Purandar Fort, Mountain fortress in Pune district, India
Purandar Fort is a mountain fortress in Pune district situated on a high plateau in the Western Ghats with two distinct levels connected by stone staircases and ancient gateways. The structure includes several towers, walls, and underground chambers spread across the grounds.
The fortress was founded in the 11th century under the Yadava dynasty and later became crucial during the rise of the Maratha Empire in the 17th century. It changed hands several times and served different rulers throughout its long history.
The name comes from the Purandareshwar temple located within the fort, and you can see several shrines that show how local building traditions developed over time.
The fort is located about 40 kilometers from Pune and is open daily without entry fees. Wear sturdy shoes as the climb involves uneven stone paths, and be prepared for changing weather conditions common in the mountains.
During World War II, the British converted this medieval fortress into an internment camp for families classified as enemy aliens. This unexpected use of an ancient stronghold reveals how strategic locations remained important even in modern warfare.
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