Famous Forts In Pune That Make Up For The Best Weekend Getaway

Pune is a beautiful city in the state of Maharastra that is a paradise for the trekkers. The city has optimal temperature throughout the year and houses some of the most epic forts from the reign of various rulers.

Pune was once the capital of the Maratha Kingdom and these forts are an inanimate testimony to the glorious tales of the Marathas. Standing tall against the backdrop of Sahyadri hills most of these forts are situated atop small hills and require a bit of trek before you get up close.

So if you are ready to get touristy and trek your way up to these epic sites of historic significance, here’s a list of forts in Pune that you should bookmark for a short weekend trip to Pune.

Sinhagad Fort

Sinhagad translates into Lion’s Fort which signifies strength and resilience. The fortress has witnessed various battles. A notable one of them was the 1670 Battle of Sinhagad which led to its present-day name. Before the current name, this fort was known as Kondhana. The backdrop Sahyadris is a perfect spot for picnics and weekend getaways. These mountains are also the place for the training of National Defence Academy Students. Due to the cultural and historical significance of this place, things like non-veg and alcohol are not allowed in or anywhere near the fort. But otherwise, it is a great place for trekkers, photographers and nature lovers.

Shivneri Fort

Shivneri Fort is the place where one of the fiercest Maratha leaders Chhatrapati Shivaji, was born. Located in Junnar near Pune, Shivneri Fort is a 17th-century military fortification. It's not just the interesting facts that will pique your interest but the views that surround this beautiful fort. Shivneri fort has a beautiful backdrop consisting of mighty mountains and a pristine lake.

You can easily make a short trip to this fort near Pune and explore Badami Talav, the Statue of Jijabai and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaja and Shiva Temple. You can easily reach this fort after a short trek of 45 mins. So, for those of you who like a little adventure on your trips, Shivneri Fort is the perfect place to visit for a quick getaway near Pune.

Rajmachi Fort

Located between two beautiful hill stations, Karjat and Lonavala in Maharastra, Rajmachi Fort is a great place to visit for trekkers who have just started their trekking journey. Built by Satvahanas, Rajmachi is home to two fortifications, Manaranjan Forts and Shriwardhan Forts which were then taken over by the great Maratha warrior Shivaji Maharaja. Under the rule of Shivaji Maharaja, these forts were expanded. Since then these forts witnessed various battles between the Marathas, Mughals and Britishers and what’s left now are remnants and stories from that era.

The fort can be frequented via Karjat and Lonavala leading to the same base village, Udhewadi but guaranteeing different views making Rajmachi the perfect place near Pune for adventure seekers. If you want to camp here at night, we hear there are various camping groups that arrange treks, camps and other activities as well.

Pratapgarh Fort

Pratapgarh Fort was built on a hilltop that is 24 km from Mahabaleshwar by Chhatrapati Shivaji in the 1600s. This fort is a significant part of history because of the Battle of Pratapgarh where the fortification played a pivotal role for fledgling Maratha. During your visit to Pratapgarh Fort, you can also visit the cultural library to witness everything from the fort’s existence to its modifications. If you are a spiritual being, you can also seek blessings at Bhawani Temple where Shivaji Maharaja was blessed with a sword.

During your visit, you can also spare some time and visit the handicraft centres to get souvenirs for your loved ones. Not just that, you can also pay a quick visit to Wada village for tasty homemade food and make your trip a gastronomical adventure.

Raigad Fort

Commonly known as the ‘Gibraltar of the East’ by the Europeans, Raigad Fort is present at a soaring height of 820 metres perched on the Sahyadri range. The fort is only accessible through one side through stairs as the other three sides are surrounded by deep valleys. To be exact, anyone who wants to visit needs to climb down 1735 stairs to reach the fort but if that’s too much for you, you can also take a 4 mins ropeway ride. Raigad Fort is the story of the bravery and audacity of Marathas in form of a fortification.

Raigad Fort is one of the strongest Fortress on the Deccan Plateau and has been preserved finely. The scenic beauty from the top is incomparable and definitely worth your time, so we suggest you reach the place before 3 if you want a ropeway ride.

Malhargarh Fort

The last one on our list of forts to visit in Pune is Malhargarh Fort. Also known as Sonori Fort, Malhargarh Fort is located in the village of Sonori, Pune. One of the most intriguing facts about this place is that this was the last fort that was built by the Marathas in the 18th century. Situated in Sahyadri’s Bhuleshwar Range, Malhargarh Fort is famous for trekking and makes for a quick getaway. Most of the fort is in ruins but tourists can easily trek up to the fort, explore the architecture and get a stunning view of the Sahyadri Range.

We absolutely love everything about Pune and definitely recommend visiting this gem of a place, especially if you are a big history buff. It’s a short way from Mumbai and you must definitely add Pune to your Mumbai itinerary. Its beautiful, on the way and you can stay at the beautiful, Bloom Hotels - Magarpatta, during your trip to Pune for a seamless experience and an unforgettable trip.

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