Best Trekking And Hiking Destinations- Forts Of Maharashtra

November 19, 2017

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Sinhagad Fort

Distance: 32 km
Difficulty Level: Easy
Best Time to Visit: Winter, Monsoon

Sinhagarh, meaning the Lion Fort, is a popular trekking destination. Known as Kondana before, the fort passed from a Koli tribal chief, to the Delhi Sultanate and then to the Nizam Shahi Dynasty before finally being captured by the Maratha leader Shahaji Bhonsale.

In 1647, Shivaji renamed it Sinhagad. It changed hands once more between Shivaji and the Mughals before Shivaji took it back. In 1818 AD, the British seized the fort from the Marathas and was used as a retreat for the Europeans residents of Pune.   Sinhagad’s location is quite strategic and is 1,312 m above sea level. Naturally protected due to its very steep slopes, walls and bastions were constructed at only key places. The top of the fort provides an excellent viewpoint of the mountain valley.

Rajgad Fort

Distance: 54 km
Difficult Level: Difficult
Best time to Visit: Monsoon, Winter

An ancient hill fort situated in the Pune district of Maharashtra, it was formerly known as Murumdev. It was was the capital of the Maratha Empire during the rule Shivaji’s regime. The birth of Shivaji’s son, Rajaram Chhatrapati, and the death of his queen, Saibai’s death took place here. Her samadhi is within the premises.

Pali Darwaza, one of the gates, is where the trek begins. Until Pali village, it’s simple, from where beings the 3.5 km long trail. Another route called Bhor route starting from Bhutonde, takes 3 -4 hours to complete.

It is recommended that visitors carry their own food and water.

Shivneri Fort

Distance: 94 km
Difficulty Level: Easy
Best Time to Visit: Winter

One of the most historically significant forts of India, it was built during the time of Satavahanas.

It was later occupied by the Shilaharas, the Yadavas, and the Bahamanis.

In 1599 AD, it was granted to Shivaji’s grandfather, Maloji Bhosale and this was where Shivaji was born in 1630 AD.

He had his military training in this fort, and spent most of his childhood here. The number of water bodies in the premises are a sight for sore eyes.

Rajmachi Fort

Distance: 80 km
Difficulty Level: Easy
Best time to visit: Monsoon, Winter

Located near Lonavala with amazing views of the Sahyadri range and the backwaters of Shirota Dam, the Rajmachi is an easy climb.

It takes only and it takes only 40 minutes to reach the top of the fort and is a great place for camping. Lying at an altitude of 2710 feet, it was taken over from the Marathas in 1818 by the British.

Kondhane caves, ancient Buddhist ones believed to have been carved during 200 BC, are on the western side of the Rajmachi plateau. Eight of the Buddhist caves are carved in the style of the Hinayana tradition. Despite damages caused by the earthquakes, the chaitya remains standing.

Lohgad

Distance: 66 kms
Difficulty Level: Medium
Best time to visit: Monsoon, Winter

At a height of 1050 m, the Lohagad Fort is one of the most visited heritage sites near Pune. Built by Guru Govind Singh in 1564 CE, it used to serve as a prison until Shivaji captured it in 1648 CE. After surrendering it to the Mughals, it was recaptured in1670 CE and used as a treasury.

Designed in the shape of a scorpion’s tail, the fort has 4 entry points and makes for an ideal trekking destination. The simple trek is a pleasant experience with picturesque view of the lush greenery cradling the hillock.

Aside from the greenery, the Bhaja caves can also be viewed from here along with the Pawna Lake. Be sure to pay a visit to the Dargah located at the Maha Darwaja as well.