Rangana

In the old days, forts and bastions were built at strategic points. Usually they were located on a mountain pass, on the sea beach to stop approaches from the water, on important trading routes, or closer to a border between two states. Some were also built at inaccessible regions where the enemy would find it difficult to launch an attack. But in some rare cases, the forts were constructed at places where scenic beauty superseded everything else. Rangana Fort is a perfect example of this. It is located within the jagged peaks and deep valleys of the Shiyadri Range in Maharashtra. The fort at an altitude of 2600 feet is almost inaccessible. It was considered undefeatable. Today, it is a feast for the eyes.

It dates back to the reign of the Shilahar Dynasty. The fort was built by King Bhoja, was captured later by the rulers of the Bahamani Kingdom, and then by Adil Shah. The legendary Maratha leader Shivaji recaptured the fort by slaying Afzal Khan, a commander of the Adil Shahi dynasty in a spectacular duel.

Rangana is a colossal fort. There are several gates and many structures and massive weaponry within its boundary. During its heydays, there were three lakes within its compounds that supplied water for the army stationed inside. Today of course, the lakes are not serving the same purpose. It also served as a surveillance point for military personnel in those days as it offered unrestricted view of areas far and wide.

You should certainly visit this fort if you are interested in Indian and Maratha history. The Rangana Fort is a great weekend trip.

How to reach: You have to trek to reach the fort. There are two trekking routes – from Patgaon in Kolhapur and Narur in Sindhudurga. The fort is located in the border of these two districts, and can thus be approached from both the sides. You can take a taxi or bus from Kolhapur to reach the base villages. You must walk from here.

There are no resorts in Rangana Fort or hotels in Rangana Fort. You can only camp here. You will find a room in Kolhapur. Tourists come from Goa too.