re exploring forts, enjoying coastal beauty, or learning about ancient communities like the Bene Israelis, Alibaug has something special for everyone.