Visapur fort situated at an altitude of 4,000 ft above from sea level in Lonavala. Visapur fort built during 1713-1720 CE by Balaji Vishwanath. Visapur Fort is larger and higher elevation than its twin fort. This fort situated to the east of Lohagad fort, and it has a massive plateau surrounding it. This fort is famous for its defensive walls with elaborate designs. These walls and designs have remained in good shapes even after facing centuries of torrential rains. Visapur have a real trekking expedition to reach this historical fort. In 1818, when sinking the Peshwa's forts, the strength of Lohagad and its fame as the reserves of the Maratha kingdom, cause the English to make special preparations for its attack. A lack of involvement with 380 European and 800 native soldiers, among a battering train, summoned from Konkan, were joined by armaments from Chakan, and two other British battalions On 4 March,1818 Visapur was attacked and occupied Lohagarh fort is 7kms south of Malavali station on the Pune-Mumbai railway line. Situated on a wide range of Sahyadri mountains, if divides the basins of Indrayani and Pavana riverssecure to Lohagarh, on its eastern side, there is another fort, called Visapur
History :
It is situated 52km from Pune in western India. Lohagad is at an elevation of 3,450 feet (1,052 m). It divides the basins of the Indrayani and Pavna and is situated on a side range of the Sahyadris. The Visapur fort is located on its eastern side. The four large gates of Lohagad are still in good condition and reasonably intact. Historical records show that in the later Peshwa period, Nana Phadnavis (1742-1800 AD) built several structures in the fort such as a big tank and a step-well (bawali).
On the west side, there is a long and narrow wall-like fortified spur called Vinchukata (Marathi for Scorpion's tail; see picture) because of its shape. Lohagad has a long history with several dynasties occupying it at different periods of time: Satavahanas, Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Yadavas, Bahamanis, Nizamshahis, Mughals and Marathas. Shivaji captured it in 1648 CE, but he was forced to surrender it to the Mughals in 1665 CE by the Treaty of Purandar. Shivaji recaptured the fort in 1670 CE and used it for keeping his treasury. This fort was used to keep the loot from Surat. Later in Peshwa time Nana Phadanwis used this fort for living for sometime. The fort has been declared as a protected moument by the government.
How Reach the Fort :
From Mumbai, you can take a train to Lonavla. Malavli is the next station from Lonavla in the direction toward Pune. There are a number of local trains operating between Lonavla and Pune; you can take any of them. From Pune, you can take any of these locals.
From Malavli railway station, the fort is just 9 km away. Vehicles can go up to the foot of the hill. From here, which is near a village called Lohagadwadi, there are steps to the fort, numbering approximately 500.
However, people can also walk all the way till the fort. Bhaja Caves is on the way to Lohagad if a small diversion is taken. This walk is a particular favorite of trekkers, especially in the monsoon. It is a simple and easy trek and the distance from Malavli station to Bhaje gaav takes about 20 min. Distance between Malavli and Lohagadwadi can be covered in around 2-2.5 hrs. The trekking route becomes mucky when it rains and trekkers will have difficulty to walk till the fort. The walk is very enjoyable especially the picturesque scenery, lush green grass, cool mountain air, and the pleasant salubrious climate. A variety of birds and insects can also be spotted in these hills. There is a way to reach by Road. There are two different routes to reach the base of Lohgad by car.
History to be provided
For people traveling from Mumbai or staying back in PCMC, the route is via Lonavala. If starting from Pune take old Mumbai Pune highway. Just after you cross toll plaza before lonavala, keep your left till you cross “Manshakti” There is a Y type left turn just after “Manshakti” Take that left and drive for another 200 odd meter to take very first left again You are on way to lohgad after crossing the place called “Bhangarwadi” from where it is just 8–10 km. If you come across a railway crossing and Mumbai-Pune highway twice you are on right track. You are on way to Paud, continue till you reach “Dudhiware Khind” Just before it, take left for Lohgad from here it is around 4 km max. The road ahead is very steep with couple of sharp turns but safe.
For people traveling from Pune city, the route is via Chandani chowk – Pirangut - Paud After reaching Paud take right and drive for around 40 odd km. Just after you cross “Dudhiware Khind” you reach to the same place Take right for Lohgad base.
It is tar road and you can reach comfortably till the “Paytha”. Have a safe drive. It’s a wonderful place and should be tried in between mid August to mid Sept. when you can still have rain but the intensity comes down.
When it rains, the top of the fort is covered with mist and clouds and becomes particularly wet. It is advisable to carry protective gear during the rainy season (mid-June to mid-September). Further, food is not easily available on the route. Most of the food stalls sell water, poha, tea/coffee, snacks, and soft drinks.
A panoramic view of the Pawna dam can be seen from the fort. \this one of the fort in maharashtra which is very better available construction
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