Tikona Fort

The origins of Tikona Fort trace back to the 7th to 8th century, indicated by nearby Buddhist caves that suggest early strategic and cultural significance in the region. In 1585, the fort was captured by Malik Ahmad Nizam Shah I of the Nizam dynasty. Later in 1657, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj seized Tikona along with Mahuli, Lohagad, Visapur, Songad, Tala, and Karnala, consolidating Maratha control over former Nizam territories across the Konkan belt and strengthening dominance over the Pauna Mawal region. In 1660, the responsibility of securing the fort was entrusted to Netaji Palkar. Following the Treaty of Purandar in 1665, the fort was briefly surrendered to the Mughals and came under commanders such as Kubad Khan and Halal Khan, but it was later recaptured by the Marathas. In 1682, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj met Muhammad Akbar, the son of Aurangzeb, at Tikona; Akbar was offered residence at the fort but was later shifted to Jaitapur due to climatic discomfort. Finally, in 1818, during the British campaign against the Marathas, a small battle caused severe structural damage to the fort. Today, Tikona stands in ruins, yet continues to reflect layers of Deccan, Maratha, Mughal, and British history embedded within its stone walls.

Begin your exploration by taking a left turn right after the entrance where you will find a water cistern and a cave that can accommodate around 10 to 15 people, though it is best avoided during the monsoon season. A steep path near the cave leads upward toward the bastion entrance, where the climb can feel tiring due to the sharp rock cut steps. Once inside, you will notice cisterns on the right and old fortification walls on the left, reflecting the fort’s defensive planning. Continue ahead to discover a trail that slopes downward toward additional water cisterns, then return to the main route and climb the broken steps that lead to the Trimbakeshwar Mahadev Temple at the top. Behind the temple lies a large moat; walk around it to reach the flag post, which marks the highest point of the fort. From the bastion, you can enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the entire Mawal region, including Tung Fort, Lohagad Fort, Visapur Fort, Bhatrashi Hill, Morse Hill, Jambhuli Hill, the Pavana region, and Pawna Dam. Other notable features include Satavahana era caves, the grand stone entrance known as Vetal Darwaja, the historic lime crusher called Chunyacha Ghana, and uninterrupted views stretching across the surrounding Sahyadri landscape.