Ramshej

Ramshej Fort: Lord Ram's Bedstead Named for Lord Ram, who resided here during exile. Ramshej, near Nashik, proved a "hard nut to crack" for the Mughals under Aurangzeb. The Siege: * Mughal General Shahbuddin Gaziudin Firozejung led 40,000 soldiers against just 600 Mavalas. * The Mavalas held strong, repelling massive attacks (including a large wooden bastion for 500 men/50 canons). * In May 1662, Sambhaji Maharaj sent 7,000 Marathas (Rupaji Bhosale and Manaji More) to break the siege. They fought Bahadur Khan's forces near Ganeshgaon, winning a skirmish. * Bahadur Khan and later Kasimkhan Kiramani continued the siege, even using a 'Tantrik' with a 100 tola golden serpent statue, but all attempts failed. * The ferocious Marathas fought bravely for about 65 months, demonstrating the strength of their forts.

Ram Mandir: Start your fort climb from the base village (south side) up the east face. You'll find a small Ram temple inside a huge, well-maintained cave—a great rest stop. Spot the inscription near the cave and a cistern with potable water south of it. Watch out for broken steps leading up! A secret tunnel exists but is inaccessible. The trail splits: left leads to a narrow Machi, right ends at a cliff. Mukhya Darwaja (Main Entrance): This huge gate is located beneath the cliff but is currently devastated. Back on the main route, climb higher to a plateau with two cisterns and a big pond. Devi Mandir: Keep climbing to reach the Devi Mandir, known for Navratri celebrations. Behind the temple is a Gupt Darwaja (secret doorway). The route in front leads to another side of the fort with two more cisterns and remains of old homes. Returning to the Mukhya Darwaja, the left path goes to a plateau with 2-3 cisterns and a flag post at the end. Total visit time: ~2 hours. Nearby views: Dehergad (Bhorgad) and Chambhar Caves.