15 Forts in Satara District

Forts near Satara

Pratapgad Fort, Bhushangad Fort, Kamalgad Fort, Sajjangad Fort, Ajinkyatara Fort, Chandan Fort, Pandavgad Fort, Kenjalgad Fort, Bhairavgad Fort, Kalyangad Fort, Vasota Fort, Vasantgad Fort, Vandhan Fort, Dategad Fort, Mahimangad Fort.

The remnants of Valour, Vigour and Greatness, the forts in Satara District speak of all the events and centuries they have withstood with galore. Situated in the hills and jungles of the Sahyadri Ranges and other sound locations of Satara, all the forts like Vasota, Pratapgad, Ajinkyatara etc. were strategically built for defence from enemy attacks as well as a peaceful abode for the royals.Almost all of the forts near Satara were built around the 10th-12th centuries, by the prehistoric dynasties that ruled the lands.

Later, the stronghold of the Mughals resulted in the occupancy of most of these citadels until Marathas came along, defeated the predecessors and took control. Thus, these immaculate pieces of architecture are also historically significant to shaping Maharashtra's heritage. Although, in the present times, these forts catch tourists' attraction for the many adventures and experiences they offer, such as - treks, camping, picnic, photography, tours and more during a fun outing.

Here is the list of best forts in Satara district:

01

Pratapgad Fort

Translating to ‘the Fort of Valour’, Pratapgad is one of the most significant Forts in Satara District, located in the verdant Western Ghats, at an altitude of 1080 metres above sea level. The same fort has also been a part of the historic ‘Battle of Pratapgad’, fought between Chatrapati Shivaji and Afzal Khan in 1659.

It was built in 1656 upon getting commissioned by the Maratha king Shivaji and has served as residence and defence to many reigns over centuries. Currently, the site is debilitating but still strong enough, to entertain adventurers, nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Location: Maan Rd, Hinjawadi, Pune, Maharashtra 400033

Distance from Satara: 86.9 kilometres

02

Bhushangad Fort

Next on the list of 'Hill Forts in Satara District' is Bhushangad Fort. Built during the Devagiri Yadavas dynasty between 1210 – 1247 CE, it is one of the oldest such establishments in the region. The oval shape and a flat top design of the Fort make it stand out from the rest of the forts near Satara.

Also, within the premises are two temples of - Maruti and Harini Devi, both of which can be explored during a visit. Besides that, one can also enjoy trekking and set camp at the Fort for a truly memorable experience.

Location: Bhushangad, Khatav Taluka, Satara District, Maharashtra 415538

Distance from Satara: 52.6 kilometres

03

Kamalgad Fort

Situated at an elevation of 4511 feet above sea level, Kamalgad is a square-shaped hill fort which is among the prominent forts in Satara District. From its impressive height, visitors often savour views of the lush landscapes and the afar Dhoom Dam, for which they trek to the top.

Furthermore, the history of this fort’s builder or commissioner is unknown. But the Kamalgad Fort was among one of the many others that were a part of the Bijapur ruling, which was later in 1818 seized by the British army to use as an execute site for war prisoners

Location: Wai Taluka, Nandgane, Maharashtra 412803

Distance from Satara: 64.5 kilometres

04

Sajjangad Fort

Situated in the mountainous area of the Western Ghats, Sajjangad is one of the best Forts in Satara District that is also a renowned pilgrimage site in India. Earlier named as Aashwalayangad, the fort was established by the Bahamani Emperors between 1347-1527 AD.

The fort has a history of being conquered by several rulers, including Shivaji Maharaj who renamed it to Sajjangad. He also asked his spiritual gurus - Sri Ramdas to use it as an abode, which later became his resting place. Many in the present age visit here to pay respects to the idol, and enjoy many activities like picnic, camping and trekking.

Location: Sajjangad Rd, Satara District, Gajawadi, Maharashtra 415013

Distance from Satara: 16.9 kilometres

05

Ajinkyatara Fort

Ajinkyatara means ‘Impregnable Star’ and doing full justice to its name, the Ajinkyatara Fort is one of the most important structures in shaping the history of Maharashtra. Situated at an elevation of 3300 feet of Ajinkyatara Peak, one of the seven mountains surrounding the city of Satara, this fort is where most tourists visit to enjoy a challenging trek and rewarding views of the entire city and the Sahyadri Hills.

Built by Raja Bhoj of the Shilahara dynasty In 1673, there have been many changing rulers of the property over centuries, including the Mughals and Marathas.

Location: Satara, Maharashtra 415001

Distance from Satara: 3.9 kilometres

06

Chandan Fort

Situated on a hilly spur of the Sahyadri Range in Satara, Chandan - Vandana Fort was built by Bhoj II of the Shilahara dynasty in late 12th century. It is a set of two adjacent forts that are frequented by trekkers and ardent pilgrims.

Both of these structures have admirable features and rather interesting history and have undergone ownership from dynasty to dynasty, including the Marathas and Mughals. Moreover, within the fort's vicinity are demolished gates, bastions, a Lord Shiva Temple, a Mosque and many intact rooms worth exploring.

