Rajmachi Fort is an old fort located in the Pune district of Maharashtra, 15 km from Lonavala, 15 km from Khandala, 82 km from Mumbai, and 82 km from Pune. It is one of the most well-liked trekking destinations close to Mumbai and one of the top destinations in Lonavala. The elevation of this well-known Maharashtra fort is 2710 feet. One of the most well-liked attractions that should not be missed in a Lonavala trip package is this protected monument.
Rajmachi Fort History
In the past, Rajmachi Fort served as a vital fort to protect Bor Ghat, a historical trade route that ran between Khopoli and Khandala on the Mumbai-Pune route. It is among the best day trips close to Mumbai. The Satavahanas were the first to build the fort complex. Shivaji Maharaj took this fort and many nearby forts from the Adilshahi king of Bijapur in 1657 CE. The fort was taken from the Marathas by Aurangzeb, the Mughal Emperor, in 1704 CE. But in 1705 CE, the Marathas took back power. Kanhoji Angre received Rajmachi Fort from Shahu Maharaj in 1713 CE. After the Marathas were overthrown in 1818 CE, the Rajmachi Fort was eventually occupied by the British.
Location And Corresponding Areas
Shrivardhan and Manaranjan Forts are the two citadels that make up Rajmachi Fort. It is a well-known fort close to Pune and one of Lonavala’s most important historical landmarks. This fort overlooks the Bor Ghat and is surrounded by a broad plateau. Large ramparts, sturdy walls, enormous entrances, residential buildings, water reservoirs, administration buildings, and covert exit gates make up the fort complex. The temple of Kal Bhairav is located in the ravine between the forts of Shrivardhan and Manaranjan. This area is more picturesque during the rainy season, when there are numerous waterfalls, streams, and verdant meadows and woodlands.
On the western side of the Rajmachi plateau are ancient Buddhist caves called Kondhane caves, which were reportedly carved around 200 BC. The Hinayana Buddhist tradition has eight Buddhist caves. Ancient Buddhist stupas, viharas, and sculptures can be found inside the Kondhane caverns. Only the Chaitya survived the earthquake, despite the fact that several stupas, the front door, and the cave floor were destroyed.
Ramachi Fort Trek Details
Lonavala and Karjat, two well-known hill stations, are close to Rajmachi Trek. The journey offers hikers the opportunity to ascend two forts beginning from the same base hamlet of Udhewadi and can be approached from either the Lonavala or the Karjat side.
At 2510 feet, Manaranjan Fort faces west, whereas Shriwardhan Fort faces east at 2710 feet. The fireflies that swarm the area in the late hours are the reason this journey is so famous.
Trekking through Lonavala makes it easier to reach the two forts, but the journey is much longer. To get to Udhewadi, you will spend the most of your journey on mud trails through the forest.
The Khondane caverns and waterfalls are the starting point of the Kandala trail. This climbs more steeply through an area of forest before joining Udhewadi settlement.
Lonavala Road (15 km, easy)
- Time frame: 3.5 to 4 hours
- Difficulty level: Easy
- Ideal for: Beginners and those seeking a beautiful stroll
- Highlights: Explore picturesque plateaus, tiny towns, and woodlands.
Kondhane Caves on the Karjat Route (difficult, 5 km)
- Duration: two and a half to three hours
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
- Ideal for: Experienced hikers and adventure seekers
- Highlights include the famous Kondhane Caves, a steep ascent, and deep woodlands.
Rajmachi Fort: Trek Time And Essential Tips
Rajmachi Fort trek time (Day Wise Timings)
- MONDAY: 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM
- TUESDAY: 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM
- WEDNESDAY: 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM
- THURSDAY: 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM
- FRIDAY: 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM
- SATURDAY: 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM
- SUNDAY: 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM
The Rajmachi Fort walk is most enjoyable during:
- Monsoon (June to September): verdant settings, cascading waterfalls, and foggy paths
- Winter (November–February): Clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and suitable hiking terrain
Important Advice for the Rajmachi Fort Trek:
- Bring plenty of water and energy foods
- Put on comfy hiking shoes
- Get up early to avoid walking in the dark
- Consult the weather forecast before making travel plans
- If you’re not familiar with the route, hire a local guide.
Summary!
Trekking to Rajmachi Fort offers you a one-of-a-kind experience via some of Maharashtra’s most pure, unspoiled paths. Are you planning to trek the Rajmachi fort soon? Make sure to share your opinions with us!
Also Read: Shaniwar Wada – Timings, Photos (5 Special Gates)
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