⏰ कार्यक्रम – रायगड किल्ला ट्रेक (पुणेहून)

📍 पिकअप पॉईंट: पुणे – स्वारगेट (लक्ष्मी नारायण थिएटर) व कल्याण स्टेशन (मुंबई)

🚌 दिवस ० (मागील रात्री प्रस्थान)

• १०:३० रात्री – स्वारगेट, लक्ष्मी नारायण थिएटर व कल्याण स्टेशन, मुंबई येथे जमणे

• ११:०० रात्री – प्रायव्हेट बसने रायगडकडे प्रस्थान

🏔️ दिवस १ (ट्रेक व गडदर्शन)

• ०४:३० पहाटे – रायगड पायथ्यावरील पाचाड गावात आगमन

• ०५:०० पहाटे – ताजेतवाने होऊन नाश्ता

• ०५:३० पहाटे – नाणे दरवाजातून ट्रेक सुरू व रायगडवरील ऐतिहासिक स्थळांचे दर्शन :

🔸 खुबळधा बुरुज
🔸 नाणे दरवाजा
🔸 महादरवाजा
🔸 चोरडिंडी
🔸 हत्ती तलाव व गंगासागर तलाव
🔸 स्तंभ / मनोरे
🔸 राजभवन (राजांचा निवास)
🔸 राजसदर (दरबार)
🔸 नागरखाना
🔸 राणीवसा
🔸 हिरकणी बुरुज
🔸 बाजारपेठ
🔸 भवानी टोक
🔸 जगदीश्वर मंदिर व शिर्काई मंदिर
🔸 छत्रपती शिवाजी महाराज समाधी
🔸 कुशावर्त तलाव
🔸 ताकमक टोक
🔸 वाघदरवाजा

• ०१:०० दुपारी – परतीस सुरुवात

• ०२:३० दुपारी – दुपारचे जेवण (गडावर / पायथ्याशी)

• ०३:३० दुपारी – पाचाड किल्ला व जिजामाता समाधी दर्शन

• ०४:३० संध्याकाळी – पुणे व मुंबईकडे प्रस्थान

• ०९:३० रात्री – स्वारगेट, पुणे येथे आगमन (प्रवास समाप्त)

🏰 Raigad Fort – Pride of the Maratha Empire

Raigad Fort holds a unique place in the history of the Maratha Empire. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, recognizing the strategic importance and strength of this fort, declared it the capital of his kingdom in the 17th century. The historic Shivrajyabhishek (coronation ceremony) was performed here.

Situated in the Sahyadri mountain ranges of Maharashtra’s Raigad district, at about 820 meters (2,700 feet) above sea level, this fort is considered a living symbol of Maratha valor, foresight, and the vision of Swarajya (self-rule).

• Coordinates: 18.234686, 73.446444

• Name: Raigad

• Height: 820 meters / 2,700 feet

• Type: Hill Fort (Giridurg)

• Climb Difficulty: Easy

• Location: Raigad, Maharashtra, India

• Nearest Village: Raigad

• Mountain Range: Sahyadri

• Present Condition: Well-preserved

• Established: 1030 AD
  
  

📖 History

The ancient name of Raigad was “Rairi.” Europeans often called it the “Gibraltar of the East” because, like Gibraltar, it was considered invincible and strategically unassailable. About 500 years ago, it was just a hill and not yet developed into a fort. At that time, it was known by names such as Rasivata and Tanas. Due to its height, shape, and the surrounding valleys, it also came to be called “Nandadeep.” During the Nizamshahi period, Raigad was mainly used as a prison fort. Yashwantrao More, chief of the More clan, escaped from Javli and took shelter here, while his brother Prataprao fled to Bijapur. On 6 April 1656, Shivaji Maharaj laid siege to Rairi (later Raigad), and by May the fort came under his control. Around the same time, Maharaj learned that Mulla Ahmed, the Subedar of Kalyan, was heading to Bijapur with a large treasury. Shivaji intercepted and seized this treasure, brought it to Raigad, and used it for the construction and strengthening of the fort. Raigad’s summit was large, strong, and well-suited for a capital city. Its location in rugged, difficult terrain made it nearly impossible for enemies to capture. In addition, it was close to the Konkan coast, giving it easy access to sea routes. For all these reasons, Maharaj selected Raigad as the capital of the Maratha Empire.

According to the Sabhasad Bakhar: When the king personally inspected the fort, he found Raigad extremely formidable. The cliffs around the fort were as if carved by a chisel, rising one and a half villages (approx. 1500 feet) high. During the monsoon, no grass grew on the rock face, and the stone appeared to be one solid mass. Though Daulatabad was considered an impregnable fort, it lacked sufficient height. Compared to Daulatabad, Raigad was ten times more elevated and provided vast space. Seeing this, Shivaji Maharaj was greatly satisfied and declared: “This fort shall be the seat of my throne.”

