Maharashtra is a western state of India which is rich in cultural and historical heritage. The state shares a long coastline, and the Western Ghats run parallel to the shore. Along with beauty in abundance, the state was known to be the stronghold of Marathas who rule over the region for a long time. Today, there are more than 400 forts in Maharashtra that are worth exploring.
These forts are diverse and beautiful in their unique style. You can visit sea forts, trekking forts, and haunted fort as well. Moreover, when we are talking about Maharashtra and forts, we cannot forget to mention Shivaji Maharaj forts. In this blog, we have listed the famous forts that you can visit to explore the rich heritage.
Table of Contents
List of Famous Sea Forts and Haunted Forts in Maharashtra
1. Sindhudurg Fort
Sindhudurg Fort is one of the most beautiful sea forts in Maharashtra. Shivaji built it by the shore of Malvan town, Sindhudurg District. To be specific, this fort is built on Khurte Island.
It is spread over an area of 48 acres with steep fort walls as high as 30meters. This fort is 450km away from south Mumbai. When you will reach there, be ready to experience the picturesque beauty.
Location: Malvan, Maharashtra
Timing: 8am-6pm
2. Vijaydurg Fort
The Konkan region of Maharashtra is adorned with the beauty of the Vijaydurg fort. It was constructed by Raja Bhoja II to defend the seafront of the Maratha Empire. This was also an important navy base for the kingdom.
Today it has turned into a great fort in Maharashtra that tourists wish to visit. If you plan to visit, plan it around August to participate in the annual World Helium Day festival that is celebrated with joy at the fort. So don’t miss this fort to explore the beauty of Maharashtra.
Location: Malvan, Maharashtra
Timing: 8am-6:30pm
3. Janjira Fort
Janjira Fort is another beautiful sea fort in Maharashtra surrounded by astonishing natural beauty. It is counted as India’s strongest marine forts India. Raja Ram Rao established Janjira Fort in the 16th century to protect the kingdom from pirates.
The fort has witnessed great valor of great Indian kings that left it unconquered till the end. You can visit the fort in the daytime. Therefore, enjoy the exploration of this sea fort and get your picture clicked and share with others.
Location: Murud, Maharashtra
Timing: 8am-6:30pm
4. Suvarnadurg Fort
A magnificent fort that stands on the land of Dapoli facing the wide Arabian Sea is Suvarnadurg Fort. You can use the ferry route to reach the location. The purpose of the fort was to defend the invader from entering the kingdom through the sea route.
Eventually, it was conquered by Britishers. The fort was also constructed to act as a godown for granaries and ammunition. Today you will see the ruins of the fort, yet you imagine its magnificence. The path leading to the fort is bushy, but you will not regret reaching the fort’s view extended to the sea.
Location: Dapoli
Timing: 8am-6pm
5. Kolaba Fort
If you plan to visit sea forts in Maharashtra, then you should surely keep Kolaba fort on your list. The fort is an architectural masterpiece that was designed to attack the British Naval ships in the 17th century.
The sea forts are generally closed during high tides as the seawater can rise to the fort. Therefore, plan the visit when it is not rainy season or low tides are forecasted. It is sheer beauty to see the magnificent man-made humungous fort surrounded by the wavy sea.
Location: Alibag, Maharashtra
Timing: 6am-6pm
6. Shaniwarwada Fort
When Peshwa of the Maratha Empire was ruling in Maharashtra, the land witnessed the erection of many forts. In 1732, Shaniwarwada Fort was built in the city of Pune. It was owned by Peshwa kings until the Third Anglo-Maratha War. Later, it was conquered by East India Company of Britain.
It is also known as one of the most Haunted Places in India. The story behind it starts with Narayanrao, fifth Peshwa. Believe it or not, he was murdered by his uncle’s guards, and people believe that his ghost cries for help on full moon days.
Location: Pune, Maharashtra
Timing: 9am-5:30pm
Well-known places for Fort Trekking in Maharashtra
7. Lohagadh Fort
The Lohagadh Fort is part of the twin fort attraction of Lonavala. The fort was strategically built to stand tall against the enemies. The great Indian king Shivaji Maharaj conquered the fort twice during his reign. This location makes it an ideal place for trekking.
You can go for an easy trek to reach the fort. Throughout the trek, you will enjoy the green lush and cool breeze. If you are a photography enthusiast or newly joined photography courses, you will see amazing scenes to capture.
