Table of Contents
Sarasgad fort ( सरसगड किल्ला )
Dear trekkers and history lovers, get ready for an unforgettable journey! Sarasgad Fort is more than just a trek; it’s a perfect mix of adventure, history, and stunning landscapes. Located near Pali village, this fort offers thrilling climbs, ancient temples, and breathtaking views of the Sahyadri ranges. Whether you’re seeking excitement, history, or a peaceful sunset, Sarasgad Fort has it all. In this blog, I’ll take you through everything you need to know—how to plan your trip, what to explore, and nearby attractions.
Sarasgad fort History
Sarasgad Fort has a fascinating past dating back to the era of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. It was strategically built to oversee the surrounding region and was later brought under Swarajya by Shivaji Maharaj himself. He even spent 2000 Hon (an old currency) to repair and strengthen the fort. Before India’s independence, it was under the control of the Bhor Sansthan. Over the years, the fort witnessed significant historical events, including battles during the Konkan campaigns. Today, it stands as a proud symbol of Maharashtra’s rich history, attracting adventurers and history enthusiasts alike.
Journey Toward Sarasgad Fort
Trekking isn’t just about reaching the destination—it’s about the crazy experiences, unexpected stories, and memories that stay with us forever. It had been three long months since my last trek, and I could feel the itch for adventure growing stronger every day. My trekking shoes were collecting dust, my backpack looked at me with disappointment, and even my legs were begging for some action.
Without wasting a second, I called my two equally insane travel buddies, Kedar and Shailesh. These guys are as obsessed with trekking as I am—probably even more. The moment I said, “Bhai, let’s go for a trek!”, Kedar didn’t even let me finish before shouting, “YES! Done! Where to?”. Shailesh, on the other hand, was already checking his backpack for snacks (priorities, right?).
After some quick discussions, Kedar suggested Sarasgad Fort—a perfect mix of adventure, history, and breathtaking views. None of us had been there before, so the excitement levels shot up instantly. With no second thoughts, we locked in Saturday for our trek, ready to escape the city and dive into nature.
We decided to meet at Nashik Phata at 5:00 AM—because let’s be honest, trekking and road trips are best enjoyed with an early start (and fewer traffic nightmares!). Sarasgad Fort is about 130 km from our location, so we wanted to make the most of the journey. The crisp November air was refreshing, and the slight chill made our ride even more exhilarating.
But for me, this ride was extra special. I had recently bought a new bike, and this was my first long ride on it! The excitement of testing my bike on the open roads made the journey even more thrilling. The smooth hum of the engine, the cool wind brushing against my face—it was the perfect start to an adventurous day.
As we zoomed through the empty roads, our bikes roaring through the silence of the early morning, the excitement was building. After about 1.5 hours of non-stop riding, we reached Lonavala Toll Naka and unanimously agreed—it was time for breakfast!
We pulled over at a roadside eatery and ordered steaming hot poha and cutting chai. And let me tell you, in that chilly weather, each bite of poha felt like a warm hug from the universe. The chai? Absolute bliss. Conversations flowed, jokes were cracked, and for a moment, it felt like time had slowed down. These are the little things that make every journey truly special.
With our energy levels restored, we continued our ride and decided to take a quick detour to Khandala View Point. The moment we got off our bikes, we were hit by wild, unrelenting gusts of wind. It was so strong that holding our phones steady for pictures felt like a mini-workout. But the view? Absolutely worth it! From this spot, we could see the breathtaking Khandala Ghat, Duke’s Nose, the Mumbai-Pune railway line, and the vast expanse of Khopoli city.
By this point, I was completely in love with my new bike. Every turn, every acceleration, every stretch of open road just made the ride even more enjoyable. There’s something special about your first long ride on a new machine—it feels like you and the bike are bonding, like it’s telling you, ‘I’ve got you, let’s go on an adventure!’
After almost two hours of pure riding bliss, we finally reached Pali village. This place is not just the base for Sarasgad Fort but also home to the Ballaleshwar Ganpati Temple, one of the sacred Ashtavinayak temples.
We parked our bikes about 600 meters away from the Sarasgad base village parking area. The excitement was at its peak. Without wasting a moment, we tightened our shoelaces, adjusted our backpacks, and with full enthusiasm, we shouted, “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Ki Jai!” before setting off on the trek.
Little did we know, this trek was going to be filled with unexpected challenges, breathtaking views, and of course—some hilarious moments.
Sarasgad Fort Trek Begins
We kicked off our Sarasgad Fort trek at 9:30 AM, brimming with excitement and energy. Within just 10 minutes, we found ourselves walking through a dense forest, where the cool morning air and the chirping of birds made the hike feel like a nature therapy session. The soft rustling of leaves, the occasional crackling of twigs under our shoes—it was the kind of peace you don’t get in city life.