This mighty Durga-Durgeshwar (King of Forts) has been known by 15 different names throughout history: Raigad, Rayari, Islamgad, Nandadeep, Jambudweep, Tanas, Rashivata, Badenur, Raigiri, Rajgiri, Bhivgad, Reddi, Shivalanka, Rahir, Gibraltar of the East

Raigad was considered ten times mightier than Devgiri (Daulatabad) – with an elevation of one and a half villages, vast space, and sheer cliffs where not even grass grew in the rains, nor was there a place for a bird to perch. Witnessing this, Shivaji Maharaj joyfully proclaimed: “This is the fort where I shall establish my throne.” The old name of Raigad was Rayari. The fort is massive in expanse and rises about 2900 feet above sea level, with nearly 1450 steps leading up. On the western side lies the famous Hirakani Bastion, in the north the perilous Takmak Tok, the Shirkai Temple, and in the central area stands the majestic statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. From the 5th century onwards, the Shirke family were the custodians of Raigad. To this legacy, the shrine of Shirkai Devi on the fort stands as testimony. The present temple was built during the time of Lokmanya Tilak by an engineer named Mavalankar. However, this is not the original shrine. The idol itself is ancient, while the original Shirkai temple stood near Holi Mala adjacent to the royal palace. The base of that old temple still exists, and even during British rule, a plaque there identified the place as Shirkai’s abode.

Shivrajyabhishek (Coronation of Shivaji Maharaj):
The coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was the most glorious moment witnessed by Raigad Fort. This event was not only a milestone in the history of Maharashtra but also a significant chapter in the history of India. On 19th May 1674, before the coronation rituals, Shivaji Maharaj visited Goddess Bhavani at Pratapgad and offered a golden umbrella weighing three man (approx. 42 kg) valued at 56,000 hons (gold coins). The grand coronation ceremony was held in the royal court of Raigad on 6th June 1674 (Saturday, Jyeshtha Shuddha 13, Shaka 1596). Later, on 24th September 1674 (Lalita Panchami, Ashwin Shuddha 5, Ananda Samvatsara, Shaka 1596), Shivaji Maharaj underwent a second coronation performed according to Tantric rituals by Nischalpuri Gosavi. The purpose behind this second ceremony was to ensure greater acceptance and satisfaction among all communities and sections of society.

Must-Visit Spots on Raigad Fort 🏰

Jijabai’s Wada at Pachad:
In her later years, Jijabai (mother of Shivaji Maharaj) found the cold winds and atmosphere of the fort unsuitable. To ensure her comfort, Maharaj built her a residence at Pachad, near the base of Raigad. This wada (mansion) became her home in her final years. The wada had its own officials and guards appointed for security. A beautifully built stepwell and a stone bench, where Jijabai often sat, are still worth seeing. This well is popularly known as “Takkya Chi Vihir.”Khubladha Bastion:
While ascending the fort, one first comes across the famous Khubladha Bastion. Next to it once stood a gate called the Chit Darwaza, which has now completely collapsed.

Nane Darwaja (Nana Darwaza):
Also referred to as “Nane Darwaja” (meaning “small gate”), it is often wrongly associated with statesman Nana Phadnis. In reality, “Nane” signifies “small.” In May 1674, during the coronation of Shivaji Maharaj, the English envoy Henry Oxenden entered the fort through this gate. The gate is designed with two arches, and on the inner side, there are two small guard rooms called “Devda.” One can still see the grooves where wooden barricades were once fixed.

Mahadarwaja (Main Gate):
The outer face of the grand Mahadarwaja is adorned with two beautifully carved lotus motifs, one on each side. These symbolize the presence of Lakshmi (prosperity) and Saraswati (knowledge) inside the fort.The gate is flanked by two massive bastions – one 75 feet tall and the other 65 feet. The bastion walls contain small downward slits called “Jangya”, designed for firing at enemies. The Mahadarwaja itself faces the northwest. On entering, one can still see the guard rooms (Devda) and living quarters built for sentries. From this gate, the fortifications extend right towards Takmak Tok and left towards Hirkani Bastion.

Chordindi (Secret Passage):
Walking along the fort wall from Mahadarwaja towards Takmak Tok, just before the wall ends, there is a hidden passage called Chordindi. Inside the bastion, steps lead down directly to this secret exit, which served as an emergency route.

Hatti Talav (Elephant Lake):
A little ahead of Mahadarwaja lies the Hatti Talav. This large reservoir was used for bathing and watering the royal elephants kept in the fort’s stables.

Gangasagar Talav (Sacred Lake):
Close to Hatti Talav is the Gangasagar Lake. After the coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1674, holy waters brought from the seven sacred seas and rivers were poured into this reservoir, hence the name Gangasagar. In Shivaji’s time, this water was also used for the garrison stationed on the fort.

Stambh (Victory Pillars):
To the south of Gangasagar stand two tall stone towers known as Stambh. These are believed to be the same pillars mentioned in the inscriptions at Jagdishwar Temple. Once said to be five storeys high, they are twelve-sided structures decorated with intricate carvings – a testimony to Maratha architecture.

