Khanderi Killa.

After a long break. I am back with my new travel story for my blog!!!!

This time some of our relatives from thane were visiting our home as the next day was Sunday we plan a one day trip to Khanderi killa.

Khanderi (Official name Kanhoji Angre Island, Old British name Kennery) is located 5 km the coast of Maharashtra near Thal) and 20 km from Alibag. Khanderi along with its sister fort Underi(Jaidurg) formed the major fortification along the Maharashtra coast, the former falling under Shivaji's Maharaj control.

Next day we started from alibag @ 7 morning and reached the thal jeety @8. From jetty we have to take a small boat which has capacity of 10 people.  It takes 20 min to reach Khanderi island. After reaching and exploring the beuty of the Killa the gurds of that island were narrating the story of Khanderi killa.

The island consists of two high hills, once facing north and the other facing south. Initially, the islands of Underi and Khanderi were uninhabited. In 1679, Khanderi was occupied by the forces of Shivaji Maharaj Subsequently, Khanderi fort was built during the reign of the Maratha king Shivaji in 1660 . to keep a check on the Siddis at Murud-Janjira fort and was the site of many battles between Shivaji's Maharaj forces and the navy of Sidi. It contained two wells to supply water to the forces within, and a temple of Sri Vetal and a temple of godess .

The fort was then in control to the forces of the British East India company at Bombay as part of the Peshwa territory after 1818.

Most of the fort is still intact the most prominent structure being a lighthouse built by the British in 1867 and the two storey building upon which the lighthouse is located. The lighthouse is a restricted area.

Now a days Indian navy keeps control on these island. 

Additionally, the fort a few old metal canons, the tomb of Daud Pir, a local saint and a musical stone which emits metallic musical notes when struck.

In 1998, Khanderi island was renamed Kanhoji Angre Island in honour of the Maratha General Kanhoji Angre. There is a another fort Underi  beside the Khanderi  killa but it is prohibited for tourist, only navy people can go there.

After exploring the island we were exicted and feeling happy. After having lots of fun clicking pic’s and selfies. We started our journey way back to Alibag.

A DAY WELL SPENT…