Bhandardurg
Range
Mahuli
Altitude
848m
Difficulty
Medium
Explore Offline
Download the app for 3D offline navigation, interactive trail maps, and emergency SOS tools.
About Bhandardurg
**Mahuli Fort Trio: Shahapur's Unconquerable Stronghold** Visit the stunning trio of forts in Shahapur taluka, Thane district: **Mahuli** (center), **Palasgad** (right), and **Bhandardurg** (left). The Mahuli hill is famous for its numerous pinnacles. This strong pack of forts was unconquerable for a long time, enabling King Shahaji to use them to save the Nizam rule.
Best time to visit
All year round / Check local forecast
History & Significance
Fort History Highlights Unknown builders. Control passed to Malik Ahmed (founder of Nizam rule) in 1485. *1635-36:* King Shahaji moved his wife Jijabai and infant son Shivaji here from Shivneri/Junnar. King Shahaji surrendered after Khanjaman (son of Mahabbat Khan) laid siege and the Portuguese refused aid. *Jan 8, 1658:* King Shivaji won the fort from Mughals, but it was lost again in 1661. *1665:* Lost via Purandar treaty. Mughals appointed Manohardas Gaud (commander) as fort in charge; he refurbished structures. *1670:* King Shivaji's 1500-man attack failed (1000 Marathas killed). Mughals replaced Gaud with Alavirda Baig. *June 16, 1670:* Moropant Pingle's two-month siege won three forts. The fort remained with the Marathas until King Sambhaji's death, when fort keeper Dwarkoji betrayed them, leading to its loss to the Mughals until 1735. Winning strategy: "Penetrate and attack." *1857:* Bajirao II handed the fort to the British.
Places to See
Climbing the ladder? First, spot two water tanks. Follow the path into the dense forest to find the Mahuleshwar (Lord Shiva) temple and mansion ruins, plus a large pond. The trail leads through Jamun trees to a cleft between Mahuli and Bhandargad forts. Ascend the cleft; a hidden water tank (year-round water!) is on the way. Descend 500-600 paces to the right to reach Kalyan Darwaja, the entrance to Bhandargad fort. The route continues to the southern edge. Look right to see the stunning pinnacles of Bhatoba, Navra-Navri, and Vajir!
Journey & Transport
Time to Reach
Reach in 3 hrs (via Asangaon) or 6-8 hrs (via Kalyan Darwa).
How to Reach
**Getting There: Choose Your Route\!** **1. The Asangaon Route (Easier)** * **Start:** Asangaon railway station (Mumbai-Nashik rail line). * **To Base Village:** 5 km auto-rickshaw ride. * **Stay:** Overnight stay possible at the Lord Shiva temple (base). * **Hike:** Route passes a stream, then a challenging 3 km steep ascent. Includes a ladder section. * **Forts:** Crossing the ladder leads to Mahuli Fort. From Mahuli top, take the left path to Bhandargad Fort. * **Time:** Approx. 3 hours from base to Bhandargad.**2. The Vashind Route (Difficult/Technical)** * **Start:** Vashind (Mumbai-Nashik rail line via local train/bus). * **Journey:** Proceed to Dahagaon, then Chafyacha pada village. * **Ascend:** Keep Chanderi hill to your right. Climb the ridge starting from Mahuli's south edge (spreads across west side). * **Challenge:** Keep Navra-Navri pinnacles right. Cross a difficult rock patch to reach Kalyan Darwaja. * **Note:** A scripture is near Kalyan Darwaja. * **Warning:** This route is very difficult; proper technical expertise and equipment are essential.
Facilities
- StayAccommodation: None on Bhandargad Fort. Mahuli Fort's old keeper porches are an option, but a single-day trek is recommended!
- FoodNo Food Facility On-Site
- WaterMahuli Fort: Water available in tanks opposite the porches! Bhandargad Fort: No water. Plan ahead!