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Forts in Maharashtra

Literally meaning ‘The Lion’s Fort’, Sinhagad Fort rises on top of a high, isolated cliff amidst the beautiful Bhuleswar Range of the Sahyadri Ranges. Located at an altitude of 1,350 meters above sea level, this fort was is believed to have been built some 2,000 years ago, and is named after the sage Kaundinya.

Known for the famous Battle of Sinhagad, this is one of the most popular forts in Maharashtra, and is particularly famous amongst trekking enthusiasts. With a short hike of 2.7 kilometers one way, one gains access to the topmost point of the fort, and the magical vistas surrounding it.

Sinhagad Fort also plays an important role in the training of cadets at the National Defense Academy. Cadets are often sent here on hikes and run in full battle gear as part of their training.

Timings: 9 am to 6 pm.

Location: Thoptewadi.

Entry fee: Free entry.

Formerly known as Murudev, this hill fort is located in Pune District, and used to be the capital of the Maratha Empire for about 26 years under the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This fort was built using the treasures discovered from the nearby Torna Fort, and boasts to have hosted Shivaji Maharaj for the highest number of days.

Resting 1,376 meters above sea level, the ruins of this fort include water cisterns, caves, and palaces. Built on a hill called Mumbadevi Dongar- meaning the mountain of the Goddess Murumba- Rajgad Fort has seen a number of historical events like the death of Shivaji’s queen Saibai, and the birth of his son Rajaram Chhatrapati.

This fort is also a popular monsoon trek destination, with visitors preferring to stay the night since the fort is too big to be explored in just a few hours. The temple of Padmavati at the top of the fort often serves as a lodging place for trekkers.

Timings: Open 24 hours.

Location: Nasrapur.

Entry fee: No entry fee.

One of the most popular trekking destinations near Pune, this fort is also rich with historical significance. This military fortification, built in the 17th century, is the birthplace of the founder of the Maratha Empire, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

The rock cut architecture of the forts, the Shivneri Caves and the presence of a water system indicate that Shivneri has been used since the 1st century. After being tossed between the Marathas and the Mughals, the fort was finally captured by the British army in 1820 following the Third Anglo- Maratha War.

This triangular shaped fort has a pond in the center of its complex called ‘Badami Talav’, as well as two water springs called Ganges and Yamuna which have water flow throughout the year. The nearby attractions from the Shivneri Fort include the Lenyadri Caves.

Timings: 9 am to 6 pm.

Location: Junnar.

Entry fee: Free entry.

Also known as Kathingad, literally meaning ‘difficult fort’ in Marathi, the Tung Fort is a hill fort seated at an elevation of 1,075 meters above sea level. Surrounded by water on three sides because of the Pawna Dam, one can take a ferry boat through the Pawna Lake from the Dam to the fort’s base village, Tungi.

Built in the 1600s, one can only reach the top of this fort by foot, after a short but strenuous climb. Tung Fort was one of the most important forts in Maharashtra during its time and was meant to be a watchtower because of the panoramic views it provides of the Maval Region and the Mulshi Valley.

Timings: 9 am to 6 pm.

Location: Maval.

Entry fee: No entry fee.

Literally meaning ‘Fort of Valour’, this fort is significant due to the Battle of Pratapgad that happened here. Rising at 1,080 meters above sea level, this fort overlooks the villages of Kinesvar and Par, and boasts of housing four lakes within the fort complex which often overflow during the monsoon months and it is one of the best forts in Maharashtra. The watchtower located beside the main entrance or the Maha Darwaja, gives mesmerizing views of the surrounding sheer cliffs that drop to 250 meters below!

Timings: 8 am to 6:30 pm.

Location: Rajpuri.

Also known as Sonori Fort after the village Sonori located at its foot, this hill fort was the last fort built by the Marathas in around 1775. The Sahyadris split to the west of Pune, with forts like Malhargad, Vajragad, Sinhagad and Purandar located on the Bhuleshwar Range on the East-West Direction, while forts like Torna and Rajgad lie on the other branch of it and it is one of the best forts in Maharashtra.

The main purpose this fort serves was as a watchtower overlooking the Devi Ghat on the Pune-Saswad Route. From the top of this fort, one can see stunning vistas of the Parvati Hills and all other forts on the Bhuleshwar Range.

Timings: Open 24 hours.

Location: Kalewadi.

Entry fee: Entry free.

