Bhamer Fort

Situated on top of a hill and sited around 48 kilometers from the city of Dhule in Maharashtra, the Bhamer fort is unique. All quarters inside the fort are built like caves and are located underground. Yes, the Bhamer fort is famous because it is underground.

The fort, or whatever remains of it now, was constructed at the easternmost end of a rugged and asymmetrical range of hills that was artificially truncated from the rest of the range, thus creating some kind of a gorge. This provided extra protection to the fortification. Masonry work had reinforced the stronghold where nature had probably failed.

The major cave-like rooms face south-west. They were constructed in the same level such as those that can be found at Ellora in the district of Aurangabad. The initial set of caves (3) is interconnected, of which the middle one is the largest (24 sq. ft.). The subsequent set, also three in number, comprise one fairly large but irregularly shaped central cave, along with two smaller caves – all three are separated from each other by thinly structured partition walls. The roof of the central cave has supporting columns in the shape of rock-cut pillars.

While most of the caves served as living quarters for the inmate, others were used as water reservoirs. One particular cave which is shaped like a dungeon was used to house prisoners and convicts declared by the authorities. However, most of these are in ruins while some are inaccessible, too.

How to reach: First you must come to Dhule to visit the Bhamer fort. Dhule is just about an hour away from the fort. From Dhule, you can take a bus or hire a taxi. State and private buses, trains and flights can take you to Dhule.

The best option would be to make your base at Dhule before visiting the Bhamer fort. You will not be able to find any hotels in Bhamer fort, resorts in Bhamer fort or home stays in Bhamer fort.