Bankot Fort, located on the northernmost tip of Ratnagiri district, is a majestic coastal fort with a rich history dating back to the medieval era. Overlooking the Bankot Creek and the Arabian Sea, this fort was a strategic trade and defense post. It was originally built as a watchtower to monitor naval movements and later played a key role in the Maratha, Portuguese, and British rule.

Bankot Fort is relatively lesser-known, making it a peaceful destination for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers. The trek to the fort is easy, making it an ideal weekend getaway for both beginner trekkers and families.

 

📜 1. History of Bankot Fort

🏰 Early & Medieval History

• Bankot Fort is one of the oldest coastal forts in Maharashtra, dating back to the early medieval period.
• It was originally known as Himmatgad, meaning "Fort of Courage".
• The fort was used as a watchtower to monitor trade routes along the Bankot Creek.

⚔️ Portuguese, Maratha & British Era

• In 1548, the Portuguese captured Bankot Fort to control trade routes along the Konkan coast.
• In 1700, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj took over the fort from the Portuguese, renaming it Bankot Fort and making it an important Maratha naval outpost.
• In 1756, the British East India Company captured the fort, renaming it Fort Victoria.
• It remained under British control until 1947, after which it was abandoned.

🏛️ Current Status

• Today, Bankot Fort is a well-preserved heritage site, with remnants of fort walls, bastions, and gateways still standing.
• The fort offers stunning panoramic views of the sea, Bankot Creek, and surrounding hills.
• It is a great trekking destination, with an easy trail leading to the top.

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🚗 2. How to Reach Bankot Fort

📍 Nearest Cities & Distances

Location	Distance from Bankot Fort	Approx. Travel Time
Harihareshwar	30 km	1 hour
Velas Beach	18 km	45 minutes
Mumbai	220 km	6 hours
Pune	200 km	5 hours
Ratnagiri	170 km	4.5 hours

🚆 By Train

• Nearest Railway Station: Mangaon Railway Station (60 km)
• From Mangaon, take a local bus or taxi to reach Bankot village.

🚌 By Bus

• MSRTC buses are available from Mumbai, Pune, and Ratnagiri to Harihareshwar.
• From Harihareshwar, hire a private cab or auto-rickshaw to reach Bankot Fort.

🚖 By Road (Best Option)

• From Mumbai: Drive via Mumbai-Goa Highway (NH-66), then take the Dapoli-Bankot road.
• From Pune: Drive via Tamhini Ghat, then continue towards Velas and Bankot Fort.

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🥾 3. Trekking to Bankot Fort

🗺️ Trekking Routes & Difficulty

Route	Starting Point	Difficulty Level	Time Required
Bankot Village Route	Bankot Village	Easy	20-30 minutes

⏳ Best Time for Trekking

✅ Winter (October - March) – Best time, cool weather ❄️
✅ Post-Monsoon (September - October) – Ideal for lush greenery 🌿
❌ Avoid Monsoon (June - August) – Slippery trails & heavy rainfall 🌧️

🔍 Trekking Tips

✔️ Start early (before 10 AM) to avoid heat.
✔️ Carry at least 2 liters of water per person.
✔️ Wear comfortable trekking shoes for better grip.
✔️ Stick to marked trails to avoid getting lost.

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🤩 4. Why You Must Visit Bankot Fort?

✅ One of the Oldest Coastal Forts in Maharashtra – Built before the Portuguese and Maratha rule.
✅ Breathtaking Views – Overlooks the Arabian Sea and Bankot Creek.
✅ Great for Beginner Trekkers – An easy hike with historical ruins.
✅ Less Crowded & Peaceful – A hidden gem for history lovers & photographers.
✅ Nearby Attractions – Visit Velas Beach (famous for Olive Ridley turtles), Harihareshwar Temple, and the Konkan coastline.

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🏰 5. Important Fort Details

🚪 Fort Gates (Darwazas)

Gate Name	Significance
Main Entrance Gate	Portuguese-style entrance, still intact.

🛡️ Fort Towers & Structures

Structure	Significance
Watchtower	Used for monitoring enemy ships & trade routes.
Bastions	Defensive structures offering sea-facing views.
Secret Tunnel	Believed to be an escape route during battles.

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🚨 6. When to Avoid Visiting Bankot Fort

❌ During Heavy Monsoons (July-August) – Risk of landslides & slippery trails.
❌ Late Evenings/Night – No lighting, unsafe for exploration.
❌ Hot Summers (April-May) – Extreme heat, dehydration risks.

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⚠️ 7. Who Should Avoid This Trek?

🚷 Elderly people with mobility issues – The trek involves some climbing.
🚷 People with breathing difficulties – Humidity in monsoon makes it tougher.
🚷 Young kids (under 5 years) – The uneven terrain can be risky.

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🎒 8. What to Carry for the Trek?

✔️ 2-3 liters of water per person.
✔️ Trekking shoes with a strong grip.
✔️ Cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen (for summer treks).
✔️ Raincoat/Poncho (for monsoon treks).
✔️ First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic, painkillers).
✔️ Energy bars & dry snacks.
✔️ Power bank & fully charged phone.

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💭 Final Thoughts

Bankot Fort is a hidden coastal gem offering a perfect blend of history, scenic views, and adventure. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or beginner trekker, this fort should be on your must-visit list.

📍 Plan your trip wisely, respect nature, and enjoy the adventure! 🚶‍♂️🏰🌊