High above the rolling Sahyadri hills, where clouds brush against ancient stone walls, stands a fort that has seen treaties, battles, and the roar of cannons. This is Purandar Fort, a place where history is not trapped in books but breathes in every stone and pathway.
The History Comes Alive
Purandar Fort’s story is inseparable from the rise of the Maratha Empire. Originally built during the Yadava dynasty, it gained prominence under the rule of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
One of the most famous events linked to Purandar is the Treaty of Purandar (1665) between Shivaji Maharaj and Jai Singh of Amber, representing the Mughal Empire. This treaty marked a turning point in Maratha–Mughal relations and showed Shivaji’s sharp political acumen.
The fort was also the birthplace of Sambhaji Maharaj, Shivaji’s son and the second Chhatrapati. Imagine the cries of a newborn prince echoing inside these very walls — a future warrior stepping into history.
Architecture & Hidden Secrets
Purandar is a twin fort — divided into the upper fort (Balekilla) and the lower fort.
- Upper Fort (Balekilla): Houses the ancient Kedareshwar temple and strong bastions.
- Lower Fort: Contains residential quarters, temples, and the main entrance.
What’s fascinating is the strategic construction — steep slopes make direct attacks nearly impossible. The fort also has several water reservoirs carved from rock, proving how well-planned the Marathas were in surviving long sieges.
Walk through the Dilli Darwaja, the main entrance, and you can almost hear the footsteps of soldiers returning from patrol centuries ago.
Nature & Scenic Beauty
Perched at about 4,500 feet, Purandar offers panoramic views of the Sahyadri ranges. During the monsoon, mist floats across its bastions, and the pathways are covered in lush greenery and wildflowers.
Trek up the fort and you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding villages and valleys. On a clear day, the horizon seems endless, while in the rains, the entire fort feels like a castle floating in the clouds.
Local Flavors & Culture
Villages around Purandar still carry the legacy of Shivaji Maharaj’s times. Many locals tell stories passed down through generations. Traditional Maharashtrian dishes like Pithla-Bhakri, Thecha, and Taak are popular with trekkers after a long climb.
Purandar is also known for its paragliding activities — a modern adventure against the backdrop of ancient history. Imagine soaring in the sky over a fort that once decided the fate of empires!
Interactive Section
💡 Did You Know?
- The word Purandar means “destroyer of enemy cities.”
- Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Shivaji, was born here in 1657.
❓ What do you think was more challenging for a king — fighting enemies outside the fort walls, or managing politics and alliances within them?
Visitor’s Guide (Practical Info)
- 📍 Location: 40 km from Pune, near Saswad.
- 🚶♂️ Trek: Moderate; 1.5–2 hours from base village (Narayanpur or Saswad route).
- 🚗 By Road: Easily accessible via Pune–Saswad road.
- 🗓️ Best Time to Visit: June–Feb (especially monsoon and winter).
- 🍲 Food Tip: Carry snacks, but do try local homestay meals.
⚠️ Important: Currently, Purandar Fort is under the control of the Indian Army, so entry might require special permission on some days. Always check before planning your trip.
Personal Touch
When I first walked up the steps of Purandar, the walls looked ordinary at a glance. But as I touched the cold stones of the Balekilla, I felt the weight of history — the treaties signed, the warriors trained, and the sacrifices made. Standing at the ramparts with the wind rushing past, I realized this wasn’t just a fort; it was a stage where the Maratha Empire’s destiny was shaped.
Why It Matters Today
Purandar Fort is not just about history; it’s about learning resilience, strategy, and adaptability. Its stories remind us that true leadership is not only about battles won but also about wisdom in choosing when to fight and when to negotiate.
So, the next time you visit Purandar, don’t just climb it for the view — pause, listen, and you might just hear history whispering through the wind.