25 January,2017 08:20 AM IST | | Shraddha Uchil
Spend Republic Day in the historic coastal town by signing up for an insightful heritage walk that takes you to an amphibious fort and Jewish landmarks
British-era cannons can be found at Kolaba Fort in Alibaug
This Republic Day, how about heading to Alibaug? Before you shoot the idea down, know that it's not a picnic, but, rather, an interesting heritage walk.
Khaki Tours is organising the walk, titled Alibaug Amble, to highlight some unique sites in the town. "We celebrate our two-year anniversary this Republic Day, and we thought we should mark it by doing something different," says founder Bharat Gothoskar.
He adds that not only is this their first heritage walk in Alibaug, but also the first time they're attempting an all-day trip. "No one really looks at Alibaug as a heritage hotspot. Most end up heading there for leisure. However, there is much to be seen. The town has a strong presence of Bene Israeli Jews, and some old Jewish houses and a synagogue still stand," he shares. On this walk, you will learn about these Jews, who landed on Maharashtra's coast centuries ago and have blended in since. Other highlights include the 'amphibious' Kolaba Fort, which has British cannons and dragon sculptures, the grave of the town's founder, and old temples.
