About Gopalgad Fort
Opening Hours: Monday- Sunday, 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM
Prime Day & Hours: Weekend, morning and evening
Suggested Duration: 3-4 hours
Tickets: Free Entry
Nearest Railway Station: Chiplun Railway Station, 51 KM away
Nearest Airport: Ratnagiri Airport, 60 KM away
Nearest Bus Stop: Guhagar Bus Stand, 13 KM away
Gopalgad Fort, popularly known as Anjanvel Fort, sits on a rocky hill overlooking the Arabian Sea, guarding the mouth of the Vashishti River and Dabhol port in Ratnagiri district. Originally built in the 1500s by Bijapur’s Siddis, it was seized by Shivaji Maharaj in 1660, who added a shipbuilding dock and renamed it Gopalgad. Over time, control passed to the Siddis of Janjira (1699), Tulaji Angre (1744), the Peshwas (1755), and finally the British in 1818.
The fort spans over an area of 7 acres and has massive laterite walls, twelve bastions, two main gates, a dry moat, temples, three wells, and a mango orchard. You can also visit nearby attractions like the Anjanvel Lighthouse and the Talakeshwar Temple. Additionally, the serene creek-side hillock setting and a lesser-known Shiva shrine nearby add spiritual ambience and local character, making it a rich blend of history, nature, and pilgrimage.
Gopalgad Fort Highlights
• Visit the Gopalgad Fort, a coastal fort built to guard the trade point of the Vashishti River.
• Walk through the Chor Vaat tunnel inside Gopalgad Fort, which is a centuries‑old subterranean passage once used for covert access to the sea, showcasing Maratha naval defence ingenuity and strategic architecture.
• Explore Anjanvel Lighthouse nearby for sweeping coastal views and serves as a peaceful complement to the historic fort exploration.
• Explore ancient ramparts and bastions that are still present in this fort that have stood strong through the rule of the Maratha and the British.
How To Reach Gopalgad Fort
- By Car: Gopalgad Fort is about 4 km from Anjanvel town centre and around 90 km from Ratnagiri city. It takes approximately 2.5 hours via NH66.
- By Bus: Regular buses from Ratnagiri and nearby towns drop you at Anjanvel Bus Stand, which is 1.5 km from the fort. From there, it’s a 20-minute uphill walk.
Best Time To Visit Gopalgad Fort
1. Peak Season (October to March)
- Weather Insights: Pleasant coastal climate with mild temperatures and clear skies.
- Things to Do: Roam through ancient ramparts, take in uninterrupted sea views, and enjoy peaceful heritage walks.
2. Moderate Season (April to June)
- Weather Insights: Hot and humid during the day, but mornings and late evenings remain manageable.
- Things to Do: Plan early visits, enjoy lighthouse views, and pair with light trekking or a coastal temple visit.
3. Low Season (July to September)
- Weather Insights: Monsoon showers bring slippery trails and thick vegetation; fog may limit views.
- Things to Do: Visit for lush scenery, dramatic cliffside vistas, and peaceful solitude, only if the weather permits.
Gopalgad Fort Other Essential Information
- Carry drinking water and snacks, as there are no shops near the fort.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the path to the fort can be uneven.
- Best visited during early morning or evening hours for great views and pleasant weather.
- Avoid visiting during heavy monsoons due to slippery paths and limited visibility.
Walk Along the Fort Ramparts
Stroll along the sturdy laterite walls of Gopalgad Fort to soak in panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. The calm breeze, mixed with the sound of waves crashing below, makes it a refreshing and peaceful walk, perfect for slow exploration and photos. Spot seabirds gliding overhead, admire wildflowers growing between the stones, and take quiet pauses to appreciate the history etched into the weathered fort walls.
Relax Amidst the Mango Orchards
Spend some time near the lush mango orchards that surround the fort. In season, you might even be able to spot local villagers harvesting fruits. It’s a unique combination of heritage and nature that adds a rustic charm to the experience. Listen to birds chirping in the trees, enjoy the dappled sunlight filtering through leaves, and breathe in the sweet, earthy scent of mangoes.
Pay Respect at Talkeshwar Temple
Begin your visit with a peaceful prayer at the Talkeshwar Temple. Nestled along the coast, this Shiva temple is simple yet deeply spiritual. The soothing sound of waves and the temple bells create a meditative atmosphere which is ideal for quiet reflection and inner calm. Devotees often light incense sticks, offer coconuts, and sit in silence under the open sky for spiritual grounding.
Tourism Board Alliances
Gopalgad Fort FAQs
Are there any food or washroom facilities available at the fort?
There are no official food or washroom facilities within the Gopalgad Fort premises. It’s recommended to carry light snacks, water, and tissues. Basic amenities like restrooms or refreshments can be found in nearby towns, small eateries, or local shops, which you can use before you begin the uphill climb to the fort.
Is there any trekking involved to reach the fort?
There’s a short, slightly steep walk involved to reach the fort, but it’s not a full trek. The path is manageable for most visitors, though it can be slippery or grassy during the monsoo,n so wear good footwear. Elderly visitors or those with knee issues may need to take a bit more caution.
Are pets allowed at the fort?
There are no official restrictions on pets, so you can take them along. Just be cautious as the area has wild grass, uneven surfaces, and no fenced zones. Keep your pet leashed and carry their essentials like water and snacks. It’s best to avoid visiting with pets during extreme heat.
Are there any local guides available at Gopalgad Fort?
There are usually no official guides present at the fort. Locals may offer help or share stories informally, but it’s best to do a little research beforehand or explore at your own pace. You can also ask shopkeepers or nearby villagers for insights, as they often know interesting legends and hidden corners of the fort.
Is parking available near Gopalgad Fort?
Yes, basic parking is available near the entry point of the fort. It's not a formal parking lot, but two-wheelers and a few cars can be parked safely nearby. During weekends or holidays, it’s best to arrive early as space is limited. Larger vehicles may need to park slightly farther and walk a short distance.
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