Avchitgad

Avchitgad is a fortification situated at 300 meters elevation in Maharashtra's Sahyadri mountains. The structure features defensive walls and stone constructions spread across a ridge overlooking forested valleys.

The Shilahar kings constructed the original fortress, which later fell under the Nizam of Ahmednagar's control. Colonel Prother captured it in 1818 during British expansion in the region.

The fort contains a temple dedicated to goddess Pingalsai and displays an ancient inscription in Sanskrit on its southern bastion from 1718.

Three different routes lead to the fort, with the easiest starting from Padam-Kharapti village through jungle trails. The main path takes roughly two hours and requires moderate fitness for walking on slopes.

The fort contains a twelve-sided water cistern for bathing along with six other storage structures. These underground systems demonstrate how cleverly the builders managed water supply in this remote mountain location.