Location: Lonavala
Timing: 9am-6pm
Base Village: Lohagad Wadi
Lohagadh Fort Trek Duration: 1.5 hours one way
8. Rajmachi Fort
The Rajmachi Fort is one of the most beautiful Maharashtra forts. It lies in the Sahyadri mountain of Western Ghats. It was built to keep an eye on the important trade route of the kingdom. It is known for the spectacular view of the natural beauty from the height.
This is also an ideal location to go for trekking. The pave is well marked, and you can trek without a guide as well. However, you should hire a guide during the rainy season or if you are new. So, enjoy the path full of green trees and sceneries. You are surely going to enjoy the journey of trekking.
Location: Pune
Timing: 9am-6pm
Base Village: Udhewadi village
Rajmachi Fort Trek Duration: 2.5 hours one way
9. Korigad Fort
Korigad Fort is located in Aambi Valley City, Lonavala. There is a beautiful trekking path that leads to the majestic Korigad Fort. The fort is not ruined to date and stands still, displaying the stories of ages. This is one of the most adventurous forts in Maharashtra near Mumbai.
People visit the place for trekking through the beautiful green jungle. This is a brilliant place to spend time in nature for all the adventure lovers and photographer enthusiasts. So, plan to visit Korigad Fort next time.
Location: Aambi Valley City
Timing: 24 hours
Base Village: Peth Shahpur village
Rajmachi Fort Trek Duration: 40 minutes one way
10. Tikona Fort
Tikona Fort is a tall fort which astonishes the tourists and visitors. The name is given because of the triangular design of the fort. This fort has been the battleground between Mughals and Marathas. If the history applauds the Maratha Empire for giving tough fight to the Britishers then much credit goes to the forts like these.
You can visit the fort to enjoy the path and the view from the top of the fort. Inside the fort you would be able to see a temple and caves. This is must-visit place in Aambi Valley City.
Location: Aambi Valley City
Timing: 24 hours
Base Village: Peth Shahpur village
Rajmachi Fort Trek Duration: 40 minutes one way
11. Sondai Fort
One of the best forts in Maharashtra is Sondai Fort. It is located in Sondewadi village, which is covered in greenery. If you are a nature lover, then you will be lively visiting this beautiful place. This is making the fort very popular among people.
Plan for a trek to Sondai fort and enjoy the view of Morbe dam and Matheran range. The trek is easy, and anyone can take this. The next time you plan trekking, take this easy 30-minute trekking and enjoy the time with family and friends.
Location: Sondewadi, Maharashtra
Timing: 24 hours
Base Village: Sondewadivillage
Sondai Fort Trek Duration: 30 minutes one way
Amazing Forts in Maharashtra to explore the Rich Heritage
12. Daulatabad Fort
Daulatabad is an architectural masterpiece. It was designed to protect the city from intruders and trespassers. Today it is one of the hotspots for nature lovers. The fort has more than 700 steps, which will lead you to the top of the fort.
The view from the fort is absolutely amazing and pleasing. Therefore, it is counted among the must-visit forts of Maharashtra. You will also enjoy the beauty of the fort, its carving, structure, and design. And undoubtedly, this is an amazing fort to visit.
Location: Daulatabad, Maharashtra
Timing: 9am-5:30pm
13. Kandhar Fort
Located by the side of Manya River, Kandhar fort displays history’s beauty in the natural scenery. The lush green forest is a treat to the eyes and rejuvenates the soul. It is one of the historical forts in Maharashtra, which is surrounded by natural beauty.
So prepare yourself to enjoy the sheer beauty and indulge in photography. You will have a great time reaching the fort and walking on the remains of the fort.
Location: Nanded, Maharashtra
Timing: 9am-5pm
14. Vasota Fort
The famous Vasota Fort is located in the Satara district. It is well known for Ramabai Telin as she was the famous protector of the fort. The fort seems hidden in the forest and covered with green trees in Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary. You can go ahead and read more about Wildlife Sanctuaries in India. The scenery is worth capturing even before starting the walk towards the fort.
The location also offers mountaineering, rock climbing, adventure walk, and other interesting activities. It is a great place in nature to enjoy with friends and family. Therefore, you can plan to visit this fort on your next trip.
Location: Satara, Maharashtra
Timing: 8am-5pm
15. Visapur Fort
Visapur Fort is one of the amazing forts in Maharashtra, which integrates nature and building like nowhere else. It is popular among tourists and adventure seekers. You can walk to the fort and enjoy the astonishing waterfall. The most interesting photography spot is where water is rushing down through the stairs, and you can get amazing capture.
