Pratapgad Fort - Fortress in Pune - Mumbai, India

A memorable experience in a historical place. This place is where the legendary Shivaji Maharaj had killed Afzal khan.One can view the tomb of Afzal khan from this fort. This fort was built keeping in mind the famous guerrilla warfare tactics used by the Marathas. The entrance of the fort is not visible due to its unique positioning. The curved staircase also made sure that the enemies were never successful to get through it. There is a big cave (only a part of it remains now)built at the foothills of the fort to accommodate the soldiers in hiding to attack the enemy. There are four watch towers at the top. There are different temples built inside the fort, prominent amongst which is the Bhavani temple. A pond is also built in the premises to supply drinking water. There are many points on the top from where we get mesmerizing views of the valleys. The top most point on the fort is the PUNISHMENT point where the traitors used to be punished by throwing them off. There is a bronze statue of Shivaji Maharaj at a place where his palace once stood. This is a must visit place on your itinerary on your trip to Mahableshwar and this will surely remain etched in your memories for years.

Pratapgadh Fort, a historical marvel perched amidst the serene landscapes, offers a fascinating journey back in time. Exploring this grand fort requires approximately 3 to 4 hours, making it a delightful yet immersive experience for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Situated at a distance from Mahabaleshwar, reaching Pratapgadh involves navigating through various transportation options like public buses, private vehicles, or taxis. For a guided tour, the local Taxi association provides Tour No 4, ensuring a convenient and informative trip to the fort. The adventure begins with a descent from the Mahabaleshwar hill, followed by a climb to the imposing fort itself. With stairs leading the way, it's advisable to carry essentials like water bottles and snacks to stay refreshed during the ascent. The fort's vicinity is not only rich in history but also a hub of local businesses. Entrepreneurs offer a variety of treats, including refreshing Lassi, Cocum Juice, Butter Milk, and authentic Maharashtrian Thali. Indulging in these local flavors adds a delightful touch to the overall experience. Inside the fort, visitors can explore four key attractions: Bhavani Mata Temple, Pratap Garden, Shivaji Maharaj Statue, and Kadelot Point. Each site contributes to the fort's narrative, providing insights into its cultural and historical significance. During the festive Navaratri season, the fort comes alive with Poojas and celebrations, offering an extra layer of enjoyment. For those keen on immersing themselves in the festive atmosphere, the option to rent traditional festival attire is available. However, it's worth noting that prices for goods and services tend to be higher at the fort's summit compared to the lower areas. The centerpiece of Pratapgadh Fort is undoubtedly the magnificent Shivaji Maharaj Statue, a symbol of valor and leadership. The expansive Pratap Garden surrounding the statue provides a tranquil space to unwind and absorb the historical ambiance. Photography and videography enthusiasts are in for a treat, as capturing the beauty of Pratapgadh is allowed. With such breathtaking views and historical significance, dedicating a day to photograph and document the fort is a worthwhile endeavor. The sheer size of the fort is awe-inspiring, offering panoramic scenes from its summit. Visiting Pratapgadh Fort is not just a journey; it's an opportunity to witness history, appreciate nature's beauty, and embrace the local culture. It's a destination that deserves a spot on every traveler's bucket list, urging them to visit at least once in a lifetime. As an additional charm, the journey from Mahabaleshwar to Pratapgadh is adorned with picturesque landscapes, making the travel itself a memorable part of the entire experience. So, pack your enthusiasm, embark on this adventure, and let Pratapgadh Fort weave its magic on your senses.

Incredible architecture!! My folks and I were amazed by this fort built ~400 years ago, stretching 5 km! It has secret tunnels for soldiers to escape, holes in the walls for Shivaji Maharaj's army to attack, and even three temples (Bhavani, Kedarnath and Hanuman) in the fort. The Kedarnath temple has a swayambhu Shiva linga, definitely don't miss it! We got a guide who walked us through and gave us the history of the fort, and with photos and breaks it took us 2.5 hours total. The site has plenty of parking. Also I'd recommend wearing a hat!

Amazing place for history and Shivaji admirers! The guide here was truly eloquent in his narration. Felt so moved with the place's architecture, scenic views and rich past! And of coruse, Maa Tulja Bhavani's temple and the little tapris with Maharashtrian food was a great plus!

The architecture, masonry, and the historical significance of this fort is just unparalleled. There are innumerous shops selling souvenirs and food items on the top. But you might face frequent traffic jams because the road to the foot of the fort is small enough to create one.

Nice fort and we can witness the history of chatrapati shivaji s rule and a historical place , I would say don't miss out the original sword which was used in wars kept in a temple in the fort.

Pratapgad fort has a long history. It is nearby Mahabaleshwar. Shivaji Maharaj built this fort. The battle of Pratapgad between Shivaji Maharaj and Afzal Khan took place here in 1659. It is an easy grade trek. Just 450 steps to reach at the top of the fort. The fort has such beautiful views. You can see entire Mahabaleshwar from here. Beautiful mountains and during monsoon foggy mountains can be seen. It has a garden which also has Shivaji Maharaj Statue. You can eat pitla bhakari here which is quite famous and delicious. You can sit and enjoy great view. Must visit!!

Beautiful place, Visited during monsoon, was completely surrounded by fog. Better to visit early due to less crowd.Has lots of shops for eatery. Good road connectivity.