Laling Killa, or as we like to call it, the little fort that is in the Khandesh region of Maharashtra.
This ancient fort is believed to have been built during the reign of Malik Raja Faruqi, which subsequently granted to his eldest son. But let’s be real, the real star of the show here is the fact that Nasir Khan and his son Miran Adil Khan were besieged in this very fort in 1437 by the Bhanrani general until they were saved by an army from Gujarat.
Nowadays, the fort is in a ruined and collapsed state, but that doesn’t stop the adventurous traveler from exploring its two main parts – the Citadel and the Summit. Just before the devastated entrance gate, there are rock cut caves to the left that can be used for a little rest. And to the right of the entrance, keep an eye out for a sculpted tiger on a rock – no, it’s not real, but it’ll make for a great photo op.
Moving ahead, we come across the fortification wall that is still intact and some bastions to the right after a short ascend. But wait, there’s more! Just beneath the entrance gate, there’s a path that leads to the fort summit. And after a few steps, we stumble upon some water tanks cut into rock – just beware, the water may be potable, but it stinks a bit. But that doesn’t deter us from exploring further, as we discover a few more water tanks along the path and finally reach the summit/open area of the Citadel. This summit is well-protected by fortified walls from all sides, and some parts even have carvings – a true historical treasure trove!
And if you’re looking for some added adventure, there’s a Lilitamata temple at the top of the Fort and several rock-cut water cisterns on the fort. Plus, the escape gate on the southern side leads to a semicircular dam with a Chatri nearby. But let’s be real, the real treasure here is the panoramic view of Dhule city. It’s worth the climb, we promise.
Just, get on the Mumbai-Agra NH3 highway to reach the region easily. And if you’re feeling adventurous, explore the two Hemadpanthi temples in dilapidated condition. This old and ruined fort may have seen better days, but it still has a charm and a history that is sure to make for an unforgettable adventure.
It is a place of considerable antiquity and the fort is supposed to have been built during the reign of the first of the Faruqi Kings. The fact that this fort and not that of Thalner was granted by Malik Raja (1370-1399) to his eldest son would show that Laling was his chief fort. It was in this fort that Nasir Khan and his son Miran Adil Khan were besieged in 1437 by the Bahamani general till they were relieved by an army advancing from Gujarat. Early in the seventeenth century it is mentioned more than once in connection with the movements of the Mughal troop’s Deccan campaigns [Ellior, VII, 35, 102.]. In 1862, the fort is described, as strongly situated with very few defences left. This fort was on the historical Surat-Burhanpur commercial road.
recommended nearby places
Bhamer Dhule Fort
Bhamer, is a village with a historical fort in Sakri tehsil of Maharashtra. Located 48 kilometers from Dhule city, Bhamer…
