Chaulher Fort

Chaulher Fort carries layers of forgotten power—once ruled by the Gawali Kings and later absorbed into the Baglan kingdom. In 1637, Baglan King Bahirji surrendered it to the Mughals, after which it passed through the hands of the Marathas before finally falling to the British East India Company in 1818. But history here isn’t just in books—it still breathes on the fort. Villagers speak of a sacred statue of Chaurangnath hidden within, and every year, the fort comes alive during the Pithuri Amavasya fair. Inside, ancient water tanks like Moti, Shevalya, Hatyara, and Khekdya silently hold centuries of stories, while remnants of old stables trace back to the era of the Gawali rulers and their mansabdars.

Starting from the entrance, Chaulher Fort immediately reveals its defensive brilliance as you pass through three highly ornamental rock-cut gateways leading toward the citadel, with the machi on the left showcasing fortification remains and a large water cistern. From here, you can choose your route—taking the right path, a quicker 10-minute climb that passes rock-cut tanks including the potable Moti Taake and leads to the citadel with additional tanks, structural remnants, and expansive views of the Satmal and Selbari–Dolbari ranges; or the left path via the machi, which offers a more cultural experience with idols of Chaurangnath and Hanuman sheltered by locals. Along the way, don’t miss the intricately carved gateways, ancient water systems, small temples, and fort ruins, with the summit offering commanding views of the Salher–Mulher twin forts—set aside around 2 hours to fully explore.