6 Lesser Known Forts In Maharashtra That You Need To Visit Soon

Well, you’re probably aware of all the forts mentioned in history books. But here we are with a list of 6 forts we bet you didn’t know about! So, read this article and make sure you visit these soon!

1. Ratangad Fort

forts in Maharashtra
Located in Ahmednagar, this fort is about 400 years old. Ratangad is also referred to the Jewels of the Forts. This fort is often covered with flowering plants in November and makes it a sight for sore eyes. The main attraction at Ratanwadi is the Amruteshwar Temple, famous for its carvings, dating back to the Hemadpant Era - roughly from the eighth century. On the eastern side of the fort, you can find two caves, where you can stay overnight. Did someone say camping?
Distance from Pune: 187 km
Distance from Mumbai: 176 km 

2. Ghangad Fort

forts in Maharashtra
Ghangad is situated in the heart of Tamhini Ghat, but is much easily accessible from Lonavala. Surrounded by other forts like Korigad, Tailbaila and Sudhagad, the trek to Ghangad is deceptively easy. A group of fort lovers called Shivaji Trail have installed a strong metal ladder on a rocky patch which was almost impossible to climb earlier without trekking gear. The summit offers some of the best views of the majestic Konkan Valley.
Distance from Pune: 100 km
Distance from Mumbai: 117 km

3. Rohida Fort

forts in Maharashtra
Fort Rohida or Vichitragad, situated around Bhor village, was among the 23 forts that Shivaji Maharaj handed over to Mughals during the Treaty of Purandar in 1665. The base village of the fort is Bajarwadi and the trekking path starts from a  school and the route is safe and wide. It takes about an hour to reach the first entrance of the fort from where the fortification starts. Atop the fort is the temple of Rohideshwar or Rohidamalla, from where the fort gets its name. Reaching the top through challenging winds, rewards you with a feeling of accomplishment and astounding views.
Distance from Pune: 64 km
Distance from Mumbai: 223 km

4. Kenjalgad Fort

forts in Maharashtra
Also known as Ghera Khelanja this fort is located in Wai. The fort is visible from quite a long distance as a stone scarp 30–40 feet high rising as a cap on the irregular hill. This fort is said to have been built by Bhoj  Rajas of Panhala who flourished in the 12th century. The fort has a bit of history attached to it as it was captured by Shivaji Maharaj, later by Aurangzeb, the Maratha army and finally the British before independence. There are mainly two trek routes to the fort. It takes about half an hour to reach the top of the fort.
Distance from Pune: 80 km
Distance from Mumbai: 207 km

5. Malhargad Fort

forts in Maharashtra
Located in Saswad, it’s popularly known as Sonori Fort getting its name from the village named Sonori that is close by. Named after God Malhari, this was the last fort built by the Marthas in 1775. Malhargad Fort is located on the Bhuleshwar Range and it is believed that the fort was built to keep watch on Dive Ghat along the Pune-Saswad route. There are two temples at the apex and the panoramic view of the city and Parvati Hills is a sight to behold.
Distance from Pune: 30 km
Distance from Mumbai: 184 km

6. Irshalgad Fort

forts in Maharashtra
This fortress is located between Matheran and Panvel. Perfect for novice trekkers, the gradient is not steep and it’s also a plateau. It can easily be spotted due to its unique rock formation. If you love trekking, then the moderate 3.5 km distance can easily take up to two hours to trek. So, ready for the climb?
Distance from Pune: 107 km
Distance from Mumbai: 49 km 

Read more: Things To Do In Mumbai

MORE