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.
Bhupatgad Fort is believed to have existed since the Yadava or early Bahmani era, guarding the northern frontiers of what would become Maratha territory.
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.
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. |
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
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.
⛏ 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
June to September (Monsoon):
Forest trail becomes slippery; leeches common
October to February:
Dry conditions, wildlife spotting, pleasant climate
Trekkers expecting large fortifications (remains are minimal)
First-time trekkers during monsoon
Visitors with mobility issues
2L water, dry snacks or lunch
Trekking shoes with solid grip
Torch, whistle, and mobile GPS
Insect repellent and cap
Plastic bags for waste
Start early in the morning
Trek in groups or with locals
Respect the natural surroundings
Carry back your litter
Don’t trek solo in deep forest areas
Don’t feed or disturb wildlife
Don’t write on rocks or disturb 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
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 |
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!