Machindragad

Machindragad Fort, located in Sangli district of Maharashtra near the village of Kille-Machindragad, was built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1676 as part of a strategic chain of forts to protect Swarajya (self-rule). Although called a fort, it lacks extensive fortifications and bastions, featuring mainly a few cannons, rock-cut water cisterns, and some ruined embankments.

The fort served primarily for surveillance of the surrounding areas to monitor enemies. Over the years, it passed through various rulers, including the Mughals in 1693 and later the Maratha Empire, until it was taken by the British in 1818. At the top of the hill stands a temple dedicated to Saint Machindranath, the founder of the Nath sect. Visitors can see remains such as ancient stone crafts, cannons, bastions with viewpoints, water tanks, and an old deep well carved from rock. The trek to the fort offers scenic views of hills and valleys, and the site is accessible by road as well as two safe trekking routes from nearby villages.

Machindragad Fort is a historical hill fort that combines cultural heritage with natural beauty, making it a popular destination for history enthusiasts and trekkers.