Name: Mumbai
Rating: 3.0

Madh Island, Mumbai Overview

Madh Island, an island located off the coast on Mumbai is home to umpteen villages, farmlands and surreal vistas. In recent times, it has found popularity as a weekend destination among the rich and elite of Mumbai. Dotted with quaint settlements and lush green farms, Madh Island is a respite from the glitterati and dazzling environs of the city and can be reached by an hour’s drive or a ferry ride from the city. The island is bordered by the Arabian Sea on the west and Malad Creek on the east. Primarily inhabited by Kolis, Marathis, and Roman Catholics, it also has several luxury resorts to give you a respite from city life.

It has also found some importance and popularity for being the site of several film and television shoots. Set amidst a particularly rural environment, Madh Island is also known for the Madh Fort which is a major tourist attraction at the spot. The seashore is lined with palms and is quiet, serene, and peaceful. The ferry to Madh Island can be boarded at Versova and saves one from the plight of traffic!

Madh Island Beach

Located towards the north-west coast of Mumbai, Madh Island beach is among the more laid-back and non- happening beaches in the city. Dotted with tiny fishing villages, the beach attracts tourists mostly looking for a quiet picnic or just to sunbathe in the silken sands. The swift current is not ideal for a swim and it is prohibited to wander off too far in the waters even during low tides. Though not a hip place, the picturesque beach draws tourists owing to its intoxicating sunrise and sunsets, sun-dried fishes, umpteen fishing boats and fishermen moving in and out of the waters, Madh Island Beach is a refreshing retreat and a perfect weekend getaway.

Madh Island Fort

Situated at a distance of 1 km from the Madh Bus- stop, Madh Fort was built by the Portuguese in the 17th century with the purpose of a watch-tower. Other than offering a strategic and a spectacular view of the coastline and the village down there, the fort has also been used for the shooting of some very popular Bollywood movies including Shootout at Wadala, Baazigar, Shatranj etc. Currently, the very famous Indian television show CID uses it as a regular shoot spot.

The fort still boasts of sturdy fortification although the interiors are crumbly and in a dilapidated state. Currently it is under the control of Indian Air Force as it is close to Indian Air Force base and you will need prior permission from the same to access it.

Madh Island Church

Madh Island is also home to a charming church popularly known as Our Lady of the Sea Church. Once a beautiful model of brilliant Portuguese architecture, the church is mostly in ruins now and is mostly visited by the locals. Some of the ancient paintings are still intact although in ruins. The church is a marvellous example of the bygone era and we recommend you to visit it if you are around.

Best Time To Visit Madh Island

September to March is considered the best time to visit Madh Island beach. The other months can get unbearable due to the heat and humidity.

Tips For Visiting Madh Island

1. Spend time with the local villagers to add a personalised touch to your outing. They are friendly and hospitable and welcome everyone with a lot of warmth.
2. Renting a bungalow is preferable over resorts for a more comfortable stay.
3. The tides are not safe so we do not recommend swimming or even getting in the waters.

How To Reach Madh Island

The nearest station to Madh Island is Malad on the western line. You can take an auto-rickshaw from the train stations to reach the destination or you can also travel in one of the state-run buses (No. 271 to Malad and No. 269 to Borivali). Ferry boat services can also be availed from Versova. Alternatively, you can book taxi cabs from your accommodation for a more comfortable journey.