CHAVAND FORT

Chavand 


Sahyadri is not just a mountain range, but it is a great treasure of history, the history of the struggle by the great Marathas, & ancient Satvaahans, who left for us with their fine arts with which very few modern carvings can be compared. The Satvaahans ruled what is today called the state of Maharashtra, & their great regime is commemorated by the remnants of the forts & caves they constructed in the heart of the Sahyadris. The whole range that has been guarding the ancient commercial route of Naneghat for thousands of years includes the forts of Jeevdhan, Hadsar, and Mahishgad & Chavand. These belong to the Satvaahan era. And Chavand being one of them is a very significant one.Situated at a height of 3000ft from sea level, the fort houses many a remnant of constructions that take us about 800 years back into the time. The fort is in Pune district, at a distance of 20 km from the city of Junnar. The region at the foothills of the fort contains exotic flora & fauna. It was here that we could spot at least 12 varieties of birds. Village of Chavandwadi lies at the base of the fort.


History :-
Malik Ahmed founded the Nizam Dynasty in 1485. He was the first Nizamshah who acquired the fort of Chavand after the dissolution of the Bahmani Empire.The seventh Nizamshah was Second Burhanshah. His grandson Bahadurshah was imprisoned here in 1594. Bahadurshah was the nephew of Chandbibi, a renowned personality from the same period. She played an important role in helping him to achieve the throne.In 1636 Shahajiraje, father of Shivaji Maharaj, signed a treaty with the Moghals, in which the Moghals got Chavand.Shivaji Maharaj named the fort as “Prasannagad”. Mythological references 1) The forts named after the names of great sages (for e.g. Vasota, named after Vasistha) are pre-ancient forts.2) The forts decorated by Buddhist carvings and sculptures (for e.g. Shivneri) are ancient forts.3) Forts belonging to the medieval period are related to Shaiva, Shakta or Naath.4) The goddess Chamunda is an idol of destruction of evil, with a terrifying appearance, armed with weapons. The deity belongs to Bengal, Bihar and Karnataka.

Fascinating Spots :-


1) Saptamatrika (The seven cisterns) :-
The British in their attack have destroyed many a construction in the eighteenth century. Here a temple half buried in the earth can be seen. As we go ahead on the left, we can see 7 water tanks aligned along each other. These have much mythological significance, & their names are as follows: Brahmi, Maheshwari, Kaumari, Vaishnavi, Varahi, Indrayani & Chamunda, the most powerful goddess of all.


2) Human made caves :-
As we proceed towards the northern direction around the fortification, we can see that a proper way was constructed hereby to move around to keep watch. On the north side of the fort, human made caves are situated where the fortification ends. Here it is said that a secret passage exists, amidst the wall, right below the caves. As we go the south side, we can have a beautiful view of the river Kukdi that originates from Kukdeshwar, a famous pilgrimage near the fort. On the southeastern side, no fortification exists as steep fall dominates this place. Again as we proceed westwards, we can see the fortification here. This fort being strongly secured was used for imprisoning Bahadurshah Nizam in 1594.


3) Temple of goddess Chamunda :-
On the topmost part of the fort, i.e. on a small hillock, is situated the temple of Goddess Chamunda. Here rises the question, that who brought this deity here in Maharashtra, which is predominantly from the provinces of Bengal, Bihar & Mysore. The answer is also quite simple. Naneghat had been the main route for transport of goods that came from other provinces via harbour of Sopara & Kalyan, the place of junction. Some well established businessman from Mysore, who came through Naneghat, must have established Chamunda here. Folks were unable to utter Chamunda, & they called it as Chavand, hence was named the fort. The places in the region of Naneghat reflect the rich culture of Satvaahan dynasty, and the well-developed artistic works that existed during this era. The temple of “Kukdeshwar” must be visited when we go to Chavand. The simplicity of this place is worth experiencing. The caves of Shivneri and “Lenyadri”, another famous pilgrimage, are worth visiting.From the top of the fort, we can have a glimpse of the mountain of Shambhu & the fort of Jeevdhan on the west, Hadsar on the north, Shivneri on the east & the route of Naneghat along the fort. The topmost part of Shivneri is clearly visible from here. Along with a rich geographical position, the fort also has a rich history, which can be stated in a few steps.