Mena Darwaza:
After ascending from the Palakhi Darwaza, a straight, undulating path leads to the Mena Darwaza. On the right side, you can see the remains of seven structures that were once the queens’ palaces. From the Mena Darwaza you enter the Balekilla (inner citadel).

Rajbhavan (King’s Palace):
To the left, opposite the Rani Vasa, are the remains of houses for servants and attendants. Behind those ruins, a parallel wall has a gate. Passing through that gate leads into a wide courtyard — this is the royal residence, the Rajbhavan. The courtyard measures about 86 feet long and 33 feet wide.

Ratnashala (Treasure / Jewel Room):
East of the palace pillars, in an open space, there is a cellar-like chamber referred to as the Ratnashala. It is believed this room may have been used for storing valuables or for private, secret discussions.

Rajsabha (Royal Court):
This is where the king’s coronation was held — the Rajsabha. The hall is about 220 feet long and 124 feet wide. To the east is the place for the throne. Historically, a golden throne weighing thirty-two mana (a royal measure) stood here. The Bakhar records that a throne of gold (thirty-two mana) was prepared and many precious gems were fixed into it.

Nagarkhana (Drum House / Main Entrance):
The grand gateway facing the throne is the Nagarkhana, the main entrance to the Balekilla. Climb the steps from the Nagarkhana and you reach one of the highest points on the fort.

Market Area (Bajarpeth):
If you descend left from the Nagarkhana you reach an open ground called Holi Cha Mal. Today a large statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji stands here. In front of the statue are the ruins of the old market — the historic bazaar. The market had two rows of shops, each row containing about 22 shops, with a broad road of nearly 40 feet between them.

Shirkai Temple:
To the left of the king’s statue is a small temple dedicated to Shirkai, the principal deity of the fort. The Shirke family were rulers of Raigad from around the 5th century, and the Shirkai shrine on the fort commemorates that legacy. The present temple was rebuilt during Lokmanya Tilak’s era by an engineer named Mavlankar; the structure is not the original, but the idol itself is ancient. The original Shirkai temple stood near Holi Cha Mal by the royal palace; its base still remains. During British times a plaque identified the shrine’s site.

Jagdishwar Temple:
Below the market, on an eastern slope, are remains of Brahmin quarters and land known as Brahmanvasti. Facing them is the grand Jagdishwar Temple, dedicated to Mahadev. A large and finely carved Nandi faces the temple (currently in a deteriorated state). Inside the temple is a spacious assembly hall; at its center sits a large basin (kasa). On the inner sanctum walls there is a prominent figure of Hanuman. Beneath the temple steps is a small inscription that praises the temple and its builder. The inscription essentially states that this Jagdishwar palace was built by the order of Chhatrapati Shivaji in the Shaka year 1596 during the Ananda Samvatsara, and that the sculptor Hiroji constructed wells, tanks, gardens, roads, pillars, elephant stables and royal residences on the fort — works that would be admired while the sun and moon shine.

The Maharaj’s Samadhi (Tomb):
A short distance east of the temple stands an octagonal court — the maharaj’s samadhi. The Bakhar records Shivaji Maharaj’s passing at Raigad (Shaka 1602 Chaitra Shuddha 15). The structure over the cremation spot is built of black stone slabs in an octagonal formation about chest-high and covered with a protective slab. Below the slab there is a cavity where traces of the remains mixed with ash were reportedly found. Beyond the cremation ground lie the ruins of other buildings, possibly the funeral attendants’ quarters. Nearby is a small house-like chamber that was once allotted in 1674 to the English lawyer Henry Oxenden. East of the samadhi is Bhavani Tok, and to its right lie liquor cellars and twelve water tanks.

Kushavart Talav:
Leaving Holi Cha Mal on the right-hand path leads to Kushavart Talav. A small Mahadev shrine stands next to this tank; a broken Nandi faces the temple.

Wagh Darwaja (Tiger Gate):
From the Kushavart tank a steep descent leads to Wagh Darwaja. Historical orders state that the fort should have one major gate and one or two secondary gates and secret passages (chor dindi) so that defenders could always keep some routes functional and block others if needed. With this foresight, the Wagh Darwaja was built in addition to the Mahadarwaja. Although climbing up this gate is nearly impossible, one could descend using ropes. Later, Rajaram Maharaj and his companions escaped the siege of Zulfiqar Khan through this gate.

Takmak Tok:
From the pavement in front of the market, descend to reach Takmak Tok. Here you can see the remains of a liquor storehouse. As you go toward the edge the path becomes narrow and the right side drops away into a sheer cliff nearly 2,600 feet deep. The point is very windy and offers little space, so visitors must be careful and avoid crowding.

Hirkani Tok:
A narrow path from the east of Gangasagar leads to Hirkani Tok, associated with the famous tale of Hirkani Gavlani. Cannons were once placed on this bastion. Standing here you can look left toward Gandhari Ghore and right toward the Kal River gorge. From this vantage you can also see Pachad, Khubladha Bastion, and the Masjid Morcha — all within the firing range of the cannons. Strategically and militarily, this is one of the most important and commanding positions on the fort.