Chandragad(Dhavalgad)

**Kangori Fort History: Key Moments** * **Built by:** Chandrarao More in the Jawali valley. * *Purpose:* To watch trade routes and nearby provinces. * **15 Jan 1656:** Shivaji Maharaj won Jawali, bringing Kangori, Dhavalgad, and Rayri forts under his reign. * **Refurbished & Renamed:** The fort was renovated and renamed Gahangad under trusted commander Murarbaji. * **Mar 1689:** After Sambhaji Maharaj's death, Aurangzeb ordered Zulfikar Khan (Itkadar Khan) to capture Raigad Fort. Khan first captured nearby forts, including Mangalgad.

Chandragad Fort: East of Dhavale village, spread North-South. Trail Start: Keep village temple on your left. Path leads through fields to Shelarwadi hamlet. Approach: Head towards the hill seen from Shelarwadi, follow the path that circumvents it. Reach the fort after keeping the valley first left, then right (signboard present). Expect scree and an unpaved path; cross a small final rock patch. Fort Highlights: * **Worship Site:** To the right, find a square ditch with a Shiv ling and Nandi idol, worshipped during Mahashivraatri. * **Water Tanks:** * Non-potable tank nearby (platform with another Shiv ling above it). * Five difficult-to-access tanks below the left fortified wall (some dry, some with water). * Continue North past platform remains and a traditional stone crusher. * Descend steps: Find a fortified wall and a **potable water** tank. Adjacent tank has dirty water. * To the left after descending: Five more tanks (three visible). * Locals report 14 tanks total; 11 visible. * **View:** Mangalgad fort visible from the top.