Ratangad, Hill fort in Maharashtra, India
Ratangad is a hill fortress at 1,280 meters (4,200 feet) above sea level in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, reached by mountain trails from nearby villages. Four entrance gates lead through the outer defense walls, which run along the cliff edge and enclose several watchtowers.
The fortress was built in the late 17th century to control trade routes through the mountain passes. Maratha forces later captured the site and used it as a military outpost during regional conflicts.
The name comes from the local term for the peak area that hikers explore after reaching the summit. Within the fortifications, water tanks still fill during monsoon rains, showing how the site was once supplied with drinking reserves.
The climb takes around three to four hours and follows steep paths that can become slippery during monsoon season. Good footwear and enough water are necessary for the hike, especially in the warmer months.
A natural rock opening called Nedhe breaks through the upper edge of the summit, forming a circular window in the stone. Visitors can look through this formation and see the mountain landscape on the other side.
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