There are many things to do in Alibaug. A picturesque town on the coast of Maharashtra, Alibaug is a popular getaway destination for people in the cities. Just a 3-hour drive from Mumbai or an even shorter ferry ride from the city, Alibaug offers beaches, forts, museums, and natural beauty. Read on to find out the best things to do in Alibaug.
Beach-hopping
Surrounded by so many beautiful beaches, Alibaug is the perfect beach town if you want an escape from the chaos of Mumbai. Visit Alibaug Beach, known for its black sand, Kihim Beach, popular for birds and butterflies, and Nagaon Beach, one of the cleanest beaches in Maharashtra.
Some other popular beaches in Alibaug include Kashid Beach, Mandwa Beach, and Revdanda Beach. If you are looking for a more secluded spot without the crowds, visit Varsoli Beach, Akshi Beach, Awas Beach, Murud Beach, and Korlai Beach.
Water sports
The beaches of Alibaug offer all kinds of water sports, perfect for people looking for more than just sunbathing on the beach. Try jet skiing, speed boat ride, or banana boat rides at Nagaon Beach and Alibaug Beach. Sea kayaking is a popular activity at Mandwa Beach. Kite boarding and scuba diving are the newest additions at Murud Janjira. Parasailing and zorbing are some unique activities you can try at Nagaon Beach. At Kashid Beach, you may even spot dolphins if you are lucky!
Explore the forts and museums
Alibaug’s rich history and heritage is preserved in its forts and museums. The Murud Janjira Fort is one of the most renowned tourist attractions in the region. The fort is very skilfully built, overlooking the sea and fortified by 23 bastions still standing after nearly four centuries. It also has a smaller escape door that opens directly into the choppy sea waters. Hirakot Fort, also known as Diamond Fort, was built with basalt and is a major tourist attraction in Alibaug.
Kolaba Fort, Khanderi and Underi Fort, Revdanda Fort, and Sagargad Fort are some other majestic forts in Alibaug you should visit.
The Karmarkar Museum showcases the work of Late VP Karmarkar, a renowned Indian artist and sculptor. The museum, located at his home in Sasawane, displayed more than 150 of his carved sculptures. The Alibag Magnetic Observatory, built in 1904, is one of the only 13 observatories in the world that provides geomagnetic data.
Spend time in nature
The coastal town of Alibaug is abundant in natural beauty. Visit Phansad Bird Sanctuary, home to more than 200 species of birds. The Kanakeshwar Forest is rich in rare flora and fauna, a popular tourist attraction among nature lovers.
Vrindavan Farm in Alibaug offers farm tours where you can explore coconut and mango orchards, medicinal plants, and learn how organic produce is grown in the region.
Trekking enthusiasts can explore the trails at Sagargad Fort or Karnala Bird Sanctuary, with stunning views along the way, while Mandwa Beach and Varsoli Beach are popular camping spots.
Read more: Things to do in Maharashtra
Visit the temples
The temples of Alibaug are also steeped in history. The Kanakeshwar Devasthan Temple, also known as the Shiva Temple, requires you to climb around 5000 steps to reach the top. Another important religious spot in Alibaug is the Brahma Kund. There are two kunds, or wells, surrounded by steps on all sides.
The Someshwar Temple was built by the Satavahanas in the 4th century. Located near Akshi Beach, the temple has a large pond in the temple complex and provides beautiful views. Some other noteworthy temples are the Nagoba Mandir, dedicated to a hooded snake, Vikram Vinayak Temple, and Hanuman Temple.
Shopping
Shopping in Alibaug is a fun experience. From yummy local snacks and vibrant handicrafts to fresh produce and artisanal products, Alibaug has a lot to offer. Buy fresh local spices and spice mixes that will enhance your cooking. Check out fresh seafood or local produce if you wish to cook something yourself. You can also buy some handmade products like pottery items, local textiles, and jewelry. The Alibaug Market and Raigadi Bazar are two popular shopping spots in the region.
Enjoy the local cuisine
Alibaug is a paradise for food lovers. Located on the western coast of India, this small town offers some of the best and freshest seafood around. Make sure you try at least one local fish thali while you are here. A full meal served on a platter, with different types of fish preparations, chapati or bhakri, and rice, a thali is an experience in itself. Try the sol kadhi, a refreshing pink drink made from kokum and coconut milk, often served along with a thali, but amazing even on its own. Alibaug also offers delicious chicken and vegetarian dishes as well, so try as much local cuisine as possible – you will not regret it!
However, if you do want to eat something continental, there are many cafes and restaurants offering fast food and global cuisines as well.
Immerse yourself in the culture
Alibaug has a rich cultural heritage, with locals celebrating festivals and events with great enthusiasm. Festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali are worth attending here. The town also has a nice art scene, with many local galleries supporting local talent.
If possible, book a homestay for one night at least, and get a glimpse of the local life. The people are warm and welcoming, and you will surely learn a lot about a different culture and way of life.
So, what will you be doing first in Alibaug? Let us know! At India Someday, we create personalized trips to India for you based on your likes and requirements. Contact us and together we can plan the perfect trip to India for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, 2 days are enough to explore the beautiful beaches of Alibaug, along with some historic forts and the delicious cuisine of the region.
Alibaug is famous for its beaches like Mandwa Beach, Kihim Beach, and Varsoli Beach, as well as the Murud Janjira Fort.
November to February is the best time to visit Alibaug.
About Aishwarya Shete
Aishwarya Shete is a content writer at India Someday. Her passions are writing, photography, and more importantly, food. She hopes to travel the world someday and document it through her pictures and words.
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