Rasalgad Fort is a hidden gem situated in the remote areas of Sahyadris.
To reach Rasalgad, you have to pass through a winding road from Bharne naka-Tale-Baudhwadi-Nimani. If you’re traveling by state transport, be prepared to get down at Nimani and walk the rest of the way. It’s only a short 2 km walk, so don’t worry!
Once you’ve arrived at the fort, the real adventure begins. It takes around 45 minutes to reach Peth and another 30 minutes to climb up to Rasalgad, which is situated at a height of 300 meters from its base.
The fort is spread over an area of only 5 acres, but it has everything you need to have a good time. From the top of the fort, you can see the robust Sahyadri ranges spread over long distances to the east, Palgad to the west, the Jagbudi River to the south, and even the Madhumakarand fort. Plus, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can visit Sumargad and Mahipatgad from here.
But wait, there’s more! If you’re a history buff, you’ll love the Rasalgad fort. The old main entrance is taken over by the newly built one, and on the way, you’ll see an idol of Hanuman with a dagger attached to its waist. Plus, behind the Jholai temple, there are two British-made cannons on the fort, which is a must-visit spot for all the history lovers.
And let’s not forget about the Jholai temple itself. It’s from the Peshwa era, and a celebration takes place here once in every two years. The temple is home to the idols of Jholaidevi, Shiva-Parvati, Bhairav, and Navachandi, and the area is simply beautiful. If you walk towards the east, you’ll find big tank pitches and a canon placed near the tanks with the image of Shree Ganesha carved on the pillar. It’s a great spot to take some amazing pictures for your Instagram feed!
The historians believe that Rasalgad must have been repaired during the rule of Shivaji Maharaj, but there’s no record of any battle or historical event taking place on this fort. Nevertheless, it’s a great option for those who love to travel in the rainy season. The rains contribute tremendously to the beauty of Rasalgad, and when the fort is covered in mist, it creates a mysterious aura.