Are you a fan of adventure and history? Well, if you’re planning a trip to Tadoba, you must visit the Manikgarh Fort in the Chandrapur district of Maharashtra. This ancient fort, also known as Gadchandur, is a hill fort that stands tall at 507 meters above sea level. But, be warned, it’s not for the faint-hearted! The fort is in ruins and is home to wild animals such as panthers and boars. So, watch your step and keep your wits about you.
Legend has it that the fort was built by a Gond king named Mankyal, but that might not be true since the beam at the entrance gate has a Naga image carved in relief and not the Gond emblem of a lion and an elephant. Regardless of the history, the fort is a sight to behold. The strong fortress of Manikgadh, nearly 1,700 feet high, was earlier held by the Gond Rajas of Chanda whose rule extended in the northern side to Nagpur and in the southern part almost up to the Godavari. They were independent till the end of the 16th century.
If you’re a history buff, you’ll be delighted to know that several monuments of historical importance are nearby. And, if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the Gonds, who are one of the principal tribes of Central India and retain their tribal customs, traditions, and manners. In fact, every year Gonds and other tribes gather in their thousands at the annual fair at Keslapur, a sylvan village. It’s a fantastic opportunity to witness their rich culture and customs.
The fort was built of large black stones and was a formidable defence in its time. The outlines of the fort are visible against the rampart walls. The southern part of the fort, along with its supporting wall, collapsed, but the gateway of the fort is still intact. And, if you’re lucky, you might even spot the Queen’s palace situated near a small dam with steps and a few bathing rooms. Two wooden pagodas were constructed by the Forest Department. The fort area is filled with shrubs and trees, making it a perfect spot for a picnic or a nature walk.
But, don’t worry, you don’t have to be Indiana Jones to visit this historical site. Just a two-hour drive from Tadoba, the Manikgarh Fort is a must-visit place near the Tadoba tiger reserve. So, after a day of tiger spotting and relaxing at resort, spend a day visiting the historical town of Chandrapur. Trust us, you won’t regret it!
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