Malhargad
Looking for a weekend travel destination? Want to add some history and adventure to your trip? The Malhargad fort could be the right choice from Mumbai, Pune and other parts of the state.
Malhargad fort is named after God Malhari. This is a hill fortress that was built on a split section of the Sahyadri mountain range. It is located about 30 kilometers from Pune. In fact, the split in the hill range occurs at a point which is somewhat west of Pune. While forts such as Rajgad and Torna are on one branch, Singhagad, Vajragad, Purandar and Malhargad are located on the other. Incidentally, this is the last hilltop stronghold that the Marathas built for self defense during the closing years of the 18th century.
This relatively small fort was constructed by Krishanji Madhavrao Panse, chief of Tofkhana of the Peshwas, the ruins of whose palace lies in the Sonori village situated at the base of the hill. Apparently, the fort was erected to keep vigil on Dive Ghat along the Pune-Saswad route.
The Malhargad fort has not seen much warfare, and so is still in a reasonably good condition. There are two temples constructed side-by-side. The smaller temple is dedicated to Lord Khandoba, and the larger temple houses Lord Mahadeva. The fort also offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area. Reach the top and you can see the larger forts all around such as Singhgad, Purandar and Vajragad. There are a couple of tanks or ponds located within the fort complex. But these have dried up long ago.
How to reach: The easiest way to reach the fort will be through Sonori village which is situated at the base of hill. As for public transport, there are daily bus services that go to Sonori from Sasvad. Once you reach the village, climb up to the fort entrance by using the ridge of the hill, keeping along the side of the fort tower. It won’t take more than half an hour to reach the main gate.
You won’t find any resorts in Malhargad fort, and hotels in Malhargad fort. If you want to stay overnight, then you can camp in the temple. It can house 5-6 people.
