Malhargad Fort – is the last fort built by the Marathas. It is located in the Western Ghats in Kalewadi of Maharashtra. This 18th-century monument is a hidden gem that you don’t want to miss.
First things first, let’s talk about the route to get there. You can either drive through the scenic Sonori Village, which is a treat in itself, or if you’re feeling adventurous, you can park your vehicle at the base village and trek up the hill to reach the top. The trek is an easy one, suitable for beginners and intermediate level trekkers. But be warned, the trek might take longer than expected, because let’s face it, we all love to stop and take a thousand selfies on the way up.
Once you reach the top, get ready to be blown away by the breathtaking view of the Sahyadri Mountains, Sinhagad Fort, Purandar Fort, Vajragad Fort, Jejuri, Parvati Hills, and everything else in between. The scenic beauty is so mesmerizing that you’ll forget all about your problems and just soak in the beauty.
If you’re a camping enthusiast, then you’re in for a treat. The area around the fort has some farms where you can pitch your tent and spend a night under the stars. But remember to carry enough snacks and bottled water because finding food and water might be a bit tricky.
And if you’re lucky, you might even come across some farm owners who arrange for food and allow bonfires, making your stay a memorable one. Who knows, you might even end up dancing around the bonfire and making new friends.
Now, let’s talk a bit about the history of this magnificent fort. Malhargad Fort was built between 1757 and 1760 by Krishnaji Madhavrao Panse and Bhivrao Yashwant, who served as the chief-in-charge of Peshwa Tofkhana. Some historical documents mention visits by Madhavrao Peshwe himself. The fort was built to keep a close watch on the Dive Ghat, which is located along the Saswad-Pune route.
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