Shivneri Fort Information Guide

Shivneri Fort Information Guide : Hike, History & Must-Sees

Shivneri Fort : A Brief Overview Shivneri Fort, known as the birthplace of the revered Maratha emperor Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, is a fort of immense historical significance. This fort has witnessed many events that have taken place in the history of its surroundings. To reach the top of the fort, you have to cross seven magnificent gates. Each gate adds to the historical atmosphere of the fort. Once you reach the top, you will have a truly enriching historical experience.

Shivneri fort places to visit

1. Shivai Devi Temple
   On the ramparts of Shivneri Fort stands an ancient and captivating temple dedicated to the goddess Shivai Devi. According to historical accounts, Jijabai, the mother of Maratha emperor Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, used to visit this temple for darshan every day while she was residing on the fort. Interestingly, it is said that the face of the Shivai Devi idol here is complementary to the face of the Mahadeva idol at Bhimashankar. This is seen as a symbol of their divine unity and the protection of the fort.

2. Seven Gates of Shivneri Fort
   To reach the top of Shivneri Fort, you have to pass through seven magnificent gates. These gates are collectively known as the “Rajmarg” or “Sakali Wat”. Each gate is large in size and has intricate carvings. The seven gates are named as follows
   Maha Darwaja (Main Gate), Parwana Darwaja (Permit Gate), Hatti Darwaja (Elephant Gate), Pir Darwaja (Saint’s Gate), Shipai Darwaja (Soldier’s Gate), Fatak Darwaja (Gate of Explosion), Kulup Darwaja (Lock Gate)

3. Jijabai’s Palace (Residence)
   Inside the fort is “Jijabai’s Palace”. It is believed that Jijabai lived in this palace and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was born here. This place is locally known as “Shiv Mandir”. It is a historical site that underlines the importance of this fort in shaping Maratha history.

4. Statue of Jijabai and Young Shivaji
   Every visitor to the Shivneri Fort goes to the place where the statues of Jijabai (Masahb) and young Shivaji (Chhatrapati Shivaji in his childhood) are located. Here, visitors pay their respects to the mother of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and seek her blessings. The fort serves as a reminder of the role it played in shaping the great Maratha emperor.

5. Kadelot Point
   Kadelot Point is a majestic cliff located at the edge of Shivneri Fort. It is a tall, straight precipice that served a gruesome purpose during the fort’s active years – criminals were thrown off this very point as a form of punishment. Interestingly, similar “Kadelot” points can be found on several other forts associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, suggesting that perhaps there was a uniform method of punishment employed.

6. Ganga-Jamuna Water Tanks
   The Ganga-Jamuna water tanks are a marvel of natural engineering. These two large cave-like tanks were the main source of drinking water for the people living and working on the Shivneri Fort. The water stored here is said to come from natural springs, and is sweet, cold, and available throughout the year. Visitors are often amazed by the sheer size of these naturally formed water storage tanks, and the ingenuity behind them. The tanks are located at a height of over 100 meters.

7. Badami Lake
   Badami Lake is located in the central part of Shivneri Fort and served various purposes. It was primarily used for utility purposes, but the water from this lake was also used as drinking water for the horses and elephants on the fort.

Shivneri fort how to reach ?

There are two main routes to reach Shivneri Fort, both of which start from the town of Junnar.
Tourists from Pune and Mumbai can visit Shivneri Fort and return home in a single day.

• Sakali Route (Chain Route)
  From the new bus stand in Junnar city, go towards the Shiva statue. From the Shiva statue, take the left-hand road for 1 kilometer.
  On the right-hand side, you will see a temple. Take the dirt path in front of the temple. The path will take you to the rock wall of Shivneri Fort. With the help of the chains attached to the wall and the steps carved into the rock, you can reach the top. This route is a bit difficult and takes 45 minutes to reach the fort.

• Seven Gates Route
  From the statue of Shivaji, walk to the left and the tarred road will take you to the steps of the fort. On this route, you will have to cross seven gates to reach the top of the fort. These gates are Maha Darwaja (Main Gate), Parwana Darwaja (Permit Gate), Hatti Darwaja (Elephant Gate), Pir Darwaja (Saint’s Gate), Shipai Darwaja (Soldier’s Gate), Fatak Darwaja (Gate of Explosion), Kulup Darwaja (Lock Gate). This route is slightly easier and takes 1.5 hours to reach the top of the fort.

• From Mumbai via Malshej Ghat
  After crossing the Malshej Ghat, you will see a sign that says “Shivneri 19 kilometers” after 8-9 kilometers. This route goes through Ganesh Khind to Shivneri Fort. It takes 1 hour to reach the fort.

Shivneri fort trek map / Google map