Pratapgad Fort is the biggest fortification in Maharashtra, state of India. This stronghold is found around 25 km from Mahabaleshwar in Satara locale of Maharashtra and at the elevation of 1,080 meters from ocean level. This stronghold was the site of Pratapgad’s fight, now it is a one of the most favourite tourists attraction.
Pratapgad Fort History
This fort was built by Great Maratha King Chhatrapati Shivaji. The Nira and Koyna River passes through the Satara district. The fort was built to patronized the edges of these rivers. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj assigned this construction work to his prime minister Moropant Trimbak Pingley. Development of Pratapgad Fortification was finished in 1996. Clash of Pratapgad was battled between Maharaja Shivaji and Afzal Khan in 1659. This was Shivaji Maharaj’s first triumph.
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Pratapgad Fort Architecture Information
The Stronghold of Pratapgad is isolated into two sections. One of them is called upper fort, while the other is called lower fort. The upper fort changed into built at the pinnacle of a hill and it is about one hundred eighty meters long, which has numerous changeless structures. On the north-west aspect of the fortress is the temple of Lord Mahadev, which is surrounded with the aid of rocks at a height of 250 meters. On the opposite side, the lower post at the south-east end of the stronghold is shielded from high towers and fortifications, which is 10-12 meters high.
In 1661, Shivaji Maharaj was not able to visit the goddess Bhavani temple in Tuljapur. He determined to build a temple of Goddess in this fortress. This temple is arranged on the eastern side of the lower post. The temple is made of stone, and it has a black stone statue of Goddess.
Best Time To Visit Pratapgad Fort
This fort is present near one of the finest fill station of Maharashtra. So the beauty of this area looks more wonderful during Monsoon and Winter season. As this is hill station you will get the moderate temperature during summers also. In the time of monsoon (June-September) tourist need to take the precautions due to slippery steps. Otherwise, October-March is the best season to visit here.
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How To Reach Pratapgad Fort
By Road: If you are staying in Mahabaleshwar then there is a regular bus from Mahabaleshwar to Pratapgad. Mahabaleshwar distance from Pratapgad is around 21 Kms.
By Railway: Nearest railway station is Satara and it is around 46 Kms from the fort. You can get the public transport bus or cabs from the railway station.
By Air: The nearest airport is Pune airport which is located at the distance of around 150 Kms. Pune is connected with all the International & National cities. From Pune take a cab or state transport bus service to reach Pratapgad.
Pratapgad Fort Timings & Entry Fees
Timings: Fort remains open on all weekdays between 10 am to 6 pm.
Entry Fees: Entry fees does not require here.
Visiting Hours: It takes almost 2 hours to visit this place. However, trekkers need more time.