Bhupatgad Fort Blog History Trek Route Scenic Trails & Complete Guide

Prabhuling jiroli

Apr 11, 2025 5:00 am

Bhupatgad Fort, tucked away in the lush forests of the Surgana taluka in Nashik district, sits near the Maharashtra–Gujarat border and is known for its historical role as a frontier outpost, forested trekking route, and serenity. It's a lesser-visited fort that offers both historical value and deep connection with nature.


🏛️ Historical Significance of Bhupatgad Fort

✨ Early & Medieval Period

  • Bhupatgad Fort is believed to have existed since the Yadava or early Bahmani era, guarding the northern frontiers of what would become Maratha territory.

🔬 Maratha Period

  • The fort gained importance during the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, serving as a strategic military post to monitor movement along the Gujarat–Konkan trade route.

  • It is said that Shivaji Maharaj visited or stationed forces here to safeguard the borders.


🚜 How to Reach Bhupatgad Fort

ModeDetails
By RoadFrom Nashik: ~110 km via Surgana. From Saputara (Gujarat): ~20 km. Base Village: Patta or nearby hamlets.
By TrainNearest station: Nashik Road. Buses or private cabs required from there.
By BusMSRTC buses run to Surgana. Local jeeps available to reach the base.

⛺ Trek & Trail Information

  • Base Village: Patta (or Bhupatgad village)

  • Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

  • Trek Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours

  • Fort Height: ~2,000 feet (610 meters)

  • Best Season: October to February

🌿 Trek Route

  • Single forested trail from base village

  • Gradual incline through dense foliage and scenic views

  • Trail is shaded, with occasional wildlife sightings

❌ Avoid monsoon due to leeches and overgrowth.


🌍 Why You Must Visit Bhupatgad Fort

  • Untouched Wilderness – trek through dense forest cover

  • ⚖️ Frontier Fort History – strategically located on state border

  • 🌳 Peaceful and Non-Touristy – perfect for solitude

  • 🛏 Birdwatching and Nature Trail opportunity

  • 📸 Ideal for Weekend Adventurers


⛅ When to Visit vs. When to Avoid

☔ Avoid:

  • June to September (Monsoon):

    • Forest trail becomes slippery; leeches common

☀ Best Time:

  • October to February:

    • Dry conditions, wildlife spotting, pleasant climate


⛔ Who Should Avoid This Trek?

  • Trekkers expecting large fortifications (remains are minimal)

  • First-time trekkers during monsoon

  • Visitors with mobility issues


💼 What to Carry

  • 2L water, dry snacks or lunch

  • Trekking shoes with solid grip

  • Torch, whistle, and mobile GPS

  • Insect repellent and cap

  • Plastic bags for waste


✅ Do’s and ❌ Don’ts

✅ Do:

  • Start early in the morning

  • Trek in groups or with locals

  • Respect the natural surroundings

  • Carry back your litter

❌ Don’t:

  • Don’t trek solo in deep forest areas

  • Don’t feed or disturb wildlife

  • Don’t write on rocks or disturb remains


🏠 Fort Features & Remains

  • Entrance Trail: No formal gate; forest path opens to plateau

  • Structures: Stone ruins, small remnants of fort walls

  • Caves/Shelters: Few rock shelters likely used by soldiers

  • Water Tanks: 1 or 2 small seasonal cisterns

  • Watchpoints: Plateau edges used for lookout


📅 Quick Info Table

DetailInfo
Base VillagePatta or Bhupatgad
Height~2,000 feet
Trek Duration1–1.5 hours
DifficultyEasy to Moderate
Best SeasonOctober to February
Water SourceSeasonal tanks only

📸 Final Thoughts

Bhupatgad Fort offers a tranquil escape into history and forest silence. Though not grand in size, it holds importance in Maratha border defense and makes for a peaceful, scenic trek that’s perfect for weekend explorers.

🚀 Take the road less traveled and discover Bhupatgad – a quiet sentinel of the Sahyadris!