Alibaug

Located 110 km south of Mumbai, Alibaug is a 300-year old seaside town in the Konkani region of Maharashtra. Also known as ‘Shreebag’, Alibaug is also the headquarters of the Raigad district.

Spread over a small strip on the Arabian Sea, on the southern side of Mumbai, Alibaug is a destination well known for its beautiful beaches, surrounded by coconut trees. The Kolaba Beach, Akshi Beach Kihim, Kashid are some of the popular beaches in Alibaug. The town is also known for its Bene Israeli Jews, settled there from the early 19th century.

The origin of Alibaug goes back to the 17th century. It was developed by Sarkhal Kanhojio Aangre, the naval chief of King Shivaji's regime. Alibaug has been witness to numerous historical events. There is a famous fort called Kollaba Fort situated just 2 km from the sea coast of Alibaug. In fact, the earlier name of Alibaug was ‘Kulaba’, but later became well known as Ali’s baug (garden) after the rich Jew gardener named Ali, who had several plantations in the area.

Other than beaches, tourists can visit the famous Tower of St. Barbara, historical forts, ancient churches, synagogues, etc. in Alibaug. One can also savour typical Maharashtrian food like bhaji, bread made of flour called bhakri and fish items.

Other places of tourists' interest nearby Alibaug (15 km) is Chaul, which is a historical town, known for its ruins of the Portuguese, and most importantly a Buddhist cave, a hamam khana. These places are also very popular among tourists. On the way to Mandawa, about 12 km from Alibaug, there is the Kanakeshwar Temple, on a hill near Mapgaon. There is also the Vikram Vinayak Temple, commonly called the Birla Temple.

The best way to reach Alibaug is by boats and ferries which sail from the Gateway of India on a daily basis. The journey takes around 45 minutes to reach Mandwa. There are regular bus services from Mandwa to Alibaug which takes around 45 minutes to reach. Alibaug has a pleasant climate year-round. The best time to visit Alibaug is from November to July.