Maharashtra is known for its rich history and culture. The state has seen considerable influence of various dynasties. Every ruler left their mark be it the Yadavs, Ahmednagar Sultanate, Mughals, and Marathas in the form of numerous forts, strategically built-in locations that allowed them vantage view and alerted them of advancing enemies. There are over 350 forts, both big and small spread across Maharashtra, and almost all of them have historical significance.
These forts built by every dynasty be it Yadavs, Ahmednagar Sultanate, Mughals, and Marathas; tell stories of how the dynasties ruled the state, fought wars and left something behind to be remembered by. Be it Janjira, Raigad, Panhala, Rajmachi, Tikona, Pratapgad and more, these popular forts of Maharashtra are a major tourist destination.
Travelling to most of these forts is not too difficult, with easy access through motorable roads to starting point. If you are adrenaline junkie, looking for adventure, you can also do trekking, especially a monsoon trek to some of them. Some forts are perched atop mountains with carefully guarded narrow approach, hill on one side and deep gorge on other, traversing through them will give thrill to any adventure seekers and chill to faint hearted. If you are a history buff, you can hire a guide for a guided tour of forts, who can make you aware of the historical importance of a fort and the stories associated with them. Here is a list of some of the famous forts in Maharashtra that you must visit, at least once in your lifetime for sake of adventure and history.
Lohagad Fort, Lonavala
Among all the forts in Maharashtra, Lohagad is one of the most popular one. It was re-captured by Shivaji Maharaj, from the Mughals in 1670 CE, to store his loot from Surat. And boasts brilliant architecture. The Lohagad trek is also a most sought-after activity that travellers usually take here.
Janjira Fort, Murud
The Janjira Fort also referred to as Murud-Janjira, built on the outskirts of Pune in a village called Murud. The fort is surrounded by water and was built towards the end of the 17th century by Malik Ambar. While the fort used to have around 500 cannons back in the day, there are very few of them left now.
Daulatabad Fort, Daulatabad
Built in the 14th century, the Daulatabad Fort was also called Devagiri. It is about 16 km away from Aurangabad and is also considered as one of the best forts in Maharashtra. Daulatabad was captured by the Mughals, Peshwas and the Marathas. It is a great place to go on a hike.
Raigad Fort, Raigad
One of the most popular forts in Maharashtra, the Raigad Fort served as a prison during the Nizamshahi rule. Its built on the Sahyadri Mountain range and offers the best views of the lush green valley below. Considered as one of the prides of the Marathas, the fort comes with a rich history.
Shaniwarwada Fort, Pune
The seat of power of Pehwa, the hereditary prime ministers of Chhatrapati of Satara; Shaniwarwada fort is one of the most important monuments in India. itr is also a palace not just a fort. It is one of the most stunning forts in Maharashtra and was built by the Peshwas early 1700s. However, the palace fort has almost been destroyed, courtesy the numerous military attacks on it and one unexplained fire incident in 1828. What adds more mystery to the fort is a belief that the fort is haunted by Peshwa Narayanrao’s ghost.
Sindhugarh Fort, Malvan
Sindhugarh Fort, was built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1664-67 AD. According to history, he chose this rocky island to build a fort for strategic reasons. The stunning and majestic fort has a temple within the fort that is dedicated to Shivaji Maharaj.
Pratapgad Fort, Satara
If you are going to Satara for visit, make sure to visit the Pratapgad fort. Built in 1657, it offers you a breathtaking view of Konkan coast and is one of the most popular forts in Maharashtra. A great option for trekking and exploring, the fort is a photographer’s delight.
Rajmachi Fort, Pune
Rajmachi Fort in Pune is another one of the most famous forts in Maharashtra. It is the amalgamation of two forts named Shrivardhan and Manaranjan fort. It is named after the village Rajmachi, where it resides. You’ll witness a magnificent view of the Sahyadri mountains and a must-visit.
Korigad Fort, Aamby Valley City
Korigad Fort in Aamby Valley City is perfect for a nice, easy trek. It usually sees a lot of youngsters trekking during the monsoon. It was built during Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s rule and has a lot of historical importance.
Sinhagad Fort, Pune
One of the more popular forts in Maharashtra and an ideal place for trekking, Sinhagad Fort is about 25 km away from Pune city. It is 1312 m above sea level, and it is still unclear when it was built. Some say it was nearly 2000-years-old. The Battle of Sinhagad 1670, was an important war, hat established Chhtrapati Shivaji as firm opponent of Mughals. In that battle, the fort was conquered by Tanaji Malusare from the Mughals. The fort has been witness to numerous battles through centuries, owing to its strategic location and high vantage point of view.
Shivneri Fort, Pune
Considered to be the birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj, the Shivneri Fort holds high esteem in Maratha and Maharashtrian history. The fort was constructed in a unique triangular shape and had many mosques, ponds and a tomb inside. Inside the Shivneri Fort, there is a temple that is dedicated to Goddess Shivai Devi and a massive chain gate at the entrance. There are statues of Jijabai and a young Shivaji. The climb up to the fort is pretty easy, but if you are good at trekking, try going up to the fort from the western side of the fort.
Tung Fort, Pune
A small fort located in the outskirts of Pune, the Tung Fort was built by Adil Shah sometime before 1600 CE. It was scene of many wars, the famous ones being between the Marathas and the Moghuls. The Tung Fort is well known for its conical and oval shape. Inside the Tung Fort, there are steep steps that lead to a former water reservoir that now lies in ruins. The climb up to the Tung Fort is quite difficult to navigate task even for experienced trekkers, so it’s best to go with a guide.
Vasai Fort, Mumbai
The Vasai Fort or the Fort Bassein is located about 55 kilometres from Mumbai in Vasai village. Getting to the fort is very easy. The fort’s main structure is predominantly intact, however, the insides of the fort now lie in ruins. Inside the fort, one can see a few chapels that lie in ruins and a few beautiful carvings on the inner walls of the fort. The ruins of the St. Anthony’s church also lie within the premises of the fort. The fort is a favourite weekend picnic destination for many from Mumbai and Thane.
Prabalgad Fort, Panvel
The Prabalgad fort also called Kalavantin Durg is located between Panvel and Matheran. A visit to the Prabalgad Fort is only suitable for experienced trekkers as the climb to the fort is very difficult. Although there are steps that are cut from the rock, the pathways is very steep. The climb to the fort takes about 3 hours to reach. So better take guide for help. Once at the fort, there are many stone structures that lie in ruins and a Ganesh Temple. After exploring the fort, you can visit Karnala Bird Sanctuary and Zenith Falls located close by.
Panhala Fort, Kolhapur
One of the more famous forts in Maharashtra, the Panhala Fort was the battleground in many wars, the most famous being the Battle of Pavan Khind. The fort is believed to the former home of Tarabai, the queen of Kolhapur. On the fort premises one can see the Andhar Bavadi, an underground well, the Kalavantinicha Mahal, and the Amberkhana, the site of the three granaries inside the fort. There are also a few temples within the fort, one of them dedicated to Sambhaji II. The other is the famous Ambabai Temple, believed to be where Shivaji used to offer prayers before going on expeditions.
There are numerous other forts spread across Maharashtra, some big and some small but important due to the history attached to them. Most forts are now relic of their past glory but serve as good picnic/excursion spots , trekking destination, and for sightseeing
