Top 5 Forts in Maharashtra

Top 5 Forts in Maharashtra

Steeped in valor and rich with history, Maharashtra stands as a proud sentinel of the Maratha legacy, where towering forts echo stories of bravery, ingenuity, and the unyielding spirit of its legendary warriors.. These forts, strategically perched atop hills or nestled along the coastline, reflect the state’s glorious past. Below are the top five forts in Maharashtra that every history enthusiast and traveller must explore.

1. Raigad Fort

Perched in Maharashtra’s Raigad district near the town of Mahad, Raigad Fort stands as one of the state’s most iconic hilltop strongholds, renowned for its commanding presence and historic significance.”Perched in Maharashtra’s Raigad district near the town of Mahad, Raigad Fort stands as one of the state’s most iconic hilltop strongholds, renowned for its commanding presence and historic significance .” proudly served as the political and administrative center of the Maratha Empire during the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Once called Rairi or Rairy Fort, this stronghold was initially built by the regional chieftain Chandraraoji More before Shivaji Maharaj seized it and transformed it into a symbol of Maratha strength.

This formidable fort played a pivotal role in Maratha history and was regarded as the seat of power and sovereignty . Following Shivaji Maharaj’s coronation in 1674, Raigad was established as the official capital, embodying the spirit of Swarajya (self-rule) and Maratha sovereignty.It withstood several Mughal attacks and was temporarily renamed Islamgarh after Shivaji’s demise.

Perched at around 820 meters (2,700 ft) above sea level, the fort offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and is accessible by a ropeway or a scenic trek.

How to Reach:

• By Train: The nearest railway stations are Veer and Mangaon, both located on the Konkan Railway line.
• By Air: The closest airports are Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport and Pune’s Lohegaon Airport, both well-connected to major Indian and international cities.

2. Sinhagad Fort

Sinhagad Fort, meaning “Lion’s Fort,” is a historically significant hill fortress located about 28 km southwest of Pune. Formerly known as Kondhana, this fort is famous for the Battle of Sinhagad in 1670, during which Tanaji Malusare, one of Shivaji Maharaj’s trusted generals, valiantly fought and laid sacrificed his life in a heroic effort to wrest the fort from Mughal control.

Deeply moved by Tanaji’s heroic sacrifice, Shivaji Maharaj renamed the fort Sinhagad, immortalizing his valiant warrior as the ‘Lion of the Fort.  With a history spanning over two millennia, Sinhagad has seen the rule of multiple dynasties, including the Bahamanis and the Mughals, before finally becoming a Maratha stronghold.

Today, the fort attracts a steady stream of trekkers and history enthusiasts, drawn by its rich legacy and scenic trekking routes.The approach to the fort involves a short trek of approximately 250 steps from the parking area.

How to Reach:

• By Train: The closest major station is Pune Junction, which connects to most cities in India.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Pune International Airport (PNQ), which provides convenient access through regular domestic flights and limited international services.

3. Lohagad Fort

Lohagad Fort, famously referred to as the Iron Fort, is a striking hill fortress nestled in the scenic surroundings near Lonavala in Maharashtra.. This fort is notable for its commanding presence and historical importance. It is one of the most accessible trekking spots and a favorite among nature lovers due to its lush green surroundings, especially during the monsoon season.

The fort, originally built during the Satavahana period, later came under the control of various ruling dynasties including the Chalukyas, Yadavas, Bahmani Sultanate, Nizams, and finally the Marathas.n 1648, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj took control of Lohagad Fort, strategically repurposing it as a secure stronghold for storing his treasury.

Its close proximity to Visapur Fort, to which it is connected via a small mountain pass, adds to its strategic and architectural charm.

How to Reach:

• By Train: Board a train to Malavli Station on the Pune-Mumbai line and proceed by road or foot to the fort.
• By Air: You can fly into either Pune International Airport (70 km) or Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport.

4. Torna Fort

Locally revered as Prachandgad, Torna Fort towers majestically over the Pune district, standing as a monumental hill fortress of great historical importance. At just 16 years old, Shivaji Maharaj captured this fort in 1646, a pivotal moment that marked the beginning of the Maratha Empire’s rise to power.

Towering at 1,403 meters (4,603 feet) above sea level, it claims the title of the tallest fort in Pune district, offering expansive and awe-inspiring views across the magnificent Sahyadri mountain range…. The fort is famed for its massive gateways like the Bini Darwaja, majestic bastions, and ancient temple ruins. Its construction is attributed to either the Rashtrakutas or the Yadavas, making it architecturally and historically significant.

Torna is a must-visit for seasoned trekkers seeking both a challenge and an enriching cultural experience.

How to Reach:

• By Train: Travel to Pune Junction and then proceed by road to the base village Velhe.
• •By Air: Pune International Airport (PNQ) is the closest air gateway to the fort.

5. Sindhudurg Fort

Perched off the Malvan coast in the Sindhudurg district, Sindhudurg Fort is a magnificent sea fort built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to safeguard the Maratha Empire’s coastline. Constructed on the small Khurte Island, the fort’s foundation was laid in November 1664, and it was completed after three years of rigorous engineering.

What sets Sindhudurg apart is its marine location, intricate design, concealed entrances, and 3 km long fortified walls. Built to camouflage itself from enemies approaching via the Arabian Sea, it served as a powerful naval base and reflected the strategic foresight of Shivaji.

Within the fort premises is the only known temple dedicated to Shivaji Maharaj, adding spiritual significance to its military might.

How to Reach:

• By Train: By Rail: Travelers can reach the fort via the nearest railway stations—Kudal, just 25 km away, and Sawantwadi, located approximately 35 km from the site.

• By Air: The nearest airport serving the region is Sindhudurg Airport (SDW), also known locally as Chipi Airport, situated approximately 30 kilometres from the town of Malvan.

Conclusion

These five forts stand as enduring testaments to the strategic brilliance and architectural mastery of Maharashtra’s ancient and medieval eras. Beyond their stone walls lie epic tales of bravery, sacrifice, and the visionary leadership of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Discovering these grand fortresses offers an insightful window into the region’s rich cultural tapestry and formidable military legacy.. Whether you are a passionate history enthusiast, an avid trekker, or simply an inquisitive traveler, these historic landmarks promise to captivate you with their awe-inspiring presence and timeless stories.

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