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This is the very heart of Maratha country -- Raigad, the
capital of Shivaji's kingdom. Strategically perched atop a wedge-shaped block of
hill, split off from the Western Ghats and inaccessible from three sides.
Stories of incredible valour and heroic deeds are etched on every pebble at
Raigad. It was here that Shivaji built his capital city in the 14th
century, and here that he crowned himself
Chhatrapati. For six years upto his death, Raigad
remained the capital of the Marathas with its broad gates and magnificent
monuments. There was only one pathway leading to the top, and prizes were
offered to those who scaled the fort through unconventional methods. Though
parts of Raigad are in ruins, yet they inspire an aura of grandeur.
Shivaji's impregnable capital, the place where he was
crowed and where he died. Besides the fort, you'll find his samadhi and the
remains of his palace.
For its immence beauty, Raigad
remains a hiker's paradice.The formidable Pratapgad fort with its equestrian
statue of shivaji is an interesting excursion.
You can also visit Gangasagar Lake or worship at the nearby
Jagadishwar Temple or pay your respects to the great Maratha warrior at his
Samadhi.
There are many interesting routes to
Raigad, varying from the relatively easy to the challenging. The path starts
from Pachad, 24 kms from Mahad, a shallow sea port on the banks of the Savitri
River. Raigad can also be an adventure-filled day excursion from the hill
station of Mahabaleshwar or from Pune. |
