Purandhar Fort in Pune
· Summer: March-June (20°C - 42°C)
· Winter: November-February (8°C - 32°C)
· Monsoon: July-September
Best time to visit:
Throughout the year
Opening Time: 07:00 a.m.
Closing Time: 05:00 p.m.
Weekly Holiday: N/A
Entry Fees for Indians
Adults: N/A
Children:
N/A
Cameras: N/A
Video Camera: N/A
Entry Fees for Foreign Nationals
Adults:
N/A
Children:
N/A
Cameras:
N/A
Video Camera:
N/A
Perched on one of the highest points of Western Ghats, about 4.472 ft. above sea level, is the historical Purandar (or Purandhar) Fort. The place actually accommodates two forts, the bigger one is Purandar and the smaller one being Vajragad, connected to each other. Though, established in the 13th century by Bahamani Sultans, the fort attained peak glory under the rule of Shivaji, the greatest Maratha warrior.
Attractions at the fort are divided into two levels, Machi (the lower one) and Ballekilla (the upper one). Apart from huge bastions and gates, the fort boasts of temples dedicated to Purandareshwar (the local deity) and Kedareshwar (dedicated to Lord Shiva). An old church is among the most remarkable spots inside the fort. However, it is the lavish greenery and breathtaking views from the top that mesmerize the visitors. The fort usually gets engulfed in mist which adds to the delight of being there.
Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a thrilling trekking adventure to the fort. However, don’t forget to take along mineral water and raingear. Food stalls are available at the mid-point of the trek at Binni Darwaaza. Be careful in monsoons when the trek trails become slippery. Visitors need to enrol their names and vehicle number at an army check post on the way to the fort.
Connectivites
Road:
From Pune, you must choose NH 4 to reach Narayanpur, the fort’s base point. The road is extremely scenic, but there are chances of getting lost. Make sure to take assistance from the local people to follow the right directions. From Narayanpur, you can take your vehicle to the top (not recommended in monsoons) or till the mid-point called Binni Darwaaza from where you can trek to the fort. Alternatively, you can trek the whole route from the base to the fort.
Railway:
Pune Railway Station is about 40 km. from Narayanpur. You can either rent a two-wheeler or hire a taxi from Pune to reach the base point.
Airway:
About 41 km. from the fort’s base point is the Pune International Airport. Hiring a taxi would be the best option from the airport to Narayanpur.