Image Source: pratik mhatre
About Sankshi fort
Offering breathtaking views of the Karnala region, Sankshi Fort is a lesser-known hill fort located in Raigad district, Maharashtra. The historically significant fort, which is surrounded by lush greenery, is a great place for history buffs and adventurers to escape to.
Local Stories
Sankshi Fort is believed to be associated with a ruler named Sank, from whom it gets its name. While written historical records are limited, local legends fill the gaps with emotion and memory. One such story speaks of Jagmata, the daughter of King Sank, who is said to have leapt from the fort after her father was defeated. Whether history or folklore, these stories add depth to the visit and are often shared by locals with quiet reverence.
The fort appears to have served more as a watchpoint and shelter than a heavily fortified military base. Its location offers clear visibility over surrounding valleys, reinforcing its strategic importance in earlier times.
History
Sankashi Fort dates back to the era of the Marathas and the Bahamani sultanate. It sat at a strategic location and served as a watchtower to keep an eye on trade routes and enemy movements. The fort was later controlled by the Peshwas and British forces. Today the fort is not in good condition, and not much remains of the fortification. However, the site is interesting due to its historical importance and geographic location.
Architecture
Though the fort is in ruins, you can still spot remnants of:
Fort Walls and Bastions—Some parts of the fortification remain intact.
Caves and Water Tanks—Ancient rock-cut water reservoirs that provided drinking water for the fort’s occupants.
Temple Ruins—Small shrines that indicate the presence of religious practices in the past.
Trekking to Sankshi Fort
Reaching the Base
Where the Journey Begins
The approach to Sankshi Fort sets the tone for the experience. The road passes through rural Konkan landscapes dotted with small settlements, trees, and open fields. As you move closer to the base village, the towering rocky hill of Sankshi rises ahead, quiet yet commanding. The starting point near the local dargah feels peaceful, with very little tourist activity, reinforcing the sense that this fort remains untouched by mainstream travel.
There are no shops, ticket counters, or noise here. Just villagers going about their day and a narrow trail leading upward into the hillside.
The Climb
Simple Yet Rewarding
The trek to the top of Sankshi Fort is short but engaging. It usually takes around twenty to thirty minutes at a relaxed pace. The trail passes through rocky ground, patches of forest, and uneven stone steps carved long ago. As you climb, the sounds of village life fade, replaced by birdsong and the rustle of leaves in the breeze.
Along the way, you notice ancient water cisterns carved into the rock. Some of these still hold water, even outside the monsoon season. These small details quietly reflect how the fort once supported life and movement across the region.
The climb is not physically demanding, but it keeps you attentive. Good footwear helps, especially on uneven surfaces.
On the Plateau
Views That Stretch the Mind
The top of Sankshi Fort opens into a modest plateau rather than a grand structure. What it lacks in architecture, it makes up for in atmosphere. From here, the surrounding Sahyadri ranges unfold in layers of green and stone. On clear days, distant forts like Karnala and Manikgad are visible, standing as reminders of the dense network of hill forts that once guarded this region.
A gentle breeze flows across the summit, carrying with it a sense of stillness. Sitting here feels timeless. There are no railings or restored walls, only fragments of rock, caves, and water tanks blending naturally into the landscape.
How to Reach Sankshi Fort
By Road: The fort is accessible from Mumbai (70 km) and Pune (120 km) via the Mumbai-Pune Highway (NH48).
By Train: The nearest railway station is Pen, about 15 km from the fort.
By Bus: MSRTC buses run between Mumbai/Pune and Pen, from where you can hire a local vehicle.
Nearby Attractions
Karnala Fort & Bird Sanctuary—Located at a distance, the bird sanctuary is a perfect spot for trekking and bird lovers.
Manikgad Fort—The historic fort is located on a nearby hill that is located 25 km away.
Ballaleshwar Pali (Ashtavinayak Temple)—A sacred Hindu pilgrimage site. It’s a famous Hindu pilgrimage site located 30 km.
Raigad Fort (65 km)—The capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s empire.
Best Time to Visit
Monsoon (July-September)—During monsoon the region changes into lush greenery, scenic waterfalls, and cool weather
Winter (November-February) – It’s the best time to go for trekking. Pleasant weather and a clear view give a good experience of trekking.
Summer (March-May) – Avoid visiting in the summer season because the weather becomes hot during the day.
Maps and Location
FAQS
- Q: Where is Sankshi Fort located?
Sankshi Fort is located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra near the town of Pen. It lies close to the Mumbai-Goa highway and is surrounded by the Sahyadri hills, making it easily accessible for travelers from Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, and Pune.
- Q: How difficult is the trek to Sankshi Fort?
The trek to Sankshi Fort is easy to moderate and suitable for beginners. The climb usually takes around twenty to thirty minutes and involves walking on rocky paths and old stone steps. Basic fitness and proper footwear are sufficient for a comfortable climb.
- Q: What is the best time to visit Sankshi Fort?
The best time to visit Sankshi Fort is between October and February, when the weather is pleasant and visibility is clear. Early mornings are ideal for trekking and photography, while the monsoon season should be approached with caution due to slippery rocks.
- Q: What can travelers see at the top of Sankshi Fort?
At the top of Sankshi Fort, travelers can see ancient water cisterns, rock-cut caves, and wide views of the surrounding Sahyadri ranges. On clear days, nearby forts such as Karnala and Manikgad are visible from the summit.
- Q: Is Sankshi Fort suitable for a one-day trip?
Yes, Sankshi Fort is ideal for a one-day trip or a short half-day excursion.