Situated deep within the beautiful Sahyadris of the Western Ghats, rising at an elevation of 1,387 meters above sea level, Purandar Fort is an impressive fort, known to be the birthplace of Sambhaji, the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Purandar Fort also has a smaller, twin fort named Vajragad or Rudramal, which is located towards the east of the main fort. A popular hub amongst paragliders and trekkers, Purandar Fort is also often used by the National Defense Academy for training purposes.

With two distinct levels, the lower level is home to several temples, and even a church dating back to the 19th century. From the top of the fort one can get a breathtaking view of the surrounding forest land, as well as the twin fort, Vajragad.

Timings: 9 am to 5 pm.

Location: Gherapurandar.

Entry fee: Free entry, but an identity card needs to be shown upon entry. Passport is mandatory for foreigners.

This hill fort rising about 923 meters above sea level was taken into the Maratha Empire by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj along with other forts like the Tung, Visapur, Tikona and Lohagad Forts. Probably built around the 1500s, this fort was finally taken over by the British in 1818.

Within the fort, the Korai Devi Temple is situated, along with a few other smaller temples dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu. The walls and the gates of the fort are still intact and one can even walk along the wall’s entire perimeter of about 2 kilometers. This is perhaps one of the most loved forts in Maharashtra, consisting of six big canons, the largest of which is called Laxmi Toph and is situated right beside the Korai Devi Temple.

The fort can be reached on foot via a very easy climb of a few steps. A night trek to the fort is also possible, for the thrill seekers. There are ample campsites available at the fort, along with the several temples that can provide shelter to people staying the night.

Timings: Open 24 hours.

Location: Aamby Valley City.

Entry fee: Free entry.

Built in the 16th century, the Lohagarh Fort is a military marvel that remained with the Marathas for the majority of time, except for the short 5 years when the Mughals captured it. Rising at an elevation of 1,033 meters above sea level, this fort is connected to the nearby Visapur Fort by a small range. Overlooking the Parvana Reservoir, the four gates of the fort are still standing upright and are in good shape and it is one of the popular forts in Maharashtra.

Lohagarh Fort is accessible by foot through a beautiful and scenic trek. This trek is especially famous during the monsoons and if one takes a small diversion, the majestic Bhaja Caves can also be visited on the way. The trek to this Maharashtra fort is just 7 kilometers one way, making it perfect for first time trekkers. A tar road also goes all the way up to the fort and is accessible by motor vehicles.

Timings: 9 am to 6 pm.

Location: Khandala.

Entry fee: Free entry.

The Ghangad Fort is an important fort in the district of Pune. Built primarily to confine prisoners, and to keep a watch on the trade route between Pune and Konkan, this 300 years old fort remained with the Maratha Empire till 1818 until it was surrendered to the British Empire.

The fort can be either reached via road, or via a short but beautiful trekking trail going through thick forests and hilly meadows. One can even climb up till the Ballekila via the iron ladder placed by villagers there. The topmost of the fort gives splendid views of Mulshi Dam, Sudhagad Fort and Tail Bela.

Timings: Open 24 hours.

Location: Tail Bela.

Entry fee: Free entry.

Located near Kamshet, on top of a pyramidal hill, Tikona Fort is one of the best forts in Maharashtra and is a popular destination with the beautiful Pawna Lake situated at its summit. The Trimbakeshwar Mahadev Temple, Satvahan Caves, Bedse Caves and the seven water tanks are some of the most popular destinations located in close proximity to the fort.

From the top of the fort, one can get spectacular views of the Pawna Dam and nearby forts like Visapur Fort, Lohagad Fort, and the Tung Fort. The trek to the fort is very short and easy, but the steps leading to the entrance are so narrow that no more than one person can stand at one time.

For an adventurous experience, one can plan to spend the night in the caves near the fort. Also known as Vitangad, the Tikona Fort trek is the ideal weekend getaway for all nature and photography enthusiasts because of the stunning views it offers.

Timings: Open 24 hours.

Location: Lonavla.

Entry fee: No entry fee.

Rising 820 meters above sea level, Raigad Fort was seized by Chhatrapati Shivaji in 1674 and made the capital after being crowned the King of Marathas. Located in the Sahyadris, this fort is accessible by foot, via approximately 1,737 steps leading to the fort, and through the Raigad Ropeway which can take the visitors to the fort in about 10 minutes.