1) Saptamatrika (The seven cisterns):-
The British in their attack have destroyed many a construction in the eighteenth century. Here a temple half buried in the earth can be seen. As we go ahead on the left, we can see 7 water tanks aligned along each other. These have much mythological significance, & their names are as follows: Brahmi, Maheshwari, Kaumari, Vaishnavi, Varahi, Indrayani & Chamunda, the most powerful goddess of all.


Ways To Reach :-
The way to the top of the fort goes along the village school, from the western side of the fort. From here, it takes about 45 minutes to reach the entrance door. From here the footsteps take us to the plains, on which we can see the remnants of many constructions.


Accommodation Facility :-
One can stay on the fort in the caves, but mice may pose a problem. Trekkers also stay in the village school. There is boarding facility in Kukdeshwar temple too.


Food Facility :-
Available in base village.


Drinking Water Facility :-
There are many a cisterns and tanks on the fort, but the two on the southwest side are more reliable.


Time To Reach :-
45 minutes

trekking in maharashtra, places for trekking in maharashtra, places in pune, chavand fort, famous places in maharashtra, places in maharashtra, trekking places in maharashtra, tourist attractions in maharashtra, place to visit in maharashtra, india pictures of, trekking maharashtra, sahyadri trekking, lakes in maharashtra, trek in india, important places in maharashtra, maharashtra trekking, famous place in pune, best trekking places in india, maharashtra famous for, fort in pune district, places of maharashtra, trek in india, best trekking places in india, places in pune, famous place in pune, tourist attractions in maharashtra, places of maharashtra, places in maharashtra, important places in maharashtra, famous places in maharashtra, places for trekking in maharashtra, trekking places in maharashtra, place to visit in maharashtra, india pictures of, trekking in maharashtra, trekking maharashtra, maharashtra trekking, sahyadri trekking, maharashtra famous for, lakes in maharashtra, fort in pune district, chavand fort

BANKOT FORT

Bankot
Fort of Bankot stands in Ratnagiri at the mouth of Bankot creek, where River Savitri (originating from Mahabaleshwar) meets the Arabian Sea. Bankot creek was a major sea trade route, and the ancient caves of Dasgaon and Mandangad are the evidences of the same. Bankot fort, which has witnessed many dynasties, is also known as Himmatgad and Fort Victoria.

History :-
First of the references for this fort is found in Greek traveller Pliny’s works in first century AD, where he refers to this fort as Mandargiri or Mandgor. No reference is available till 1548. In 1548, Portuguese won this fort from Adilshah. Later Kanhoji Angre captured this fort and renamed as Himmatgad. Due to rivalry between Peshwas and Tulaji Angre, Peshwas allied with British and waged a war with Angres. Commander James captured the fort and named it as Fort Victoria. Since it was not economically viable to maintain this fort, it was handed over to the Peshwas

Fascinating Spots :-
There is a Ganesh temple at the base of the fort. The fort is surrounded by moats dug up in the red laterite. The main entrance faces north and is decorated with stone carvings. Near the entrance are vestibules for gate keepers. In the vestibule on right side there are 6 water tanks. Going ahead we come across Nagarkhana, where we find decorative steps to ascend it. From here we can have a glimpse of Savitri River and the surrounding region. To walk on the ramparts, there are stairs from eastern and western side. From the western doorway we can go the bastion outside the ramparts. Here we find a deep well and a room for the patrolling soldiers. There is a secret entrance near this bastion. This bastion lies on the way from Bankot to Velas, and was built by Siddis to strengthen Bankot fort.

Ways To Reach :-
To reach Bankot village, we have to go from Mumbai Goa Highway. Before Mahad, there is Toll phata, and the route is via Ambet-Mandangad-Bankot (about 248 km). It takes around one hour to reach the fort from village by walk.

Accommodation Facility :-
No accommodation facility available on the fort.

