This Monsoon, a visit to Purandar Fort is must
It’s almost the time of Monsoon, at least for Punekars and this place is a must visit for them! Purandar fort, located around 50-km away from Pune city, is a hot pick for trekkers and weekend tourists. Situated 1.5 km west of Sasvad or about 40 km south of Pune via NH4, is a hill fort known for its unique location.
This ancient fort is equally popular for its historical significance. Let’s move ahead and learn in detail about the history and the natural surroundings of the fort and how to reach it.
The History
The history of Purandar fort goes back to 13th century. It was fortified by the first Bahamani king Hasan Gangu in the year 1350 after he gained control over Maharashtra. The fort was remaining in Bahamani rulers hands untill 1486. The fort then fell into the hands of Ahmad, the founder of the Nizam Shahi Kingdom for a long spell of over hundred years. In 1596 AD, the fort was given as a Jagir of Maloji Bhosale, grand father of Shivaji. In 1646, Shivaji established control in the fort. In 1665 AD, Purandar was besieged by Mughal forces under the leadership of Mirza Raja Jai Singh and Dillir Khan after an intense battle with Murar Baji Prabhu. Murar Baji Prabhu lost his life in the struggle to retain the fort. The treaty of Purandar was signed after this epic battle in which Shivaji agreed to surrender 23 of his forts to the powerful Mughal Empire. However, Shivaji, recaptured the fort from the Mughals only five years later in 1670. Shivaji spent prolonged periods of time here. Sambhaji, Shivaji’s eldest son and successor was born at this fort.
German Prisoners
Another interesting fact is that in 1818, Purandar was occupied by the British and they used it as a sanatorium and detention camp. During the Second World War, the British kept here the German Prisoners.
Married couple buried alive
Another story that goes around the Fort is that when the fort was under construction a married couple was buried alive under the Shendrya Buruj (bastion) to stop the falling of rocks. According to two copper plates found in the Inam commission office, the foundation of the Shendrya Buruj broke several times and the king of Bedar dreamt that unless a first born son and his wife were sacrificed on the spot, the foundation would never be sure.
Why to visit Purandar Fort
This fort also offers rock climbing and trekking. Trekking up Purandar is not very difficult because the climb is not very steep. Once on the top the place provides a panoramic view of the surrounding areas. Do not forget to bring your camera while coming to Purandar Fort as it is one place which can provide you with the best of natural frames. Did you know that the fort is also used as a paragliding spot? So, every adventure lover out there, Purandar Fort is your calling.
How to reach Purandar Fort
By Air: The nearest airport to Purandar Fort is located in Pune at a distance of about 45 km.
By Rail: Pune railway station is the major nearest railhead to Purandar Fort
By Road: The base of the fort is well connected to other towns and cities by road.
