Skip to main content

A Glorious Legacy of the Maratha Empire

                                    FORTRESS OF ROYAL

Welcome to Maharashtra's historic gem, Raigad Fort! Situated atop the Raigad hill in the Raigad district, this magnificent fort holds great significance in the history of the Maratha Empire. Let's embark on a journey back in time as we explore the fascinating tales and architectural marvels of Raigad Fort.



A Capital Fit for Royalty  


 In the year 1674, the visionary Maratha king, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, chose Raigad Fort as the capital of his empire. This majestic fort became the nucleus of political, administrative, and military activities, symbolizing the strength and valor of the Marathas.
 

 Raigad Fort is situated atop the Raigad hill in the Western Ghats, approximately 820 meters (2,700 feet) above sea level. It is about 170 kilometers (105 miles) southwest of Mumbai and can be reached by road or a ropeway from the base village of Pachad.


                                                     Majestic Structures and Landmarks


                                              

 


    



The fort showcases impressive architectural features and engineering marvels. It is surrounded by massive fortification walls that enclose various structures such as the Raj Bhavan (the main palace), the Nagarkhana Darwaja (the main entrance), the Takmak Tok (a cliff-edge point for executions), and the Jagdishwar Temple (dedicated to Lord Shiva).



The Legend of Takmak Tok


One of the most intriguing spots within Raigad Fort is Takmak Tok, a cliff-edge point with a dark history. This location served as a chilling reminder of the strict discipline maintained by the Marathas. Traitors and prisoners were pushed off from Takmak Tok, their fate sealed in a terrifying drop. Today, it stands as a somber testament to the fort's resolve against treason.Takmak Tok is a cliff-edge point at Raigad Fort where prisoners were pushed off to their demise. It served as a deterrent to potential traitors and was a symbol of the strict discipline maintained by the Marathas.


Ropeway Adventure



For those seeking a convenient and scenic way to reach the top of Raigad Fort, a modern ropeway system awaits. Enjoy a breathtaking aerial view as you ascend to the fort, marveling at the surrounding landscapes and the fort's grandeur.


How to travel to tourist place

●    Air: The closest airport to Raigad is the Mumbai International Airport. (169 KM)

●    Railways: The closest railway station is the Veer Railway station which is 30 KM from the fort and is connected to Mumbai. 

●    Road: One may take the Mumbai-Goa highway (NH 17) up to a town called Mahad, Mahad is 28 KM from the fort, ST buses and private vehicles are available for transportation.

●    Way up to the Fort: There are two options to ascend the fort, one may trek their way up the fort, which is a climb of 1450 steps taking about 2-3 hours depending on one's pace and second being the Ropeway, through the ropeway one reaches the mountain top in only 5 minutes while enjoying the scenery around them.




Labels:

Popular posts from this blog

Forts in maharashtra

1. Sinhagad Fort Location:  Thoptewadi  Located close to the city of Pune, the Sinhagad Fort gets its name from the Marathi word Lion. One of the more popular forts in Maharashtra, Sinhagad Fort is believed to have been conquered by Tanaji Malusare’s brother from the Mughals. At the fort, you will see a few old stables that were believed to have been used by the Maratha army to keep their horses. There is also a memorial built in honour of Tanaji Malusare, a brave Maratha warrior. Inside the ruins of the fort also lies the tomb of Rajaram Chhatrapati and a small temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. 2. Rajgad Fort Location:  Balekilla Road The Rajgad Fort, Pune was built on the Murumbadevi Dongar Hills in the Sahyadris range. It was the first capital of Shivaji Maharaj and is also believed to be the place where Shivaji’s wife, Saibai, spent her last few days. Inside the Rajgad fort lie the ruins of palaces, caves and a few water cisterns. The Rajgad Fort near Pune is a popula...
Read more