Forts Around Pune

There are numerous forts in Maharashtra, most of which are associated with the great Maratha leader Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

. All these forts stand testament to a glorious past, and now, offer adventurous trekking experiences and weekend getaways. Each fort tells its own story, and does much to enrich our knowledge of the history of this great land. Weve put together the top 5 forts that deserve a visit!

Sinhagad

Presently one of Punes most popular picnic and trekking destinations, it was once the site of many battles, especially the memorable Battle of Sinhagad, fought between Tanaji Malusare, Shivajis commander, and the Mughal army. Earlier called Kondhana after the sage Kaundinya, Sinhagad stands in the midst of the Sahyadri Ranges, with natural protection on all sides. It was built approximately two thousand years ago, and has changed many hands through various battles and pacts.

Shivneri

Shivneri Fort is a favourite trekking destination for those who like to challenge heights. Historically, it is an important landmark in the history of the Marathas, being the birthplace of the famous Maratha leader, Chhatrapati Shivaji. Shivneri is an important military fortification where Shivaji spent his childhood and took lessons in military training. The view from the top of the fort is breath-taking, and the fort offers respite after a tiring climb.

Pratapgadh

Considered one of the most beautiful forts in western India, Pratapgadh is also one of the most famous forts in the history of the Marathas. It is most significantly remembered as the site of the Battle of Pratapgadh, fought in 1659 between Shivaji Maharaj and the Adilshahi general Afzal Khan. Pratapgadh is a trekking paradise especially during the monsoons due to the amazing view of the hills, forest cover and the rivers at the foothills. Many stalls selling beautiful handicraft items are on sale around the fort.

Murud Janjira

For the traveler who wishes for a taste of the coast, a touch of history through temples and incredible forts, and the refreshing, swaying greenery of coconut palms, Murud Janjeera is the place to visit. Standing impressive in the Arabian Sea, around 3km off the Murud coastline, is the relatively small yet impregnable Janjira Fort. The fort has even withstood 13 efforts to conquer it by Shivaji Maharaj. Even Sambhaji has failed in this attempt.

Raigad

The Raigad Fort finds a significant place in history. It was here that Chhatrapati Shivaji was crowned king, after which he made Raigad his capital. Built on a strategic site atop a hill in the Sahyadri mountain range in Raigad, the Raigad Fort is inaccessible from three sides and pretty much invincible, earning it the name the Gibraltar of the East from European historians. The Chit Darwaja, also called the Jit Darwaja is the first in a line of gateways. This is present at the foothills near the Pachad village. The Khoob Ladha Buruj is strategically located to repel intruders. The Maha Darwaja follows, which is the main entrance to the fort, standing as impressively today as it did in ancient times. The climb is extremely steep, but the presence of the recently installed Raigad Ropeway makes for easy access to the top of the fort.

by: smith.richard994

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