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Rajgad Fort is located in the Pune district of Maharashtra, India. It is a majestic fortress that stands on the Sahyadri Mountain and is of immense historical significance in the Maratha Empire. It was built in the 17th century and was formerly known as Murumbdev. In this article, we delve into Rajgad Fort’s history, features, and intriguing facts and learn more about the architectural marvel.
| Commissioned by | Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj |
| Also Known as | Ruling Fort |
| Location | Pune, Maharashtra |
| Timings | Open 24*7 on all days |
| Entry Fee for fort | No Entry Fees |
Table of Contents
The History of Rajgad Fort
- Rajgad Fort was initially known as Murumbdev and was captured by the Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1647.
- It served as the principal seat of the Maratha Empire for over 26 years before the capital was shifted to Raigad Fort.
- It served as a base for several military campaigns and was instrumental in defending the Marathas against enemy forces.
- The fort is built at above sea level of 1,395 meters and thus is a difficult task to siege the fort.
- The fort is designed with multiple layers of fortification, bastions, and gateways, making it an impregnable structure during wars.
- Rajgad Fort witnessed several historical events, including the coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
- Shivaji’s wife Maharani Saibai also died in the fort in the year 1659.
- It was also the birthplace of Shivaji’s son, Rajaram Maharaj in the year 1670, who later became the ruler of the Maratha Empire.
Also Read – Janjira Fort History: Features, Facts, Timings & More
Important Features of Rajgad Fort
- Balle Killa: Balle Killa, the central and highest part of Rajgad Fort, offers a panoramic view of the surrounding Sahyadri mountain range. It is home to several structures, including the Rajwada, the queen’s palace, and the famous Sanjeevani Machi. At the Mahadarwaja walls of Balle Killa, Shivaji buried Azal Khan’s head, a military general of the Adil Shahi dynasty.
- Sanjeevani Machee: It runs nearly 2 and a half km and possesses many cisterns. It is rumoured that an underground escape route is also under this mache which opens directly to the outermost fortification of the fort (though the passage is not accessible now).
- Padmavati Machee: Known for its sheer size and captivating beauty, Padmavati Machee served as the residence for the royal ladies and houses numerous residential buildings and water reservoirs with a small freshwater lake named Padmavati Lake. The machee also has the Padmavati Temple which is believed to have been constructed by Shivaji. In front of the temple is the tomb of Saibai along with Rameshwar Temple which has a Shiva linga till today and is believed to have been here since Shivaji’s times.
- Suvela Machee: Suvela Machee is an ancient fortification within Rajgad Fort that was primarily used as a watchtower and defence post. It is also known as Chor Darwaza. This section of the fort has “Hatti Prastar” or “Nedh”. There also is a doorway named “Madhe Darwaza”.
- Alu Darwaza: If one wants to come to Rajgad from Torna fort, this is the only entrance to the fort.
Interesting Facts about Rajgad Fort
- Spread over an expansive area of approximately 40 acres, Rajgad Fort is one of the largest forts in Maharashtra.
- The fort boasts a total of three massive entrance gates namely Mahadarwaza, Palkhi Darwaza and Gunjavane Darwaza, all of which exhibit intricate architectural craftsmanship.
- The fort was retained by Shivaji Maharaj when he signed the Treaty of Purandar with the Mughal General Jai Singh I in the year 1665 who was serving under Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. Because of this treaty, Shivaji had to give away 23 forts which he built over time out of 35 forts.
Timings and Entry Fee of the Rajgad Fort
The fort is open to the public 24 *7 on all days and is a trekker’s spot for trek lovers. One can also stay inside the fort at night and there are no entry fees either.
Rajgad Fort stands tall with the glorious Maratha Empire and its indomitable spirit. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the grandeur of architecture and the defensive methods that Marathas adopted. Apart from the Maratha Empire, the fort also witnessed the reigns of the Mughal Empire, the Adilshahi dynasty, the Nizamshahi dynasty and at last it went to the Britishers.
Other Attractions near Rajgad Fort
| Torna Fort | Baneshwar Temple |
| Necklace Point | Pune-Okayama Friendship Garden |
| Sinhagad Fort | Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park |
Also Read – Jaisalmer Fort History: features, Facts, Timings & More
FAQs
Raigad Fort, located in Maharashtra, was originally built in the 14th century but became significant when Shivaji Maharaj captured it in 1656 and made it the capital of the Maratha Empire. The fort is famous for being the site of Shivaji’s coronation in 1674. It is strategically located on a hilltop, offering excellent defense. Key features include the Maha Darwaja (main entrance), the ruins of Shivaji’s palace, and his Samadhi. After Shivaji’s death, the fort saw several battles and was eventually taken by the British in the 19th century. Today, it stands as a historical landmark, attracting visitors from around the world.
The fort often called the “King of Forts” is Rajgad Fort. It earned this title because it was the first capital of the Maratha Empire under Shivaji Maharaj and played a key role in Maratha history. Strategically located in the Sahyadri mountain range, Rajgad was a vital military and administrative center before Shivaji Maharaj moved his capital to Raigad. The fort’s strong fortifications, historical importance, and association with the early Maratha Empire have made it a symbol of power and resilience, earning it the title of “King of Forts.”
Raigad Fort, sometimes referred to as Rajgad Fort, has about 1,737 steps leading to its main entrance. For a quicker way up, visitors can also use the Raigad Ropeway.
Rajgad Fort is famous for its historical significance as the first capital of the Maratha Empire under Shivaji Maharaj. It played a key role in the Maratha’s military strategies and administration. The fort is also known for its impressive fortifications, stunning views, and its connection to Shivaji Maharaj’s early reign.
Relevant Blogs
| Kumbhalgarh Fort History | Ajmer Fort History |
| Chittorgarh Fort | History of Fatehpur Sikri |
| Red Fort History | Janjira Fort History |
| Who Built the Red Fort? | 10 Places and Monuments That Shaped Indian History |
That’s all about Rajgad Fort history! If you want to know more about topics like this, then visit our general knowledge page! Alternatively, you can also read our blog on general knowledge for competitive exams!
