Ballalgad
Range
Palghar
Altitude
499m
Difficulty
Easy
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About Ballalgad
Explore Segava & Ballalgad Forts! Located in Talasari Taluka, Palghar district, near the Gujarat-Maharashtra border (off the Mumbai-Ahmedabad highway). Ballalgad, built on a small hill near Kaalji village, offers an easy climb—you can reach the top quickly due to its mere height and close proximity to the village. Tip: Visit both forts in one day! Look out for huge 'GHORAKH CHINCHA' (African Baobab) trees, believed to have been planted by the Portuguese as saplings.
Best time to visit
Visit between September-March!
History & Significance
**Ballalgad Fort History & Info** *Ancient Name:* Kelwe-Mahim (Matsyamat, then Mahakavati). Renamed Mahim. *Founded:* Believed to be built during King Pratapabimba's (Daman ruler) regime. Pratapabimba ruled from Daman to Valukeshwar (Mumbai), making Mahakavati his capital. *Key Historical Shifts:* * 14th Century: Taken by Sultan of Gujarat. * Later ruled by fishermen kings of Ramanagara. * 1672-1677: Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's Maratha troops (led by Shri Moropant) gained control of Ramanagara area, merging the fort into Swarajya. * 1683: Under Portuguese/Ramanagara rule. * 1739 (Vasai campaign): Captured by Chimaji Appa. Krishnaji Mahadev Chaskar took Segava fort and Ballalgad. * 1754: Returned to Ramanagara. * 1802: Under Peshwas (by treaty). * 1871: Won by Anglo ruler Goddard.**Location:** North Palghar district, east of Dahanu. **Surrounded by:** Ghambhirgad and Asheri fort.
Places to See
Ballalgad's Highlights! See the Veergahl (Martyrs' Stone Monument) at the peak. This unique monument honors mighty soldiers, featuring a soldier on a rare 'Kathiyawari' horse, carved with the Sun and Moon. The highest point features four intact bastions (buruj) and a massive fort wall (15 high, 5 wide), built from huge stones. Also note the two major dried reservoirs—their original purpose (water, food, or ammo) remains a mystery.
Journey & Transport
Time to Reach
10-15 min from base.
How to Reach
Getting to Ballalgad Fort: Drive: Take Mumbai-Ahmedabad NH to Talasari (130 kms). Kaalji village is 19 kms further (149 kms total from Mumbai). Note: No signboard for Kaalji. Look for the road on the left leading to a local village school. The fort trail is on the hill opposite the school. Train: Go to Talasari, Achhad, Bhilad, or Sanjan station. Take an auto/private van to Kaalji village. From Kaalji Village: Walk 5 minutes to the local school. Ballalgad is on the hill behind the village. Fort Ascent: Find the huge 'GHORAKH CHICHA' (African Baobab) tree near the school. Take the trails on the LEFT (avoid the narrow way on the right). Reach the top in 10-15 minutes. Water: Safe drinking water is available at the bore well near the school. Carry ample stock, as no water is available on the fort.
Facilities
- StayStay in Kaalji village.
- FoodNo Food Facility On-Site. highway hotels for dining options!
- WaterNo Drinking Water Facility