Located less than 40 kms from Pune, Sinhagad is one of the most popular treks of the region. The Sinhagad Fort was known by the name “Kondana Fort ”. The Sinhagad is one of the most popular weekend destinations for many historical lovers.
Part of the strategically important triumvirate of Sinhagad, Rajgad and Torna, it has been the center One of the most famous forts of Maharashtra,
“Sinhagad Fort” is located in Pune district which has very huge importance in Maratha history and is an very important event of Shivaji Maharaj’s life.
Shivaji, Shahaji’s son, initiated Swarajya around the same time and refused to serve Adil Shah.
In an attempt to gain control of Kondana, in 1647, he convinced an Adilshahi Sardar, Siddi Amber, that he would manage and safeguard the fort optimally.
Sinhagad Fort History: 1
The presence of the Kaundinya Eshwar Temple and some carvings on the caves denote this possibility. Till the early 14th century, the fort was ruled by Nag Naik who was a Koli King. But, in 1328, it was captured by Muhammad bin Tughlaq.
Later on, when Pune was handed over to Shahaji Bhosale managed the fort. Shahaji served as a commander for Ibrahim Adil Shah I during the time.
Shivaji, Shahaji’s son, initiated Swarajya around the same time and refused to serve Adil Shah. In an attempt to gain control of Kondana, in 1647, he convinced an Adilshahi Sardar, Siddi Amber, that he would manage and safeguard the fort optimally. But instead, he took over the fort. Adil Shah imprisoned Siddi Amber and Shivaji’s father, Shahaji Bhosale. He later traded Shahaji’s release in return for the fort in 1649. However, Shivaji captured it again in 1656 with the help of Bapuji Mudgal Deshpande, his General.
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The Mughals also attacked the fort between 1662 and 1665 in order to acquire it. In 1665, the Treaty of Purandar was signed between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Jai Singh I and the fort was handed over to Jai Singh. But, once again, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj conquered it immediately after and managed it till 1689. After Sambhaji Bhosale’s passing, the Mughals took over. However, in 1693, the Marathas won it again and in 1703, it was conquered by Aurangzeb. 1706 onwards, till 1818, it was again under the Marathas and then taken over by the British.
Sinhagad Fort is built on a plateau on top of the Sahyadri mountains. The slopes of the mountains are steep and provide better defense against intruders. The historic structure is located over 1300 meters above sea level and around 750 meters above the base of the mountain.
What remains of the fort today are the ancient stone stairways that lead to one of the two entry gates, some strategically placed bastions and the walls that enclose the massive structure.
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The two entry gates are the Pune and Kalyan Darwaza which are located to the north-east and south-east sides of Sinhagad Fort respectively.
The fort also houses a temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, a brewery, some military sheds and the tombs of Rajaram Chhatrapati and Tanaji Malusare.
Other than sightseeing, trekking is a popular activity at Sinhagad Fort. Thrill seekers would find the steep slopes of the hill completely exhilarating to climb. Several beginner and intermediate level trekkers from around Pune head to Sinhagad Fort for an early morning trek. Those coming to explore the attraction can either opt to drive till the entrance and then walk to the Pune Darwaza or park their vehicles at the foothills and climb the steep slopes or take the stairways.
Sinhagad Fort is also famous for Maharashtrian food. Locals living nearby open up their shacks every morning and serve limited but delicious dishes that keep drawing visitors to the attraction every weekend.
So, after a complete hike through the mountains or after exploring the Sinhagad Fort, one can stop by at one of these shacks to relish some Pithla Bhakari/ Zunka Bhakari, Bhaji (pakoras/ fritters), Dahi (curd), Taak (buttermilk), lemonade, local fruits, etc.
how to reach:
From Pune Junction Railway Station and Pune Station Bus Stand, the route leading to Sinhagad Fort goes via Sanjay Gandhi Road and Sadhu Vaswani Road. Whereas, from Pune Airport, travelers would need to follow the route via Vishrantwadi Lohegaon Road.
Within the city, travelers can use public transport (city buses, auto rickshaws, OLA or Uber cabs) according to their convenience. Those who prefer driving their own vehicles can reach Donje Village and look for a safe parking spot at the base of Sinhagad Fort. From there, they can trek through the steep slopes or climb the stairs. From the base, one can also take a shared taxi ride till the entrance of the fort.
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