Malhargad Fort Malhargad (Sonori) Fort
Malhargarh Fort and Sonori Village: A Complete Guide
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uirJmIYJnHw&t=21s
Malhargarh is a famous fort in Maharashtra which is famous for its historical importance and natural beauty. The fort was built during the Peshwa period and was an important place to watch over Diveghat. The Sonori village at the base of the fort is the historical heritage of the Panse family.
Malhargarh is not just a fort, it is an experience. A wonderful confluence of history, nature and adventure. But before going to Malhargad you have to take care of some things.
Visiting Malhargad will be an unforgettable experience for you. Being close to nature, witnessing history will give you a different pleasure. But for this you need to put in some effort and take care of some things.
Malhargad Fort Malhargad Fort:
Elevation: 3100 feet (about 945 meters)
Type: Giridurg (Hill Fort)
Hill Range: Bhuleshwar Range
District: Pune
Category: Moderate (more challenging but suitable for experienced trekkers)
Structure of the fort: Malhargarh is roughly triangular in shape and the inner fort has a square-shaped rampart.
Temples: The fort has Khandoba Temple and Mahadev Temple. It is because of the Khandoba temple that this fort got its name Malhargad.
Wells and Tanks: The fort has several wells and a tank. These lakes are filled with water during monsoons and winters.
Bastions and Gates: The fort has several bastions and gates.
Cellar: The fort has a cellar which is worth visiting.
Sonori Village:
Panse Wada: There is a grand palace of the Panse family in Sonori village. This fort was built by Sardar Krishnarao Madhavrao Panse, chief artillery officer of the Peshwas.
Lakshmi-Narayana Temple: There is a beautiful temple of Lakshmi-Narayana in the palace. The temple has a marble idol of Lakshmi-Narayana.
Temple of Muralidhara: There is a temple of Muralidhara in Sonori village. This temple has a very beautiful black stone idol of Lord Krishna.
About Malhargad Fort Malhargad in brief:
Last Fort of Marathas: Malhargarh is known as the last fort built by Marathas. It was created in the 18th century.
Sonori Village: It is also known as Sonori Fort because of the Sonori village located at the base of the fort.
Historical Significance: This fort was built to watch over Diveghat.
Shape: The fort is roughly triangular in shape and the inner fort is square.
Special features: The fort has Khandoba temple, Mahadev temple and two wells.
Other Names: Tarungadh (as a new fort during the Maratha period)
History of Malhargarh Fort:
Malhargad Fort is not just a physical structure, but a fort that plays an important role in the history of Maharashtra. Built during the Peshwa period, this fort symbolizes the valor and power of the Maratha Empire.
Contribution of Panse Family: Panse family had a significant contribution in the construction of Malhargarh. The fort was designed by Panse, who was the head of Peshwa’s artillery. His work made Malhargarh not only a fort, but also a historical legacy of the Panse family.
Defense of Diveghat: Malhargarh was built to protect Diveghat. Diveghat was an important route between Pune and Saswad. Controlling this route means keeping an eye on the enemy’s movements. Malhargarh was an important place in this regard.
Visit of Peshwas: History bears witness that the great Madhavrao Peshwa himself visited this fort. This means that Malhargarh was not just an ordinary fort, but an important place in the eyes of the Peshwas.
Role in Freedom Struggle: Malhargarh also played an important role in the fight against the British. Freedom fighters like Umaji Naik and Vasudev Balwant Phadke took refuge in this fort. This means that Malhargad was not just a heroic story, but a part of the freedom struggle.
Malhargad Fort What does Malhargad say?
Malhargarh is not just a physical structure, it teaches us many things through history. He teaches us bravery, strength, courage and the importance of fighting for freedom. Malhargarh is the heritage of our forefathers and we are proud of it.
Ways to reach Malhargad Fort:
Malhargad can be accessed mainly by two routes:
Saswad Way:
Saswad: You can go to Saswad from Pune by ST bus or private vehicle.
Sonori: ST bus is available from Saswad to Sonori village. Malhargarh is clearly visible from Sonori village.
To the base: From Sonori village one can reach the base of the fort either by walking on a dirt road or by vehicle.
