Lingana Fort Blog History Extreme Trek Guide, How to Reach & Fort Details

Prabhuling jiroli

Apr 11, 2025 4:30 am

Lingana Fort, rising like a monolithic spire between Raigad and Torna forts in the Sahyadri range, is one of the most thrilling and technical climbs in Maharashtra. It offers no palaces or templesβ€”just raw, vertical cliffs, dizzying drops, and a test of willpower. Known for its vertical rock face and strategic history, Lingana is a destination for seasoned trekkers and adventurers.


πŸ›οΈ Historical Significance of Lingana Fort

✨ Origins & Medieval Importance

  • Believed to be constructed during the 13th–14th century, possibly under the Yadava or Bahmani rule as a lookout point.

🏰 Maratha Era Use

  • Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj developed Lingana as a penal fort and high-security prison due to its inaccessibility.

  • It was used to imprison political enemies, with no records of escape due to its sheer cliffs.

  • The British later attempted destruction of its usable structures.


🚜 How to Reach Lingana Fort

ModeDetails
By TrainNearest station: Pune or Kolad. From there, reach Mohari village.
By RoadFrom Pune: ~90 km via Velhe. From Mumbai: ~170 km via Mahad and Mohari.
Base VillageMohari (Raigad district)

β›Ί Trek & Climb Information

  • Base Village: Mohari

  • Trek Difficulty: Extremely Difficult (Rock Climbing Required)

  • Trek Duration: 6–8 hours (technical + return)

  • Height: 2,969 feet (905 meters)

  • Best Season: November to February (dry season only)

🌿 Trek Routes:

  • Mohari β†’ Boratyachi Nal β†’ Lingana Base

    • Gradual forest walk up to base

    • Technical climb (400–500 ft vertical) using ropes, harness, belay system

    • Only possible with professional guides

🚫 Not for beginners. Strictly requires climbing gear and guide.


🌍 Why You Must Visit Lingana Fort

  • β›° Once-in-a-lifetime Rock Climb experience

  • βš–οΈ Historical Penal Fort used by Shivaji Maharaj

  • πŸŒ„ 360Β° View of Sahyadri peaks including Torna, Raigad, and Rajgad

  • 🎨 Adventurer's Badge – very few successfully climb it

  • πŸ“š Rare and Raw Sahyadri Experience


β›… When to Visit vs. When to Avoid

β˜” Avoid:

  • June to September (Monsoon):

    • Deadly slippery vertical climb, fog, zero grip

β˜€ Best Time:

  • November to February:

    • Dry weather, safe grip for ropes and holds


β›” Who Should Avoid This Trek?

  • Anyone without high-altitude trekking or climbing experience

  • Those with vertigo, heart issues, or fear of heights

  • Solo trekkers (NEVER attempt Lingana solo)


πŸ’Ό What to Carry

  • Climbing gear (ropes, harness, carabiners, helmet)

  • Professional guide team

  • 3L water, glucose, energy bars

  • Full sleeve trekking wear and gloves

  • First aid kit and whistle

  • Flashlight with extra battery


βœ… Do's and ❌ Don'ts

βœ… Do:

  • Book experienced climbing guides

  • Train your body before the climb

  • Inform locals or forest officials of your plan

  • Keep calm and communicate with your group

❌ Don’t:

  • Don’t try shortcuts or unmarked trails

  • Don’t carry heavy backpacks up the wall

  • Don’t disrespect the natural rock or leave trash


🏠 Fort Structure & Remains

  • Entry Path: Narrow climb from Boratyachi Nal

  • Caves: Small cave shelters mid-way

  • Water Tank: Carved tank at summit (seasonal)

  • Prison Cells: Historical records mention dungeons (no longer intact)

  • No Temples or Gates remain


πŸ“… Quick Info Table

DetailInfo
Base VillageMohari
Height2,969 feet
Trek Duration6–8 hours (technical climb)
DifficultyExtremely Difficult
Best SeasonNovember to February
Water SourceSmall cistern on top (seasonal)

πŸ“Έ Final Thoughts

Lingana Fort isn’t your usual weekend trek. It’s raw, vertical, and unapologetically toughβ€”but for those who dare, it’s a story to tell forever. If you're a serious climber or want to level up your Sahyadri game, this is it.

πŸš€ Conquer the impossible – scale Lingana Fort and earn your Sahyadri stripes!