India secured a major cultural and diplomatic triumph on Friday when twelve iconic Maratha forts were officially added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. Despite strong resistance from the advisory body, which had advised postponing the nomination, the sites prevailed after rigorous discussions at the World Heritage Committee meeting in Paris. Named the 'Maratha Military Landscapes of India,' this recognition marks the nation’s 44th World Heritage Site.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the valiant Maratha king and founder of the Maratha Empire, was a visionary strategist known for his mastery in fort architecture. Maharashtra is home to over 300 forts associated with him, each echoing tales of courage, resilience, and ingenuity. Here are five of the most iconic forts that not only played a pivotal role in his empire but remain must-visit destinations for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Raigad Fort
Perched atop the Sahyadri mountains in the Raigad district, Raigad Fort was the nerve centre of Shivaji Maharaj's empire. It was here, in 1674, that he was coronated as the Chhatrapati in a grand ceremony marking the birth of the Maratha kingdom. Originally built by the Bahamanis and later captured and reconstructed by Shivaji, this fort served as his administrative headquarters.The fort is accessed either by a steep trek or a convenient ropeway ride.
Sindhudurg Fort
Built in 1664 on an island off the coast of Malvan in Konkan, Sindhudurg Fort is a brilliant example of maritime defense. It was constructed under the direct supervision of Shivaji Maharaj to protect the coastline from foreign invasions, particularly by the Portuguese and Siddis. What makes this fort special is its hidden main entrance, designed to confuse enemies. Inside, you’ll find a unique temple dedicated to Shivaji Maharaj, one of the very few built during a ruler’s lifetime. The fort is surrounded by powerful walls that rise dramatically from the sea, and there’s even a freshwater well within the fort despite its oceanic surroundings.
Pratapgad Fort
Located near Mahabaleshwar in the Satara district, Pratapgad Fort is etched in history as the battleground where Shivaji Maharaj defeated Afzal Khan in a strategic duel in 1659. This victory marked a turning point in the Maratha struggle against the Adilshahi forces. Built in 1656 to control the Par pass, the fort is divided into the upper and lower portions and offers stunning views of the Western Ghats. It houses a temple dedicated to Goddess Bhawani, whom Shivaji deeply revered. At the base of the fort lies the tomb of Afzal Khan.
Rajgad Fort
Just 60 kilometers from Pune lies Rajgad Fort, which served as Shivaji’s capital for nearly 25 years before he moved to Raigad. Originally known as Murumbdev, Shivaji renamed it Rajgad (King of Forts) after capturing and fortifying it. The fort saw numerous historic events including the birth of Shivaji’s son Rajaram, and the death of his beloved queen, Saibai.
Torna Fort
Torna Fort, also known as Prachandagad, holds immense emotional and historical significance as the first fort conquered by Shivaji Maharaj at the young age of 16 in 1646. This conquest is often seen as the symbolic beginning of the Maratha Empire. Torna lives up to its name with massive ramparts and intimidating cliff faces. The fort is well-known for its distinct rock formations, Zunjar Machi and Budhla Machi, which served as strategic defense points. The trek to the top is considered one of the most challenging in Maharashtra, attracting seasoned trekkers from across the country.
