Kelve Pankot
Maps & Routes
Explore detailed maps and trekking routes to reach the fort
No maps available yet
Browse All MapsIntroduction
Kelve beach in western suburbs is famous. Kelve Pankot is at some distance from the beach to the south, amidst sea and can be visited only during low tide. This was built on a rock where Danda creek meets the sea. From the location, the Portuguese could keep a watch on the creek as well as sea.
This fort is boat shaped, and still intact. During the low tide, the sea water clears and we can walk to the fort.
Historical Background
The reference for this fort is found in a letter written by Chimaji Appa in 1739, during the Maratha-Portuguese war.
How to Reach
We have to reach the main cross road in Kelve village, 8 km away from Kelve station on western railway. One road leads to Bhavangad via Danda creek. The customs building and customs fort are situated on this road. One road goes to Kelve Pankot through Koliwada. It takes around 15 min to reach the fort from here.
Points of Interest
The fort entrance is located 8 feet above the sea level. During high tide, we can directly enter the fort by boat, and during low tide, we have to climb 8 feet. There are slits in the walls here for locking door. Also, we can find windows in the wall for canons.
After entering the fort, we see another entrance, well fortified. This was meant for guarding if the first door was penetrated. Entering this door, we find some remnants and a pond. Ahead we find the third entrance. This part of the fort ahs 2 levels and is semi circular in shape. There is a well here. There are many windows here, either for mounting canons or guns, and for collecting octroi.
Facilities & Amenities
Accommodation
None
Food
In Kelve village
Water
In Kelve village
Additional Information
The 6 forts in Kelve-Mahim region can be seen in one day with our vehicle or auto-rickshaw. Kelve Pankot can be seen only during low-tide.
For low tide in the morning, the forts can be seen in following order –
Kelve Pankot, Danda fort, Bhavangad and back to Kelve for lunch break. Then Kelve fort, Mahim and Shirgaon forts, and back to Palghar station.
For low tide in the evening, the forts can be seen in following order –
Mahim and Shirgaon forts first, Goddess Mahakavati temple, Kelve coastal fort and Bhavangad; then back to Kelve village, Kelve Pankot in evening and back to Kelve station.
Other Forts in None
Planning Your Trek?
Pack Smart
Carry essentials, water, and first aid kit
Start Early
Begin your trek early in the morning
Trek in Groups
Always trek with companions for safety