Murud Janjira Fort is a famous sea fort located on the Arabian Sea coast near the town of Murud in Maharashtra. Alibaug, a coastal town south of Mumbai, is a popular starting point for travelers heading to this historic fort. Many tourists and locals travel this route to explore the fort’s impressive architecture and scenic views.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Alibaug to Murud Janjira Fort. You will learn about train, bus, car, and ferry options, along with travel times, fares, and useful tips for a smooth journey.

Getting from Alibaug to Murud Janjira Fort – Main Options

Train

Train travel between Alibaug and Murud Janjira is limited but can be combined with local transport. It suits travelers who prefer railways and want to experience local trains and buses.

• Alibaug railway station is on the Konkan Railway line, but there is no direct train to Murud; you must travel to Roha or Mangaon stations and then take a bus or taxi to Murud, covering about 40 km by road.

• The nearest major railway station to Murud Janjira is Mangaon, approximately 40 km away, with several trains from Mumbai and Pune stopping there daily.

• From Mangaon or Roha station, frequent state transport buses and private taxis are available to Murud, with travel times around 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Train fares from Alibaug to Mangaon or Roha typically range from ₹50 to ₹150 depending on the train class, while bus or taxi fares to Murud can be ₹150 to ₹400.

• Train frequency is good on the Konkan Railway, but last-mile connections may be less frequent in early mornings or late evenings, so plan accordingly.

Bus

Bus travel is a popular and economical way to reach Murud Janjira from Alibaug. It is suitable for budget travelers and those comfortable with public transport.

• MSRTC buses operate regularly from Alibaug bus depot to Murud town, covering around 45 km in approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Bus fares are affordable, usually between ₹50 and ₹100, making it a cost-effective option for most travelers.

• Buses run frequently during the day but may be less frequent early morning or late evening, so check schedules in advance at the Alibaug depot or online.

• The route passes through NH166 and local roads, with some narrow stretches near Murud; monsoon season may cause delays due to slippery roads and occasional landslides.

• Onboard comfort varies; some buses are air-conditioned, but many are standard non-AC, so carry water and snacks for the journey.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Alibaug to Murud Janjira is a convenient and flexible option, ideal for travelers who want to explore at their own pace and enjoy scenic coastal roads.

• The distance by road is approximately 45 km via NH166 and local roads, with a typical drive time of 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic.

• The route includes toll plazas near Alibaug and on NH166; toll charges are moderate and payable via FASTag or cash.

• Road conditions are generally good, but some stretches near Murud may be narrow and winding, especially during monsoon, so drive carefully.

• Self-drive car rentals and cab services like Ola and Uber are available in Alibaug, with fares ranging from ₹1,200 to ₹2,000 for a one-way trip depending on vehicle type.

• Driving allows stops at scenic points, local eateries, and beaches along the way, enhancing the travel experience.

Ferry

Ferry travel is not a direct option between Alibaug and Murud Janjira Fort, but you can combine ferry and road travel for a unique experience. This is suitable for travelers who want a scenic boat ride along the coast.

• From Alibaug, ferries operate to Mumbai’s Gateway of India, but no direct ferry connects Alibaug to Murud Janjira.

• You can take a ferry from Mumbai to Murud’s nearby ports during certain seasons, but this is less frequent and requires advance booking.

• Combining ferry with road travel involves taking a ferry from Alibaug to Mumbai, then traveling by train or car to Murud, which is time-consuming and not recommended for first-time travelers.

• Ferry fares vary widely, generally ₹150 to ₹400, depending on the route and season.

• Ferry services may be suspended during monsoon or rough sea conditions, so check schedules carefully before planning.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Alibaug to Murud Janjira Fort. It covers key actions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Step 1: Decide your preferred mode of transport based on budget, comfort, and time. Car or taxi is fastest, bus is economical, and train requires transfers.

• Step 2: If traveling by train, book tickets via IRCTC for Mangaon or Roha stations in advance, especially during weekends and holidays to avoid last-minute rush.

• Step 3: For bus travel, check MSRTC bus timings at Alibaug depot or online, and arrive early to secure a seat, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Step 4: If driving, ensure your vehicle is in good condition, carry a physical map or GPS, and plan for toll payments along NH166.

• Step 5: Pack water, snacks, and light rain gear during monsoon; also carry cash for tolls, local transport, and small purchases.

• Step 6: On arrival at Murud, use local auto-rickshaws or shared taxis to reach the fort entrance, as parking near the fort is limited and roads can be narrow.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a bottle of drinking water and light snacks, as food options between Alibaug and Murud are limited and roadside stalls may not always be hygienic.

• Book train and bus tickets in advance during weekends, holidays, and festival seasons to avoid overcrowding and last-minute cancellations.

• Use prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber in Alibaug for safer and transparent pricing, especially if unfamiliar with local rates.

• During monsoon (June to September), expect slippery roads and occasional delays; avoid traveling at night due to poor visibility and road conditions.

• Carry a small first-aid kit and basic medicines, as medical facilities along the route are limited and pharmacies may not be open late.

• Keep your luggage light and secure, as some buses and trains have limited storage space and you may need to carry bags on foot near the fort.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Alibaug to Murud Janjira Fort is during the cooler months from October to February. The weather is pleasant, and roads are dry, making travel comfortable and safe.

Avoid the monsoon season from June to September if possible, as heavy rains cause slippery roads, landslides, and ferry cancellations. Summer months can be hot and humid but are manageable with proper hydration.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali when roads and public transport are crowded and accommodation prices rise.

• Monsoon rains can cause delays and roadblocks, so check weather forecasts and local news before starting your journey.

• Early morning departures help avoid traffic congestion and offer cooler temperatures, especially when driving or taking buses.

• Late evening travel is not recommended due to limited public transport options and safety concerns on narrow coastal roads.

Arrival at Murud Janjira Fort & What to Expect

When you arrive at Murud town, you will find local transport options like auto-rickshaws and shared taxis to take you to the fort entrance. The fort is located on a small island just off the coast, accessible by boat from the Murud jetty.

Accommodation options are available in Murud town, ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Staying near the beach or town center is convenient for exploring local markets and eateries. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are limited in Murud, so negotiate fares in advance or use local transport.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Murud Janjira Fort from Alibaug is by car or taxi, offering flexibility, comfort, and scenic coastal views. For budget travelers, MSRTC buses provide a reliable and affordable option, while train travel requires transfers but is suitable for those who enjoy rail journeys.

Plan your trip by booking tickets in advance, checking weather conditions, and choosing the best departure time to avoid traffic and delays. With proper preparation, you can enjoy a smooth and memorable visit to the historic Murud Janjira Fort from Alibaug.