A Complete Guide To All You Need To Know About Alibaug

Tucked away from the chaos of the city, Alibaug has earned a name for the ultimate weekend getaway in everyone’s itinerary. From the British to the Portuguese, a diverse set of communities have called this town their whilst leaving their influence. 

Today, Alibaug is best known as a luxurious retreat to unwind and relax, easily accessible by a speedboat or ferry from the southern tip of Mumbai. While the commute is a breeze, what are some of the things to do in Alibaug that make the trip truly worthwhile?

Whether you want to laze around on the beach, peruse some art, or simply recharge in a luxurious private villa, there are a myriad of things to do for everyone. Ahead, we have put together the ultimate edit of the places and top attractions in Alibaug that deserve a spot in your travel guide!

4 Must-Visit Places In Alibaug

Before diving into the must-visit spots, let’s uncover some of the standout attractions in Alibaug that promise an unforgettable experience.

Alibaug Beach

The most famous beach in town, Alibaug Beach, should be your go-to spot if all you’re looking for is a salty breeze and calming waters. From having a picnic with your loved ones, taking a quiet stroll, and enjoying the sunset to partaking in activities like horse riding, this location is one of the best places to see in Alibaug. Depending on the season of your visit, you can also get your adrenaline pumping by indulging in water sports such as jet skiing, paragliding, and more.

Kolaba Fort

If you’re a history buff who loves exploring sites from the bygone era, then here’s a spot for you. Built in the 17th century by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the Kolaba Fort is best known for its sturdy architecture, strategic location, and interior. Adding this to your list of things to do promises a perfect blend of history and nature!

The best part? You can reach the fort seamlessly by boats departing from Alibaug Beach. Our say: Spend your day relaxing at Alibaug Beach and exploring the Kolaba Fort, and wrap it up by spending quality time in a luxurious private pool villa by ELIVAAS – Liora.

The Guild Art Gallery 

Packed away from the fast-paced life of a city, Alibaug is the epitome of giving into life’s simplest pleasures, like the beach, sunshine, and art. For enthusiasts of contemporary art, the Guild Art Gallery, located in Ranjanpada in Alibaug, offers a stellar slice of innovation and experimentation. 

Housing the works of both old and new artists from across the country, the art gallery is the ultimate pitstop to stop and stare (literally). Fun fact: The Guild Art Gallery is one of the oldest art galleries in Alibaug and hence, one of the top places to see in Alibaug.

Murud-Janjira Fort

Situated about 56 kilometres away from Alibaug, Murud-Janjira Fort is a must-see historical site nestled on an island in the Arabian Sea. Despite several attempts to conquer the fort, it still stands strong today, an enduring symbol of the power and success of the Maratha and Siddhi rulers. Accessible by boat, this iconic landmark is a must-visit for those seeking a perfect blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty.

3 Attractions To Bookmark For A Visit

For those looking to explore beyond the usual, here are three standout attractions in Alibaug that deserve a spot on your travel itinerary.

Kanakeshwar Forest

One of the top attractions in Alibaug is Kanakeshwar Forest, which strikes the perfect balance between nature, devotion, and adventure. Nestled on a lush green hill about 12 kilometres away from Alibaug, the forest is home to an abundance of rich flora and fauna, which serves as the perfect backdrop for a hike or trek with family and friends.

At the top of the hill, you’ll come across the Kanakeshwar Temple, a revered pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. We say make the most of your visit to the forest by starting off early for a trek, exploring the temple, and capping it off with a relaxing swim in an ultra-luxe private pool villa like the Liora by ELIVAAS!

Mandwa Beach

If the memo of your road trip to Alibaug is all about seeking peace, then look no further! Best known for its golden sands and clear waters, Mandwa Beach is less commercialised in comparison to other beaches in Alibaug.

This factor plays an imperative role in making the location less crowded, which will give you the right dose of quietness and serenity. Additionally, Mandwa Beach is great to partake in adventurous water sports such as boating and windsurfing. 

Siddhi Vinayak Ganapati Mandir

This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha is one of the top attractions in Alibaug, attracting both locals and tourists. Located in the centre of the coastal town, the temple is not only a spiritual haven but also a peaceful spot ideal for meditation and introspection. The Siddhi Vinayak Ganapati Mandir is most popular during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival when visitors flock to the temple for blessings.

How to Reach Alibaug by Road

While Alibaug is a stone’s throw away from the city of Mumbai and can be easily accessed through a boat ride from the southern tip, there is something truly incomparable about a road trip to Alibaug. Whether it’s an impromptu plan with your best friends or a quick weekend getaway with your family, the scenic Mumbai-Goa Highway (NH66) makes the journey a breeze, bringing you to Alibaug in no time.

The best part? The drive to Alibaug is lined with the lush Western Ghats on one side and the magnificent Arabian Sea on the other. The overall journey is smooth and peppered with must-try restaurants, small towns and villages, coconut water stalls, and more. 

Takeaway

Once a sleepy coastal town, Alibaug has now become a haven for the affluent to spend time in their weekend homes while tourists flock here for a quick yet memorable getaway. Due to its proximity to metropolitan cities like Mumbai, Alibaug has earned its name for seeking a holiday packed with nature, history, local food, and shopping. 

While there are multiple things to do, some must-visit places, such as Alibaug Beach and the Kolaba Fort, are perfect to kickstart your trip. Rent yourself an ELIVAAS luxury villa in Alibaug to ensure that your visit is a sum of sightseeing and unwinding with your loved ones! After all, the fun goes up a notch with people who matter.