Galna Fort

The twin fort of Galna that lies around 23 kilometers north of Malegaon in Nasik district of Maharashtra is indeed steeped in history. Although now in complete ruins, the fort was once considered as a formidable one in the region. It was a stronghold of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, who captured it 1704. Subsequently in 1818, the fort was occupied by a company of local infantry.

The Galna fort can be approached through a broad flight of stone steps that leads to one of its four gateways – Lokhandi, Parkot, Kotval Pir and Lakha. The Lokhandi entryway has reinforcements in the form of iron plates, while the upper walls of the fort have bastions that are semicircular in shape and design. Since they were made of solid stone, the construction was almost indestructible for the 15^th century enemy.

The Galna fort has a number of unique features. There is a mosque which does not have a dome over its head but six such domes that adorn its roof. Then there is the camouflaged rear exit through which the residents could escape during a raid. But wait a minute; it has yet another object that surrounds in mystery – the grave of a European army officer serving under the Mughal. It is said that he committed suicide for causing unintentional death of a native woman. Trek through the ruins of this 15^th century fort to read the inscriptions posted on the mausoleum. However, don’t try to use the camouflaged rear exit, since it now leads to a deep ditch located at the rear end of the fort.

How to reach: The best way to reach the Galna fort is either from Malegaon or Nasik. Both these cities have busy railway stations that connect rest of the country. People coming from far can take the flight, reach Mumbai or Pune and then take connecting transportation. There are regular private and public buses too that can take you to Malegaon. Hire an auto rickshaw from here to visit the fort. It is very close.

It is best that you stay in Malegaon to visit the fort. You won’t find any hotels near Galna fort, cottages near Galna fort or home stays near Galna fort.