Chandragad, Hill fort in Raigad district, India
Chandragad is a hill fortress in Raigad district situated at an elevation of around 750 meters and part of a ridge surrounded by dense forest. The structure includes religious spaces like temples and royal chambers along with an intricate water system made up of several rock-carved reservoirs.
The fortress was originally built by Chandrarao More of Javli to oversee the region, but became part of the Maratha Empire in 1656 under Shivaji Maharaj. This incorporation marked a significant moment in the empire's expansion into this mountainous region.
The temple dedicated to the goddess and the sacred shrine dedicated to Dhavaleshwar are meaningful spaces within the fortress that show how this place once served as a spiritual and royal center. The fourteen rock-carved water cisterns are silent witnesses to the daily practices and rhythms of life that once existed here.
The best access to the fortress runs through Dhawale village, located around 185 kilometers from Mumbai and reachable via road from Poladpur. The climb demands sturdy footwear and reasonable fitness, so starting early in the day and carrying plenty of water are wise choices.
The fortress sits at a location with commanding views over the old Dhawale Ghat route and the Krishna valley, revealing why this position was once so strategically valuable. This vantage point lets visitors today see sweeping views of the surrounding landscape and the historic trade route that once ran beneath it.
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