Alibaug is a hamlet in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, the Konkan region. The town serves as the administrative centre for the Raigad District. Alibaug, also known as the Garden of Ali, is a seaside town and a popular vacation destination for visitors from all across the country.
The town, located near Mumbai, is famous for its pristine beaches and healthy atmosphere. Alibaug is a wonderfully magnificent destination to enjoy a beautiful environment because it is nestled in the beauty of nature.
The area’s income is mainly based on tourism, while other businesses grow. The climate in the town is pleasant all year, with temperatures ranging from 15 ° C. to 30 ° C. Although October to July is ideal for visiting Alibaug, travellers go there all year.
- History
Although Alibaug is primarily known as a beach getaway, the town also has an intriguing and surprising past that is crucial for understanding. While fleeing violence in Palestine, Bene Israeli Jews lived in the region where their vessel arrived some 2,200 years ago. They learned the local culture and language while retaining their faith. Alibaug (means Ali garden) is claimed to have been established after a wealthy businessman named Ali who had gardens and farmlands.
The Portuguese dominated the area from the early sixteenth century till the Maratha empire overthrew it in the seventeenth century. Kolaba Fort in Alibaug was converted into a marine station by Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Afterwards, in the early 1800s, Maratha Naval chief Kanhoji Angre used the fort to conduct raids on British commercial vessels. The British and Portuguese combined troops to take the defence, but they could not do that. It was not until the early nineteenth century that the British took control of the territory and fort.
- How to Reach
Numerous state-run and commercial deluxe buses link the town to Mumbai, Goa, and several other locations around the state and nation. Pen, which is linked to Khapoli, is the closest railway station. Alibaug’s dock is situated near Mandawa. Waterways to Mumbai’s Gateway of India are accessible from Mandwa. The majority of visitors opt to travel from Mumbai, Pune, or Goa to Alibaug.
- When to Go
Explore Alibaug between October and March, when the climate is dry and cool. The temperature rises in March before the monsoon season starts in June. Alibaug has become a perfect weekend attraction due to its closeness to Mumbai and Pune, and it is frequently busy during these times. Summertime school vacations in April and May and the peak season around Diwali in October or November are other popular seasons. The mornings are the most serene.
When the waves are high, and the seas are harsh during the rainy seasons, Alibaug turns risky. There have been reports of persons drowning after being washed away near Kolaba Fort. As a result, it’s recommended to stay away from the water throughout this year.
- Places to Visit
Alibaug is well-known for the beaches that surround it. Alibaug beach is the town’s primary beach and is popular with visitors. The beach features the town’s darkest beaches. From here, you may also catch a sight of the Kolaba fort.
Mandwa Beach, about 20 kilometres from Alibaug, is yet another popular tourist destination. Some beaches to visit are Kihim Beach and Versolla Beach. Khanderi Fort is also another hot spot. Thai beach is only 3-4 kilometres within the waters.