Pandavas built the fort, and it was in existence at the advent of Britishers as well. This fort exhibits the long history of India and shines even today with a beautiful architectural structure. You can also read about more hidden places to explore in India if you are interested.
Location: Malavali, Maharashtra
Timing: 24 hours
16. Panhala Fort
It is amazing to stand on the land, which has seen fierce battle and conquest. Panhala fort is one such fort in Maharashtra that has survived all the attacks and yet stands tall, displaying our rich heritage. It is believed to be the parental home of the queen of Kolhapur, famously known as Tarabai.
The fort has huge storages and granaries inside the fort. You can also observe some temples in the premises that were significant places to worship in Shivaji’s age. Therefore, you can plan to visit this fort and see the beautiful scenery and see the standing history.
Location: Panhala, Maharashtra
Timing: 6:30am-5:30pm
Top 5 Magnificent Shivaji Maharaj Forts in Maharashtra
17. Shivneri Fort
Shivneri Fort is famous for more than one reason. This fort is the birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj, located at Junnar, Pune. Therefore, it has to be on the top when it comes to Shivaji Maharaj forts in Maharashtra.
Today if you visit the fort, you can park your car at the base and climb to 400 steps to reach the top. On the way up, you will see 9 magnificent gates which was strategically built for protection. It was the location of military fortification for the Maratha Kingdom and Pune.
Location: Junnar, Maharashtra
Timing: 9am-5:30pm
18. Raigadh Fort
Raigadh Fort was the most important fort in the life of Shivaji. This was the fort that witnessed the coronation ceremony of courageous Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The fort is covered in a huge land area covered by green trees and forests.
You might have seen this fort in historical serials and movies. If you walk through the fort, you can see the ruins of palaces, water reservoirs, caves, etc. It is a treat to your eyes, and you can enjoy walking through history. This is also the death place of Shivaji and his wife. Therefore, you should plan to visit this fort next time.
Location: Raigad, Maharashtra
Timing: 6am-6pm
19. Torna Fort
Torna Fort or Prachandagad is one of the most beautiful forts in Maharashtra, located at the height of 1,400 meters above sea level. This fort is very significant in the life of Shivaji Maharaj as he captured this fort at the age of 16 years.
This is also a popular destination for trekkers. You can plan to visit the monsoon’s location as the surrounding would be greener and more astonishing. You will be amazed by the beauty of architecture and the forest view.
Location: Pune, Maharashtra
Timing: 9am-5:30pm
20. Pratapgad Fort
Pratapgad Fort is vital fort as Shivaji Maharaj built this fort in Satara, Maharashtra. The premises has two forts; one is located at the hilltop and another at south end. The historically important battle between Afzal Khan and Shivaji Maharaj was fought at this fort.
As the name suggest, the fort is truly a Valour Fort. You can visit this fort and reach the top to see the amazing view of the Western Ghats. So add this fort to the list of the places you wish to visit next. You can also visit the famous Mahabaleshwar hill station, which is just 25kms away from the site.
Location: Satara, Maharashtra
Timing: 7am-6pm
Conclusion
Maharashtra has been a state of political stronghold, which is reflected in its forts. There are hundreds of forts spread across the state that blend well with nature and make it into a beautiful place for nature lovers.
Out of more than 400 forts, we have listed 20 famous forts in this blog. We have also mentioned the location and timing to visit the fort. So, we hope you will visit some of these attractive visiting places to enjoy with family and friends.
Maharashtra Forts FAQs
There are more than 400 forts in Maharashtra which still exists.
Raigadh is the biggest fort in Maharashtra. You can read more about the fort in the blog above.
Many forts linked with Shivaji’s life were already built before he came to power; however, forts like Pratapgad and Sindhudurg fort were completely built in his instruction and vision.
Majorly, all the forts in Maharashtra were built by the Maratha Empire through various Peshwas and kings, including Chhatrapati Shivaji.
Maharashtra is the state with the most forts, close to 400 forts.
There are many astonishing forts in Maharashtra. You can go through the blog and pick up the best fort, according to you.
Agra Fort is the oldest forts in India. However, Panhala is one of the oldest forts in India.
The old name of Raigad Fort was Murumdev, and Shivaji ruled the kingdom from here. This was the capital of the Maratha Empire for 26 years.
Related Posts
April 4, 2023 Top 15+ Romantic Movies for Bollywood Lovers- January 3, 2023 12 Educational Websites in India to Consider in 2023
- February 24, 2021 BSNL Balance Check: How to know Data Balance, Talktime & Validity
- November 3, 2023 40 Best Happy Children’s Day Quotes to Send Out