Location: Banvadi, Satara District, Banwadi, Maharashtra

Distance from Satara: 23.4 kilometres

07

Pandavgad Fort

Pandavgad is another one of the hill forts in Satara District that spans over 6 acres of land. It is a square fortress that can be reached on foot by completing an arduous trek which gets too narrow in parts.

Built in 1191-1192 AD by the Shilahar King Bhoj-II, the structure that remains today is mostly in ruins with only the temple and three of the six ponds accessible. Many come here not just for the history and the fort but also for the panorama of the village landscape and other adventures, such as camping.

Location: Satara, Maharashtra 412803

Distance from Satara: 46.8 kilometres

08

Kenjalgad Fort

This is one of the lesser-known forts near Satara that should be on your wishlist of offbeat experiences. The rhomboid-shaped fort is located at an elevation of 4269 feet, on the Mandhardevi spur of the Mahadev hill range in Wai.

Kenjalgad was built during the 12th century by Bhoj Kings of Panhala, and like most other forts in the region was occupied by both Mughals and Marathas at different times. Today, the site is in ruins and mostly frequented by tourists and locals to enjoy treks and picnics with loved ones.

Location: Mahadev hill range, Wai, Maharashtra

Distance from Satara: 64.5 kilometres

09

Bhairavgad Fort

Bhairavgad Fort is one of the best forts near Satara that have preserved a rich history and nature in its surroundings. Situated in the Kalsubai-Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary of the Sahyadri Hills, this place is in ruins now and mostly interests adventurers and sightseeing enthusiasts.

It is believed that the Fort and its components on the premises date back over 2500 years, so if you like history or architecture, you can take a tour of the innard temples and the compound.

Location: Kalsubai-Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary, Malsej Ghat, Akole taluka of Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra

Distance from Satara: 254 kilometres

10

Kalyangad Fort

Dominating the skyline with an impressive view of the Satara District, Kalyangad is another one of the Hill Forts near Satara frequented by travellers for a picnic, touring, treks and leisure. At an elevation of 3500 feet on a ridge of Nandgiri hill in the Mahadev range, this citadel is a strong example of great architecture and history with numerous temples, tombs and other elements present within.

The construction of it dates back around 1178 AD to 1209 AD during the Shilahara dynasty rule. And much like the other forts, this too was ruled by Mughals, Marathas and the British.

Location: Nandgiri hill, Satara District, Maharashtra

Distance from Satara: 23.6 kilometres

11

Vasota Fort

Situated in Bamnoli, a remote and naturally opulent area of the Satara District, Vasota Fort is among the most historically significant tourist attractions in the Western State of Maharashtra. Surrounded by diverse flora and fauna of the Sahyadri Hills.

The forts near VAsota are famed trekking and camping sites which are visited by locals and other tourists. Speaking about the Fort’s history, it was built by Raja Nangopal of Panhala and remained under Maratha occupancy for the longest and later with the Shirkes and the Mores.

Location: Bamnoli, Satara District, Maharashtra 415001

Distance from Satara: 56 kilometres

12

Vasantgad Fort

This is an ancient hill fort situated at an elevation of 2950 feet above sea level. And in recent times it has become one of the best trekking and sightseeing forts near Satara. Vasantgad, like many other Indian Forts, is in reunification with decaying walls.

What's left of this Shilhara era structure are - a Ganesha Idol carving and temples, one of which is of Ravana’s sister’s son - Chandrasen. The fort also has a similar story of being occupied by the Mughals and from them by the Marathas.

Location: Near Talbid village, Vasantgad, Satara District, Maharashtra 415114

Distance from Satara: 47 kilometres

13

Vandhan Fort

Vandhan is a part of the Chandan-Vandan Fort duo situated on a hilly spur from the main ridge of Sahyadri. Both of these were built by king Bhoj II of the Shilahara dynasty in late 12th century and later controlled by Adil Shah of Bijapur, the Maratha and Mughals.

Moreover, these adjacent forts near Satara are a well-liked trekking site and have trails that are easy for one-day excursions. The place is also frequented by history buffs who take a tour of the premises housing temples, mosque, courts and more.

Location: Banvadi, Satara District, Banwadi, Maharashtra

Distance from Satara: 23.4 kilometres

14

Dategad Fort

Spanning over 3acres, Dategad is a small fort situated on a high tableland in the Patan region of Satara District. This Fort was forever under the Maratha rule until it was taken under control by Captain Grant in May 1818.

Today, it is a popular trekking and sightseeing destination for tourists where one completes a tiresome but rewarding trudge and climbs up 20 odd steps to reach the top and savour stunning views of the surrounding. Within the vicinity are massive idols of Hindu Gods, ruined water tanks, a Shivalinga carving, among more worth seeing.

Location: Dategad, Tolewadi, Taluka, Patan, Maharashtra 415206

Distance from Satara: 76.4 kilometres

15

Mahimangad Fort

Mahimangad is one of the many chain forts built by Chatrapati Shivaji to guard his eastern frontier in Maharashtra. Situated at an elevation of 3200 feet above sea level, the fortification of this fort is still strong and in good shape which can be warranted as you take a tour of the interiors.

