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Perched at an altitude of 1,080m above sea level, Mahabaleshwar is a gorgeous hill station nestled in the Sahyadri mountain range of Western Ghats. Known for its captivating landscapes, emerald green forests, and serene valleys, it's no wonder Mahabaleshwar is often referred to as the Queen of Hill Stations.
As a nature lover and avid trekker, I frequently head to Mahabaleshwar for weekend getaways from Mumbai and Pune.
During one such trip, I decided to check out the 17th-century Pratapgad Fort. If stunning 360-degree views and intriguing history excite you as much as me, do add this place to your Mahabaleshwar itinerary.
Why Visit The Pratapgad Fort
Most tourists flock to popular sightseeing spots like Arthur's Seat and Elephant's Head Point during their Mahabaleshwar trips. Without a doubt, these places offer breathtaking sights of the valley and winding mountain roads.
However, if you wish to get a genuine taste of Mahabaleshwar's rich past filled with riveting stories of courageous Maratha rulers, the Pratapgad Fort totally fits the bill.
Perched atop a steep cliff at a height of 1,080m, Pratapgad Fort was constructed in the year 1656 under the orders of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (🙏🏻). He seized the fort to use it as a protective outpost for keeping an eye on enemy movements. The strong and strategic location of Pratapgad Fort near Mahabaleshwar made it an ideal vantage point.
Even today, trekking to this ancient fort fills you with a sense of adventure. The uphill climb might leave you huffing and puffing. But trust me, the sight that awaits you at the top makes all the effort worthwhile. Gazing at the panoramic aerial views of surrounding hills and valleys evokes a magical surreal feeling!
Since Pratapgad Fort holds high historic significance, it's been declared as a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India.
So if you're a history nerd who wishes to admire the excellent craftsmanship of centuries-old forts, Pratapgad offers the perfect offbeat experience for you.
How To Reach Pratapgad Fort
Before heading out to explore Pratapgad, it's essential to know exactly how to get there. Situated approximately 24 km from Mahabaleshwar, you cannot directly drive up to the fort base. Hiring a private taxi or using public transport to cover the initial 20 km distance is pretty convenient.
You'll reach a Check Post on the way where the trek for Pratapgad Fort officially starts. Private vehicles go no further from this point. There's a small fee of ₹25 per person that you need to pay at the Check Post for maintenance of steps and railings en route.
From here on, embark on an uphill trek of around 4 km which will eventually lead you to the mighty entrance of Pratapgad Fort. You'll pass through dense forests which provide welcome shade during summers. The pathway is interspersed by benches at periodic intervals in case you feel too exhausted and wish to take breather breaks.
On an average, it takes around 1 to 1.5 hours to complete the moderately challenging trek. But experienced trekkers can make it top in less than an hour too. Ensure you wear appropriate clothes and shoes to comfortably complete the climb without hurrying too much. Carry enough water and snacks to keep your energy levels high throughout.
Exploring The Fort And Its History
Once you manage to conquer the steep trek, a huge arch-shaped entrance welcomes you to Pratapgad Fort. As you catch your breath and take in the layout of this historical monument, a feeling of awe instantly grips you. Built entirely using black basalt rock, the fort's aged walls and bastions emit an aura of unmatched magnificence.
The first prominent structure greeting you inside the fort is Bharat Mata Mandir. Dedicated to Mother India, it has the Indian map beautifully engraved using multi-hued stones. Right next to it lies a polished stone idol of Lord Hanuman. Offer your prayers here before delving into the fort's glorious past.
There's a stone-carved statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (🙏🏻) riding his favorite stead inside the fort premises. Marvel at the fine details including Shivaji's signature headgear carrying his trademark crescent-moon symbol.
As you walk further through a Mango grove, you'll arrive at a water cistern filled with refreshing water. British officers have undertaken necessary repairs here to prevent the wastage of precious rainwater.
I recommend climbing up the fort bastions to relish unmatched views of lush green hills and misty valleys. Sit here observing cottony clouds floating by as you picture fierce battles fought by Maratha warriors to capture this fort from the Adil Shahi dynasty.
Can you envisage soldiers standing here on guard duty round the clock? Visuals of horses galloping on rugged terrain carrying important messages will play in your mind.
Don't miss checking out the fort's main attraction - a huge cannon called 'Nagarkhana' a.k.a snake pit. Weighing over 50 tonnes, stories claim it could fire up to a 30 km radius making it among Asia's largest cannon.
Unfortunately during monsoon, the cannon got struck by lightning damaging it forever. Still, the humongous structure lying defunct exudes brilliant workmanship.
Before heading back, grab a piping hot cup of tea sold by a humble village vendor outside. Nothing tastes better than garam chai (Hot Tea) after a day filled with immense thrill and visual delight.
Also read - How to Reach Mahabaleshwar from Mumbai
Tips For An Enjoyable Visit
Leave early and reach the fort by noon to avoid the scorching sun
Wear comfy sports shoes with proper grip and ankle support
Carry sufficient water, light snacks, a hat/cap, extra pair of clothes
Apply sunscreen, and carry medication if susceptible to altitude sickness
Visit during monsoon to witness greenery but be prepared to get wet
Avoid wearing jewelry and carrying heavy bags
Travel light without clutter to comfortably complete the uphill trek
Maintain silence near residential areas on the trail
I'm quite certain walking around this relatively untouched fort will prove extremely fulfilling for any history and architecture enthusiast. Despite being situated dangerously close to the cliff edge, proper care has been taken to ensure visitor safety.
Whether you're traveling solo or with family, keep at least 2 to 3 hours in hand for relaxed fort exploration. Don't shy away from interacting with the friendly and welcoming locals staying in nearby tribal villages.
For me, such meaningful conversations always enhance my overall travel experience.
Why Pratapgad Fort Stands Out
Compared to the world-renowned Sinhagad Fort near Pune, Pratapgad Fort lacks commercialization. Hence you get to soak in the magical old-world charm without disruptive noise or pollution. The lack of shops or eateries inside the fort adds to the surreal atmosphere taking you centuries back.
Another key aspect making Pratapgad stand out is minimal crowd even during weekends or holidays. Trekkers are mostly sincere individuals driven purely by historic interest rather than Instagram posts. Chances are high that you might end up having the entire fort to yourself for extended periods!
Add to this, the fort premises remain covered with foggy veils most times. Gazing through the misty layers while getting drenched in intermittent drizzle makes you feel like you are inside a fictional fairytale movie.
Also read - What to See in Mahabaleshwar - Best Attractions
Why Should You Visit Pratapgad Fort?
To conclude this detailed guide about Pratapgad Fort Mahabaleshwar, let me summarize key reasons convincing you to definitely pay a visit:
Get spectacular aerial views of valleys and waterfalls
Marvel at an outstanding historical monument
Understand intriguing stories of Maratha warriors
Embark on a moderate hill trek discovering natural beauty
Interact with tribal villagers to learn about local culture
Capture Instagram-worthy photos at a unique offbeat location
Relish hot snacks with refreshing tea after an exhilarating fort tour
Boost adrenaline rush by conquering steep climb leading to arch-shaped gates
Conclusion
I'm already planning another trip to explore Pratapgad Fort again during the monsoon. Hopefully, this travelogue offers you deeper insight for curating your Mahabaleshwar itinerary better. Instead of just casual sightseeing, take back enriching tales to share with family and friends for years.
Trust me, walking inside centuries-old forts transports you to a magical world filled with captivating history. It helps develop a deeper connection to our glorious past. The enthralling Pratapgad Fort experience will compel you to keep returning, just like me!
So are you game for this moderately challenging yet immensely rewarding adventure?