Lohagad Fort

Resting on top of a hill, 3400 feet high, the Lohagad Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its perfect blend of architecture and natural beauty. The trek to the fort is an easy one, which makes this point a favorite among first-time trekkers and nature lovers too and it is one of the most famous monuments in Maharashtra.
History says that Shivaji Maharaj used to hide his treasury in the fort when the Marathas ruled over it. For this reason, and the abundant beauty around the fort, tourists from near and far visit this spot, especially in the monsoons.

History

This fort is of considerable historical significance and was under the reign of various rulers during various periods. It was captured by the Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Satavahanas, Yadavas, Bahamanis, Mughals, Nizams and finally, the Maratha ruler Shivaji Maharaj captured it in the year 1648 C.E. He was compelled to surrender the fort in the year 1670C.E. by the Treaty of Purandar. Later this fort was used as a residence of the Peshwa, Nana Phadnavis and he built a couple of structures within the fort, like a step-well and a big tank. Now the fort is a heritage tourist site in Maharashtra.

Architecture

Perched at 3400 ft, Lohagad Fort is a vast fort spread far wide. It constitutes four entrances namely Ganesh Darwaja, Narayan Darwaja, Hanuma Darwaja, and Maha Darwaja from the nearby village. One can see some beautiful sculptures carved out on the Maha Darwaja. Its most famous spot is Vinchu Kata, a range of hills that looks like Capricorn.