Discover the 5 Most Popular Historical Forts in Maharastra
The forts in Maharashtra represent the illustrious history of the Maratha Empire, celebrated for its rich heritage and as the land of the legendary Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. There are over 350 forts in Maharashtra spanning various dynasties, trading centers, Marathas, and Mughals. Many of these forts are situated in the Sahyadri mountains, also known as the Western Ghats in Maharashtra. The forts in Maharashtra present captivating views of the surrounding landscapes and are popular tourist destinations that attract history enthusiasts, trekkers, and nature lovers. This article discovers various forts in Maharashtra
Maharashtra spanning various dynasties, trading centers, Marathas, and Mughals. Many of these forts are situated in the Sahyadri mountains, also known as the Western Ghats in Maharashtra. The forts in Maharashtra present captivating views of the surrounding landscapes and are popular tourist destinations that attract history enthusiasts, trekkers, and nature lovers. This article discovers various forts in Maharashtra
Raigad Fort, Raigad
Encircled by mountain ranges, Raigad Fort stands tall, 25 kilometers north of Mahad, an immortal treasure trove of valor and historical structures. The fort is majestically situated, with the Kaal River valley to the north and east, the Gandhari River flowing to the west, and a breathtaking panorama of Lingana to the east, Rajgad and Torana to the southeast, Makarandgad, Pratapgad, Vasota to the south, and Kokandiv to the north.
The Raigad, chosen as the capital, is both convenient and spacious. The geographical formation, which poses challenges even to enemies, coupled with its proximity to maritime trade routes, This led Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to designate Raigad as his capital city.
Sinhagad Fort, Pune
Standing tall at an elevation of 4400 feet above sea level, 25 kilometers southwest of Pune, Sinhagad Fort is a testament to the valor of Tanaji Malusare. The fort is always bustling with activity, owing to its proximity to the city of Pune. Originally known as Kondhana, the fort was located on the Bhuleshwar range of the eastern Sahyadri mountains. It was later renamed Sinhagad, which means “Lion Fort,” in honor of Tanaji Malusare’s heroic feat of capturing the fort from the Mughals.
Pratapgad Fort, Satara
Pratapgad Fort was built in 1656 by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire and a legendary warrior of India. Numerous stories of Shivaji Maharaj’s valor and bravery are recorded in history, and Pratapgad Fort holds a prominent place among them.
In 1659, a battle took place between Shivaji Maharaj and Afzal Khan on this very fort. Shivaji Maharaj killed Afzal Khan at the foot of the fort and elevated the glory of the Maratha Empire.
Shivneri Fort, Junnar
The fort stands at an elevation of 3500 feet above sea level. Located near the town of Junnar, approximately 105 kilometers from Pune, Shivneri Fort is renowned as the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. On February 19, 1630, the revered leader of Maharashtra, King Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, was born on this very fort. The land sanctified by the birth of Shivaji Maharaj has acquired unparalleled significance in history.
Purandar Fort, Pune
Purandar Fort is a historic fort situated in the Bhuleshwar mountain range, 45 kilometers from the city of Pune. Like Sinhagad, this fort is also located in the same mountain range. Near the village of Saswad, where the samadhi of Sant Sopandev is located, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the second Chhatrapati of Swarajya, was born on May 14, 1657, to Saibai. This has given the fort historical significance.