Food Facility :-
None

Drinking Water Facility :-
None

bankot fort, travel places, bankot village, tourism sites, tourist places, guide tourist, guide tourism, tour places, bank ot, velas bankot, travel places, tourist places, guide tourist, tourism sites, tour places, guide tourism, bank ot, bankot fort, bankot village, velas bankot, pictures to india, pictures in india, india pictures of, pictures of india, india pictures, maharashtra tourism, maharashtra tourist, places of maharashtra, pictures of tourist places, travel in maharashtra, travel maharashtra, tourist places photos, tourist places images, history maharashtra, resort in maharashtra, maharashtra photos, maharashtra images, maharashtra tourist place, photos of konkan, maharashtra image, places to visit maharashtra, places in maharashtra to visit, place to visit in maharashtra, places to see in maharashtra, tourist pictures of india, tourist attractions maharashtra, tourist attractions in maharashtra, maharashtra tourist spots, ganpatipule in ratnagiri, famous places in maharashtra, mountains in maharashtra, maharashtra tourism place, images of fort in maharashtra, best places to visit in maharashtra, bankot fort, konkan tourism places, best beach in maharashtra, maharashtra tourism konkan, tourist places in konkan maharashtra

BHAIRAVGAD FORT

Bhairavgad



Bhairavgad comes under the regions of Koyananagar. The significance of forts here is that they are away from the actual range and hence are invisible from long distance. The main attraction of these forts is the dense forest. This fort has been declared as ‘sanctuary’. All the villages once situated are moved out from the sanctuary. Buses are available to reach at the base village.

History :-
The construction on this fort indicates that this fort was mainly used to keep check on the surrounding area. However no mention of this fort is available in the history.

Fascinating Spots :-
There is a very big temple on the fort. This temple is well built and very beautiful. In the temple 2-3 ft long idols of Goddess Bheri, Goddess Tula and Shree Vaghjai are seen. We find many carvings on this temple. Tulsi Vrindavan and Shivling are seen in front of the temple. 2-3 pillars are also seen. Opposite to it there is another temple of Lord Shiva.From the temple the descending way takes us at the bastions of the fort. Further we see the remnants of the entrance. From here take left and come at backside of the fort. Here there are two water reservoirs. This water is potable. From the fort we can see the dense forests of Koyana. Top of the fort is not very big. So 2 hours are enough to see the fort. If we stand before the temple and descend down the right side way for 5 minutes, we come near a water reservoir. However, here water is available only till the month of March.

Ways To Reach :-
We can go to Bhairavgad by two ways. One directly ascends from Konkan and the other from Ramghal of Helwak.

1)Via Durgvadi: :-
For this way, we have to come at Chiplun. From Chiplun, one should reach Durgvadi, which is situated at the base of the fort. Bus from Chiplun to Durgvadi starts at 8 a.m. It takes approximately 1 hour. From Durgvadi, the way to the fort goes through the forest. It takes about 3 hours. Though this way is straight, it is little hectic. The way from the village Gavhare also connects here. No water Sis available on the way.

2)Via Ramghal of Helwak: :-
To come here, alight at Chiplun or Karad. On Chiplun-Karad road after crossing Kumbharli Ghat, one comes near Helwak Phata. From here we come at Ramghal within 2 hours. Take the way going upward from Ramghal. We can go to the fort from ‘Patharpunj Juna Vaghona’road. It takes about 6 hours to reach the top. There is a risk of getting lost here due to dense forests. It is advisable to go with guide.

3)Via Gavhare: :-
The way towards Gavhare is before the village Durgvadi. One can come at Gavhare by this road. From here 3 hours are enough to reach the top.

Accommodation Facility :-
20 people can be accommodated in the temple.

Food Facility :-
One should arrange for the foodstuffs.

Drinking Water Facility :-
Water is available in the reservoirs in all seasons.

Time To Reach :-
3 hours via Durgvadi,7 hours via Ramghal

Notes :-
Caution:-
Carry salt with you to protect yourself from leeches.

