About Pandavgad Fort
Prime Day & Hours: Weekends, sunrise and sunset
Suggested Duration: 2-3 hours
Tickets: Free Entry
Nearest Railway Station: Wathar Railway Station, about 41 km away
Nearest Airport: Pune International Airport, about 105 km away
Nearest Bus Stop: Satara Bus Stand, about 46 km away
Pandavgad Fort, also known as Pandugad, is a 12th-century building that sits about 1,400 meters above sea level in the lush Sahyadri hills near Wai, Satara. It also offers stunning views of green valleys and the Krishna River, especially at sunrise and sunset. The fort sits on a steep escarpment that is 40 to 60 feet high and was built by the Shilahara prince Bhoja II. It was taken by Shivaji in 1673 and later occupied by Aurangzeb and the British.
To get to the fort, you have to embark on a moderate two-hour trek from Menavli or Gundewadi village, with narrow trails and steep stone steps at the end. This mildly challenging expedition leads to some stunning sights of nature and history. The square plateau has the ruins of the temple of Pandjai Devi and a Hanuman shrine on top. There are about three ponds that still work out of the original eighteen, a testament to the ancient engineering.
The Pandav Caves are made up of multi-cell dwellings and a chaitya shrine. These are believed to be from the time of the first inhabitants or the mythological Pandavas. Take a break from the city and go on an adventure to Pandavgad, where you can see a mix of myths, strategic architecture, and the Sahyadri wilderness.
Pandavgad Fort Highlights
• Ascend the square plateau where Pandavagad Fort resides at 4,177 ft elevation, a perfect combination of history and nature.
• Explore the Pandjai Devi and Maruti temple ruins, guarded by historic fort walls and surrounding water cisterns.
• Discover six rock‑cut adjacent water tanks ("saha taki") and three potable ponds still maintained atop the fort.
• Visit the Pandavgad Caves near Dhavadi village, the multi‑cell vihara, chaitya, and relic shrine.
• Trek narrow ridges and steep carved stone steps from Menavali or Gundewadi in 1.5–2 hours.
How To Reach Pandavgad Fort
By car/taxi: Pandavagad Fort is about 48 km away from the Satara city centre via the Mumbai-Satara Highway. It will take you about 1 hour to get there.
Best Time To Visit Pandavgad Fort
Peak Season (October to February):
- Weather Insights: Warm, crisp weather, temperatures ranging from 15 °C at night to about 30 °C during the day.
- Things to Do: Enjoy the trek, explore the temples
Moderate Season (March to May):
- Weather Insights: Hot, with temperatures of 30-38 °C by afternoon; coastal breezes provide some relief
- Things to do: Indulge in early morning treks and exploration
Low Season (June to September):
- Weather Insights: Heavy rains, high humidity, with temperatures ranging from 22 to 28 °C
- Things to do: Witness lush landscapes and dramatic scenery
Pandavgad Fort Other Essential Information
- Wear good trekking or grip shoes, preferably full socks and pants, to avoid insect bites or scrapes.
- Carry a first-aid kit, a torch for early or late climbs, and follow marked paths, especially at trail bifurcations.
- The forest area in the foothills houses leopards and wildlife; avoid trekking in the dark hours.
- Keep children supervised near steep escarpments on the plateau, especially at broken ramparts.
- Maintain the decorum of the place; do not engage in smoking, alcohol consumption, or littering, as they are strictly prohibited.
Trek via Menavli or Gundewadi Village
Explore Fort Plateau & Pandjai Devi Temple
On the square plateau (about 6 acres), you can see the well-preserved Pandjai Devi temple, a small Hanuman shrine, and ruined bastions. There are three working ponds (out of the original 18) that give rare fort water. The fort's edges drop steeply 40 to 60 feet, giving you both drama and a wide view.
Discover Rock-Cut Pandavgarh Caves
From the northeast spur, walk about 300 yards to the village of Dhavadi and then climb about 200 feet to the Pandavgarh caves. These caves have an arched chaitya shrine, a multi-cell vihara, and an old daghoba (stupa) structure. These Buddhist-era artefacts are surprisingly well-preserved and easy to get to.
Tourism Board Alliances
Pandavgad Fort FAQs
How difficult is the trek to Pandavgad?
The walk is moderate, with a 4–6 km climb that includes some steep parts, narrow paths that are only three feet wide, and open slopes. You need to be fit, focused, and careful, especially when you're on narrow ridges that look down into deep valleys.
Are the Pandavgad Caves accessible?
Yes. From the fort's shoulder, walk about 300 yards to a spur in the southeast, then climb about 200 feet to get to the Pandavgad caves. There is a chaitya shrine, a stupa chamber, and an eight-cell vihara, all of which are surprisingly well-preserved and easy to get to.
Is there an entry fee or permit required?
There is no formal fee; access is free. Visitors must sign up at the base or caretaker's hut, which is usually run by Mapro or a private company, especially if they are staying overnight. Donations might be welcome.
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