Kolaba Fort, Sea fort in Raigad district, India

Kolaba Fort is a sea fort located off the coast of Alibag, built with stone walls, bastions, and defensive structures across rocky terrain. The complex includes water storage tanks, temples, and remains of military buildings scattered throughout the fortified area.

Built between 1680 and 1681, this fort served as a naval base to control shipping along the Konkan coast. It was designed to protect trade routes and defend against pirates threatening coastal settlements.

The Siddhivinayak temple inside the fort was built by Raghoji Angre in 1759, and the fort also holds a dargah of Haji Kamaluddin Shah. Caretakers still live in houses within the walls, and the Ganesh festival is celebrated here, drawing visitors across the water.

The fort is best reached by boat from Alibag beach, about 1.5 kilometers away, with travel easier during high tide. At low tide, wading through shallow water is possible, but checking tide times in advance and wearing sturdy footwear are important.

Near the northern wall stand two English cannons on wheels, inscribed "Dawson Hardy Field, Low Moor Ironworks, Yorkshire, England". The foundry name ties the guns to Yorkshire ironworks, and the wheels still carry them.