Forts are the relics of the past. People used to live within the fortifications to survive together. The small cities of ages are gone by which were used to dwell as well as attack. Visiting a fort takes you to a time wherein people lived clustered within the confines of the walls of the fort. Lonavala being a hilly terrain has many small forts mainly made during the times of the great Maratha king Shivaji. And, each one of Lonavala forts offers splendid views of the valley below. Some require a bit of a trek to the top which will get your adrenaline pumping. Here are a few of Lonavala forts for you
Rajmachi Fort, Lonavala
Rajmachi Fort is a place for nature lovers, trekkers, and outdoor campers. During the time of mid-June to mid-October, rainy season, this region is all the more beautiful with clouds, silvery waterfalls, streams, lush green forests, and meadows. Local families provide camping and accommodation to trekkers and people who visit the Fort. Lonavala to Rajmachi covers a distance of 15 km and it is almost a plain walk, though there are a few ups and downs on this path. It takes about 3 & a half hours to cover the distance on the trail. Rajmachi Fort has historical origins and is the ideal destination for a one day trek.
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Tikona Fort, Lonavala
Tikona additionally referred to as Vitandgad, is the dominant hill fort in Maval in western India. It is settled close to Kamshet, around 60 km from Pune. Hence, the fort situated here is known as Tikona Fort. The nearest village to the fort is called Tikona Peth. The 3500 ft high hill is pyramidal in shape and looks exactly like the name Tikona suggests, triangular. The fort is a trekking destination noted for the massive doors, the temple of Trimbakeshwar Mahadev, a series of seven water tanks and some Satvahan caves. Pawana Lake could be found at the summit of the Fort.
Lohagad Fort, Lonavala
This is one of many forts of Chhatrapati Shivaji, displaying the elements and styles of Maharashtrian architecture. The grandiosity of the structure has made it a renowned fort in all of its vicinity areas. Translated into ‘the Iron Fort’, this fort was once a house for prisoners during the reign of Shivaji. Later, it was a place for looted treasures.
A vigorous climb of about 11.2 km from Malavali Railway Station takes you to the ‘Iron Fort’, once a formidable battle-station of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The Fort commands a view of the surrounding hills and forests near Lonavala. The way to the fort during the monsoon is quite slippery and requires a bit of precaution. The fort is well maintained and hence, will not require much effort.
Korigad Fort, Lonavala
A fort built on an isolated hill, at a distance of about 24km from Lonavala. It tends to be the only fort atop a hill in the town. Situated near Aamby Valley, this small fort has a lot of ruins. There is a temple to its goddess Kori Devi along with other smaller temples dedicated to different gods. The walls and the gate of the fort are intact and have not withered away with time as most forts do. The fort houses many camping sites. Like all the other forts camping at this place can turn out to be one of the best experiences of your life.
Visapur Fort, Lonavala
Surrounded by a huge plateau, it is a historical fort, landmarking the lush green and mesmerizing mountains of Lonavala. At an associate altitude of 4,000 feet, the fort is famous for its protective walls and intricate designs. The fort has caves, cisterns of water, a decorated arch and vintage houses within & many temples devoted to Hanuman. This suggests that the residents were devout worshippers of Hanuman. The Fort is a tad higher than its twin fort of Lohagad. Needless to say, this monument of antiquity offers astounding views of the encompassing mountainous beauty.
Tunga Fort, Lonavala
Surrounded by the Pawna Lake on three sides this fort is also known as Kathingad. The word ‘kathin’ signifies difficult and climbing this fort can be a bit of challenge. The conical fort has steep climbs and a narrow route to the fort. From the Pawna dam below it is a 300 m trek to the top. Water has the capability of calming the observer. Tunga Fort offers a view of the lake below and the valleys near Lonavala which is a sure way to bliss. The Fort was once as a watchtower for the neighboring region. Hence, it is not very big
Here are some Popular Hill Station Points and Caves you must Visit at Lonavala
Ironically, the hill station of Lonavala is peppered with so many forts little wonder then that the Mughals had a tough time-fighting Shivaji. With so many small forts at high places, it must have been a commanding position for the Marathas. A sure shot visit for nature and history lovers. Happy traveling.
