Pratapgarh Fort
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj built Pratapgad Fort, a mountain fort. The fort is located 24 kilometres from the hill station of Mahabaleshwar. The fort commands a commanding view of the Konkan coast. Other attractions include the Bhavani Temple and Afzal Khan's tomb. In 1656, Pratapgad Fort was built by the famous minister Morepant Pingale at the command of Shivaji Maharaj to control the rebellious satraps of the surrounding Javali Basin. At the temple of Goddess Bhavani here, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaja is said to have been blessed with a shining sword. At Pratapgad, the historic battle occurred between Chhatrapati Shivaji and Afzal Khan, the commander of the Bijapur Sultanate.
Shivaji built the Pratapgad Fort in 1656 to defend the banks of the Nira and Koyna rivers and the Par Pass. This fort is well-known for the famous Pratapgarh battle. The defence is divided into two sections: lower and upper citadel. The upper fort, located northwest of the fort, is built on the crest of the hill and includes the temple of Lord Mahadev. The lower fort is situated southeast of the defence and defended by 10-12 meter towers and bastions. The following are some of the top tourist attractions near Pratapgad Fort.
Pratapgad, also known as Pratapgarh, is a large hill fort in Maharashtra's Satara district, 20 kilometres from Mahabaleshwar, 140 kilometres from Pune, and 221 kilometres from Mumbai. It is one of the best heritage places to visit near Mumbai and one of the most popular attractions not to miss when visiting Mahabaleshwar.
The fort is located at an elevation of 1080 meters and is built on a spur overlooking the road between the villages of Par and Kinesvar. The Maratha king, Shivaji Maharaj, had commissioned his prime minister, Moropant Pingle, to construct this fort to defend Nira and the Koyna River banks and guard the Par pass. It is one of the most beautiful places in Mahabaleshwar to visit. The construction of the fortress was finished in 1656. On November 10, 1659, the fort witnessed the historic Battle of Pratapgarh between Shivaji and Afzal Khan, the commander of the Bijapur Sultanate. After losing the third Anglo-Maratha War in 1818, the Maratha forces were forced to surrender the Pratapgad Fort.
History of the Pratapgad Fort
Pratapgad Fort, located in the Sahyadri range of mountains in Maharashtra, India, was built in 1656 by Shivaji Maharaj. The fort was built to serve as a strategic outpost for Shivaji's Maratha kingdom and overlooks the Bhor Ghat pass, an important trade route connecting the Deccan plateau with the coastal region.
The fort was pivotal in Shivaji's military campaigns against the Mughal Empire and the Sultanate of Bijapur. In 1659, Shivaji Maharaj defeated Afzal Khan, a general of the Adilshahi Sultanate of Bijapur, in a battle at the fort. This victory boosted Shivaji's confidence and cemented his position as a formidable military leader.
The Pratapgad Fort remained under Maratha control until 1761 when the British East India Company captured it during the Third Anglo-Maratha War. The British later abandoned the fort, and it fell into ruin. However, it was restored by the Indian government in 1957 and is now a popular tourist destination.
The Architecture of the Pratapgad Fort
Pratapgad Fort is located in the Sahyadri mountain range in Maharashtra. The fort was built in 1656 by Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. It is one of the most important forts in Maharashtra and has been declared a monument of national importance by the Archeological Survey of India.
The Pratapgad Fort is an excellent example of 17th-century military architecture. The defence is built on two levels: the upper level is designed for artillery, and the lower level for infantry. The fortifications include a series of bastions, walls, and gates. A double row of cannons defends the main entrance of the fort.
The Pratapgad Fort was the site of the famous Battle of Pratapgad between Shivaji Maharaj and Afzal Khan, the general of the Sultan of Bijapur. This battle was a turning point in Shivaji's fight for independence from Bijapur and established his reputation as a military genius.