bhairavgad maharashtra, maps of maharashtra, fort in maharashtra, map of maharashtra, trekking in maharashtra, resort in maharashtra, distance between cities in maharashtra, cities of maharashtra, treks in maharashtra, places for trekking in maharashtra, history of maharashtra, tourist places in maharashtra, india pictures, cities in maharashtra, maharashtra trekking, trekking places in maharashtra, places to visit in maharashtra, map of maharashtra district, tourist spots in maharashtra, places in maharashtra, tourist place in maharashtra, road distance maharashtra, trekking in mumbai, maharashtra images, maharashtra road distance, sahyadri trekking, distance between places in maharashtra, tourist spot in maharashtra, distance map of maharashtra, trekking agency, place to visit in maharashtra, image of maharashtra, map in maharashtra, trekking indien, places in maharashtra to visit, city in maharashtra, maharashtra photos, forts in maharashtra pictures, maps of maharashtra district, distance between cities maharashtra, distance between cities of maharashtra, places to see in maharashtra, trekking in, trekking maharashtra, tour maharashtra, places in konkan, google maps of maharashtra, pictures in india, trekking agencies, maharashtra places to visit

BAHADURGAD FORT

Bahadurgad:- 

Bahadurgad or the Fort of Pedgoan, is situated at the river bank of Bhima. It is still standing gloriously holding back the history along with it.

Fascinating Spots :-
Bahadurgad is basically a land fort. It is situated in the base village itself. Many ruined structures are scattered in the village. There are two doors for the fort. One which opens in the village itself; which is still in a good condition, while the other is at the end of the fort. We should enter the fort from the village itself. As we enter we can see  5 feet tall statue of Maruti standing proudly as well as a temple of Bhairavnath. Special feature of the fort is, there is a group of 5 Temples which was built in Yadav period and the temple of Bhairavnath is one of them. But the temples are not maintained in good condition. Because of the coloring work done on the Bhairavnath temple, it has lost its structural beauty. In front of the temple many structures are seen like Virgal, Satigal, several Cannon Balls, a Deepmal and a statue  of Shiva. Start along with the fencing. As you move forward you can see many devastated structures of , some of them are even hidden in shrubs. The fencing at the backside of the fort is ruined. From here you can see a view of Bhima river bank. A little further and you enter the fort. Here is a 2 storied palace of Aurangzeb. It is said that Aurangzeb and Sambhaji Raje meet at this palace. You need around 3 hours to see the fort completely. Then return from the same way. Before traveling back, you can see the Shiddhtek Temple, Rashin Temple and the Swinging Towers (Halte Manore).

Ways To Reach :-
This fort is situated around 20kose away from Shreegondh village in Ahmednagar. This fort was built by Bahadurkhan in Pedgoan village.

1) Pune-Daund :-
First you have to reach Daund Phata which is 90kms. away from Pune on Pune-Satara Highway. Just before Daund, there is a way to Shreegondh village. On the way you have to cross a bridge on Bhima river to reach Pedgoan village. It will take around four hours to reach Pedgoan village from Pune.

2) Pune-Bhigavan :-
Bhigavan village is situated on Pune-Satara Highway. From Bhigavan move towards Rasshin-Siddahtek road. Pedgoan village is 25km away from Rasshin village.

Accommodation Facility :-
Besides monsoon season, 15-20 people can accommodate themselves in the temple.

Food Facility :-
One should make arrangements for foodstuffs.

Drinking Water Facility :-
Water facility is available in front of the Goddess Temple.

Time To Reach :-
Pune-Daund: 4 hrs.
Bhigavan-Rasshin: 5hrs.

places in maharashtra, travel places, tour places, places to see in maharashtra, holiday spots in maharashtra, place to visit in maharashtra, places in maharashtra to visit, tourist attractions in maharashtra, travel places in india, tour places in india, attraction in india, trekking places in maharashtra, tourist places photos, tourism places in maharashtra, travel destinations in maharashtra, tourist places in ahmednagar, attractive places in india, places to visit in ahmednagar, the famous place in india, tourist places in ahmednagar district, travel places, tour places, travel places in india, attraction in india, places in maharashtra, tourist places photos, tour places in india, travel destinations in maharashtra, the famous place in india, places in maharashtra to visit, place to visit in maharashtra, places to see in maharashtra, tourist attractions in maharashtra, tourism places in maharashtra, attractive places in india, holiday spots in maharashtra, trekking places in maharashtra, tourist places in ahmednagar, places to visit in ahmednagar, tourist places in ahmednagar district

AVCHITGAD FORT

Avchitgad




The southern part of Konkan is adorned by natural beauty. The city of Roha is situated on the banks of Kundalika River. Avchitgad is situated in the mountain ranges around Roha. This region is beautiful, and the fort is one of the rich forts of Maharashtra. Dense woods along the mountain have made it bit difficult to ascend the top.


