Read More on Pratapgad Fort
History
The Battle of Pratapgad in 1659 gave the fort historical relevance. The Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj authorized Moropant Trimbak Pingle, his head of state, to build this castle in terms of protecting the Nira and Koyna embankments, as well as the Par pass. In 1656, it was finished. On November 10, 1659, the Battle of Pratapgad was waged beneath the defenses of this palace between Shivaji Maharaj and Afzal Khan. It was the first significant test of the young kingdom's force, and it laid the groundwork for the Maratha empire to emerge. Pratapgad was still active in local politics until the independence of India.
Architecture
The fort is located in the Jawali woodland area. Govind, a well-known poet, wrote eloquently on the surroundings of Fort Pratapgad. There is only one major door in this fort. A brook runs beneath it, carrying rainwater from upland down the hill. After several yards, you'll be able to approach the door. Within this door are cornerstones that were utilized by armed soldiers protecting the main door.
Pratapgad Fort architecture looks like a butterfly from the air. It is 1400 feet long and 400 feet wide. It is fortified uniquely. The precipices in the northwest are over 800 feet high. On the fort's north-eastern flank, there are 2 water tanks. One can enjoy a magnificent view of the Koyna river from here.
Activities
- The fort is currently a well-known tourist attraction. Pratapgad is a popular day-trip destination.
- Many schools organize field visits to the fort as well. The castle is also on several of the area's hiking itineraries.
- Visit the museum and library in the fort to know more about its history.
Tips for visiting
- Many good eateries around the fort provide delicious local Marathi food.
- The hikers have the option of bringing their supply of water.
- This place is a photographer’s paradise as one gets to click some of the best captured moments.
Best time to visit
Mahabaleshwar is best visited between November and February. The climate is nice for traveling at this time of year. This is Mahabaleshwar's primary strawberry-growing period as well. A further great opportunity to enjoy Mahabaleshwar is during the rainy season, which runs from July to August and transforms the highlands into a verdant paradise.
Nearby Atractions
- Venna Lake
- Mapro Garden
- Panchganga Temple
- Mahabaleshwar Temple
- Elephant's Head Point
Nearby market/ shopping places
- Mapro Garden: The character of this Garden is important to the Mahabaleshwar way of life, with people traveling from all around the country to buy strawberries, mulberries, kiwi, and indigenous Mapro marmalade, squashes, and fruit mixes.
- Town Bazaar: You can purchase stuff such as handcrafted walking staff, leather products, indigenous ornaments, and jewelry that most people seem to find tricky to resist.
- Indo Kashmir Collection: Even though they hardly sell local goods, this establishment is well-known for its Kashmiri clothesline. They have gorgeous Kashmiri shawls, booths, and suit sets.
Nearby Hotels
- Clouds Mist Resort And Spa
- Bella Vista Resort
- Brightland Resort And Spa
- The Grand Legacy Resort
- Le Meridien
Interesting Facts About Pratapgad Fort
- At the temple of Goddess Bhavani here, it is said that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaja was bestowed with a dazzling dagger.
- At Pratapgad, Chhatrapati Shivaji and Afzal Khan, the king of the Bijapur Sultanate, fought a famous battle of Pratapgad in 1659.
