Kelve Fort Information | History, How to Reach, Tourist Guide & Places to See
Kelve Fort, also known as Kelva Fort, is a historic coastal fort located near Kelva Beach in Palghar district, Maharashtra. Although much of the fort is now in ruins, its massive walls, triangular bastions, gateways, and old structures still reflect its glorious Portuguese and Maratha history. If you are planning to explore historical forts in Maharashtra, Kelve Fort is worth visiting.
Location of Kelve Fort
Kelve Fort is situated near Kelva village in Palghar district of Maharashtra, India. This is a ground fort (Bhui Kot Fort) built along the Arabian Sea coast. Over the years, sand deposits and tidal action have buried a large portion of the fort. Historically, the fort stood directly on the seashore.
How to Reach Kelve Fort
Kelve Fort is easily accessible from Mumbai and nearby cities.
- Travel from Mumbai via Vasai Road towards Dhekale village and Tandulwadi to reach Kelva village.
- From Kelva Beach, walk through the area near the Sheetala Devi Temple and the Casuarina grove to reach the fort.
- Mumbai, Vasai, and Kelva are well connected by road and railway.
- Kelva Railway Station is the nearest railway station.
- Mumbai is also an international airport and seaport, making the fort accessible to domestic and international visitors.
Places to See at Kelve Fort
Main Entrance
Kelve Fort is a ground fort built parallel to the coastline. Visitors first notice a square-shaped entrance gateway that opens into a large courtyard.
Fortification Walls
Most of the fort walls have collapsed over time. However, the thick stone and brick masonry still remains visible. Watch posts, loopholes, and defensive structures can still be identified.
Inner Gateway
Inside the fort, another gateway leads to several rooms. This section is believed to have been the citadel or the main defensive area of the fort.
Triangular Bastions
The fort has four large triangular bastions built on strong foundations. These bastions are considered excellent examples of Portuguese military architecture.
Interior Rooms
Several rooms can still be seen inside the fort. Some windows and arches remain in good condition. These rooms were likely used as residential quarters, food storage, ammunition stores, kitchens, and administrative areas.
Arched Doorways and Windows
Beautiful arched doorways and decorative windows showcase the architectural style of the period. Although the lower sections are buried under sand, the upper portions still display their original craftsmanship.
History of Kelve Fort
- Kelve Fort was probably built by the Portuguese during the 15th and 16th centuries to control the nearby sea creek and maritime trade routes.
- During the 17th century, the fort housed around 60 soldiers and 15 cannons.
- On 10 January 1739, Maratha commander Chimaji Appa captured the fort from the Portuguese and incorporated it into the Maratha Empire.
- In 1818, the fort came under British rule after the fall of the Maratha Empire.
- After India's Independence in 1947, the fort became part of independent India.
- During the 2008–09 Vasai Fort conservation campaign, Kelve Fort once again attracted the attention of historians and fort enthusiasts.
- Due to years of neglect and continuous tidal action, much of the fort has been buried under sand, while dense coastal vegetation has spread across the site.
Accommodation
Accommodation is available in Kelva village, where visitors can find hotels, lodges, and homestays.
Food Facilities
Local restaurants and eateries are available in Kelva village, offering food and refreshments.
Drinking Water
There is no drinking water facility inside the fort. Visitors should carry sufficient drinking water or purchase it from Kelva village before visiting.
Time Required to Explore
The fort can be explored comfortably in approximately 15 to 30 minutes.
Travel Tips
- Visit during the morning or evening for pleasant weather.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Carry drinking water and sun protection.
- Help preserve the fort by avoiding littering or damaging the historic structures.
Conclusion
Kelve Fort is one of the lesser-known historical coastal forts in Maharashtra. Despite being in ruins, it offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Portuguese and Maratha history. Its impressive bastions, gateways, ancient rooms, and peaceful surroundings make it an ideal destination for history lovers, photographers, and travelers exploring Palghar district.
Kelve Fort Information | History, How to Reach, Tourist Guide & Places to See

















