Fascinating Spots :- 
The main entrance to the fort is still in better condition. The bastion on the way from Medhe was much better for keeping a watch on the surrounding region. As we proceed further from the main entrance, we come across the remnants of old constructions on a neighboring hillock. Near the second entrance there is a lake. The water is potable here. Near to it is a statue of Lord Khandoba. The fort is not much wide, but stretches long enough. It takes about two hours to see the fort. The forest around the fort is dense and the fauna comprises wild hogs, leopards, foxes, monkeys, etc. it is a best monsoon trek. From the top of Avchitgad we can have a glimpse of Telbaila, Sudhagad, Sarasgad, Dhangad, Raigad, Korigad and Savashna Ghat.


Ways To Reach :- 


Via Pengalsai :-
Pengalsai is situated at about 5 km from Roha. It is the base village. From here it takes one hour to reach the top.


Via Medha :-
The village of Medha is 7.5 km before Roha on Mumbai-Roha highway. The way to the fort goes along the temple of Lord Vitthal. We have to ascend through thick woods and reach the front bastion after one hour.


Via Padam :-
There is an old factory in the village of Padam. Beyond this factory is the way to the fort, which takes us to the southern entrance within two hours.


Accommodation Facility :-
There is no facility on the fort.


Food Facility :-
None
Carrying food with us is advisable.


Drinking Water Facility :-
There are many a cisterns and tanks on the fort, but the two on the southwest side are more reliable.

trekking in maharashtra, raigad fort in maharashtra, trekking adventures, hiking trekking, trekking adventure, treks in maharashtra, trekking places in maharashtra, forts in maharashtra information, sea forts in maharashtra, photos of forts in maharashtra, trekking maharashtra, information of forts in maharashtra, trekking places, trekking sites, travel in maharashtra, maharashtra tourist, photo of forts in maharashtra, trekking in the mountains, adventure places in maharashtra, maharashtra tourist, travel in maharashtra, trekking adventure, trekking in the mountains, trekking adventures, trekking places, trekking sites, trekking in maharashtra, trekking maharashtra, photos of forts in maharashtra, treks in maharashtra, forts in maharashtra information, information of forts in maharashtra, photo of forts in maharashtra, raigad fort in maharashtra, sea forts in maharashtra, trekking places in maharashtra, adventure places in maharashtra, trekking in the mountains, trekking adventure, trekking adventures, adventure places in maharashtra, travel in maharashtra, trekking sites, maharashtra tourist, trekking places, photo of forts in maharashtra, photos of forts in maharashtra, trekking places in maharashtra, treks in maharashtra, raigad fort in maharashtra, trekking maharashtra, trekking in maharashtra, forts in maharashtra information, information of forts in maharashtra, sea forts in maharashtra

AJOBA

Ajoba



Fascinating Spots :-
Near the Ashram, there is a small hut where we can stay. A small water stream provides us with pure water. The way beyond Ashram leads to a rivulet, crossing which we can reach the cave of  ‘LUV-KUSH’. To reach this spot we have to ascend the way of waterfall for one and half hour. Above this cave there is a precipice called 'Cradle of Sitamai'. In the cave there are the carved  “Padukas” or the footprints of Luv and Kush. This precipice is a real challenge for trekkers.The ashram is a sacred place and people from all over Maharashtra come here. There are some carved stones near the ashram, on which some carved idols depict some story.From this place, we can visit Ratangad. For a 5-day cross-country trek, the trio of Ratangad - Harishchandragad-Ajoba can be planned.

Ways To Reach :-

Kasara-Ghoti-Rajur-Kumshet :-
To reach the top of the fort one should follow the route of Kasara-Ghoti-Rajur-Kumshet.

From Asangaon :-
One should board the train to Kasara and alight at Asangaon station. From Asangaon, board the S.T bus to Shahapur and from there we can reach the village of  ‘Dehne’ by bus or jeep. From Dehne, a sole pathway leads to a small plateau, from which 3 ways branch
a) One way is treaded by bullock carts and goes to the plateau where the ashram is situated.
b) The second goes through ‘Katrabai’s ‘ valley and joins ‘Kumshet’ village
c) Third way goes through the forest.
Kalyan-Murbad-Malshej-Dolkhamb :-
Kalyan-Murbad-Malshej-Dolkhamb is another route

Accommodation Facility :-
Near to the ashram, there is a hut where about 20 people can stay. Care should be taken from snakes and scorpions. Generally people prefer this place as one-day trek, especially in rainy season. A beautiful waterfall is formed in monsoon.

