Mauryas and Yadavs to Bahmani and Deccan Sultanates to legendary Marathas – Maharashtra has been home to several dynasties across centuries. Today, these dynasties don’t exist but the forts built by them still stand tall and proud to tell their legendary stories.
Next time you are looking for sightseeing or trekking options for family, office or school trip, here are five forts in Mumbai and Maharashtra to visit:
1. Vasai Fort
Location: Vasai, Mumbai
It was this fort where Peshwa Bajirao II signed ‘The Treaty of Bassein’ with the British East India Company. This treaty laid the foundation for the downfall of the Maratha alliance. Hence, it is also known as Fort Bassein. This 500-year-old fort served as Portuguese headquarters before the Britishers claimed it.
Though the fort is in ruins, it is a heritage site protected under the Archaeological Survey of India. You can explore the watchtower, citadels, chapels, carvings, and inscriptions here. Many Bollywood movies such as Josh, Khamoshi, and Luka Chuppi have been filmed at this fort.
You can easily reach this fort with your group on a bus on hire.
2. Sewri Fort
Location: Sewri, Mumbai
Built-in the 16th century, Sewri Fort was a strategic location for the Portuguese and Britishers. The beauty of this fort lies in the fact that it is situated at a hillock from where you can enjoy a wonderful view of the seashore from one side.
You can walk around the central court, partially-underground vaulted halls and terrace. If you visit in February, you might get lucky and spot migratory pink flamingo birds!
You can reach here via a mini bus and then take a flight of steps to enter the fort.
3. Malhargad Fort
Location: Kalewadi, Maharashtra
A perfect place for trekkers, campers, and adventure enthusiasts, Malahargad Fort has its origins in the 17th century. The highest point of this fort is 3100 feet and the trail offers a magnificent view of the surroundings.
Some of the sightseeing spots here are temples, dry wells and a pond. While the fort is dilapidated, the ancient architecture is still worth the praise.
You can take a road trip to reach the base of the fort and then climb your way to the top.
4. Murud – Janjira Fort
Location: Raigad District, Maharashtra
This is one of the most scenic marine forts in Maharashtra. It is located on Murud village island and is known as ‘Janjira Killa’ among the locals. Surrounded by the Arabian Sea on all sides, it remained unconquered despite several attacks.
Three huge canons inside the fort give you a glimpse into its history. Another highlight here is a sweet water pond which is a stark contrast to salty sea water outside the fort.
You can reach Rajapuri in a tempo traveller and then take a ferry service to the fort.
5. Pratapgad Fort
Location: Satara District, Maharashtra
This fort is famous for the historical battle between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Bijapur Sultanate commander Afzal Khan. You will need to climb up more than 400 steps to make your way to the fort as it is situated at a height of 3500 feet.
The fort gives you a splendid view of the coastal Konkan from the top. Two major attractions here are Tulja Bhavani temple and the tomb of Afzal Khan.
The fort gives you a splendid view of the coastal Konkan from the top. Two major attractions here are Tulja Bhavani temple and the tomb of Afzal Khan.
Your bus can drop you at the foothill of the fort and then you have to take the stairs.
How to Rent a Bus from Mumbai?
SimplyTrip has strong experience in group tours to these forts. You can hire a mini bus or a tempo traveller based on your group size. Our drivers are well-trained to navigate through tough terrains so that you can travel comfortably and enjoy your trip completely.
This fort is famous for the historical battle between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Bijapur Sultanate commander Afzal Khan. You will need to climb up more than 400 steps to make your way to the fort as it is situated at a height of 3500 feet.
Get in touch to know more!