Chaul Village Alibag is a fascinating blend of ancient history and vibrant coastal life. Known for its roots tracing back to 300 BC during the Satavahanas era, Chaul was once a flourishing port town that welcomed traders from Greece, Rome, and Arabia. The focus keyword Chaul village captures the soul of this destination, where history meets harmony by the Arabian Sea.
Over the centuries, Chaul has witnessed the rule of several dynasties, including the Portuguese, Marathas, and the British, leaving behind a treasure of cultural landmarks. Today, the Chaul Alibag area thrives as a peaceful fishing settlement where locals live in tune with the tides and traditions.
Walking through Chaul feels like stepping back in time. You can see rustic homes, quiet cobbled paths, and the scent of sea breeze mingled with wood smoke from village kitchens. The rhythm of life here is slow, reflective, and deeply connected to nature.
For travelers seeking an authentic experience, things to do in Chaul extend far beyond sightseeing. It is about understanding a way of life, tasting coastal delicacies, and immersing yourself in warm Konkan hospitality.
History of Chaul Village: From Ancient Port to Peaceful Settlement
Modern-day Chaul retains its fishing charm while embracing small elements of urban life. The shoreline is dotted with wooden boats painted in bright colors, while fishermen mend nets under coconut palms. The daily fish auction by the jetty is a must-see for visitors interested in local trade.
Electric rickshaws and tum-tums navigate narrow lanes where locals greet each other with familiarity. The air often carries a mix of salty wind and the aroma of fried fish or sweet modaks. Life here moves gently yet purposefully.
Local Culture and Lifestyle
Fishing Traditions: The villagers rely on the sea for their livelihood, setting sail early morning and returning by noon. Their age-old techniques and respect for marine life are admirable examples of sustainable living.
Daily Life in Chaul: People rise with the sun, offering prayers at small temples before beginning their day. Children attend local Marathi-medium schools, while women engage in fish drying, coir making, or selling snacks at the market.
Village Festivals: Chaul celebrates festivals with immense enthusiasm especially Ganesh Chaturthi, Narali Purnima, and Holi. Homes are decorated with mango leaves, music fills the air, and community feasts are a highlight.
Chaul Market Guide: Explore Local Snacks, Spices & Handicrafts
The heart of Chaul Alibag lies in its bustling market square where you can find everything from handmade baskets to local sweets.
| Food & Snack Options | Details |
| Vada Pav and Soda Corners | Try freshly made vada pavs paired with flavored sodas like nimbu masala or kala khatta |
| Fresh Fish Market | Opens by 7 a.m., featuring pomfret, surmai, and bombil straight from the sea |
| Local Shops | Spice stores, groceries, traditional snacks like chiwda and karanji |
Bargaining is part of the fun and locals are welcoming to visitors. The market is also ideal for picking up souvenirs or homemade food items.
Top Historical Sites to Visit in Chaul Village Alibag
Chaul’s heritage can be felt through its historic monuments that narrate stories of trade, invasion, and faith.
Portuguese Ruins: The remains of old Portuguese mansions and forts stand among tropical greenery.
Buddhist Caves: Hidden in the hills, these caves have inscriptions and carvings dating back centuries.
Hamam Khana: Medieval Turkish bath with stone arches and water channels once used for royal bathing.
Old Churches and Synagogue: St. Barbara Church and a 17th-century synagogue display Chaul’s religious diversity and harmony.
Best Food in Chaul: Taste Authentic Konkan Seafood & Local Dishes
Chaul is known for home-style seafood and snack stalls serving authentic Konkan cuisine. Must-try dishes include Surmai thali with rice and solkadhi, prawn curry with bhakri, crab masala prepared with coconut and spices, and sweet modaks.
| Eatery | Specialty | Approximate Cost |
| Sanman Restaurant | Authentic seafood thali | ₹200–₹350 |
| Hotel Guruprasad | Veg and non-veg Konkan meals | ₹150–₹300 |
| Suruchi Family Garden | Ideal for groups and families | ₹150–₹300 |
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy dosas and poha at small udipi joints for ₹50–₹100 per plate.
Bakuli Flowers of Chaul – Nature’s Fragrant Treasure
The Bakuli flowers are a symbol of Chaul’s natural beauty. These fragrant yellow blossoms bloom in abundance during the monsoon and are used for temple offerings and local perfumes. Walking through lanes filled with bakuli scent adds to the village’s tranquil charm.
Cycling & Village Walks: Explore Chaul’s Hidden Trails
Chaul offers some of the most peaceful walking and cycling routes in Alibag. Early mornings are perfect for cycling from Chaul to Revdanda Beach or towards Korlai Fort. Bicycle rentals cost around ₹100–₹150 per hour. Paths pass through palm groves, fishing docks, and paddy fields, making every ride a visual delight.
Where to Stay in Chaul Village: Vandana Villa & Nearby Villas
Vandana Villa Alibag is one of the finest places to stay in the heart of Chaul. This villa combines rustic charm with modern comfort, allowing guests to live like a local while enjoying privacy and luxury.
