To read the previous blog on day 2 of Alibag click here
Day 3: Revdanda Fort and Temples of Chaul
We started the day with a visit to Korlai Fort, offering breathtaking views of the coast and sea. From there, we headed to Revdanda Fort and Revdanda Beach, where the ancient ruins stand against a scenic backdrop.
Satkhani (सातखणी) Buruj at Revdanda Fort is one of its most iconic structures. Originally known as the Tower of St. Barbara, it was part of a church within the fort. The name Satkhani comes from its distinctive seven-story design. I made a quick sketch of the ruins of Satkhani Buruj.
This fort was constructed in 1558 by Portuguese Captain Soj and was originally named Santa Maria de Castelo. Over time, the locals began referring to it as Rev Danda. The fort is surrounded by dense vegetation, primarily coconut and betel nut trees, while the beach area outside the fort is lined with casuarina trees. It is possible that the Portuguese planted these trees within the fort premises.
Within the fort, there is a four-story tower along with a few cannons embedded in its walls. Additionally, the site contains the ruins of an old structure resembling a church, which now stands in a dilapidated state. The fort also houses the Chapel of St. Francis Xavier, where he is believed to have delivered some of his earliest sermons in India. Apart from these, there are several other ruins scattered throughout the fort.
Our exploration continued with visits to Shitaladevi Temple and Shree Rameshwar Mandir in Chaul, two peaceful spots that provided a tranquil end to our Alibag journey.
Shitaladevi is one of the revered and ancient seven deities of Chaul. This historic temple remains highly popular and is located approximately 2 km from Chaul Square. It was restored in 1759, with the Angre family holding deep faith in this goddess.
Originally, the Shitaladevi Temple was a wooden structure with a slanting clay-tiled roof. However, around 1990, it was reconstructed using cement concrete. The temple’s main entrance faces east, with additional entrances on the south and north sides. At the main entrance and the assembly hall, there is a distinct architectural culmination. The idol of the goddess remains in its original position at the temple’s core. In front of the temple stands a stone-built column of lamps. Additionally, an ancient Pushkarini (stepped well) is present, with its water still utilized by the local villagers.
The Rameshwar Mandir, an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, is situated in Chaul, Revdanda, Maharashtra. The Chaul region is renowned for its numerous temples, with an astonishing count of 365—one for each day of the year.
According to local villagers, the temple was initially constructed in just over a day by the Pandavas, but they were unable to complete it. Had they succeeded, it would have been the only temple, like Kashi, to be built within a day. Later, Maratha Navy Admiral Kanhoji Angre took charge and completed the remaining work.
Like all Shiva temples, the Rameshwar Mandir features a Nandi statue positioned in front of the main shrine. The temple complex spans a vast area, with its dome reaching a height of 7.62 meters. A large pond, known as Pokhran, lies in front of the temple, enhancing its grandeur. Two towering Deep Jyoti Stambhs (pillars designed to hold small oil lamps) stand at the entrance, adding to the temple’s illumination.
As one steps inside, a spacious prayer hall supported by vibrant wooden pillars welcomes visitors. The presence of the large pond outside the temple further enhances its majestic appearance. During local festivals, aartis (ritual prayers) are performed along the pond, creating a mesmerizing spiritual atmosphere.
The serene evening ended with a delicious vegetarian meal at Moghe Khanawal which is a pure veg take away centre near Alibag beach. Moghe Khanawal is likely the only restaurant in Alibaug that serves exclusively vegetarian food. The menu features just one item – an authentic Maharashtrian thali. This thali is incredibly delicious, offering a comforting, home-cooked taste. The simple ambiance further enhances the experience, making it feel like a meal at home.
The restaurant serves a fixed menu with a set portion of a traditional rice plate, all at an affordable price that fits any budget. It is a small eatery with only a few tables but carries a rich traditional history. If you’re in Alibaug, this place is definitely worth a visit!
To read the blog on day 4 & 5 of Alibag click here
Where did we eat ?
Hotel Gayatri Garva
Suruchi Pure Veg Restaurant
First Old Original Mahesh Lunch Home
Moghe Khanawal
Hotel 4 1/2 Anandvan
Food Carnival
Which are the places unsuitable for pets ?
Murud Janjira Fort : The fort needs to be accessed by Ferry boats. Pets are strictly not allowed in the boats as well as on the fort.
