Mandangad Fort, located in Ratnagiri district, Maharashtra, is an ancient hill fort with a rich history dating back to the medieval era. The fort stands at 2,600 feet above sea level, offering stunning views of the Konkan coastline and the Sahyadri hills.

Mandangad Fort played a significant role in Shivaji Maharaj’s military campaigns and was later controlled by the Peshwas and the British. Despite being lesser-known, the fort is a hidden gem for history enthusiasts, trekkers, and nature lovers.

 

📜 1. History of Mandangad Fort

🏰 Early & Medieval History

• Mandangad Fort was believed to be built in the 12th century by local rulers.
• The fort was strategically located to monitor trade routes along the Konkan region.

⚔️ Maratha & British Era

• In 1661, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj captured Mandangad Fort from the Adilshahi Sultanate.
• The fort was used as a military stronghold to protect the western coast from enemy invasions.
• After Shivaji’s reign, the Peshwas controlled the fort, but in 1818, the British captured it, marking the end of its military significance.

🏛️ Current Status

• Today, Mandangad Fort stands in ruins, with remnants of fort walls, bastions, and water tanks still visible.
• The fort is a great destination for trekking and history exploration.

---

🚗 2. How to Reach Mandangad Fort

📍 Nearest Cities & Distances

Location	Distance from Mandangad Fort	Approx. Travel Time
Mandangad Town	2 km	10 minutes
Mumbai	170 km	5 hours
Pune	180 km	5 hours
Ratnagiri	160 km	4.5 hours

🚆 By Train

• Nearest Railway Station: Khed Railway Station (45 km)
• From Khed, hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Mandangad town.

🚌 By Bus

• MSRTC buses run from Mumbai, Pune, and Ratnagiri to Mandangad town.
• From Mandangad, take an auto-rickshaw or private vehicle to reach the fort.

🚖 By Road (Best Option)

• From Mumbai/Pune: Drive via NH-66 (Mumbai-Goa Highway), then take the road leading to Mandangad town.

---

🥾 3. Trekking to Mandangad Fort

🗺️ Trekking Routes & Difficulty

Route	Starting Point	Difficulty Level	Time Required
Mandangad Village Route	Mandangad Town	Easy	30-45 minutes

⏳ Best Time for Trekking

✅ Winter (October - March) – Best time, cool weather ❄️
✅ Post-Monsoon (September - October) – Ideal for greenery & clear skies 🌿
❌ Avoid Monsoon (June - August) – Slippery trails & heavy rainfall 🌧️

🔍 Trekking Tips

✔️ Start early (before 9 AM) to avoid the heat.
✔️ Carry at least 2 liters of water per person.
✔️ Wear sturdy trekking shoes for rocky terrain.
✔️ Stick to marked trails – Some sections are steep.

---

🤩 4. Why You Must Visit Mandangad Fort?

✅ Historic Maratha Fort – Built during the medieval era, later captured by Shivaji Maharaj.
✅ Breathtaking Views – Offers panoramic views of the Konkan region.
✅ Great for Beginner Trekkers – Short & easy trek with historical ruins.
✅ Less Crowded & Peaceful – A hidden gem for history lovers & photographers.
✅ Explore Nearby Attractions – Visit Bankot Fort, Velas Beach, and Harihareshwar Temple.

---

🏰 5. Important Fort Details

🚪 Fort Gates (Darwazas)

Gate Name	Significance
Main Entrance Gate	Heavily damaged, still marks the entry.

🛡️ Fort Towers & Structures

Structure	Significance
Watchtowers	Used to monitor enemy movements.
Water Tanks	Ancient reservoirs for drinking water storage.
Ruins of Bastions	Defensive walls offering strategic viewpoints.

---

🚨 6. When to Avoid Visiting Mandangad Fort

❌ During Heavy Monsoons (July-August) – Risk of landslides & slippery trails.
❌ Late Evenings/Night – No lighting, unsafe for exploration.
❌ Hot Summers (April-May) – Extreme heat, dehydration risks.

---

⚠️ 7. Who Should Avoid This Trek?

🚷 Elderly people with mobility issues – The trek involves steep paths.
🚷 People with breathing difficulties – Humidity in monsoon makes it tougher.
🚷 Young kids (under 5 years) – The uneven terrain can be dangerous.

---

🎒 8. What to Carry for the Trek?

✔️ 2-3 liters of water per person.
✔️ Trekking shoes with a strong grip.
✔️ Cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen (for summer treks).
✔️ Raincoat/Poncho (for monsoon treks).
✔️ First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic, painkillers).
✔️ Energy bars & dry snacks.
✔️ Power bank & fully charged phone.

---

💭 Final Thoughts

Mandangad Fort is a perfect mix of history, adventure, and scenic beauty. Whether you want to explore a Maratha fort, enjoy a peaceful trek, or capture stunning views, Mandangad Fort is a must-visit destination.

📍 Plan your trip wisely, respect nature, and enjoy the adventure! 🚶‍♂️🏰🌿