Fondly known as the ‘Gibraltar of the East’ by Europeans, this is one of the most beautiful Maharashtra forts and is surrounded by a deep, luscious green valley on one side. Now mostly in ruins, the fort also houses a statue of Maharaja’s pet dog!

Timings: 8 am to 6 pm.

Location: Mahad.

Entry fee: INR 10 for Indians and INR 100 for foreigners.

This historical fortification seated in the city of Pune used to be ruled by the Peshwas of the Marathas before it was lost to the British Empire in 1818. Built in 1732, the fort was largely destroyed in 1828 by a mysterious fire but the remnants are now conserved and used as a popular tourist destination within the city. Originally a seven storey monument, the top 6 floors were destroyed during the British invasion and only one floor made of stone remain today, which is open to visitors and it is one of the amazing forts in Maharashtra.

The Shaniwarwada made an appearance in the iconic film Bajirao Mastani, and is now popularly known to be a haunted palace, and is famous for its paranormal sightings. Another famous attraction here is the light and sound show that happens inside the Wada every day in Hindi and Marathi, depicting the history of this age old fort.

Timings: 8 am to 6:30 pm for visiting, and 6:30 pm and 8:30 pm for light and sound show.

Location: Pune.

Entry fee: INR 5 for Indians, INR 125 for foreigners, and INR 25 for light and sound show.

Located over a small hill on the Maharashtra- Goa border, this magnificent tree entangled fort sits north of the Jaitapur Creek and overlooks some of the most beautiful beaches of the south Maharashtra coast. The Yashwantgad Fort is the perfect example of how Mother Nature can take over anything that is manmade.

Roots of the trees have slowly made their way onto the walls inside the fort which have resulted in the roofless citadels. Langurs and drongo birds are present in plenty and make for a true treat to the eyes. One must pass through several gateways amidst the forest, and then cross a trench surrounding the building to be able to enter one of the most majestic forts in Maharashtra.

Timings: Sunrise to sunset.

Location: Khalchikar.

Entry fee: No entry fee.

A historically significant fort, occupying an islet in the Arabian Sea, the Sindhudurg Fort was built by the Maratha hero, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and lies just off the coat in Maharashtra. Built on a small island called Khurte Bet, the main purpose of this fort was to fight against the rising dominance of the colonizers like the French, English, Dutch and Portuguese and it is one of the famous forts in Maharashtra.

Timings: 9 am to 5 pm.

Location: Malvan.

Entry fee: No entry fee.

Also known as Prachandagad, the Torna Fort is a significant fort in the history of Marathas since this was the very first fort captured by Chhatrapati Shivaji at the young age of 16. Located at an elevation of 1,403 meters above sea level, Torna Fort is the highest fort in the Pune district. This is one of the most serene forts in Maharashtra and turns into an extremely popular trekking haunt post monsoons.

A proper campsite has been created here due to the increase in the number of trekkers. As an alternative, one can even decide in the Menghai Temple inside the fort. During monsoons, the fort gets completely enveloped by clouds and it gets a little tricky to explore the fort properly due to poor visibility.

Timings: Open 24 hours.

Location: Charhat Wadi.

Entry fee: No entry fee.

Located in the town of Kandhar in Nanded District of Maharashtra, what once used to be a place of immense significance, is now mostly in ruins. With a moat surrounding it filled with water, the Kandhar Fort is located on the banks of the Manya River, surrounded by such lush green mountains that a trip to the fort makes it worth a visit and it is one of the best forts in Maharashtra.

Apart from the surrounding natural beauty, there are a few spots in the fort that are extremely beautiful including the Sheesh Mahal and the Ambar Khana. The Lal Mahal and the Darbar Mahal with their surrounding gardens ruins are equally beautiful sites to visit, reminding one of the royal ways of life of its erstwhile rulers.

Timings: 9 am to 5 pm.

Location: Nanded.

Entry fee: Free entry.

Strategically located looking over a pass in the Sahyadris, the Panhala Fort is also often called the home of the serpents. The pass was a major trade route and hence the fort was involved in a lot of skirmishes in its time. This fort was also the residence of the queen regent of Kolhapur, Tarabai, who spent her early years here and it is one of the amazing forts in Maharashtra.

Declared as a protected monument by the government of Maharashtra, the palace of Tarabai now houses a school, a boys’ hostel, and several government offices. On the other hand, the rest of the fort is in ruins.

Timings: Sunrise to sunset.

Location: Kolhapur.

Entry fee: No entry fee.

