The city of Pune is also known as the cultural capital of Maharashtra. The forts in and around Pune are synonymous with Pune’s rich history and culture, especially with the great Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
These forts are ideal for trekking and many adventure lovers and trekkers head to them on weekends, especially during monsoons. There are many easy forts in and around the city if you want something more relaxing.
So, here is a guide to Pune forts that may be a part of your Bucket List!
A List of 10 Forts in Pune for You Must Visit
1. Sinhagad Fort
Sinhagad or Lion Fort was named so to honour Tanaji Malusare, who lost his life while fighting the Mughals in the Battle of Sinhagad in 1670.
Formerly known as Kondhana, it is located around 35 km from Pune city and is a favourite spot for many tourists. It is also accessible by road, for those who don’t wish to trek. For trekking enthusiasts, it is an easy to medium-grade trek to reach the top.
The fort has two entrances- the Pune Darwaja and the Kalyan Darwaja. On the top of the fort is a memorial dedicated to Tanaji Malusare and also a few temples. The lush-green scenery looks even more beautiful with a cup of chai and piping hot kanda bhaji in hand. There are many local shops selling these delicacies on the fort.
2. Purandar Fort
Purandar Fort, the birthplace of Sambhaji (son of Shivaji Maharaj) is located around 4500 feet above sea level. It is believed that the Yadava dynasty built this fort in the 11th century.
The Persians won the fort from the Yadavas in a battle and later, Shivaji Maharaj gained control of it in the 17th century.
A 1.5-2 hours’ drive away from Pune, there are many relics and temples on this fort. Famous for its Dilli Darwaza, this fort is ideal for a one-day trip or trek.
3. Rajgad Fort
Rajgad Fort, formerly known as Murumdev was the first capital of the Maratha Empire under the rule of Shivaji Maharaj. It is located around 60km from the city of Pune and it takes around 2.5 hours to reach the top via Pali. It is known for its Balekilla or fort.
This fort has been a witness to many important events such as the birth of Shivaji Maharaj’s son Rajaram and the death of his wife Saibai and the return of Shivaji Maharaj from Agra.
You can enter the fort through Padmavati Machee, Pali Darwaza or Suvela Machee.
4. Torna Fort
The Torna Fort was the first fort captured by Shivaji Maharaj and is situated at an elevation of 4600 feet above sea level. Many trekkers throng this fort and the best time to visit is between September and December.
It takes around 4 hours to reach the top and one can witness important places such as Menghai Goddess Temple, Budhla Machee, Zunjar Machee and Bini Darwaza en route.
One has to reach Velhe to start the trek to Torna Fort, formerly known as Pranchandagad.
5. Tikona Fort
Famous for its triangular structure, the Tikona Fort is a trekking hotspot. The huge and colossal entrance of this 3500 feet high fort is its highlight.
It is also known for its Trimbakeshwar Mahadev Temple, water tanks, Satavahana-era caves and also the wonderful views of the Pavna dam from the top.
This fort is located around 50 km from Pune and it takes around an hour to reach the top from the base.
6. Lohagad & Visapur Fort
The Lohagad and Visapur forts are easily accessible from Malavali, near Lonavala.
The views from the top of the Lohagad fort are breathtaking and the climb to reach the fort is also easy.
Visapur Fort is the twin fort of Lohagad, but it is massive and more difficult to climb. There are caves and water cisterns on the fort. It is also known for Hanuman carving.
7. Tung Fort
Tung Fort, also known as Kathingad has a conical shape and steep steps. One has to take a narrow path carved into a fairly vertical cliff, making it difficult to climb.
Tung Fort is accessible from Tungwadi village situated near Lonavala. The fort was a perfect watchtower to guard the road to Pune city from the invaders due to its location and difficulty of access.
8. Rohida Fort
Located around 66 km from Pune, this fort is known for its Rohideshwar Temple. Also known as Vichitragad, it was built during the rule of the Yadavas. Shivaji Maharaj handed this fort over to the Mughals in the Treaty of Purandar.
An hour-long hike is required to reach the top and offers a brilliant experience to the trekkers. The best time to visit this fort is during monsoons.
9. Shivneri Fort
Shivneri Fort is the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. Shiv Kunj, a memorial of Shivaji Maharaj is located in the centre of the fort. This fort is situated in Junnar which is around 93 km from Pune city.
This fort is also famous for the Temple of Goddess Shivai. This fort is one of the prominent tourist attractions in Maharashtra.
10. Rajmachi Fort
The Rajmachi Fort is surrounded by beautiful waterfalls. It was built by the Satavahanas and has two citadels- Shrivardhan and Manoranjan.
The best time to visit this fort is from June to October. The rainy season gives you a chance to witness the lush greenery, hills and waterfalls surrounding this majestic fort.
It takes around half an hour to reach the top, but if you decide to start from Kondana Caves, it takes around 3-4 hours.
Trivia
How Many Forts in Pune?
There are more than 20 Forts in the Pune District.
Which is the Most Popular Fort in Pune?
Sinhagad or formerly Kondhana is the most popular fort in Pune. Over 3000 visitors visit this fort on the weekend.
Which is the Best Fort in Pune?
Purandar, the birthplace of Sambhaji Maharaj, is known as the most attractive fort in Pune.
Which is the Largest Fort in Pune?
Rajgad, which is located 4514 feet above sea level, is known as the largest fort in Pune. It is the biggest fort in terms of area.
Which is the Oldest Fort in Pune?
Sinhagad is the oldest fort located in Pune city.
Which is the Tallest fort in Pune?
Torna Fort, with an elevation of 4600 feet above sea level, is the tallest fort in Pune. It is the highest hill-fort in Pune district.
