Image Source: prakash heralgi
Singhad Fort, meaning “Lion Fort,” is a historic fort located 32 km southwest of Pune. Perched atop the Bhuleshwar range of the Sahyadri Mountains at 1,312 meters above sea level, it’s one of the top tourist attractions near Pune. The historic fortress offers rich history, breathtaking views and adventurous trekking routes to the visitors.
Historical Significance & Military Campaigns
Sinhagad Fort has witnessed centuries of battles, conquests, and heroic sacrifices. Due to its strategic location, the fort played a crucial role in many historical events over the centuries.
Early Construction
Sinhagad Fort is believed to have been built over 2,000 years ago. The fort’s original name, Kondana, is said to have been derived from the ancient Hindu sage Kuandinya. Throughout history, it has been controlled by various rulers. In 1340 CE, Mohammed bin Tughlaq captured the fort from Nag Naik, a tribal chieftain of the Koli community. He wanted to strengthen his empire’s control over the Deccan region.
15th – 16th Century
Later, in 1496 CE, Malik Ahmad, the founder of the Nizam Shahi dynasty, took control of Sinhagad Fort. Nizam Shahi rulers governed the fort for several years as part of their efforts to expand their kingdom in western India.
17th Century: Rise of the Marathas
Image source: Ashutosh
The fort came under the control of Shivaji Maratha in 1647 CE. Recognising its importance as a stronghold for defending against invaders, he strategically captured Sinhagad. However, in 1665 CE, Shivaji lost control to the Mughals. He, under the Treaty of Purandar with the Mughal commander Mirza Raja Jai Singh, surrendered 23 forts, including Sinhagad, to the Mughals.
Battle of Sinhagad
The Battle of Sinhagad was the most important notable battle in the history of Sinhagad. The trusted commander of Shivaji Maharaj, Tanaji Malusare, led a daring mission to recapture Sinhagad from the Mughals. He led despite having fewer troops and scaled the steep cliffs of the fort using ropes to launch a surprise attack. A fierce battle ensued in which Tanaji fought bravely but unfortunately lost his life but despite this, he and his troops secured victory. Shivaji made a famous remark in honour of his sacrifice: “Gad ala, pan Sinha gela” (The fort is won, but the lion is lost). Shivaji later renamed the fort Sinhagad (Lion’s Fort) in Tanaji’s honour.
Mughals and Maratha conflict
In 1701-03, Aurangzeb tried to capture the fort as part of his campaign against the Marathas but failed. They laid siege between 1701 and 1703, but despite their efforts, they were unable to hold it for long. Marathas reclaimed Sinhagad and continued to use it as a key military base.
Maratha and British Conflicts
Finally, the British took control of the fort during the Third Anglo-Maratha War from the Marathas in 1818 CE. Recognising the fort’s scenic beauty and pleasant climate, Britishers used the fort as a retreat for European residents of Pune.
Architecture
Unlike other forts, the rulers of Sinhagad only fortified the most vulnerable areas, conserving resources while enhancing security. Any attacker who is trying to reach the heart of the fort gets exhausted in steep drops, hidden pathways, and narrow gates.
The Gates: Keepers of History
Sinhagad Fort had two grand entrances, each telling a different story:
Pune Darwaza (Northeast Gate): It was the main entrance through which most visitors and traders passed. The gate was protected by three successive doorways, making it a nightmare for invading armies. Even if an army broke through the first gate, a zigzag pattern was maintained between doorways to give enough time to the defender to counterattack.
Kalyan Darwaza (Southeast Gate): Hidden behind steep cliffs its the second entrance, which is often used for surprise attacks. This gate is difficult to spot from a distance. In 1670, it was the same entrance used by Tanaji Malusare when he scaled the walls with his troops to reclaim the fort for Shivaji Maharaj.
Each gate had massive wooden doors reinforced with iron spikes—designed to withstand elephant charges. The narrow pathways leading to these gates ensured that only a few soldiers could attack at a time, making the fort even harder to conquer.
The Heart of Sinhagad
Beyond my gates, it was a self-sustaining world. From water tanks, temples and memorials, all were built with precision and purpose.
Temples of the Warriors
Kondhaneshwar Temple: Here, soldiers bowed before setting off to war. Dedicated to lord Shiva, the temple is situated in the heart of the fort.
Amruteshwar Bhairav Temple: A smaller shrine, it was used as a resting place for weary travellers and soldiers.
The Memorial of Tanaji Malusare: A memorial is built to honour the sacrifice of Tanaji Malusare, who gave his life reclaiming Sinhagad in 1670.
The Tomb of Rajaram Chhatrapati: It was the resting place for Shivaji’s son, who spent his final days at the fort before passing away. The fort represents a deep connection of the Maratha legacy with the fort.
The View from the Top
For those who conquered its challenging climb, Sinhagad rewarded them with breathtaking panoramic views. Standing at its peak, one could see:
Torna, Rajgad, Purandar fort, Panshet, Khadakwasla, Varasgaon dams and Pune city, glistening like silver under the sun.
Maps and Location
FAQs
1. Why is Sinhagad Fort called the Lion Fort?
Sinhagad Fort was originally known as Kondhana Fort, but it was renamed “Sinhagad,” meaning “Lion’s Fort,” in honor of the bravery of the Maratha warrior Tanaji Malusare. He fought courageously during the Battle of Sinhagad in 1670 and sacrificed his life while recapturing the fort for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
2. What is the best time to visit Sinhagad Fort?
The best time to visit Sinhagad Fort is during the monsoon and winter seasons, from July to February. During the monsoon, the fort is surrounded by lush greenery, misty hills, and waterfalls, making it especially scenic for trekkers and nature lovers.
3. How can visitors reach Sinhagad Fort?
Sinhagad Fort is located around 35 kilometers from Pune city in Maharashtra. Visitors can reach the base village by road through private vehicles, taxis, or local buses. From the base, travelers can either trek to the fort or drive partway up the hill depending on the route and weather conditions.
4. What are the main attractions inside Sinhagad Fort?
Some of the major attractions inside Sinhagad Fort include the Tanaji Malusare memorial, the Kaundinyeshwar Temple, ancient fortification walls, military gates, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Sahyadri hills. The fort is also famous for traditional Maharashtrian snacks like pithla-bhakri and kanda bhaji served at local stalls.
5. Is trekking to Sinhagad Fort difficult?
The trek to Sinhagad Fort is considered moderately easy and is suitable for beginners as well as experienced trekkers. The trek usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the route and fitness level. Early morning trekking is recommended for pleasant weather and beautiful sunrise views.