Historical

Those interested in history, find climbing up to the Shivneri Fort, the birthplace of Raja Shivaji, which is just 40 km away, a great emotional journey into the valiant past of the state.

Another worthy to watch spectacle in the hilly terrain of Mahabaleshwar is the Morarji Castle. An old structure that reflects the influence of the British style architecture, Morarji Castle allures the onlookers with its glittering appeal.

As a part of the freedom struggle Gandhiji came to Mahabaleshwar in 1945 and Morarji Castle was the place where the father of the nation liked to take his rest. There are also some other colonial structures in the near vicinity of this building.

John Malcom was one among the illustrious generals of the British troops. In 1828 he came to Mahabaleswar and he was very much impressed by the scenic charm of Mahabaleshwar. In fond remembrance of this great man, the most fabulous mansion of the colonial era was named after him.

The Pratapgarh Fort is the place from where the history of the Maratha Emperor Shivaji turned into a decisive course. This is here that Afzal Khan met his death.

The Pratapgarh Fort is 900 m above sea level. It is 24 km west of Mahabaleshwar. The fort from a distance gives the appearance of a round topped hill. The wall of the lower fort forms a sort of a crown round the brow.

The Fort was built in 1656 and it is a maze of ponds, chambers and long dark paths. Some of the paths lead to trap doors and the doors open to a 100 meter fall.

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Koregad Fort is an individual fort in a hillock which is not connected to other hills in Lonavala Region. About one hour trekking expedition is required to reach the top. This hillock is credited with few ponds and magnificent picturesque landscapes. This fort stands alone with grandiose solitude. The fort is in ruins and most of the structures of the fort are not visible nowadays.

One can get eye pleasing views of surrounding hilly terrains and other forts from the peak of this for

Lohagarh, literally means Iron fort, is an important hill fort used extensively by Chatrapati Shivaji. It has a long history and was used by all dynasties who ruled Vidharbha and Maratha kingdoms. The fort is placed at an altitude of more than 1050 meters. This fort is situated on the Sahyadri ranges and divides the Pavna basin and Indrayani basin.

Tikona Fort, also renowned as Vitandgad fort, is a major hill fort in Maval region near the Lonavala. Tikona fort, literally means triangle fort, had witnessed many dynasties ruled in the Maratha region. This was the nerve centre of the many activities of entire Malwan Pawna regions. The small hamlet close to the fort is Tikona peth. The fort’s mammoth entrance is a special attraction.

Tung Fort, also known as Kathingad, is a fort in the peak (tung means peak) and is very difficult to approach. The fort is in the Mawal region which was ruled by Maratha kings. The fort is constructed at a height of 3500 feet and about 1200 feet hilly terrain are with steep ascents.

Visapur fort is located at an altitude of nearly 4,000 ft above sea level in Lonavala. One has to do a real trekking expedition to reach this historical fort. It is believed that the fort is built centuries back and was thriving with many activities during the rules of many Maratha dynasties. Chathrapthi Shivaji was using this as a place to watch the movements in the downhill and the plains.

Presently the fort is in ruins and there is not much structure left in the fort. The scenic surroundings and the majestic panoramic views of the plains are the best attraction here.

The fort is a monument of historical importance and structural excellence. This centuries old construction stands proud and tall, still intact and in excellent condition. The lighthouse of the fort is amazing for its craftsmanship.

A historical monument, of vital importance, Devgad Fort is located at Devgad in Sindhudurg District of Maharashtra. Devgad town got its name from this legendary fort.

It is amazing to see that this centuries old fort has overcome the ravages of time. The walls and the structures of this fort are still intact and in good condition. Bounded by evergreen mangroves this fortified monument looks pretty good and make oneself to feel proud about the rich cultural heritage.