Into the Heart of History: The Kothaligad Experience

Kothaligad or Peth Fort is among the well-known hill forts in the Raigad district of Maharashtra state. It stands in the Western Ghats at an elevation level of around 3,100 feet (945 meters) above sea level. The fort can be best described as a tapering peak rising steeply with scenic views in all directions of the surrounding Sahyadri hills. Kothaligad is a popular trekking spot and a highly precious cultural and historical site at the same time. Located and oriented in the way that it is, it is a deserving monument of Maharashtra fort history.

Historical Significance

Kothaligad is important historically because of its location among the Sahyadri hills. The fort, being a comparatively smaller fort of Maharashtra, was a watchtower from where a person could monitor the activities of the enemy in the region. The fort was an important fort during Maratha times and British rule. It was a strategic post because of its location and helped the governors keep watch over the adjacent passes and valleys. Kothaligad has a history that goes back to medieval times when the location was in the hands of local chiefs before being conquered by the Bahmani Sultanate. The fort came into the possession of the Nizamshahi kingdom, who used it as a defensive point. The fort became important during the time of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj when it was in the Maratha Empire in the 17th century. Shivaji Maharaj found its significance and ensured that the fort was founded and fortified. In the 18th century, Kothaligad saw a series of fights between the Marathas and the Mughals. It was also briefly under British rule in the early 19th century when they were claiming their supremacy over Maharashtra. Due to its comparatively smallness and meagre resources, the British never employed it on a massive scale but held it as an outpost. Kothaligad is currently a reminder of Maharashtra's checkered past, its ruins and caves giving an insight into the state's history.

Nearby Attractions

• Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary

  Amidst the verdant landscape of the Western Ghats, lies the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, a wildlife and nature lover's haven. Covering a large area of approximately 131 square kilometres, the sanctuary is nestled in the broader Sahyadri Hills, renowned for their ecological importance and variety. Established in 1985 to preserve the Indian Giant Squirrel (Shekru) habitat, Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is a key component of the Western Ghats, a World Heritage Site recognized by UNESCO.

• Bhimashankar Temple

  One of the most religious pilgrimage sites in India, Bhimashankar temple is full of religious as well as spiritual significance. It is one of Lord Shiva's twelve Jyotirlingas and so it is an unavoidable destination for pilgrims and those who are looking for something divine. It is believed to have been built during the 18th century with a clear blend of the Nagara and Hemadpanthi school of architecture. In Hinduism, the temple is the site where Lord Shiva had vanquished the demon Bhima, and hence the site derives its name. The campus of the temple is replete with a sacred atmosphere, with beautifully carved stones on pillars and gods in different statues. 

• Rajmachi Fort

  Located at an altitude of approximately 2710 feet above sea level, Rajmachi Fort is one of the most popular trekking destinations in Maharashtra. Located between Lonavala and Karjat, the fort is a twin fort of Shrivardhan and Manaranjan, offering scenic views of the Sahyadri mountain ranges. Rajmachi Fort also has a glorious past and is said to have been constructed by the Satavahanas and later strengthened by Shivaji Maharaj in the 17th century. 

• Lohagad Fort

  Lohagad Fort, or "Iron Fort," is yet another stunning ancient structure that tells volumes about Maratha's resilience and might. Located near Lonavala, at an elevation of approximately 3,389 feet above sea level, the fort has stunning views of the Pawna Lake and the surrounding mountain ranges. Lohagad Fort is historical, and its history dates back to the Satavahana kingdom and later occupation by other powers like the Mughals and the Marathas. The fort was taken over by Shivaji Maharaj in 1648, and it was one of his most secure forts when he was the ruler.

Best Time to Visit Kothaligad

• Monsoon (June to September): Best time to visit as the fort and region are all lush with greenery, and waterfalls along the trekking route.

• Winter (November to February): Pleasant weather with open views, suitable for trekkers who prefer a cold environment.

• Summer (March to May): Hot and exhausting, hence treks taken early morning or evening. It is not that hard to reach Kothaligad from Mumbai, Pune, and Lonavala because of its great railway and road connectivity.

How to Reach the Base Village (Peth)

The trek to Kothaligad begins from the base village of Peth. You would do well to pre-book the same as it falls under the core Western Ghats region. The following is the route to reach Peth village:

• By Train: Karjat is the closest railway station to Peth, and it is well-linked with Pune and Mumbai. There are frequent local trains between Mumbai (CST) and Karjat, so one of them is an ideal option for trekking. There are also regular trains between Pune and Karjat.

• By Road: Karjat is 90 km from Mumbai and 110 km from Pune. Car or bus to Karjat and then to the base village.

• Karjat to Peth: Karjat trekkers must drive in a local shared jeep or private vehicle to Ambivali, the motorable point prior to the trek. Ambivali is 30 km from Karjat and a 45-minute to 1-hour road trip. Peth village is a 3 km trek from Ambivali.