Prachitgad

The Sahyadri mountain range in the Indian state of Maharashtra is literally dotted with innumerable forts. These forts were constructed to offer protection against enemies during war. However, many of these were also constructed to guard critical trading routes. But a lot more were built to protect the 60 ghats (of the Western Ghat Mountains) in the Sahyadri range. In another age, the forts at Lohgad and Visapur near Lonavala were used for this. Another example of this is the Prachitgad Fort. This fort is also known as Uchitgad or Rangna. It is located on the western edge of the Chandoli National Park in the Ratnagiri district at Shringarpur. The Prachitgad Fort is today a noteworthy tourist spot. Thousands of people come here to learn about history and see its natural splendors.

Historians are unsure about the exact year of its construction. However most of them agree that it was established before 1500. It was constructed by the ancestors of Rana Suryarao Surve. This fort has witnessed the battle between the Maratha and the British. The British regiment was able to defeat the brave Maratha warriors and strengthen their hold over the country.

The fort originally was protected by two walls – an inner wall, and the outer wall. You can to this day see the outer wall. The inner wall has however collapsed totally. There is also a temple within the fort, a deep well, and five guns. You can see them all on a weekend visit. The Prachitgad Fort today provides ample opportunities for trekking. There are numerous alleys and hidden pathways through which you have to pass to reach the entrance.

How to reach: Take the train or bus from Mumbai or Pune to visit Ratnagiri. Buses and trains leave throughout the day. You must hire a taxi at the airport or railway station to visit the fort. Of course, if you are driving your own vehicle, then you can reach up to the entrance of the fort.

It is best that you visit this fort from Ratnagiri, which is quite close. You will only find basic hotels near the Prachitgad Fort and home stays close to the Prachitgad Fort.