In this article, we provide comprehensive information about the geography, history, population, and top tourist destinations of Alibaug.
| About City: | Alibag, also known as Alibaug, is a coastal town, just south of Mumbai, in western India. It’s known for its beaches like Alibag Beach and Varsoli Beach. Just offshore, 17th-century Kolaba Fort has carvings of tigers and elephants, and temples dedicated to Hindu gods. To the south, Portuguese-built Korlai Fort dates from 1521 and includes a lighthouse. The island fort of Janjira has high walls, turrets and cannons. Alibag is well-known for its coconut and betelnut plantations, as well as a variety of historic sites to explore. Recently, it has emerged as a popular weekend getaway for those from Mumbai and nearby cities, offering a serene escape from the chaos of urban life. Alibag used to be the headquarters of the great maratha Admiral, Kanhoji Angre and has the famous Kolaba fort in the sea. Kanhoji Angre established the town of Alibag towards the end of the 17th century. According to legend, a wealthy Muslim named Ali owned numerous plantations, which is how the town got its name. Since 1852, Alibag has served as the seat of the District Administration for Raigad (formerly Kolaba) district. The name Kolaba is linked to the Sea Fort Kolaba, built by the great Shivaji in 1680 to counter the formidable naval strength of the Siddis (Abyssinians) of Janjira and the British from Mumbai. Kolaba Fort is well-known for the many battles fought between the Siddis and Kanhoji Angre, as well as the British and the Portuguese. |
| History: | Alibag got a new face during the reign of Sarkhel Kanhoji Angre. It really developed during this period. He developed the area into a prosperous city. During this period, roads, temples were built and old temples were restored. The beautiful city of “Alibag” was situated near the sea shore, adjacent to the fort of Kolaba . The area has been reformed. Many constructions and development works were completed during Angre’s tenure. Several temples were restored during this time, including the Maruti Temple, Balaji Temple, Ram Temple, Kashi Vishweshwar Temple, Kalambika Temple, Ganapati Temple, Vitthal Rakhumai Temple, Datta Temple, and Vishnu Temple. Alibag is home to a diverse population, including Muslims, Christians, and Hindus, and features ancient mosques alongside historic churches. Kolaba Fort is situated near Alibag beach, and the city also boasts Hirakot Fort. In 1698, Kanhoji Angre was appointed as the Armar Chief, marking the beginning of Alibag’s true development. Although Kanhoji Angre resided in Kolaba Fort, he selected Alibag as the site for his armor, palace, and treasure, which adds to the city’s historical significance. |
| Country : | India |
| State: | Maharashtra |
| District: | Raigad |
| Population: | 20,743 (2011 Census) |
| Language: | • Native: Konkani • Official: Marathi |
| Literacy: | Alibag has an average literacy rate of 79%, higher than the national average of 59.5%; with 54% of the males and 46% of females literate. |
| Major Attractions to Visit: | Kolaba Fort Varsoli Beach Mandwa Beach Nagaon Beach Alibaug Beach Murud Janjira Fort Brahma Kund Kanakeshwar Forest Khanderi Fort Raigad Bazaar Akshi Beach |
