Bhavangad Fort is a fort located 3 km from village Kelve, in Palghar district, of Maharashtra.
Let me tell you, this fort has seen better days! It’s now, in a dilapidated condition, and the outer walls, steps, parapets, bastions, and whatnot were built without using limestone at many places.
But don’t let that discourage you from visiting this historic site. Back in the day, the Maratha Army built this fort during the Vasai campaign to put a check on those pesky Portuguese. It was built to capture Fort Bassein, and let me tell you, it played a prominent role in the conquest!
But let’s not forget the heroes who fought against the Portuguese, led by the great Chimaji Appa, warriors like Gangaji Naik, Shankaraji Phadke, and Baji Rethekar.
It’s built on a small hill, and you can enter through the main entrance on Machi in just 10 minutes. But be careful, as the walls were built by just setting the rocks, and no cementing material like lime was used. So, watch your step!
Inside, you’ll find a square water tank that’s surrounded by a protective wall built by the locals. And if you’re feeling adventurous, take a stroll down the path that goes to Dandapada village. You’ll even spot two caves that were probably used to store grains.
Now, if you’re wondering how to get there, You can catch a bus or 6-seat rickshaw from Saphale or Kelve station and enjoy the scenic journey through Dhanda and Khatali villages.
But here’s a pro tip – if you want to visit all the forts around, including Danda fort, Futaka Buruj, Custom Fort, Kelve Sea Fort, Kelve Fort, Mahim Fort, and Shirgao Fort, all in one day, you must know the timings for high and low tide. And if you’re lucky enough to catch the low tide, you can even visit the Kelve Sea Fort.
And if you’re worried about accommodations, you can stay at the Bhavangadeshwar Temple on the fort. But let’s be real, most trekkers prefer to visit the forts around in one day and seldom stay on this fort. And when it comes to food, you’ll find restaurants in Kelve and Saphale.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your backpacks and get ready to explore the historic Bhavangad Fort! Just watch your step on those walls built without limestone.
recommended nearby places
Tandulwadi Fort
Tandulwadi Fort is located near Saphale, 104 km north of Mumbai. At a height of 1524 feet, the fort is…