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Central Chaul Village, near Revdanda Fort |
| Room Types | Deluxe Rooms and Family Suites |
| Price per Night | ₹4,500 – ₹6,500 |
| Amenities | Private pool, Wi-Fi, homely meals, parking, pet-friendly |
Guests enjoy homemade Maharashtrian meals, freshly prepared seafood, and a peaceful stay surrounded by coconut trees. The villa’s proximity to temples and beaches makes it ideal for immersive experiences.
If you want to check more for a Private Pool Villa in Alibag, then you must check out the given link.
Getting Around Chaul
Visitors can hire tum-tum rickshaws for short distances or rent two-wheelers for ₹400–₹600 per day. Walking is ideal for exploring narrow village lanes, while bicycles provide a more immersive experience.
How to Reach Chaul Village from Mumbai & Pune in 2025
| From | Route | Distance | Duration | Toll Cost | Food Stops | Notes |
| Mumbai | Mumbai – Panvel – Pen – Alibag – Chaul | 110 km | 3.5–4 hours | ₹300 | Shree Datta Snacks at Pen, Food Hub Khalapur | Scenic coastal drive, start early morning |
| Pune | Pune – Khopoli – Pen – Alibag – Chaul | 145 km | 4.5–5 hours | ₹400 | Food Mall near Khalapur | Ideal for weekend trips |
Ferry from Gateway of India to Mandwa Jetty followed by a 20-minute drive is an alternative scenic route.
Best Beaches Near Chaul Village Alibag You Must Visit
| Beach | Distance | Highlights | Timing |
| Revdanda Beach | 2 km | Secluded, sunset walks | Open 6 AM – 7 PM |
| Korlai Beach | 4 km | Overlooked by Korlai Fort, photography | Open 6 AM – 6 PM |
| Nagaon Beach | 9 km | Water sports, banana rides | Open 6 AM – 7 PM |
| Alibag Beach | 13 km | Kolaba Fort view, lively promenade | Open 5 AM – 8 PM |
Each beach has snack stalls serving bhajiyas and coconut water for ₹50–₹100.
Travel Tips for Visiting Chaul Village Alibag (2025 Update)
- Visit early morning or evening for the calmest experience.
- Carry cash as digital payments may not be accepted everywhere.
- Try the local solkadhi and seafood thali for an authentic taste.
- Respect local customs, especially near temples and churches.
- Stay at Vandana Villa for a complete local immersion experience.
Why Chaul Village is Famous in Alibag: Heritage, Temples & Traditions
Chaul Village is famous for its rich history, dating back to 300 BC and flourishing under the Satavahanas. Its strategic coastal location made it an important port town, attracting traders, settlers, and colonial powers over centuries.
The village is renowned for its 365 temples, a spiritual trail where each shrine represents a day of the year. Tulad Devi Temple, in particular, draws devotees seeking blessings and a peaceful retreat.
Chaul is also known for its fishing community and local markets, offering fresh seafood, traditional Konkani cuisine, and vibrant village life. Visitors get a glimpse of authentic coastal Maharashtra culture here.
Additionally, the village features Portuguese ruins, Buddhist caves, and historic structures like Hamam Khana and old churches, making it a unique blend of history, spirituality, and local lifestyle.
FAQs | Chaul Village, Alibag
1. Where is Chaul Village located?
Chaul Village is a historic coastal settlement in Alibag, Maharashtra, about 110 km from Mumbai and 145 km from Pune, near the Arabian Sea.
2. What is Chaul known for?
Chaul is known for its ancient history dating back to 300 BC, its fishing community, Portuguese ruins, and the legendary 365 temples scattered across the village.
3. How can I reach Chaul from Mumbai and Pune?
From Mumbai, drive via Panvel, Pen, and Alibag (3.5–4 hours). From Pune, take the Pune–Khopoli–Pen–Alibag route (4.5–5 hours). You can also take a ferry from Gateway of India to Mandwa Jetty and then a short drive to Chaul.
4. What are the must-visit temples in Chaul?
Tulad Devi Temple is the main shrine, surrounded by Rameshwar Temple, Shri Datta Mandir, Shitala Devi Mandir, and the Hanuman Temple, forming a 3–4 hour walking circuit.
5. Where can I stay in Chaul for an authentic experience?
Vandana Villa is located in the heart of Chaul, next to Tulad Devi Temple. It offers Deluxe Rooms and Family Suites with amenities like Wi-Fi, home-cooked meals, garden sit-out, and proximity to beaches.
6. What local food should I try in Chaul?
Try fresh seafood like pomfret, surmai, and bombil, along with solkadhi, prawn curry with bhakri, and local sweets like modaks. Popular eateries include Sanman Restaurant, Hotel Guruprasad, and Suruchi Family Garden.
7. What is the best time to visit Chaul?
The ideal time is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant for walking, sightseeing, and exploring the temples and beaches.
8. Can I explore Chaul by walking or cycling?
Yes, the village is perfect for walking or cycling. A 3–4 hour temple walking circuit covers major shrines, and bike rentals are available for ₹400–₹600 per day.
9. Are there any local markets in Chaul?
Yes, the village market offers fresh fish, spices, handmade baskets, flavored soda vendors, and street snacks like vada pav and bhajiyas.
10. What cultural experiences can visitors have in Chaul?
Visitors can witness daily fishing routines, village festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Narali Purnima, bakuli flower harvesting, and the traditional architecture of houses and temples, giving a true sense of local life.
