Located about 40 kilometers west of Pune in the Western Ghats, Purandar Fort is historically significant. Currently under the control of the Indian Army, it serves as a site for various types of military training for Indian soldiers. Due to security concerns, photography and videography are mostly restricted in many areas. Looking back at its historical importance, Purandar Fort’s construction dates back to the 11th century by the Yadav Dynasty rulers. Over time, it came under the control of Persian kings and later, the Ahmadnagar and Bijapur Sultanates.
In the year 1646 CE, at a young age, Chhatrapati Shivaji captured this fort. In 1657 CE, Chhatrapati Shivaji’s son Sambhaji Maharaj was born in this Purandar Fort. Aurangzeb had his eyes set on this fort and in the year 1665 CE, with the help of his commander Jay Singh, he attacked the Purandar Fort. At that time, Murarbaji Deshpande was the fort’s commander, who, displaying bravery, attained martyrdom fighting against the Mughal army.
Understanding the need of the hour and to halt the war, a treaty was made between Chhatrapati Shivaji and Jay Singh known as the Treaty of Purandar. After this treaty, Chhatrapati Shivaji had to give Aurangzeb 23 forts and 4 lakh honns, which were gold coins. In the year 1670 CE, Chhatrapati Shivaji recaptured this fort.
In this fort, there is a large statue erected in honor of the fort’s commander, Murarbaji Deshpande. During the monsoon season, this fort starts to look very beautiful. No fee is charged to enter the fort, but you must have an ID card.
Purandar Fort also houses a museum containing paintings related to the reigns of Chhatrapati Shivaji and Sambhaji. The skill of the painters is evident in these paintings. The museum also displays photos of all the forts won during the Maratha Empire, along with weapons used in battles. Inside the fort, there is also a statue of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.
On the mountains above Purandar Fort, there is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva known as Kedareshwar Mahadev Temple. To reach there, one has to trek. Before proceeding to the Kedareshwar Mahadev Temple, it is necessary to deposit your mobile phone and camera with the soldiers stationed below at a designated spot. The trek to the temple takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to complete. I thoroughly enjoyed this entire journey. Due to the monsoon rains, there was heavy fog.
The path before the temple felt quite adventurous. There were deep ravines on both sides of the path, and due to the strong winds, there was sometimes an added thrill. At the edge of the mountain, stands the Kedareshwar Mahadev Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Upon reaching there, we entered the temple and saw the Shiva Linga. Despite the heavy rain, there is a unique joy in exploring the mountains while getting soaked in the rain.
After spending some time near the temple, we began our descent back down. Once we retrieved our mobile phones, we enjoyed the beautiful sights along the way back to Pune, towards our homes. It was a wonderful day overall. Seeing Purandar Fort nestled in the beautiful Western Ghats was truly delightful.
Experiencing its historical heritage up close was very memorable. Whenever you visit Pune, make sure to explore Purandar Fort. You will not only witness history but also experience the natural beauty it has to offer.
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➝ Difficulty Level: Easy.
➝ Endurance Level: Easy.
➝ Trekking Time: Approximately 1 – 1.5 hours.
➝ How to Reach Purandar Fort: Purandar Fort is easily accessible by car, located 40 kilometers away from Pune.
➝ Best Time to Visit Purandar Fort: Although the fort is open for visits throughout the year, the monsoon season is the best time to explore Purandar Fort.
➝ Duration of Visit to Purandar Fort: 1 day.
➝ Essential Items to Carry to Purandar Fort: Trekking shoes, raincoat, extra dry clothes for wearing after trekking, waterproof bag, water bottle with glucose, camera, pain relieving spray, snacks, photo ID.
Information Source: Authentic information sources available on internet, Various Articles and books on the subject & Interaction with local public.
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