Surgana Fort Blog History Trek Guide Travel Tips & Sahyadri Views

Prabhuling jiroli

Apr 16, 2025 5:04 am

Surgana Fort, located in Surgana taluka of Nashik district, is a hidden hill fort close to the Maharashtra–Gujarat border. With dense forests, untouched ruins, and a peaceful environment, Surgana Fort is a perfect offbeat trekking destination for explorers who love history, solitude, and scenic trails.


🏛️ Historical Significance of Surgana Fort

✨ Early and Maratha Era

  • Surgana Fort was once a strategic outpost guarding the northern frontier of the Maratha Empire.

  • It overlooked the trade and defense routes passing between Maharashtra and Gujarat.

  • Local legends connect the fort to Shivaji Maharaj’s frontier garrisons, used for regional control and patrolling.


🚗 How to Reach Surgana Fort

ModeDetails
By RoadFrom Nashik: ~100 km via Peth Road → reach Surgana village.
By TrainNearest station: Nashik Road. Then hire a cab or take a bus to Surgana.
By BusMSRTC buses available from Nashik to Surgana directly.

⛺ Trek & Trail Information

  • Base Village: Surgana or nearby forest hamlets

  • Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

  • Trek Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours one way

  • Fort Height: ~2,700 feet (823 meters)

  • Best Season: October to February

🌿 Trek Routes

  • The trail begins from the outskirts of Surgana village

  • Forested path leading through bamboo groves and shrub-covered ascents

  • Gradual climb, not very steep, but overgrown post-monsoon

❌ Avoid monsoon due to slippery paths and limited visibility in dense foliage


🌄 Why You Must Visit Surgana Fort

  • 🏞️ Undisturbed, Wild Fort rarely visited by crowds

  • 🌲 Forested Trail through Sahyadri greenery

  • ⚔️ Maratha Frontier History and local legend

  • 📸 Great for Explorers, Photographers, and Solitude Seekers

  • 🧭 Easy Trek for Beginners & History Buffs


⛅ When to Visit vs. When to Avoid

☔ Avoid:

  • June to September (Monsoon):

    • Forest is thick, trail is muddy, and leeches are common

☀ Best Time:

  • October to February:

    • Cool, dry weather and clearer views of hills and valleys


⛔ Who Should Avoid This Trek?

  • Trekkers expecting well-maintained fort structures

  • Elderly people with mobility issues

  • Tourists who dislike secluded or deep forest trails


💼 What to Carry

  • 2L water, fruits/snacks

  • Trekking shoes, cap, sunglasses

  • Raincoat (post-monsoon), mosquito repellent

  • First aid kit, torch

  • Offline GPS or local guide (mobile range may be weak)


✅ Do’s and ❌ Don’ts

✅ Do:

  • Trek in groups or with local guide

  • Inform someone before entering the forest trail

  • Respect local temples or shrines along the route

  • Carry back all plastic and trash

❌ Don’t:

  • Don’t wander off marked trail

  • Don’t trek during late evening

  • Don’t play loud music or disturb wildlife


🏯 Fort Features & Highlights

  • Entrance: Forest opening, no formal gate structure

  • Watchpoints: High cliffs with wide views of tribal valleys

  • Caves: Small cave shelters likely used by guards

  • Ruins: Stone foundation traces and crumbling walls

  • Water Tanks: 1–2 natural cisterns (seasonal)


📅 Quick Info Table

DetailInfo
Base VillageSurgana
Height~2,700 feet
Trek Duration1.5–2 hours (one way)
DifficultyEasy to Moderate
Best SeasonOctober to February
Water SourceSeasonal cisterns

📸 Final Thoughts

Surgana Fort offers a serene trek into Maharashtra’s frontier history and deep Sahyadri wilderness. Perfect for explorers and those looking for something beyond the regular tourist routes.

🚀 Venture to Surgana Fort – where Maratha borders, forest silence, and timeless trails await.