Maharashtra is home to a rich history and impressive architecture. You would be surprised to know that Maharashtra is home to over 350 forts. Each fort has its unique and inspiring story and represents an integral part of Maharashtrian culture and history.
Here are five historically significant forts in Maharashtra that are worth a visit:
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Shaniwar Wada, Pune
Shaniwar Wada is a historical fort located in Pune, Maharashtra. It was once the royal residence of the Peshwas, who ruled the Maratha empire from the 18th century. This magnificent fort was constructed entirely out of stone and wood and had over 200 rooms spread across five stories.
In 1828, an unexplained fire destroyed Shaniwar Wada. However, some parts of this architectural wonder that remained are now maintained as tourist sites. You should walk through its arched entrances and courtyards and imagine the grand royal lifestyle inside its high walls.
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Raigad Fort
Raigad Fort is located high atop the Sahyadri mountain range near Mahad. This fort is the capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s Maratha empire from 1674 to 1682. Did you know that it was nearly impossible for the enemies to capture this fort due to its location and impregnable bastion walls?
Raigad Fort marks where the great king, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, took his last breath and passed away on April 3rd, 1680. The fort demonstrates his outstanding military genius and marks his influential rule that shaped India’s destiny. A visit to Raigad Fort offers deep insights into Maharashtra’s proud legacy.
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Sinhagad Fort, Pune
Sinhagad Fort is located very near to Pune city. It is strategically constructed atop a rugged hill and played a key role in many crucial Maratha battles against invading armies. In particular, its siege and recapture from the Mughals in 1670 by the young Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and his brave soldiers marked an important milestone.
The fort’s complex maze of passages and watchtowers depict its strong defences. The epic battle scenes still seem to come alive amid its ruins. Moreover, the landscape around the fort is very captivating, making a trip here very rewarding.
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Vijaydurg Fort, Sindhudurg District
Vijaydurg Fort is situated in Devgad Taluka. It is believed that in the 12th century, the fort was constructed by Raja Bhoja II of the Shilahara dynasty. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj later restructured it. With its strategically designed bastions, artillery houses, and lookout points, the fort held immense importance for naval security. Even today, walking around its walls makes you think about its excellent yet agitated history.
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Pratapgad Fort, Satara District
Pratapgad Fort is nestled in the middle of high Sahyadris near Mahabaleshwar. It was established around 1653 AD. It is most renowned as the place from which Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj launched several battles against the Adil Shahi Bijapur sultanate.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj won significant battles from this fort, helping carve out his mighty Swarajya. It’s worth visiting this fort due to its clever architecture blending seamlessly into the rugged mountain terrain. Maharashtra proudly guards many formidable historical forts that transport visitors back in time. Each fort teaches essential phases of the state’s rich cultural heritage and brave military legacy under legendary Maratha rulers like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Their enduring structures continue to resonate deeply as national treasures that every Indian can take pride in. Make sure to add this list of forts to your travel itinerary for a memorable history lesson straight from the rugged walls that have stood the test of time.