The fort since its abandonment has been popularized as a sightseeing and adventure attraction in the region and many trekking and camping tours are frequently arranged here.

Location: Mahimangad village, Satara District, Maharashtra 415023

Distance from Satara: 51.5 kilometres

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Explore Satara

Kaas Plateau

Kaas Plateau, popularly pronounced as Kaas Pathar, is a deep fiery volcanic reddish soil located in Satara. Kaas Plateau is nearby from Panchgani and Mahabaleshwar; one of the top places to visit in Satara.It comes under the Sahyadri Subregions. If you are a nature lover, then Kaas Plateau is something that you must not miss. The plateau comes alive to its original form and shines stunning during the late monsoons. Monsoon season from August to October is the best time to visit, a variety of beautiful flowers comes alive, along with the blossoms of flora and fauna in the region.Location: Satara, Maharashtra.Timings: 9 AM to 6 PMEntry fee: INR 50 per person.

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Satara Reviews

Arpita Paul Explore Valley of Flowers at Kaas Plateau, Satara (from Mumbai) @ Only

Excellent

A detox gateway from the honk of the city. The planning and finalization of the trip to Kaas through Thrilophillia was incredibly easy. Our Travel group made me feel so comfortable and fun frolicking through out the trip. From the beginning to end everything was on time and worry-free. I would highly recommend this to anyone interested in traveling to Kaas. Everyone will love this picturesque Kaas. The amount of fresh air and Vitamin D will keep people energetic for the rest of the week for sure. Although I am not so good at photography, I have attached some unedited pics taken from my Samsung A50 phone to spread the beauty across the World.

+2

26 September 2019

nitin Kaas Plateau Trek

Excellent

it was long pending visit to Kaas Pathar and finally got chance last week. Bus started on time from Dadar and reached early morning to Kaas plateau via Satara. trip was planned well, and Sep is perfect time to visit and witness the blossom. We reached Kaas plateau early morning and stopped by first yellow flower carpet showered with tender sunlight presenting all diverse beauty dimensions. Then came the actual flower plateau around 10 Sqkm in area bifurcated by tar road and flushed with variety of colorful flowers shrubs and greenery. Our trip lead has explored the area in out and took us to "secret plateau" and it was out of word feeling being on top of world. altogether it was wonderful trip and must visit place. thanks to smit & parin

Bhilangana Pillai Camp Koyna Riverside Eco Resort

Excellent

Very satisfying tour on this camp Koyna Riverside Eco Resort, The place looks exactly the same as shown in the site and the tour goes according to as planned by the team, Everything was well-managed and well-arranged. Highly recommended tour.

Vishwamitra Khatri Kaas Plateau Trek

Excellent

I am totally speechless as this place was so gorgeous. I feel special walking on it with lots of memories.

Bala Talwar Camp Koyna Riverside Eco Resort

Excellent

The camping was very great, the tents were really luxurious as mentioned on the site. All the activity was fun.

Ramesh Acharya Kaas Plateau Trek

Excellent

An unbelievable walking experience at this place. This is truly recommended to all the people who love to spend time with mother nature and enjoy the natural beauty of it. Grab this opportunity people you would definitely love, and liked this place much more than you think. I and my office friends had an enjoyable trekking experience. the valley was full of wildflowers which make the whole valley colorful. This place would not send you home without any special moments.

Deeptimay Asan Camp Koyna Riverside Eco Resort

Superb

First of all let me thanks Thrillophilia for the affordable tour with easy booking and easy to use the tickets on the resort. Secondly, I would like to thanks the local operator for the nice arrangement and good staff who take care of us the whole tour, we really felt secure at this place. This place was very suitable for all age groups and I can see children had a great time playing around and the staff entertained them with fun activities. My kids and the other children had a great time during the stay. We feel so good really.

Varalakshmi Bharadwaj Kaas Plateau Trek

Superb

Good price took this package from Thrillophilia. The itinerary was well planned by the team it's hard to make it right but the team really did it, On-time meeting with the team leader at the pickup point we reach the exact location on-time. We start the trek, the Kaas plateau was truly beautiful with full of flowers, it was breathtaking.

Vedanga Pothuvaal Camp Koyna Riverside Eco Resort

Superb

I would certainly go with this Thrillophilia company again nearby future because this company has everything and provided us with good services, the staff was nice and helpful. We had great fun while river-crossing and kayaking the equipment was good and very safe and even the staff were very serious about traveler safety. Felt nice being in the natural beauty of the place and so relaxing. The staff helps us clicked pictures while in the activity and good photography though.

Anilaabh Bharadwaj Kaas Plateau Trek

Excellent

Nearly all it was the best trekking I ever had!!! The valley of flowers was "WOW" so colorful and it was just like a second paradise for me. I was felt by the natural beauty of this place. Thanks, Thrillophilia.