Sinhagad Fort
Located : Historical landmark in Thoptewadi, Maharashtra
Location and Overview
- Situated in the Sahyadri mountain range.
- Approximately 35 km southwest of Pune.
- Elevation: 1,312 meters above sea level.
- Offers panoramic views of the surrounding region.
- Popular for trekking and is rich in historical significance.
Historical Significance
- Originally known as Kondhana Fort.
- Played a pivotal role in the Maratha Empire.
- Site of the Battle of Sinhagad in 1670.
- Maratha warrior Tanaji Malusare fought and died to recapture the fort from the Mughals under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s orders.
- The battle is celebrated as a symbol of bravery and loyalty in Maratha history.
Architectural Features
- Two main gates: Pune Darwaza and Kalyan Darwaza.
- Key sites: Memorial of Tanaji Malusare, Kali Temple, water tanks, and old storerooms.
- Reflects a blend of ancient and Maratha-era architecture.
Accessing Raigad Fort
- Accessible by road from Pune.
- Base village: Donje Phata, starting point for the trek.
- Trek difficulty: Moderate, with scenic views of the Western Ghats.
- A road also leads directly to the top for non-trekkers.
Visiting Hours
- Open to visitors: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Best time to visit: June to February (monsoon and winter months) when the surroundings are lush and the weather is pleasant.
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