Here are some of the most
fascinating 500+ year old places you can explore in Konkan:
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🏯 1. Vijaydurg Fort – Sindhudurg District
Built in the 12th century and
later fortified by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Vijaydurg is one of the oldest
and strongest sea forts in India. Surrounded by the Arabian Sea on three sides,
it was once a key naval base of the Maratha Empire.
Highlights: Secret escape tunnel, underwater fort wall, scenic sea views
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Constructed in 1664 by Shivaji
Maharaj, Sindhudurg Fort is a marvel of coastal defense engineering. It houses
a temple dedicated to Shivaji himself—one of the few in the country.
Highlights: Shivaji’s handprint, sea-facing bastions, historical significance
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Perched along the beach, this
ancient Shiva temple was built over 800 years ago. Its seaside location gives
it the nickname “Konkan’s Kashi.”
Highlights: Oceanfront temple view, stone carvings, peaceful ambiance
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Dedicated to Lord Parshuram, this
temple complex is believed to be over 700 years old. It beautifully combines
Hindu and Islamic architectural influences.
Highlights: Stone architecture, sacred tanks, mythological significance
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Dating back to the 16th century,
Jaigad Fort stands at the meeting point of the Shastri River and the Arabian
Sea. Its strategic location once protected the coast from invaders.
Highlights: Sea-view bastions, historic lighthouse nearby
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Believed to be more than 500 years
old, this Shiva temple is central to Guhagar’s spiritual heritage and remains a
prime spot for devotees and historians alike.
Highlights: Ancient deity, traditional Konkani temple design
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Built in the 16th century, this
island fort was part of Shivaji Maharaj’s naval line of defense. The fort’s
ruins and views of the Konkan coast are stunning.
Highlights: Island fort, sea view, old cannon remains
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Dating back to the Portuguese era
in the 1500s, this church is one of the oldest in the Konkan belt. Its colonial
design reflects the region’s diverse history.
Highlights: Portuguese architecture, historic artifacts
9. Dandeshwar Temple – Dapoli Region
Located in Burondi, the temple
dedicated to Lord Shiva is said to be centuries old and built in classic
Hemadpanthi stone style.
Highlights: Stone carvings, spiritual tranquility
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This horseshoe-shaped fort
overlooking the Arabian Sea dates back to the Bahamani period (before the 16th
century). It later came under Shivaji’s rule.
Highlights: Bhagwati Temple inside, cliffside views, sunset point
✨ Final Thoughts
The Konkan coast isn’t just
scenic—it’s timeless. These 500+ year old sites tell stories of kings, traders,
saints, and sailors who shaped the region’s rich legacy. So on your next Konkan
trip, step beyond the beaches and walk through history.