Bhupatgad Fort Blog History Trek Route Scenic Trails & Complete Guide
Prabhuling jiroli
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
| Mode | Details |
|---|---|
| By Road | From Nashik: ~110 km via Surgana. From Saputara (Gujarat): ~20 km. Base Village: Patta or nearby hamlets. |
| By Train | Nearest station: Nashik Road. Buses or private cabs required from there. |
| By Bus | MSRTC 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
| Detail | Info |
| Base Village | Patta or Bhupatgad |
| Height | ~2,000 feet |
| Trek Duration | 1–1.5 hours |
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Best Season | October to February |
| Water Source | Seasonal 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!