Sinhagad or Kondana is a pride of the southwestern region of Pune. This fort was the one to support Maharashtra during the ancient battles. Sinhagad battle of 1671 is the significant one. Bhuleshwar range of the great Sahyadris is the home to this historical monument.
The fortress has an elevation of around 1312 m above the sea level. Sinhagad has got its own breakneck slopes to protect it from all sides.
There are two entrances to this fort – one in the north-eastern region (Pune Darwaza) and another one towards the southeastern part (Kalyan Darwaza). The authenticity and the richness of Sinhagad fortress date back to around 1000 years.
This is evident from the carvings present on the walls of Kaundinya Eshwar temple there. Sinhagad is valued as a true sightseeing heritage.
To begin your sightseeing adventure, you have Rajaram’s tomb which is worth a visit. The fortress displays some of the adorable monoliths of Tanaji Malusare – one of the efficient safe-keepers of the fort from Shivaji Maharaj’s era.
Besides these crucial displays, the fortress has got its own military depot, a Kali temple, breweries, and a Hanuman effigy.
Pune Darwaza, Kalyan Darwaza, Tilak Bungalow, Hawa Point, Kade Lot, Amruteshwar Temple, Tanaji Samadhi and Memorial raises the elegance of this fortress even today.
Summiting the fortress offers some stunning views of the Khadakwasla Dam from one end; while from its other side, you can see glimpses of Torna Fort.
HISTORY OF SINHAGAD FORT:
Initially known as Kondana, the fortress of Sinhagad, this place has contributed a lot to the Battle of Marathas. Carving on the Kondeshwar temple walls indicates that the fort has been built around 1000 years ago.
Until the 14th century, the region was under the rule of a Koli king, Nag Naik. In 1328 A.D., this region was seized by Muhammad Bin Tughlaq. Later on, the responsibility of the administration of Pune came to Shahaji Raje Bhosale.
It was during the same period when Shivaji (son of Shahaji) came ahead with the oath of establishing swarajya. He convinced the Adil Shahi Sardar, Siddhi Ambar that he wants to manage the Sinhagad fortress and safeguard it. Instead, the fort was taken over by him.
Meanwhile, Adil Shah imprisoned both Shahaji Raje and Siddh Amber.
Unfortunately, Shivaji had to hand over the fort in return for the release of his father. Within the next seven years, Shivaji Maharaj succeeded in capturing the fortress back again with pride.
Later, the fort even faced many attacks by the Mughals between the period from 1662 to 1665.
Treaty of Purandar signed in the year 1665 forced Shivaji Maharaj to handover the fortress to Jai Singh. Immediately, Shivaji Maharaj conquered the fort and succeeded in managing it until 1689.
With Sambhaji Maharaj’s passing away, Mughals got a hold of the fortress.
It was back in the year 1693 that it was conquered by the Marathas. However, in 1703, Mughals once again succeeded in establishing their supremacy here. From 1706 to 1818, the fortress was under the management and supervision of the Maratha rulers. Later, Britishers succeeded in conquering it.
The architecture of Sinhagad Fort: Sinhagad fortress is set atop a plateau of Sahyadri mountains with steep slopes. These steep slopes were meant to defend the fortress against the intruders.
This historic landmark has an elevation of 1300 meters above the sea level and rises high at 750 meters from the mountain’s base.
The ancient stone stairways of this fortress mark their presence even today. These stone stairways lead you towards the strategically located bastions, two entrances, and the walls that enclose this magnificent structure.
There are two prime entrances to this fortress – one towards the northeastern region (Pune Darwaza) and the second one towards the south-eastern region (Kalyan Darwaza). There’s a famous Kali temple, some military sheds, breweries, the tomb of Rajaram Raje, and the tomb of Tanaji Malusare within.
Besides, the fort also features a 350-year old memorial of Shivaji Maharaj’s brave military leader – Tanaji Malusare.
Trek Route to Sinhagad Fort, Pune: Night trekking from Katraj to Sinhagad Fort is one of the critical adventurous activities to enjoy here at Sinhagad. Your adventure will begin from Old Katraj Tunnel Top and lead you through a mountain chain stretching along 16 kilometres distance.
The trekking route is blessed with ample sightseeing adventures such as hills and mountain ranges. Owing to its moderate difficulty, this adventure activity is ideal for both beginners and professional trekkers.
HOW TO REACH SINHAGAD FORT
Pune Airport is the nearest airport to the Sinhagad fortress. Once you get down, you can either travel via state-run or private buses or opt for private cab service to drive you to the Sinhagad fortress. Here are some other alternatives before you.
1. By rail: Pune Railway Station is the nearest of all the stations to get to the Sinhagad Fort. From here, you can either opt for a private cab service or choose for local bus transport to take you to the fort.
2. By road: Your journey from Pune to Sinhagad will be for an hour and 15 minutes. You can opt for a private cab service or Uber cab service or Ola to drive you between the two points.
3. By bus: Plenty of bus services are there to drive you between these two points. You need to visit the Pune Bus Stand to find the buses to prefer.
Alternatively, MSRTC also provides deluxe bus services from Pune Bus Stand to Sinhagad fortress. Besides, Sinhagad is also connected to Mumbai, other regions of Pune and Nagpur via state-run buses from MSRTC.
If you need some help while traveling, please tell us exactly how to get there. For the nearest bus station, train station, airport, accommodation, meals, etc. contact me on email parkhenandu1@gmail.com
