Murud Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich and naturally breathtaking wonders of Murud through this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Murud

Murud is a peaceful coastal town located in the North Konkan region of Maharashtra, Western India. The town is famous for its stunning beach and the iconic Murud-Janjira Fort that has remained unconquered till date. The blend of culture, history, and nature make Murud an ideal destination for travelers seeking a relaxed yet exciting adventure. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the top things to see and do in Murud.

List of Places to Visit in Murud

Here’s a list of must-see attractions in Murud, categorized as culturally important and naturally beautiful.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Janjira Fort: Built in the 17th century, this impressive fort stands tall amidst the waves of the Arabian sea. It is renowned for its impressive architecture and the incredible history associated with it.
  • Garambi Dam: This ancient dam was built in the early 19th century and is surrounded by dense green forests that’ll leave you spellbound. The breathtaking views of hills and the clear blue sky from the dam are truly unforgettable.
  • Gol Gumbaz: Located at the entrance of the Murud village, this domed tomb is the final resting place of the Sidi dynasty of Janjira. The intricate design and carvings are a testament to the skill and creativity of the artisans of that time.

Natural Attractions of Murud: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Murud Beach: The golden sands, clear waters, and refreshing breeze at this beach make it one of the best beach destinations in Maharashtra. You can opt to relax, take a stroll or go for water sports like parasailing and banana boat rides.
  • Datta Mandir Hill: For adventure enthusiasts, this hill offers a great trekking opportunity. You can trek to the top to see some of the most breathtaking views of Murud and its surrounding areas.
  • Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary: If you’re lucky, you might spot some exotic wildlife at this sanctuary. You can go on a trek or a wildlife safari to see the animals in their natural habitat.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Murud

Murud is blessed with hiking trails that are bound to leave you spellbound. If you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, rent a bike to explore the scenic locales of this town. Here are two recommended routes:

  1. Murud to Datta Mandir Hill Trek: Start early morning to see the sunrise and hike up to the hill while taking in the lush greenery around. It takes around 2-3 hours to complete this trek, and it is suitable for beginners.
  2. Murud to Agardanda and back: This biking route covers the roads along the coast of Murud to Agardanda, which offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea.

Best Things to Do in Murud: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in and around Murud:

  • Visit the fish market and observe how the fish is caught, auctioned, and sold daily.
  • Take a boat ride to the Murud-Janjira Fort, where a guide will explain the history behind the fort’s construction, myths, and legends associated with it.
  • Take a sunrise or sunset stroll at the Murud beach.

Week-Long Itinerary for Murud

Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary for exploring Murud:

Day Activities
1 Relax at Murud Beach
2 Explore Garambi Dam
3 Trek to Datta Mandir Hill
4 Adventure at Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary
5 Visit the local fish market, go for boating and the fort visit
6 Explore the beaches towards south of Murud
7 Biking around the town and shopping for souvenirs

Food and Drink Scene of Murud

Maharashtrian cuisine is famous for its rich flavors and spices. Here are some must-try dishes and local drinks that you must try when in Murud:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Vada pav: This is one of the most popular street foods in Maharashtra, especially in Mumbai.
  • Fried fish and seafood: Murud is famous for its fresh seafood, and you’ll find many delicious dishes to try, such as prawn fry, Surmai fry, and crab curry.

Local Beverages

  • Solkadi: This is a popular local drink and made of coconut milk, ginger, and green chili. It is an excellent digestive drink and pairs well with seafood.
  • Kokum Sharbat: Made of kokum, a tangy fruit grown in Maharasthra, this popular summer cooler helps relieve the heat.

Where to Stay in Murud: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Murud offers a wide range of options for accommodation, catering to all budgets. Here are some recommended ones:

  • Big Splash Hotel: A luxury hotel with a private beach and private cottages.
  • Sea Shell Resort: A mid-range hotel with well-furnished rooms, a pool, and garden.
  • Murud Marina Guesthouse: A budget-friendly guesthouse with clean rooms.

What to Buy in Murud: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

You can shop for souvenirs and local products to take back home at the following places:

  • Murud Bazaar: This local marketplace is the perfect place to buy local artifacts, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
  • Janjira Arts and Crafts: This is a one-stop-shop for everything from jewelry to home decor items, handmade by local artisans.

Local Culture And Customs of Murud

Murud is home to a diverse population, including Hindu, Muslim, and Christian communities. Respect for culture and customs is an essential part of the town’s way of life, and visitors are expected to dress conservatively while visiting cultural sites.

Best Time to Visit Murud

The best time to visit Murud is during the winter months, between November and March. The temperature during this period is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. The monsoon months are from June to September, and the town receives heavy rainfall during this time, making it unsuitable for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Murud

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions when visiting temples and cultural sites.
  • Dress conservatively when visiting religious sites and cultural areas.
  • Try local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural beauty of the town.
  • Wear clothes that might offend the local culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Murud

Murud is a safe town with friendly locals. However, it is recommended to be cautious and take necessary precautions while exploring the town alone as incidents of theft have been reported. Avoid carrying valuables around and make accommodation arrangements in trusted and verified locations.

Health in Murud

Murud has a primary health center, and primary medical facilities are also available in nearby cities. It is advised to have travel insurance and keep necessary medicines handy for any emergency.

Getting to Murud: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Murud is easy. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Murud

  • Mumbai International Airport: It is the nearest international airport, located about 151 Km from Murud.

Bus Stations Near Murud

  • Alibag Bus Station: It is the nearest bus station, located around 47 Km from Murud.
  • Roha Bus Station: It is another option, located about 56 Km from Murud.

Other Options

  • You could also take a train from Mumbai to Roha, Roha to Mangaon or Khed, and then take a taxi to Murud.

How to Get Around in Murud

You can get around in Murud by renting a bike or by hiring a taxi. Autos and rickshaws are also available, but they are not as readily available as in the cities.

Where to Go Next from Murud: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations you could visit after exploring Murud:

  • Alibag Beach: A beautiful beach town near Murud and famous for water sports and seafood.
  • Kashid Beach: Located around 40 Km from Murud, Kashid Beach is known for its white sands and clear blue water.

Conclusion

Murud is a perfect destination for those looking for a relaxed yet adventurous vacation. From historic forts, natural reserves to beautiful beaches, you’ll have plenty to explore and experience in Murud. So, pack your bags and gear up for an exciting journey to Murud!

Largest of the three Khokari (or Khokri) tombs Largest of the three Khokari (or Khokri) tombs The fortress island of Murud-Janjira The fortress island of Murud-Janjira Rajwada Palace Rajwada Palace