Andharban, simply means ‘Dense Forest’. During monsoons, this trek is one of the most refreshing treks of the Sahyadri. It is the most beautiful attraction of the Sahyadri range which connects the Tamhini Ghat to the famous Konkan region.
In Lucerne, Europe, there was an exhibition of replicas of the world’s unique forts, and Rajgad was the only Indian fort to be included, a remarkable honor for this military masterpiece!
The Kenjalgad to Raireshwar trek is a beautiful and refreshing route in the Sahyadri hills of Maharashtra. This trek takes you from the lesser-known but scenic Kenjalgad Fort to the historically important Raireshwar Plateau. Kenjalgad Fort, also known as Ghera Khelanja, was built during the rule of the Bhoj Rajas in the 12th century and later came under Adilshahi control. It was later captured by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1674. The fort is small but offers stunning views of the valleys around.
Dategad: In the Satara area, Dategad is a little fortification close to Patan. The fort had strategic value before the arrival of the British. The entrance is a magnificent structure with a distinctive shape. Near the entryway, there are enormous statues of Lord Ganesh and Lord Hanuman. There is a step well on the plateau near the summit. Vasantgad is a fort close to Talbid. The tomb of SarSenapati Hambirrao Mohite is what makes Talbid famous. The history goes back to the 12th century and was largely ruled by the Maratha Empire till 1818 AD. The fort’s illustrious past is commemorated by the remains. The fort’s advantageous location reflects its historical significance. The Chandragiri cave, one of Samarth Raamdas’ eight, is also adjacent to the fort.
Devkund Waterfall, tucked away near Bhira village in Raigad district, is one of Maharashtra’s most beautiful and less-explored spots. Known as the source of the Kundalika River, this waterfall drops straight into a deep, natural pool surrounded by thick forest and rocky cliffs. The trek to Devkund is about 6–7 km one way and starts from the base village, taking you through dense jungle paths, small streams, and the calm backwaters of Bhira Dam. Most of the route is easy and flat, but the last stretch involves a short, steep climb that can get slippery, especially in the rains.
Panhala Fort stands as a testament to its strategic importance and the engineering ingenuity of the time, enduring centuries of conflict and harsh conditions.
Sindhudurg and Vijaydurg forts are iconic maritime citadels on the Konkan coast of Maharashtra, India, showcasing the strategic brilliance of Maratha naval architecture. Sindhudurg, built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the 17th century, lies on a rocky island near Malvan and is renowned for its concealed entrances and robust sea-facing walls. Vijaydurg, often called the "Eastern Gibraltar," predates Sindhudurg and was later fortified by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Lohgad’s architectural design seamlessly integrates natural topography with human ingenuity, making it a masterclass in medieval fort construction. Its unique entrance planning and the Vinchu Kata remain some of the finest examples of defensive architecture in India.
Between 1310 and 1638, the Bagul dynasty of Rathores ruled Baglan, with Salher Fort under their control and Mulher Fort serving as their capital. The Mughals eventually took over Baglan from the Rathore rulers. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, during his January 1664 and October 1670 raids on Surat, passed through routes in Baglan, which was under Mughal control during both instances.
Near the village of Thal, close to Alibaug, there are two islands named Underi and Khanderi. On Khanderi Island, Shivaji Maharaj began constructing a sea fort in 1672. By then, the British had already established a stronghold on the island of Mumbai.
Raigad stands as a silent witness to two significant events in the history of the Maratha Empire: the coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on June 6, 1674, and the demise of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on April 3, 1680.
The entire construction of the Sindhudurg Fort was carried out under the supervision of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. In 1657, with the aim of establishing dominance along the Konkan coast, Maharaj began building a naval force.
The Gingee Fort complex includes forts on four hills: Rajgiri, Krishnagiri, Chandragiri, and Chakkilidurg. Each of these forts has its own independent and self-sufficient citadel. The fortifications of the Gingee Fort complex stretch over 13 kilometers.