After about 20 minutes, we emerged from the jungle, and there it was—our first clear view of Sarasgad Fort! Standing tall against the vast blue sky, surrounded by lush green hills, it looked like something straight out of history books. Our excitement shot through the roof! It had been a long time since our trio had gone on a trek together, making this adventure even more special.
After about an hour of trekking, we decided to take a short break under the shade of a huge tree. Just as we were catching our breath, we saw a large group called ‘Giridurg’ arriving with over 80 school students. Seeing so many young kids, all eager to explore a fort, was truly heartwarming. One kid, probably no older than 10, excitedly told us, “Bhaiya, main pehli baar fort pe chadha hoon!” That moment made us realize how important it is to keep our history alive for future generations.
Once our energy levels were back up, we resumed our climb. Soon, we reached the rock-cut stairway, where the real adventure began. Along the way, we stumbled upon a small tunnel leading to a room carved into the rock. Was it a secret hideout? A weapons storage room? A fort pantry filled with ancient snacks? The mystery added a thrilling touch to our journey.
Then came the real test of endurance—90 steep stairs. Each step was almost a foot high, and the incline was no joke—an intense 85-90 degrees! This wasn’t just climbing; this was a full-blown leg workout. With every step, we could feel the burn in our thighs, but the idea of reaching the top kept us going.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity (but was probably just 10-15 minutes), we reached Dindi Darwaja—the grand entrance to Sarasgad Fort. The moment we stepped through, we felt an overwhelming sense of pride. The walls, bastions, and gateway were still standing strong, holding centuries of history within them.
At that moment, we weren’t just trekkers; we were time travelers—walking through the very gates that once saw soldiers, traders, and rulers pass through.
And the best part? The adventure was just beginning. 🚀🔥
Exploring the Sarasgad Fort – The Real Adventure Begins!
As soon as we stepped inside Sarasgad Fort, it felt like we had time-traveled back in history. The first thing we saw were the hammer marks on the rocks, and we couldn’t help but imagine how much hard work it must have taken to build this fort without any modern tools. We pulled out the map, ready for our next adventure.
The two big bastions – Dakshin Buruj and Zhenda Buruj—stood tall and proud. But the real surprise came when we spotted the saffron Bhagwa flag flying in the wind! It felt powerful, almost like Shivaji Maharaj himself was giving us a thumbs-up. The sight gave us chills and filled us with so much pride. This flag wasn’t just fabric; it was the spirit of Swarajya!
As we walked further, we found a bunch of water tanks carved into the rocks, some still filled with water. It was mind-blowing to think that these tanks were built centuries ago and still worked! Sarasgad has about 20-25 of these, which shows just how smart the people who built the fort were.
We pushed on and found more cool stuff—stone-carved rooms with their own water tanks and amazing drainage systems that kept the fort dry even in heavy rain. And guess what? It was Saturday, and restoration work was going on! Volunteers were fixing up the fort, and there were even groups cooking food for the workers. The whole place was buzzing with energy, and it made us feel proud to be part of something so special.
The real twist came when we tried to find the Balekilla. The path had us going in circles, making it feel like we were in a treasure hunt. But finally, we reached the Maha Darwaja (also called Dindi Darwaja 1), and the view from the top was absolutely stunning! We could see four other forts—Tailbaila, Sudhagad, Ghangad, and Mruggad—and the beautiful Pali village below. It was like being on top of the world!
And just when we thought the adventure couldn’t get any better, we reached the Kedareshwar Mahadev Temple. The temple was surrounded by water, and the peaceful vibe made us feel like we were in a different world. We took a moment to pray to Lord Mahadev and relaxed inside the temple for a while. We were tired but so happy with what we had experienced—this was a trek we’d never forget!
The Descent – A Bit More Challenging Than We Thought
We made one major mistake: we underestimated the trek. We thought the name “Sarasgad” (which means simple in Marathi) meant an easy, breezy hike. Boy, were we wrong! This fort had a way of keeping us on our toes, proving that the easiest things are often the toughest.
After a much-needed rest, we started our descent. The way down was just as tough as the climb, and it took us about an hour to reach the base. But once we did, it felt like a huge relief! Our legs were sore, but our spirits were high. We couldn’t wait to grab some snacks, so we made a beeline for a nearby restaurant. After munching on some delicious bites, we felt fully recharged.
Next up was a visit to the Ballaleshwar Ganpati Temple, where we sought blessings from Ganpati Bappa. It felt like the perfect way to end our adventure—peaceful, fulfilling, and with a sense of gratitude.
With our hearts full of joy and our minds filled with memories, we rode back home. Sarasgad Fort wasn’t just a trek; it was an unforgettable journey through history, packed with challenges, stunning views, and moments that filled us with pride.
Until the next adventure, Jai Bhavani, Jai Shivaji! 🙌
Things to See on Sarasgad Fort
Dindi Darwaja: The main entrance to the fort with strong fortifications.
Rock-cut Steps: Ancient steps leading to the fort, adding to its historic charm.
