Raigad (2700 ft)
The historic Raigad fort was elevated as the capital of the maratha empire in 1674. Located in the Raigad district, Raigad fort is much more than a tourist spot. It is a sacred place of pilgrimage to many which has left an imprint of the grand vision of Hindavi Swarajya as cherished by Shivaji Maharaj. One of the most well preserved monuments in Maharashtra Raigad fort is a must visit for anyone interested in the history of Maharashtra.
Raigad fort is the only fort in Maharashtra which has a ropeway up the fort however it doesn't diminish the charm of trekking up the fort. Raigad trek is an easy - medium difficulty trek and the approximate duration of the trek is about 1.5 - 2 hrs. (The Raigad ropeway will get you to the top of the fort in 4 minutes!) The base village for the Raigad trek up is Pachad. Raigad night trek is particularly popular especially during the summers.
Raigad Ropeway
Raigad Ropeway built in 1996 under the leadership of late Shri V M Jog is an unique feature of Raigad fort. The ropeway takes the visitor up the fort in just 4 minutes and the ride up is a great experiance especially after monsoons when the carriages takes you up through mist laden clouds. A ride in the ropeway is a must just for the uniqueness of the experiance.
'Waghya' - Epitome of Loyalty..
Waghya shivaji's pet dog is known as the epitome of loyalty and eternal devotion. Legend has it that after Shivaji's death, the dog mourned and jumped into his master's funeral pyre and immolated itself. A statue of 'waghya' was put up on a pedestal next to Shivaji's tomb at Raigad Fort
Raigad houses the Samadhi of Shivaji Maharaj and a trip to Raigad is considered like a pilgrimage by many. The ruins of the fort and palace is well maintained. Raigad fort ruins consist of the queen's quarters, the bases of pillars, and watch towers in front of the palace grounds overlooking an artificial lake - Ganga Sagar. A replica of the original throne is in the public 'durbar' faceing the main doorway.
Distance from Major cities..
