Shivneri
Range
Naneghat
Altitude
1066m
Difficulty
Medium
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About Shivneri
**Shivneri Fort: Birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj** Junnar (ancient "Jirna Nagar") is one of India's oldest cities. Ruled by the Shaka dynasty until Satvaahan King Gautamiputra Satkarni defeated them, making Junnar the glorious Satvaahan capital and a "golden era" for culture. **Key Facts:** * Over 100 caves carved in surrounding mountains; 64 caves and 8 inscriptions found on Shivneri mountain. * **Succession:** Satvaahans -\> Yadavas -\> Bahmani Kings (who hindered trade). * **Nizamshahi:** Established by Malik Ahmed (son of Nizam Malik Hasan) after Bahmanis. * **Shivaji Maharaj:** Born here in 1630 (father: Shahaji Maharaj; mother: Jijamata, accompanied by Jadhavrao and a 500-cavalry). * Shivaji left in 1632. * **Mughal Rule:** 1637. * **Local Uprising:** 1650, local fishermen were cruelly assassinated after protesting. * **Maratha Attempts:** Raid in 1678 failed to capture the fort. * Shahu Maharaj took control 40 years later. Later controlled by Peshwas.
Best time to visit
All year round / Check local forecast
Places to See
Shivneri Fort Highlights! * **Arrowhead Shape:** Points north, symbolizing a threat to the tyrant Moguls. * **Strategic Location:** Built to guard Junnar city and the ancient Naneghat route. * **Viewpoint:** See Lenyadri (pilgrimage site) and the Giant Meteoric Radio Telescopes (Narayangaon).**Must-See Spots:**1. **Shiv Janmasthan (Shiv Mandir):** Birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj. Features a huge water tank nearby. 2. **Kadelot Point:** Northern end. Historic site where prisoners were punished (thrown down the fort). 3. **Shiv Kunj:** State-built monument honoring Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Houses an idol of Bal Shivaji and Jijabai made of Panchdhatu (5 metals alloy). 4. **Kamani Masjid:** Located in front of Shiv Kunj. Named for its bow-like (Kaman) structure. Look for the Urdu inscription on the east wall. 5. **Ganga Jamuna:** Potable water cisterns behind Shiv Kunj (The fort has over 10 water tanks total). 6. **Koli Chauthara:** Monument built where Mughals killed thousands of Koli soldiers in 1650. 7. **Ambarkhana:** The fort's warehouse for grains/food storage. Well-maintained. 8. **Seven Doors:** Explore all seven doors of the fort on the way near Ambarkhana—a testament to its historical strength\!
Journey & Transport
Time to Reach
1 Hour from Base Village
How to Reach
Route 1: The Main Ascent - Start: 2 km walk from Junnar bus stand to Shivneri foothills. - Path: Main route, passes through 7 magnificent doors. - Sightseeing: Temple of Goddess Shivai (Shivaji named after this deity), 64 Buddhist caves (Satvaahan era), including the inscribed caves. - Difficulty: Very easy.Route 2: Eastern Face (Tiring Ascent) - Start: Ascend from the eastern face. - Time: Approx. 1 hour from base stand to top. - Navigation: Pass Hanuman temple, take the right path into the reserved forest. (Caution: paths can mislead.) - Last Leg: 20 min to eastern rock-cut caves, then 10 min up steps to reach the top.
Facilities
- StayStay options at the fort: Choose Shiv Kunj or Ambarkhana. Tip: Shiv Kunj is better—it has nearby water cisterns!
- FoodFood available in Junnar
- WaterWater Refill Station