One of the only two forts where Shivaji Maharaj is said to have hoisted the saffron flag personally, Vijaydurg is also the oldest fort on the Sindhudurg Coast. What was once covered by the Arabian Sea on all sides, now has a road constructed on one side, and water surrounding the other three.

This protected monument had impressive locational advantages. With a 40 kilometers long shallow creek running by it, large vessels could not enter the fort’s vicinity. On the other hand, Maratha warships could be easily anchored on this creek, and yet not be visible from the sea, making this fort of great strategic importance.

Literally meaning ‘Victory Fort’, Vijaydurg Fort was earlier known as Gheria due to its close proximity to the village Girye. The port adjacent to the fort is a natural one, still used by local fishermen.

Timings: 8 am to 6:30 pm.

Location: Vijaydurg.

Entry fee: Free entry.

A massive fort consisting of two smaller fortresses or Balekilla, this is one of the many forts situated deep within the mesmerizing landscapes of the Sahyadri Mountains. Located near the small village of Udhewadi- which consists of just 22 homes- fortresses of the Rajmachi Fort are called the Shriwardhan Ballekilla and the Manaranjan Balekilla.

These twin fortresses are separated by a wide machi, meaning plateau, making this fort even more majestic. Declared a protected monument by the Government of Maharashtra, this fort was strategically vital in the First Anglo- Maratha War.

From this fort, one can easily spot the Bor Ghat, an important trade route between the cities of Mumbai and Pune. Hanging in midair, on top of the Shrivardhan Peak at 826 meters above sea level, the view of the Konkan region from here is breathtaking. The only way to reach this fort is by foot, either from the Udhewadi village or the Kondivade village near Karjat. You can also go on a trek to Rajmachi Fort.

Timings: 9 am to 6 pm.

Location: Rajmachi.

Entry fee: No entry fee.

Located off the cost of the village of Murad, the Janjira Fort sits on an oval-shaped rock on an island in the Arabian Sea. One of the strongest marine forts in Maharashtra, this fort is accessible to the public by jetties. A short visit to this fort can enchant any type of travelers be it the nature lover or the history buff.

This specimen of a long forgotten time is the remnant of a rich history of the Abyssinian Sidis group. Right in the middle of the vast, limitless ocean, the gently swaying palms and the humble little beach at its foot can make the visitor’s day. To this day, several of the bastions and the massive canons from the 17th century remain, making this fort a true goldmine for all history lovers!

Timings: 7 am to 6 pm.

Location: Murud.

Entry fee: No entry fee.

Escape what is tying you down in the city and climb a mountain to feel a sense of triumph – devote your weekend to relishing Mandangad Fort. Located near Nashik at an elevation of approximately 4900 feet above the sea level, this impregnable fortress is a popular name among local trekkers who prefer investing their good times on adventure and getting paid back with grand scenery and nature's tranquillity.

The steep climb of the hike also involves rock climbing which makes the adventure a bit challenging for inexperienced participants. Once you reach the top, you will not find much except two water tanks and a staircase, but the panoramic vistas from up there will sweep you off your feet.

Timing: Always Open

Location: Nashik, Maharashtra

Entry Fee: Free entry

Rising up on a conical hill some 200 meters high, in the midst of lush greenery, is the formidable Daulatabad Fort believed to have been built in the 12th century. The entry to this Maharashtra fort is difficult, having to cross a narrow bridge, a long gallery excavated in rock, and then some 750 steep steps. But the sight from the top is something to behold.

Not only is this one of the most immensely beautiful forts in Maharashtra, it also has important strategic qualities to its name including only a single gate for entry/ exit to confuse the enemy, and spikes on the doors to prevent breaking in by elephants.

Timings: 9 am to 6 pm.

Location: Aurangabad.

Entry fee: INR 10 for Indians and INR 100 for foreigners.

Located in Satara district, Vasota Fort is also known as Vyaghrapada and was famously protected by Ramabai Telin, the wife of Pant Pratinidhi. Now mostly in ruins, the fort offers stunning vistas of the nearby areas, especially the Shivsagar Lake, on the banks of which this fort is situated and it is one of the best forts in Maharashtra.

From the top of the fort, one can view the backwaters of the Shivsagar Dam and the entire Kas Mahabaleshwar mountain range. An ideal destination for adventure lovers, Vasota Fort offers activities like rock climbing and mountaineering.

Timings: Open 24 hours.

Location: Satara.

Entry fee: Free entry.

