Eleven forts from Maharashtra, viz, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Panhala, Shivneri, Lohagad, Salher, Sindhudurg, Suvarnadurg, Vijaydurg, Khanderi, and Gingee in Tamil Nadu, have reportedly been nominated for UNESCO status. A delegation led by Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar is currently in Paris to pursue UNESCO World Heritage designation for these 12 forts associated with Shivaji Bhosale.
THE WEEK lists out the historical and touristy significance of these forts.
Raigad Fort
Located in the Sahyadri mountain range of Maharashtra, this fort served as the capital of the Maratha Empire. It features the Maha Darwaja which is the main entrance gate, a natural lake, the Takmaktok which is the infamous cliff from where it is said that prisoners were thrown to die.
Shivneri Fort
The birthplace of Shivaji, near Junnar in Maharashtra, this fort is best explored during monsoons on a trek for its vantage location atop a hill surrounded by steep cliffs and is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
Rajgad Fort
Built in the 17th century, Rajgad served as the capital of the Maratha Empire before Raigad was declared the capital. Rajgad is known for its stunning views on the sea and sand; here, beaches stretch for kilometres on end.
Pratapgad Fort
Bhavani temple of Pratapgarh is more famous than the fort of Pratapgarh. Built by Shivaji in 1656, the only other most significant aspect this fort is known for is the history associated with the famous Battle of Pratapgarh.
Panhala Fort
Built in the 13th century, people from within and outside Maharashtra visit Panhala Fort for Andhar Bavadi (dark space) and Kalavantinicha Mahal (Kalavanti's palace). Additionally, this fort also served as a strategic military outpost.
Lohagad Fort
Ask any adventure enthusiast and he or she would tell you that Lohagad Fort is the most trekked fort among all others. It is known for its unique scorpion-shaped structure which features four entrances and a ruined mosque.
Salher Fort
The least known fort of Maharashtra, Salher never got the attention it deserves. But, perhaps, it is a good thing as it remains clean and sparsely populated by tourists. The Salher temple architecture offers lessons in history as much as it does in architecture.
Sindhudurg, Vijaydurg and Suvarnadurg Forts
The beauty of the Konkan belt is defined by Sindhudurg's long, winding and irresistibly beautiful coastline. The forts which were constructed by Shivaji on the islands, add another feature to this majestic beach destination.
Khanderi Fort
School trips to Khanderi fort, are a lingering memory among millennials who have grown up in Maharashtra. Built in the 17th century, this fort is known for its stunning ocean views. The Khanderi temple is a bonus.
Gingee Fort
Located in Villupuram district, Tamil Nadu, Gingee is known the Kalyana Mahal, other than the historical role it played during the reign of the Marathas.
