Sinhgad

About Sinhgad

On top of the fort, the trekkers must try the traditional breakfast of Kanda Bhaji, a delicacy enjoyed by most. Check out Tanaji Kada, Kalyan Darwaza, Tanajis memorial…Perched on an isolated cliff of the Bhuleswar range of the Sahyadri Mountains, its height above sea-level is 1350 metres. Given natural protection by its very steep slopes, the walls and bastions were constructed at only key places; it has two gates – the Kalyan Darwaza in the south-east and the Pune Darwaza in the north-east.

Sinhagad or Sinhgad meaning Lion Fort, is a fortress located roughly 30 kilometres southwest of the city of Pune, India. It is situated on a hill rising 800 metres above the surrounding countryside. Previously called Kondan the fort has been the site of many important battles, most notably the battle of Sinhagad in 1670. It was also strategically located at the center of a string of other forts such as Rajgad, Purandar and Torna.

Now a days, Sinhagad is famous for lovers. But it has historical importance and who will forget the brave Tanaji Malusare, Shelarmama and their historic battle.

One can trek from Donaje to the top of the Fort. Bus services are also available from Pune.

History

This fort has been quite a long history, referred to as ’Kundhana ’in a Persian poem named ‘Shahanama-e-Hind’, dating back to 1350 A.D.It was called ‘Kondana’ after the sage Kaundinya. The Kaundinyeshwar temple, the caves and the carvings indicate that this fort had probably been built two thousand years back. It was captured from the Koli tribal chieftain, Nag Naik, by Muhammad bin Tughlaq in 1328 AD.

Shahaji Bhosale, as the commander of Ibrahim Adil Shah I, was entrusted with the control of the Pune region. His son Shivaji, however, refused to accept the Adilshahi and initiated the task of setting up Swarajya. He gained control of Kondana in 1647 by convincing Siddi Amber, the Adilshahi Sardar who controlled the fort. Bapuji Mudgal Deshpande played key role in this activity.In 1649, it had to be handed over to Adil Shah for Shahaji Maharaj’s release. Shivaji Maharaj recaptured it back in 1656 again with the help of Bapuji Mudgal Deshpande,who convinced Fort commander by giving land in newly created Shivapur village and peacefully gained control of fort.This Fort saw attacks of Moguls on 1662,1663 and 1665.In 1664,Shahistekhan- mogul general even tried to bribe people of fort to hand over the fort to him but he was unsuccessful.Unfortunately in a Purandar Pact it went into the hands of the Mughal army chief Mirzaraje Jaysingh, in the year 1665. In 1670, Shivaji Maharaj re-conquered this fort and then it stayed under Maratha rule till 1689. After the death of Sambhaji death, the Mughals regained control over. Again in 1693 the Marathas recaptured it headed by Sardar Balkawade. Chatrapati Rajaram took asylum on this fort during Mogul raid on Satara but Rajaram died on Sinhagad on the 3rd of March 1700 & in 1703 Aurangzeb conquered the fort. In 1706, it once again went into the hands of the Marathas. Pantaji Shivdev of Sangola and the PantPratinidhis played key role in this battle. Then this fort remained with Maraths till 1818, when the British conquered it.British however took three months to capture this fort highest time ever for them to win any fort in the Maharastra.

Nearest Visiting places

• Panshet
• Khadakwasla
• Varasgaon dams
• Torana fort

Help Line/Phone Number

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Location info

• Address: 32 km south west of Pune

• District: Pune

• Nearest City: Pune

• Best time to visit: Any Time

Things to do at Sinhgad

Can admire the beauty of the place and take pictures of the fort.

Things to visit & highlights

You can see Tanaji’s samadhi on the fort. The bungalows of Lokmanya Tilak and famous Marathi Poet G.D. Madgulkar ( Ga Di Ma ) are also located on the fort. Dev Take - famous tank with sweet and cold water - is popular amongst the tourists. Sweet curd, Buttermilk, Kanda bhaji and Pithle-Bhakari of Sinhagad is the main attraction for the people. The samadhi of Rajaram Maharaj can also be found on this fort.

How to reach Sinhgad

• Nearest Railway Station:Sinhagad Express/Pune Station

• Nearest Airport:Pune Airport

• Road Transport:Buses From Pune or can take Private vehicles.

Hotels & accommodation nearby

There are lots of hotels at Pune

Things to carry

Mineral water bottles, food, first aid kit,camera and so on

Best time to visit Sinhgad

October to March: cool and pleasant weather ideal for trekking. Avoid monsoon (June–September) as trails become slippery and dangerous.

Timings & opening hours

Typically open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. Some forts may close earlier during monsoon or for maintenance.

Entry fee & tickets

Free entry for most hill forts. ASI-protected forts may charge INR 25 for Indians and INR 300 for foreign nationals.

Duration needed

3–4 hours including trek to the top and exploration. Larger forts may require a full day.

Safety tips

Wear sturdy footwear with good grip. Carry sufficient water — many forts have no water sources on top. Do not climb on unstable walls or edges. Start the trek early in the morning to avoid afternoon heat. Inform someone about your trek plan.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest airport: Pune International Airport (PNQ) or Mumbai International Airport (BOM). Nearest railway station: Pune Railway Station or nearest station on the Central Railway. Well-connected by road from Pune and Mumbai.

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, and Vi all provide excellent coverage across Maharashtra’s cities (Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur) and major tourist areas. 4G is reliable along highways and in most towns. Coverage may be weaker in deep forest areas of Tadoba, Melghat, and certain ghat sections. Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels and cafes.

Food & restaurants nearby

Most hill forts in Maharashtra have local snack stalls at the base serving pithla bhakri, vada pav, and tea. Carry food for longer treks — many forts on hilltops have no facilities. The nearest village or town offers Maharashtrian thali meals.

Climate & weather

Maharashtra has a diverse climate spanning coastal Konkan, the Western Ghats, and the interior Deccan plateau. Winter (November–February) is the best time to visit: temperatures range from 12°C to 30°C depending on region. Summer (March–June) is hot, with interior areas reaching 40°C+ while hill stations (Mahabaleshwar, Lonavala) remain pleasant. The monsoon (June–September) brings heavy rainfall to the coast and ghats but transforms the landscape into lush green. October–November is pleasant post-monsoon.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pumps are available in the nearest town or on the approach road to Sinhgad. It is advisable to fill fuel before heading to remote areas, especially hill forts and wildlife sanctuaries.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the trek to Sinhgad Fort? The trek takes about 1–1.5 hours from the base. The road goes up to the fort gate, so vehicles can also reach the top.

What is the best time to visit Sinhgad? October to March offers pleasant weather. The fort is especially beautiful during the monsoon (June–September) when it is surrounded by lush green hills and clouds.

Is there food available at Sinhgad? Local snack stalls are available at the base and near the fort entrance serving items like vada pav, bhaji, and tea. Carry water for the trek.

Quick facts

• Location: Maharashtra
• Best time to visit: October to March for comfortable exploration
• Ideal duration: 1-2 hours to explore the site
• Entry: Nominal entry fee at most ASI-protected sites
• Photography: Allowed at most sites; videography may require permit

Map & location view

• Destination: Sinhgad
• State: Maharashtra, India
• Region: historical region of Maharashtra
• How to reach: Accessible by road from nearby towns and cities. Local transport options include buses and taxis.
• Google Maps: Search for “Sinhgad, Maharashtra” on Google Maps for precise directions and navigation.