Credit: Ek Sahyapremi
Pratapgad Fort is a historical gem that is located amidst the natural beauty of Maharashtra. It holds a significant place in India’s history and culture. Perched at an elevation of 1080 meters, this sprawling hill fort is located in the Satara district of Maharashtra.
In this article, we will delve into the story of this formidable fortification
History of Pratapgad fort
Pratapgad was commissioned by Maratha king Shivaji Maharaj for his trusted prime minister, Morapant Pingle. To safeguard the banks of the Nira and Koya rivers, the Pratapgarh fort was constructed. It also acts as a sentinel for the Par Pass. In 1656, the architectural marvel was completed.
In the pages of history, the Battle of Pratapgarh is mentioned. The event took place on November 10, 1659. In this battle, Shivaji Maharaj pitted himself against Afzal Khan, the formidable commander of the Bijapur sultanate.
In the Anglo-Maratha War of 1818, the Maratha forces surrounded the Pratapgad Fort.
Architecture of Pratapgad fort
Pratapgad Fort is divided into two distinct sections: the upper fort and the lower fort. At the hill’s crest, the upper fort boasts a square design with each side measuring 180 meters. For spiritual significance, the upper fort complex houses the magnificent Mahadev temple.
At the southeast end of the fort lies the lower fort. It has towering towers reaching 10–12 meters in height. The total area of the fort is 320 meters in length and 110 meters in width. Bhavani Temple House spiritualizes with its presence.
To pay homage to the Maratha king Shivaji, a 17-foot bronze statue was inaugurated by Jawahar Lal Nehru on November 30, 1957. It stands tall as a lasting homage to Shivaji Maharaj’s enduring legacy.
In commemoration of the battle of Pratapgarh, there is an Afzal tower standing as a sentinel outside the fort’s bounds. There is tomb of Afzal Khan located northwest of Afzal Buruj.
Afzal Tower and Legacy of Afzal Khan
The Afzal Tower, constructed after the Battle of Pratapgarh, stands as a sentinel outside the fort’s bounds. It is believed that Afzal Khan’s head rests beneath this tower, known as Afzal Buruj. The tomb of Afzal Khan is located northwest of Afzal Buruj, commemorating his role in history.
A Tourist Delight
Today, Pratapgad Fort stands as a magnet for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Accessible by a motorable road leading to its entrance, visitors then embark on an approximately 1-kilometer trek to explore its wonders on foot.
The best time to visit
The best time to visit the Prataphad fort is from June to October. During this time, the monsoon months magnify the region’’s beauty.
Map of Pratapgad fort
This imposing hill fort, situated at a distance of 20 km from Mahabaleshwar, 140 km from Pune, and 221 km from Mumbai, holds a significant place in India’s history and culture.