Food Facility :-
One should make arrangement for food.


Drinking Water Facility :-
The water stream provides us drinking water.

trekking in maharashtra, forts in maharashtra information, mountains in maharashtra, trekking maharashtra, malshej waterfall, trekking places in maharashtra, fort in maharashtra information, places for trekking in maharashtra, rock climbing in maharashtra, trekking maharashtra, trekking in maharashtra, forts in maharashtra information, fort in maharashtra information, mountains in maharashtra, places for trekking in maharashtra, trekking places in maharashtra, malshej waterfall, rock climbing in maharashtra, places in maharashtra, places of maharashtra, tourist places of maharashtra, maharashtra tourist place, places to visit in maharashtra, place to visit in maharashtra, places to see in maharashtra, tourist attractions maharashtra, trekking in maharashtra, famous places in maharashtra, best tourist places in maharashtra, best tourist place in maharashtra, holiday spots in maharashtra, hill resorts in maharashtra, holiday spot in maharashtra, trekking places in maharashtra, famous tourist places in maharashtra, best tourist spots in maharashtra, rock climbing in maharashtra, ajoba maharashtra

AMBOLGAD

Ambolgad



The two forts in the Rajapur Taluka of Ratnagiri District are Ambolgad and Yashwantgad. The fort of Ambolgad was primarily built to keep an eye on the ancient port of Musakaji and the surrounding seas. Col. Imlock captured this fort for the British in 1818. The residential portion of Ambolgad was shifted out completely by 1862

Fascinating Spot :-
Ambolgad is situated at a height from the main sea level. The total area covered by the fort is approximately 1200 Sq. Metres. It has the sea guarding it from the South and has deep moats on the northern and western side. The current condition of the fort is very bad. A small part of the fortification and walls on the sea side are still visible. Apart from this, there is a square well and remnants and plinths of various constructions in the fort. The Math of Gagangiri Maharaj is situated near the fort.


Ways To Reach :-
The route to this fort goes from Rantagiri – Adivare – Nate – Ambolgad. The other route is through Rajapur – Nate – Ambolgad

Accommodation Facility :-
No accommodation facility available on the fort. However, one can stay at the Gagangiri Maharaj Ashram nearby.

places in maharashtra, tourist places in maharashtra, tourist place in maharashtra, maharashtra tourist places, tourist place of maharashtra, tourist places of maharashtra, maharashtra tourist, places of maharashtra, maharashtra tourist, places of maharashtra, places in maharashtra, tourist places of maharashtra, maharashtra tourist places, tourist places in maharashtra, tourist place of maharashtra, tourist place in maharashtra, map of maharashtra, map in maharashtra, maps in maharashtra, maps of maharashtra, tourism of maharashtra, tourism in maharashtra, places of maharashtra, places in maharashtra, hotel in maharashtra, maharashtra road map, road map maharashtra, road map in maharashtra, history of maharashtra, history maharashtra, hotels in maharashtra, fort in maharashtra, maharashtra fort, route map of maharashtra, route map maharashtra, maharashtra road maps, road maps maharashtra, resort in maharashtra, tourist places of maharashtra, tourist places maharashtra, maharashtra tourist places, tourist places in maharashtra, tourist place in maharashtra, maharashtra tourist place, tourist place maharashtra, tourist place of maharashtra, tourist destinations in maharashtra, travel destinations in maharashtra, maharashtra district maps, maharashtra highway map, maharashtra tourist attractions, tourist attractions in maharashtra, tourist attractions maharashtra, road distance map of maharashtra, maharashtra tourist spots, tourist spots in maharashtra, map of maharashtra state, map maharashtra state, maharashtra state map, maps of maharashtra state, tourism places in maharashtra, tourist spot in maharashtra, trekking in maharashtra, map of maharashtra tourism, trek in maharashtra, bandra fort