On a misty monsoon morning, as the clouds rolled over the Sahyadri hills, I stood before the ancient gates of Sinhagad. The stones were damp, the air smelled of wet earth, and the breeze carried whispers of the past. This was not just another hill fort — this was the battlefield where courage outshone fear, and where history was carved into every rock.
Welcome to Sinhagad, the Lion’s Fort.
The History Comes Alive
Sinhagad, once known as Kondhana Fort, has witnessed countless battles over the centuries. But none is as legendary as the battle of 1670, when Tanaji Malusare, a trusted general of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, scaled the steep cliffs to reclaim the fort from Mughal control.
The battle was fierce. Tanaji fought with unmatched valor, but he lost his life in the process. When Shivaji Maharaj heard of his sacrifice, he uttered the immortal words:
“Gad aala, pan Sinha gela” — “The fort is won, but the lion is lost.”
From that day on, Kondhana became Sinhagad — The Fort of the Lion, in memory of Tanaji’s bravery.
Architecture & Hidden Secrets
Walking through Sinhagad today, you’ll still find the Kalyan Darwaja and Pune Darwaja, the two main entrances that once guarded armies. The thick basalt walls stand strong, weathered by monsoons but unbroken.
Hidden within are stone water cisterns that once sustained soldiers, memorials to Tanaji and Rajaram Maharaj, and ruins of military quarters. Each corner seems to whisper secrets of strategies once discussed and battles once fought.
If you pause by the walls and close your eyes, you can almost hear the clash of swords in the wind.
Nature & Scenic Beauty
Sinhagad is as much about nature as it is about history. The trek up the hill is surrounded by lush greenery, streams, and chirping birds. In the monsoon, waterfalls tumble down the cliffs, and the fort is wrapped in mist.
At the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of the Khadakwasla Dam shimmering below and endless Sahyadri ranges stretching into the horizon. Sunset here feels like nature painting the sky in honor of the fort’s heroes.
It’s not just a fort — it’s a balcony to nature’s grand theatre.
Local Flavors & Culture
One of the unique things about Sinhagad is its food culture. At the top, local stalls serve steaming hot Pithla-Bhakri with spicy thecha (green chili chutney) and curd. After a long trek, this simple, rustic meal feels like a feast.
The fort also holds a special place in local traditions. Every year, events and gatherings are held in remembrance of its heroes, keeping their stories alive through songs, plays, and folk tales.
Interactive Section
💡 Did You Know?
Sinhagad has also been home to many freedom fighters and nationalists who sought inspiration from its walls during India’s independence movement.
❓ Imagine this:
If you were in 1670, would you have scaled the steep cliff alongside Tanaji, sword in hand, or planned strategies like Shivaji Maharaj from the base?
Visitor’s Guide (Practical Info)
- 📍 Location: About 35 km from Pune.
- 🚶♂️ Trek: Easy to moderate, ~1.5–2 hours. Suitable for beginners.
- 🚗 By Road: You can drive till the parking area; only a short hike remains.
- 🗓️ Best Time: June–February, especially monsoon for greenery and winter for clear views.
- 🍲 Must-try Food: Pithla-Bhakri, Thecha, curd, and local lemon juice stalls.
Tip: Start early morning to avoid crowds and catch the sunrise.
Personal Touch
On my visit, I lingered at Tanaji’s memorial. The place was quiet, except for the rustle of leaves and the call of a distant bird. Standing there, I felt goosebumps. It wasn’t just a stone platform — it was a tribute to a warrior who gave his life for his king and his land.
It reminded me that forts are not just ruins; they are chapters of our identity, waiting to be read