Padmadurg Fort

Padmadurg Fort, also known as Kasa Fort, is a historic sea fort located on a rocky island in the Arabian Sea near Murud, Raigad district, Maharashtra. Built in 1676 by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, it served as a naval base and shipbuilding yard to counter the Siddis of Janjira. The fort spans approximately 9 acres with six rounded bastions and remains partly in ruins. It is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India and accessible only by boat with prior permission.

Visitors can expect to explore a partially ruined 17th-century maritime fortification accessible only by boat from Khora Jetty. The site features intact ramparts, six rounded bastions, dry water tanks, ammunition storage areas, temple ruins, and numerous cannon placements. Views of the neighboring Murud-Janjira Fort, Samrajgad Fort, and the Murud coastline are visible from the ramparts. Access requires prior permission from Navy or Customs authorities as the fort remains under defense control.

Padmadurg was built in 1676 by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to monitor and counter the Siddis of Murud-Janjira who controlled the strategically important Janjira Fort. It functioned as a key shipbuilding center and naval base for the Maratha Empire. The fort was recaptured by the Marathas under Raghuji Angre in 1759 after being held by the Siddis. Over 250 cannonballs were discovered during ASI conservation efforts in 2012, highlighting its military significance.

The fort represents the maritime architectural and naval engineering achievements of the Maratha Empire under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Its lotus-petal-shaped upper structure inspired the name 'Padmadurg' (Lotus Fort). The site is part of Maharashtra's coastal heritage and reflects the strategic importance of sea forts in Konkan history.