The historic Arnala fort, one of the popular beach resorts and tourism centres in the far western suburbs of Mumbai, is being restored and revamped by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). A lot of facilities are to be added in the neighbouring area by the Thane district administration.

Official sources said that the Mumbai Circle of the ASI has spent Rs five lakh during the year 2009-10 as part of the restoration plan. Located in Vasai taluka, the beachfront here is scenic and hundreds of people throng here on holidays. Arnala fort is located nearly 15 kms away from Virar station.

As it is surrounded on all sides by water, Arnala Fort is also known as 'Jaldurg' or 'Janjire Arnala'. Anara Fort is mainly on the north side of Anara Island. The main entrance is on the northern side, while the fort has broad and strong high walls with three gates.

Steps are made that lead to ramparts (walls), so one can take a walk around the entire boundary wall. To allow entry in the small rooms and storehouses below, the ramparts have number of small openings in its broad walls. Villagers use some of these storehouses to store their paddy crop. One would come across a canon ball still stuck on the inner side of the west side of the wall near the temple.

It is believed that Shivaji built this fort under the leadership of Kanoji Agare. Arnala Fort came under the British control in 1803 after Bajirao II Peshwa signed the infamous Treaty of Vasai. The fort also has a 'Shankar Temple' and a Mosque where religious festivals are celebrated every year. The villagers grow vegetables on plots inside the fort, as well as on the western side out side the fort.