Trek: It is a half hour trek from the base to Malhargarh. The trekking route is easy and even new trekkers can easily go through this route.
Main Entrance: A trekking route leads us to the main entrance of the fort.
Zendewadi Route:
Zendevadi: On the way from Pune to Saswad, the Zendevadi divide starts after Diveghat.
Pass: One can pass through a pass from Zendewadi village. Malhargarh is clearly visible while passing through this pass.
Trek: It is a half hour trek to reach Malhargarh from the pass. This route can be a bit challenging.
Chor Darwaza: The Zendewadi route takes us to the Chor Darwaza of the fort.
Which way to choose?
Both routes are good to reach Malhargarh. You can choose any path as per your experience level and time. If you are a new trekker then Sonori route is easier. If you are up for a bit of a challenge, you can opt for the Zendewadi route.
Malhargad Fort Some additional information about Malhargad Fort:
Construction of Fort: Malhargarh fort was constructed during the Peshwa period by Bhimrao Panse and Krishnarao Panse. This durga was built to watch over Diveghat.
Features of the Fort: Malhargarh Fort is famous for its double fortifications. The fort has Khandoba temple, Mahadev temple and two wells.
Historical Significance of the Fort: Malhargarh Fort played an important role in the battle against the British. Umaji Naik and Vasudev Balwant Phadke took refuge in this fort.
Best time to visit the fort: Winter is the best time to visit Malhargarh fort. During this period the weather is pleasant and you can enjoy the fort.
What can we learn?
History: The history of Malhargarh gives us information about the political and social conditions during the Peshwa period.
Architecture: The architecture of Malhargarh gives us information about the fort building technology of that period.
Military Science: By looking at the structure of Malhargarh we can get information about the military science of that time.
Freedom Struggle: History of Malhargarh tells us about important events of freedom struggle.
Malhargad Fort What to do to see Malhargad Fort and Sonori Village:
Read History: You can get more information about these places by reading the history of Malhargad fort and Sonori village.
Talk to Locals: You can get more information about these places by talking to local people.
Take Photos: You can keep the memories of your trip alive by taking photos of the fort and the village.
Conclusion:
Malhargarh Fort and Sonori village are two of the most beautiful and historical places in Maharashtra. By visiting these places you can connect with your history and have an unforgettable experience.
Malhargarh is not just a fort, it is an integral part of our history. He reminds us of the bravery and strength of our ancestors. To visit Malhargarh is to connect with our history.
Malhargad Fort
Malhargarh: A Day Trekking Delight:
Saswad Route: After an easy trek of about 15 minutes from Sonori village, we can reach the peak of Malhargad.
Zendevadi Route: After a little challenging trek of about 90 minutes from Zendevadi fork we can reach the top of the fort.
What to take to visit the fort: Water, snacks,
Malhargarh: A night in the closeness of nature
Malhargarh is not just a fort, it is an experience. A wonderful confluence of history, nature and adventure. But before going to Malhargad you have to take care of some things. One of the most important things is accommodation and food.
Accommodation at Malhargad Fort
At the fort: There is limited space at the fort only in the temple of Mahadev. If 5-6 people are sitting there, it can be crowded.
Sonori or Zendewadi: In Sonori or Zendewadi village at the base of the fort you can find accommodation in the school premises or in local houses.
Tent: If you want to be close to nature, you can bring your own tent.
Dining facilities
Cooking: You have to provide your own food at the fort.
Saswad: Various dining hotels are available in Saswad.
Picnic: You can carry a picnic basket.
Water facility
No water at the fort: Potable water is not available at the fort. So it is essential to carry enough water with you.
Take other care
Mobile Network: Mobile network may be weak at the fort.
First Aid Kit: A first aid kit must be carried in case of any accident.
Litter: Do not litter the fort.
Environment: Take care of the environment.
Fun to visit the fort:
Enjoy Nature: You will surely love the beautiful view, green nature and fresh air from the fort.
Historical architecture: Observing the old architecture, gates, bastions in the fort is a unique experience.
Thrill of Trekking: Reaching the fort takes a bit of effort, but you will definitely enjoy it.
Malhargad Fort