Probably built around the 6th century, during the rule of the Kalachuri Dynasty, the Harishchandragad Fort is a hill fort located in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra. With several temples dedicated to Vishnu and Ganesh inside the fort, Harishchandragad rises to an elevation of about 1,424 meters and is on a number of trekking trails in the surrounding area and it is one of the best forts in Maharashtra.

Situated atop Maharashtra’s second highest peak, the highest point of the fort called Teramachi offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding forest areas. There are a number of beautiful spots to visit near the fort too, including the Sapta Tirta Pushkarini Temple, Kedareshwar Cave, and Konkan Kada- a semicircular cliff that overlooks the majestic Konkan Belt. Often, a circular rainbow can be seen emerging from the Konkan Kada.

Timings: Open 24 hours.

Location: Malshej Ghat.

Entry fee: Free entry.

A part of the Lohagad- Visapur fortification, Visapur Fort is another one of the many hill forts in Maharashtra. Rising to 1,084 meters above sea level, this fort was built much later than the Lohagad Fort by the first Peshwa of the Maratha Empire in 1713 on the same plateau. Larger and higher than its twin fort, Visapur Fort is home to cisterns, old houses, caves, and a decorated archway.

Standing tall and rugged, this fort offers spectacular panoramic views of the lush green Sahyadri Mountain Range. This fort is also a popular monsoon trek destination due to its foggy aura and gurgling waterfalls, making it the perfect escapade!

Timings: Sunrise to sunset.

Location: Malavli.

Entry fee: No entry fee.

Literally meaning ‘Golden Fort’, this outstanding fortification is often credited to be a “feather in the golden cap of the Marathas”. Located on a small island in the Arabian Sea between Mumbai and Goa, Suvarnadurg Fort was built during the reign of Adil Shah, but was captured in 1660 by Shivaji Maharaj. Built mainly for Navy purposes, there was once also a shipbuilding area at the fort.

Inside the fort, there is another smaller land fort called the Kanakadurga. There used to be a tunnel connecting the land forts and the sea fort which is now defunct. The only way to access Suvarnadurg now is via sea. Although there are no proper boat services available, one can ask the fishermen ferries to reach the fort.

Timings: Sunrise to sunset.

Location: Harnai.

Entry fee: No entry fee.

Located between Panvel and Matheran in Raigad District of Maharashtra, the Prabalgad Fort rises to a height of 700 meters above sea level amidst the Western Ghats. Previously known as Muranjan, the fort was renamed to Prabalgad or Prabalmachi after Shivaji Maharaj captured it.

The fort also has a smaller, sister fort located nearby, as well as the steep Kalavantin Fort towards its north. This small group of forts located close to one another makes for a great day excursion to these historical sites.

The dangerously steep climb to the top of the fort at a rocky plateau makes for a popular activity amongst adventure lovers and thrill seekers. One can expect to get lost in a sea of clouds once reaching the summit. With the Ulhas River flowing nearby, it also makes for a perfect picnic location!

Timings: Sunrise to sunset.

Location: Padhage.

Entry fee: No entry fee.

For Vasai is a large fort in the city of Vasai, and is also often known as Fort Bassein. The complete form of the Portuguese version of the fort’s name is "Fortaleza de São Sebastião de Baçaim" meaning the Fort of St. Sebastian of Vasai.

The history of this fort dates back to the visit of the Greek merchant Cosma Indicopleustes around the 6th century. Now a major tourist attraction, this fort overlooks the Bhayandar Creek and Vasai Creek that are mostly overgrown with vegetation, making it one of the best Maharashtra forts out there.

This fort is also a very popular shooting spot for Bollywood movies and songs, and a few scenes from the Coldplay song “Hymn for the Weekend” starring Sonam Kapoor and Beyoncé were also shot here.

Timings: 9 am to 6 pm.

Location: Vasai-Virar.

Entry fee: No entry fee.

Built-in 1969 by Asad Khan, Akola Fort, also known as Asadgad, is counted among the major remnants of the glorious history of the region. A mud wall was erected by Akola Singh to protect the village where the fort sits now.

Later on, the fort sustained an attack by the British army in the 1870s which caused considerable damage to the structure. A visit to this fort is a great way for history buffs to learn about the regional history and imagine the aura that once the reality of this place. However, there is not much to see inside the fort and the architecture is good at most.

Timings: Always Open

Location: Akola, Maharashtra

Entry Fee: Free entry