Exploring the Historic Forts of Maharashtra: A Guide to the Legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Maharashtra, with its rich historical backdrop and strategic geography, is home to some of India’s most important and impressive forts. These forts stand as a testimony to the military genius, bravery, and fortitude of the Maratha Empire, especially during the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. These structures served not only as military bastions but also as symbols of power, autonomy, and resilience. In this blog, we will take you on a journey through the significant forts of Maharashtra, highlighting their historical importance, the stories they tell, and how to reach them.
- Raigad Fort
Location: Raigad, Maharashtra
How to Reach:
Raigad Fort is located about 170 km from Mumbai and 25 km from Mahad. You can reach the fort by road through the Mumbai-Goa Highway (NH66). From Mahad, you can either hike up to the fort or take a ropeway to reach the top.
Historical Importance:
Raigad Fort was the capital of the Maratha Empire under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the site where he was crowned king in 1674. It played a pivotal role in Shivaji Maharaj’s military campaigns. The fort offers a spectacular view of the surrounding Sahyadri mountains. Today, the fort houses Shivaji Maharaj’s samadhi (memorial) and other important historical structures such as temples and gates, making it one of Maharashtra’s most significant forts.
- Sinhagad Fort
Location: 30 km from Pune, Maharashtra
How to Reach:
Sinhagad Fort is accessible by road from Pune. You can drive to the base village and either hike up to the fort (takes about 1–2 hours) or take a vehicle to the summit.
Historical Importance:
Sinhagad is best known for the Battle of Sinhagad (1670), where Tanaji Malusare, a trusted general of Shivaji Maharaj, fought valiantly against the Mughal forces. Although Tanaji lost his life in the battle, his victory was a monumental moment in Maratha history. The fort’s remnants, including the gates, bastions, and Tanaji’s memorial, serve as a tribute to this legendary battle.
- Shivneri Fort
Location: Junnar, Maharashtra
How to Reach:
Shivneri Fort is around 90 km from Pune. You can reach Junnar by road and then embark on a short trek to the fort.
Historical Importance:
Shivneri Fort is notable for being the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1630. This fort holds immense significance in the Maratha Empire’s early days and serves as a reminder of Shivaji’s formative years. The fort’s defenses, water tanks, and temples are all in good condition, allowing visitors to imagine the life of the young Shivaji and the early foundations of his future empire.
- Rajgad Fort
Location: Pune District, Maharashtra
How to Reach:
Rajgad Fort is around 50 km from Pune. You can travel by road to the base and then hike up to the fort, which takes about 2–3 hours.
Historical Importance:
Rajgad was the first capital of the Maratha Empire before Raigad. It was from this fort that Shivaji Maharaj launched many successful military campaigns. Rajgad played a central role in the Maratha Empire and is known for its magnificent fortifications, including the Maha Darwaza (Main Gate), Balle Killa (Balle Fort), and Padmavati Lake. It also has a Samadhi of Shivaji’s trusted general, Sambhaji Maharaj.
- Torna Fort
Location: Pune District, Maharashtra
How to Reach:
Torna Fort is located about 60 km from Pune. From the base village Velhe, you can trek for 2–3 hours to reach the top.
Historical Importance:
Torna was the first fort captured by Shivaji Maharaj in 1643, when he was just 16 years old. This victory marked the beginning of Shivaji’s reign and laid the foundation for the Maratha Empire. The fort offers breathtaking views of the Sahyadri mountain range and is one of the largest forts in Maharashtra, though its structures are mostly in ruins.
- Murud-Janjira Fort
Location: Murud, Maharashtra (Coastal)
How to Reach:
The fort is situated on an island off the coast of Murud. It can be reached by boat from Murud village, which is about 150 km from Mumbai.
Historical Importance:
Murud-Janjira Fort is famous for being one of the most impregnable forts of India. The fort was never conquered by the Marathas, British, or Mughals, thanks to its location in the Arabian Sea. The fort’s strategic location helped in controlling the surrounding maritime trade routes. Though not directly linked to Shivaji Maharaj, it was a key stronghold during the Maratha naval campaigns.
- Khanderi and Undheri Forts
Location: Near Alibaug, Maharashtra
How to Reach:
Khanderi and Undheri Forts are located off the coast of Mumbai and can be accessed by boat from Mandwa Beach or Alibaug.
Historical Importance:
Khanderi and Undheri were built by the Marathas to secure the coastline from naval invasions. These forts were key to Shivaji Maharaj’s vision of a strong naval presence. The forts are relatively smaller, but they provide a glimpse into the Maratha Empire’s maritime strength.
- Bhuleshwar Fort
Location: Pune District, Maharashtra
How to Reach:
Bhuleshwar is about 50 km from Pune, and you can reach the base by road. From there, it is a short trek to the fort.
Historical Importance:
Bhuleshwar Fort is often overshadowed by its more famous counterparts, but it is historically significant as it was one of the many forts Shivaji Maharaj used to consolidate his power. The fort offers a panoramic view of the surrounding areas, and its proximity to Pune made it an important strategic point.
- Pratapgad Fort
Location: Satara District, Maharashtra
How to Reach:
Pratapgad is around 20 km from Mahabaleshwar and can be reached by road.
Historical Importance:
Pratapgad is famous for the Battle of Pratapgad (1659), where Shivaji Maharaj defeated the Bijapur general Afzal Khan. The battle marked a significant victory for Shivaji Maharaj and solidified his reputation as a skilled military strategist. The fort is known for its well-maintained structure, including the Afzal Khan’s tomb and the Mahadarwaza Gate.
- Lohagad Fort
Location: Lonavala, Maharashtra
How to Reach:
Lohagad is located about 52 km from Pune, and you can drive to the base village. The trek to the fort takes about 1–2 hours.
Historical Importance:
Lohagad is one of the easier forts to reach and offers a unique experience for trekkers. The fort was an important military base for the Marathas. After the death of Shivaji Maharaj, the fort was taken over by the British, who used it for military purposes. The fort’s stunning Vinchu Kata (scorpion-shaped structure) and Lohagad Lake are among its main attractions.
- Vasai Fort
Location: Vasai, Maharashtra
How to Reach:
Vasai Fort is located around 50 km from Mumbai and can be reached by road from Borivali.
Historical Importance:
Vasai Fort, originally built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, was later captured by the Marathas in 1739. It became a key point in Shivaji Maharaj’s coastal defense strategy. The fort’s ruins today stand as a symbol of the Maratha Empire’s naval dominance and coastal fortifications.
- Janjira Fort
Location: Near Murud, Maharashtra
How to Reach:
The fort is located on an island off the coast of Murud. It can be accessed by boat from the village of Murud.
Historical Importance:
Janjira Fort is one of the most famous sea forts in India. The fort was never captured, even by the Marathas, and played an important role in maritime defense. During the Maratha period, it was a major naval base and was critical in defending the region from foreign invaders. The fort’s ability to withstand sieges makes it an important historical landmark in Maharashtra.