Bhairavgad

The Bhairavgad Fort is located at a considerable height, twenty miles south-west of Patan and few more miles west of Mala. The fort sits on a rounded hill that forms an escarpment of the Sahyadri range. The hill also boasts of a temple dedicated to Bhairav. This is where the name comes from. The fort’s special significance lies in its apparent invisibility from a distance. It is nicely merged with the forest cover provided by the adjoining sanctuary. However, it is apparent from the construction that the fort was built largely for keeping vigil over the surrounding areas, and not for any warfare.

You should visit the Bhairavgad Fort for two very good reasons. Reason #1 – You should certainly go there if you are interested in Indian history or Maratha history. Reason #2 – Look at the place where it was constructed (the place was selected carefully so that the sentries could see an advancing army from a distance). Reach the top of the fort, and you will be able to get a bird’s eye view of the surrounding areas, including a vast vista of the Sahyadri range. The rolling hills and greenery looks nice. Any nature lover will love it here. The fact is that, there are many who take it up as a trekking challenge.

Experts have said that the Bhairavgad Fort is 2500 years old. Though there are not too many ruins left, but you can see the two big caves when you reach the top. Plus, there is that great view of the surroundings. Visit this fort on a weekend. You will love it.

How to reach: You will be able to visit the fort easily. If you are flying, then you must get down at Pune and then take a taxi from the airport. Taxis are available also at the Dhanawala Wada railway station. You can take a bus to reach Chiplun and travel from there as well.

You will be able to find some resorts in Bhairavgad Fort and hotels in Bhairavgad Fort. You can visit the fort from Pune as well. If you are a trekker, then you can stay at the caves.