About Bhudargad Fort, Maharashtra
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Prime Day & Hours: Weekends, early morning and late afternoon
Suggested Duration: 2-3 hours
Tickets: Free for all visitors
Nearest Railway Station: Kolhapur Railway Station, about 64 km away.
Nearest Airport: Kolhapur Airport, about 68 km away.
Nearest Bus Stop: Gargoti Bus Stand, about 12.3 km away.
Bhudargad Fort is located about 63 km south of Kolhapur in Maharashtra. This prominent hilltop fort stands at an elevation of 3,089 feet. Originally built by Shilahara King Bhoj II, the fort had a strategic role through the Bahamani, Adilshahi, Maratha, and British periods. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj renovated the fort in 1667 and made it into a key military site.
The site features impressive structures, including the Hemadpanthi Bhairavnath Temple, a palace made of laterite rock, and the unique Doodhsagar Lake, famous for its milky-white water. You will also find ancient tombs, carved rock temples, a bust of Shivaji Maharaj, and a secret tunnel protected by a Nandi idol in the fort. It is accessible via a paved road and offers stunning views of the Sahyadri mountains and Peth Shivapur village. Bhudargad Fort is a peaceful and engaging place for history lovers and trekkers.
Bhudargad Fort, Maharashtra Highlights
• Step into the rich history of Bhudargad Fort, where you will find the influence of centuries of Maratha, Adilshahi, and British rule on old stone walls and temples.
• Visit the Doodhsagar Lake in the fort, which is known for its unique milky-white water and peaceful surroundings.
• Admire ancient temples and carvings, including the Hemadpanthi-style Bhairavnath Temple and a laterite palace with a bust of Shivaji Maharaj.
• Discover hidden structures and tunnels, such as rock-cut chambers and secret passageways guarded by Nandi idols and ancient sculptures.
• Enjoy panoramic views of the Sahyadris, with lush landscapes and distant villages from the fort's intact ramparts and bastions.
How To Reach Bhudargad Fort, Maharashtra
- By Car- Bhudargad Fort is around 67 km from the Kolhapur city centre. You can reach the fort in approximately 1 hour and 47 minutes via Kolhapur - Gargoti Road.
- By Bus- Take an MSRTC bus to Gargoti, then hire a jeep or six-seater to Pal village (5 km away). From there, it is a 30-minute drive to Peth Shivapur, the base village.
- By Train- The nearest station is Kolhapur Railway Station, about 64 km from Bhudargad Fort. You can continue to Gargoti by road and proceed toward the fort.
Best Time To Visit Bhudargad Fort, Maharashtra
Peak Season (October to February)
- Weather Insights: Pleasant, cool, and dry weather makes this the ideal time for sightseeing, trekking, and enjoying clear hilltop views.
- Things to Do: Explore the fort, visit the Bhairavnath and Bhavani temples, and click pictures at the Doodhsagar Lake.
Moderate Season (March to June)
- Weather Insights: Mornings are manageable, but afternoons can get quite hot.
- Things to Do: Explore rock-cut structures, hidden tunnels, and enjoy light hiking.
Low Season (July to September)
- Weather Insights: The monsoon brings lush greenery, but paths can be slippery, and fog may reduce visibility.
- Things to Do: Visit only on clear and dry days to enjoy lush surroundings, dramatic cloudscapes, and the refreshed natural beauty of the fort after rain.
Bhudargad Fort, Maharashtra Other Essential Information
- Carry drinking water and light snacks, since there are no food stalls near the fort.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on rocky or uneven paths.
- Check the weather updates regularly, especially when you visit during the monsoon season.
- Visit early mornings or late afternoons for the best lighting for photography and scenic views.
Climb to the Bhairavnath Temple
Start your visit by trekking to the Hemadpanthi-style Bhairavnath Temple. Admire its traditional stone architecture, tall Deepmaal, and beautiful surroundings. Before visiting other parts of the fort, this temple is a great spot to stop and take in the scenery.
Explore the Doodhsagar Lake
Visit the Doodhsagar Lake on the southern side of the palace. This serene pond is well-known for its serene surroundings and distinctive white colour. You can explore the Bhavani Temple and a few tombs and carvings near the lake.
See the Palace and Shivaji Maharaj Bust
Take a tour of the palace, which was formerly the royal court and is made of laterite stone. Built during the Karveer era, the bust of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is in a small temple behind the palace. You can see a glimpse of the Maratha history and their impact on the area here.
Find the Hidden Tunnel and Jakhubai Idol
You will find a hidden tunnel close to the old entrance on the eastern side of the fort. There are carved idols inside this tunnel, one of which is of Goddess Jakhubai. It is an intriguing and spiritual location that highlights the fort's ingenious layout and secret passageways.
Walk the Fort Perimeter for Scenic Views
Stroll around the outer walls of Bhudargad Fort. You will get wide and scenic views of Peth Shivapur and the Sahyadri hills. Along the way, you will also see intact bastions, stone walls, and peaceful landscapes, which are perfect for photography and quiet exploration.
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Bhudargad Fort Maharashtra FAQs
What is Bhudargad famous for?
Bhudargad Fort is known for its scenic hilltop location, rich Maratha history, and well-preserved architectural elements. Built by King Bhoj II and later enhanced by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the fort is home to landmarks like Doodhsagar Lake, Bhairavnath Temple, ancient palaces, and rock-cut tunnels. It also offers panoramic views of the Sahyadri range, which makes it a favourite spot for trekkers and history lovers.
What is the historical significance of Bhudargad Fort?
Bhudargad Fort, located in the Kolhapur district of Maharashtra, holds historical importance as a Maratha stronghold. Built during Shivaji Maharaj’s era, the fort played a key role in regional defence and administration. Its strategic location and architecture reflect the military planning and cultural legacy of the Maratha Empire.
Is trekking to Bhudargad Fort difficult?
The trek to Bhudargad Fort is moderately easy, suitable for beginners and nature lovers. The trail is well-marked and passes through lush greenery and hilly terrain. It takes around 30–45 minutes to reach the top, making it an ideal one-day trekking destination for families and casual hikers.
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