Bankot
Range
Ratnagiri
Altitude
91m
Difficulty
Easy
Explore Offline
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About Bankot
Bankot Fort (also Himmatgad/Fort Victoria) stands in Ratnagiri at the mouth of Bankot creek, where River Savitri meets the Arabian Sea. It witnessed many dynasties. The creek was a major sea trade route, evidenced by the ancient Dasgaon and Mandangad caves.
Best time to visit
All year round / Check local forecast
History & Significance
Ancient History: Mentioned in 1st Century AD by Greek traveler Pliny as Mandargiri/Mandgor. Timeline Highlights: * 1548: Portuguese take the fort from Adilshah. * Kanhoji Angre captures and renames it Himmatgad. * Peshwas ally with British (Commander James) against Tulaji Angre. * Captured and renamed Fort Victoria. * Later returned to the Peshwas (due to high maintenance costs).
Places to See
Explore Fort Highlights! A Ganesh temple is located at the fort's base. Note the red laterite moats surrounding the fort. The main entrance faces North, featuring decorative stone carvings and vestibules for gatekeepers. The right vestibule holds 6 water tanks. Advance to the Nagarkhana via decorative steps for views of the Savitri River and surrounding area. Access the ramparts using stairs on the East and West sides. From the western doorway, find the outer bastion. This area includes a deep well, a room for patrolling soldiers, and a secret entrance nearby. Historical Fact: This bastion is on the Bankot to Velas route and was built by the Siddis to reinforce Bankot fort.
Journey & Transport
Time to Reach
Travel Time
How to Reach
Drive to Bankot village via Mumbai Goa Highway. Before Mahad, take the Toll phata route through Ambet-Mandangad-Bankot (approx. 248 km). From Bankot village, the fort is just a 1-hour walk!
Facilities
- StayNo accommodation on site.
- FoodNo food on site.
- WaterNo drinking water available.