Bhandargad Fort Blog History Trek Guide Scenic Routes & Fort Details
Prabhuling jiroli
Bhandargad Fort, a lesser-known gem of the Sahyadris, is part of the Mahuli Fort complex and sits on the same mountain ridge as Mahuli, Palasgad, and Samradgad. Located in the Thane district of Maharashtra, it offers panoramic views, thrilling forest treks, and a peaceful escape for history and nature lovers.
🏛️ Historical Significance of Bhandargad Fort
✨ Origins and Maratha Era
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Bhandargad was a strategic lookout and satellite post to Mahuli Fort, built to strengthen control over the region.
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It came under the rule of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj during his Sahyadri fortification campaigns in the mid-17th century.
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Later, it was captured by the Mughals and British, like its parent fort Mahuli.
🚜 How to Reach Bhandargad Fort
| Mode | Details |
|---|---|
| By Train | Reach Asangaon Railway Station (Central Line), take a rickshaw or local transport to Mahuli base village. |
| By Road | From Mumbai: ~90 km via Eastern Express Highway to Asangaon, then to Mahuli. |
| By Bus | MSRTC buses available from Mumbai/Thane to Shahapur, then shared transport to Mahuli. |
⛺ Trek & Trail Information
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Base Village: Mahuli
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Trek Difficulty: Moderate
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Trek Duration: 3–4 hours round trip (via Mahuli)
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Height: ~2,800 feet (similar elevation to Mahuli)
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Best Season: November to February
🌿 Trek Routes:
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Via Mahuli Fort Trail:
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Begin trek from Mahuli base
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After reaching Mahuli top, head toward Bhandargad ridge (clearly marked trail)
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Rocky, forested path with breathtaking views
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Alternate Ridge Routes:
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From Palasgad or Samradgad via connecting ridges (for experienced trekkers only)
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🚫 Avoid monsoon months due to slippery ridges and leeches.
🌍 Why You Must Visit Bhandargad Fort
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🌄 Panoramic Views of Tansa Valley and Mahuli Ridge
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⚖️ Historical Value as an outpost fort
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⛪ Peaceful and Less Crowded compared to Mahuli
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📸 Photogenic Terrain with cliffs, clouds, and carved stones
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🌿 Ideal for Explorers seeking offbeat destinations
⛅ When to Visit vs. When to Avoid
☔ Avoid:
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June to September (Monsoon):
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Dense fog, high rainfall, mossy and risky trails
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☀ Best Time:
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November to February:
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Cool weather, good visibility, and safe trails
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⛔ Who Should Avoid This Trek?
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Inexperienced trekkers without a guide
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Children under 12 or elderly with mobility issues
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Those with height phobia due to cliff sections
💼 What to Carry
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2L+ water, dry snacks, energy bars
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Trekking shoes with strong grip
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Cap, sunglasses, sunscreen
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First-aid kit
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Torch if returning post-evening
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Offline map or GPS
✅ Do's and ❌ Don'ts
✅ Do:
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Start trek early in the day
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Stick to marked paths
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Carry all trash back down
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Inform someone before your trek
❌ Don’t:
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Don’t attempt ridges alone without experience
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Don’t climb loose walls or unknown caves
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Don’t deface or mark fort stones
🏠 Fort Features & Structures
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Entry Point: No formal gate, trail leads through a rocky arch
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Watchpoints: Cliff edges offering expansive views
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Cisterns: Few seasonal water tanks
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Ruins: Stone remnants of fort walls and resting areas
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No temples or large structures remain intact
📅 Quick Info Table
| Detail | Info |
| Base Village | Mahuli |
| Height | ~2,800 feet |
| Trek Duration | 3–4 hours round trip |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Best Season | November to February |
| Water Source | Seasonal cisterns |
📸 Final Thoughts
Bhandargad Fort is for those who seek solitude, history, and a touch of thrill. A satellite sibling to Mahuli, it rewards the adventurous spirit with stunning landscapes and echoes of Sahyadri valor.
🚀 Take the trail beyond Mahuli and step into the forgotten ramparts of Bhandargad Fort!