The Significance of the Pratapgad Fort
Pratapgad Fort is located in the district of Raigad in Maharashtra. The fort was built in 1656 by Shivaji Maharaj, the great Maratha warrior king. It is one of the most significant forts in Maharashtra and has been declared a monument of national importance by the Archaeological Survey of India.
The Pratapgad Fort was built at a strategic location which helped Shivaji Maharaj to keep a check on the activities of the enemy. It was also used as a base for launching attacks on the enemy. The fort played an essential role in the battle of Sinhagad, which was fought between Shivaji Maharaj and Afzal Khan, the general of the Adilshahi Sultanate. This was one of the most important battles fought during Shivaji Maharaj's reign, resulting in his victory over Afzal Khan.
The Pratapgad Fort has witnessed many historical events essential to Maharashtra's history. It is a must-visit place for all interested in learning about Maratha's history.
The location of the Pratapgad Fort
Pratapgad Fort is located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, India. It was built in 1656 by Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. The defence is about 1,400 meters above sea level and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
When to go
Pratapgad Fort is located in Maharashtra, India. The best time to visit the fort is between October and March.
Tips for visiting
Wear comfortable shoes:
Pratapgad Fort is located atop a hill, so you'll be doing a lot of walking. Comfortable shoes are a must!
Bring water and snacks:
The fort has no food or drink vendors, so pack your own.
Start early:
The fort gets crowded later in the day, so it's best to arrive early and beat the crowds.
Explore all the levels:
There are three levels to explore at Pratapgad Fort, each with unique views. Don't miss out on any of them!
Pratapgad Fort is a beautiful and historic fort located in Maharashtra, India. It offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is an excellent destination for history buffs and nature lovers. If you're ever in the area, check out this great fort!
Places To Visit Near Pratapgarh Fort
Thoseghar Waterfalls:
Thoseghar Waterfalls is a popular tourist attraction located near Pratapgarh Fort. It is a series of waterfalls nestled amidst lush greenery and rocky cliffs. The main waterfall has a height of around 500 feet, and the site offers a breathtaking sight, especially during the monsoon season.
Mahabaleshwar:
Mahabaleshwar is a scenic hill station situated near Pratapgarh Fort. Known for its pleasant weather, stunning viewpoints, and strawberry farms, it offers a refreshing getaway. Visitors can explore attractions like Arthur's Seat, Pratapgad Fort, Venna Lake, and Wilson Point, the highest point in Mahabaleshwar.
Lingmala Waterfall:
Lingmala Waterfall is another captivating waterfall near Pratapgarh Fort. It cascades down from a height of approximately 600 feet amidst dense forests. The waterfall offers a serene and picturesque setting, and visitors can enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pool formed at its base.
Tapola:
Tapola, often called the "Mini Kashmir of Maharashtra," is a scenic village near Pratapgarh Fort. It is situated on the Shivsagar Lake's banks, known as the "Mini Kashmir Lake." Visitors can indulge in boating, kayaking, and other water sports activities while enjoying the stunning views of the Sahyadri hills.
Panchgani:
Panchgani is a charming hill station situated near Pratapgarh Fort. It is known for its scenic beauty, lush green valleys, and pleasant climate. Visitors can explore viewpoints like Table Land and Sydney Point, enjoy strawberry picking at local farms, and indulge in adventure activities like paragliding.
Kaas Plateau:
Kaas Plateau, known as the "Valley of Flowers of Maharashtra," is a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Pratapgarh Fort. It is renowned for its vibrant and diverse range of wildflowers that bloom during the monsoon season. The plateau offers a surreal and picturesque landscape, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
Wai:
Wai is a historic town situated near Pratapgarh Fort. It is known for its ancient temples, ghats (steps) along the Krishna River, and scenic beauty. Visitors can explore popular attractions like the Dholya Ganapati Temple, Nana Phadnavis Wada, and Krishna Ghat. Wai is also a popular filming location for Bollywood movies.
Nearby Places
Mumbai
Ajanta And Ellora Caves
Panchgani
Mahabaleshwar
Lonavala
Rajmachi
Alibaug
Khandala
