Arnala Fort :
Arnala Fort is located approximately 8 miles North of Vasai. It is built on a small island off the Arnala port. Since the fort is built on an island and surrounded on all sides by water it is also known as "Jaldurg" or "Janjire Arnala" Portuguese called the island "Ilha das vocas". Before the Portuguese control of the island, the island was controlled by the Muslim rulers of Gujarat.
The island is near the mouth of Vaitarna river and the Portuguese used it to observe and control shipping and navigation along the western coast. The Portuguese captain of Bassein donated the island to a Portuguese nobleman. The nobleman tore down the old fort and began construction of 700 foot by 700 foot fort. The fort was never completed by the nobleman but remained under Portuguese control.
Arnala Beach :
Arnala beach is getting the momentum in count of visitors in recent months. Arnala beach is famous for its large sea sight. What makes this beach special is the 'Janjire Arnala' or island fort, just 10 minutes away by motorboat. Venturing in Arnala sea is bit of a risky thing (All seas are generally risk situations, but please heed to the local people's suggestions)
Jivdani Temple :
The ancient famous Maa Jivdani temple is located on the Jivdani hill near by the Virar railway station in suburban area of Mumbai (Bombay). During "Kartik Poornima" every year, a very big festival is organized at this temple, which is visited by large number of devotees
Fisher men's village :
Ever wondered what hardships do fisher men go through and live with? On the banks of Arabian Sea at Arnala beach is a fisher men's small village. Take a walk through this village to explore the day to day lives of this fisher men. Despite of all the hard work they have to go through this people are filled with pure love and joy in their hearts.
Church of St. Peter :
This church was erected in the early part of the 20th century and was one of the first under the Archdiocese of Bombay. Fr. Ismail Da Costa, built a hut chapel in 1919 near Arnala beach. Later with help from local people of all faiths was constructed Church of St. Peter. Archbishop Joaquim Lima (archbishop of Bombay) blessed the church on dec. 27, 1931. Other historical churches in neighbouhood are St. James Church (Agashi) and Church of Holy Spirit (Nandakhal).
Neighbourhood Farms :
The major occupation of farmers near Arnala beach is Floriculture and they cultivate wide variety of flowers. They also cultivate rice and various varied variety of vegetables. Take a stroll across the local roads to see how real farmers do their everyday job. This local farms are private properties. Please Do not enter the farm without owners permission. |
