Ghotawada Fort (Gotara)

Ancient fort, likely from the Shilahar era. Refurbished by Shivaji Maharaj during the Maratha rule. In 1737 (Vasai campaign), the Peshwas rested near the base after leaving Mahuli fort but moved on quickly due to no water.

Choose Your Trail! **Route 1: Dugaad Village** * **Start:** Dugaad junction (Bhiwandi-Vajreshwari route). * **Time:** 2 hours. * **Note:** Steep, tiring ascent.**Route 2: Mohili Village** * **Start:** Mohili village (before Dugaad). * **Time:** 3 hours. * **Note:** Crosses farm lands (15 mins), then through thick forest; circumvents the mountain.**Route 3: Usgaon** * **Start:** Usgaon. * **Time:** 3 hours to the top citadel. * **Note:** Circumvents Usgaon dam, passes a small waterfall patch; 1 hour to the lower summit.**Fort Highlights:** * **Summits:** Two main summits (Dugaad side & Mohili side) connected by a path. * **Citadel:** Accessed via a 15 min steep walk from the summit; entrance is here. * **Entrance:** Gomukhi style. Bastions intact, arch in ruins. * **Features:** Fortification wall, carved stones, dried water tank (in front of entrance). * **Water Supply:** Group of 7 water tanks (only one holds water till February). Stream with water year-round (path leads down from a bastion). * **Shrine:** Stone covered in vermillion with carvings (person with Trident and Sword) near ruins. * **Viewpoint:** See forts of Kamandurg, Takmakgad, and Tungareshwar forest area.