Zhenda Buruj & Dakshin Buruj: Two major bastions where the saffron flag waves proudly.
Water Tanks: Numerous tanks carved into rocks, showcasing ancient water conservation methods.
Maha Darwaja: The grand entrance leading to the Balekilla.
Kedareshwar Mahadev Temple: A small yet significant temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, surrounded by water.
360-Degree Viewpoints: Offers mesmerizing views of nearby forts like Tailbaila, Sudhagad, and Ghangad.
Ancient Structures: Stone rooms and storage areas showcasing the fort’s rich past.
How to Reach Sarasgad Fort
Sarasgad Fort is located in Pali village, Raigad district, Maharashtra. It is well connected by road and can be reached through various modes of transport:
By Road: From Mumbai or Pune, one can drive via Khopoli or Lonavala. The distance from Mumbai is around 100 km, and from Pune, it is around 120 km. Regular state transport buses and private cabs are available.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Khopoli, which is well connected to Mumbai and Pune. From Khopoli, one can take a local taxi or bus to Pali.
By Bus: Direct buses from Mumbai, Pune, and Khopoli to Pali village are available.
Best Time to Visit Sarasgad Fort
Sarasgad Fort is a wonderful trek to enjoy year-round, with each season offering its own unique charm:
Winter and Summer:
- Stunning sunsets with vibrant colors.
- Clear views of nearby forts like Tailbaila, Sudhagad, Ghangad, Morgiri, Sahyadri Mountain Range.
Monsoon:
- Dramatic play of clouds adding a magical touch to the landscape.
- Lush greenery and a refreshing atmosphere.
The trek is easy and enjoyable in any season, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Sarasgad Fort Trek: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the trekking hours of Sarasgad Fort?
Sarasgad Fort is generally open 24hr. It is best to start your trek early in the morning to enjoy the fort and its surroundings and to descend before sunset.
2. What is the best time to visit Sarasgad Fort?
The best time to visit Sarasgad Fort is during the monsoon season (June to September) when the fort is surrounded by lush greenery. The winter months (November to February) are also ideal due to the cool and pleasant weather. Summers (March to May) can be hot, so trekking early in the morning or late in the evening is advisable.
3. How can I reach Sarasgad Fort?
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Khopoli or Lonavala. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Pali village, the base of the fort.
- By Road: Sarasgad Fort is located near Pali village in Maharashtra, around 110 km from Mumbai and 80 km from Pune. You can reach Pali by private car, taxi, or bus.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Pune International Airport (80 km away) and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai (110 km away). From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Pali.
4. Where should I stay when visiting Sarasgad Fort?
You can find budget accommodations and homestays in Pali village. If you prefer better facilities, Lonavala and Khopoli have a range of hotels and resorts. Camping is also possible near Kedareshwar Cave Temple or other sheltered spots on the fort, but it’s advisable to carry your own gear and check weather conditions.
5. What food options are available near Sarasgad Fort?
There are local eateries in Pali village serving simple Maharashtrian food. You can also enjoy snacks and tea at small food stalls near the base of the fort. If you prefer more options, you can visit nearby towns like Lonavala or Khopoli.
6. How long does the trek to Sarasgad Fort take?
The trek to Sarasgad Fort usually takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and weather conditions. The descent takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
7. What should I carry for the trek?
- Sufficient water (at least 2 liters)
- Snacks and energy bars
- Comfortable trekking shoes
- A raincoat or poncho (during monsoon)
- A first-aid kit
- A fully charged mobile phone
- A flashlight (if starting early or returning late)
8. Are there any specific safety tips for trekking Sarasgad Fort?
- Start early to avoid the afternoon heat.
- Be careful on steep and slippery paths, especially during the monsoon.
- Stick to the marked trails and avoid risky shortcuts.
- Carry enough water and keep your phone charged.
- Do not litter; help keep the fort clean.
9. What are the key attractions at Sarasgad Fort?
- Kedareshwar Temple – A small but spiritually significant temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located near a cave on the fort.
- Caves on the Fort – Several caves can be explored, some of which provide shelter for trekkers and were historically used by warriors.
- Ballaleshwar Ganpati Temple, Pali – One of the Ashtavinayak temples, located at the base of the fort.
- Water Tanks and Rock Cut Steps – The fort has ancient water tanks that have been used for centuries, and steep rock-cut steps that add thrill to the trek.
10. Is camping allowed at Sarasgad Fort?
Camping is allowed in certain areas of the fort, especially near Kedareshwar Temple and some caves, but it is advisable to carry your own tent and supplies. Since there are no official camping sites, ensure you respect nature and leave no waste behind.
Tell Others About Sarasgad fort
Follow for More Travel Stories
Recent post
Dhawalgad Fort: Pune’s Hidden Gem Waiting to Be Explored
Sarasgad Fort Trek – A Journey Through Maratha History and Adventure
