Location:
Pimpalwadi, Tal. Mahad, Dist. Raigad
Hill Fort Altitude 774 m.
Things to see:
The fort is located on a pass linking Konkan with Desh part of Maharashtra. The pass is known as Kamtha pass. The main entrance of the fort is on the eastern side. After entering through the entrance one comes across the Kalbhairav temple. Some people also call it as Kangoridevi temple. There are some sculptures of gods and goddesses, remains of old entrance to the temple and remains of stone lamp posts or Deepmal.There are also remains of water cisterns near this site. The citadel has remains of house of chief and one more building. From the top one can see Raireshwar, Koleshwar and Arthur Seat point of Mahabaleshwar towards east.
Past:
First known record about the fort is about its transfer of control from More of Javli to Shivaji Maharaj in 1648. It is one of the seven forts which were won by him from More. During his period the fort was used for control on the trade route linking Birwadi and Mahad which were main market towns to the areas in Desh region of Maharashtra. Shivaji Maharaj renamed this fort as Mangalgad. There was one small prison on the fort to keep less dangerous prisoners. Two British officers were also kept in this prison by Peshavas for some time. The fort was won by British in 1818 under the leadership of Colonel Prother.
Present:
The fort is in ruins.
Nearby attractions:
Some trekkers do a trek which combine nearby Chandragad or Dhavalya Ghat (pass).
How to reach:
By your own vehicle:
Follow the route as given below to reach,
Mumbai | Pen | Mahad | Pimpalwadi | |
Goa | Kudal | Chiplun | ||
Kolhapur | Karad | |||
Pune | Bhor | Varandh | Dhalkathi Phata | |
From Pimpalwadi there is uphill trek for 1.5 hours.
By public transport:
Mahad is connected direct ST buses from Mumbai, Pune, Goa and Kolhapur. There are private buses available for Mumbai from southern Konkan and Goa which can also drop one at Mahad. Pimpalwadi has ST bus service from Mahad.
Nearby Places for stay:
Mahad, camping on the fort.
