Kalavantin Durg is located between Panvel and Matheran in the Indian state of Maharashtra. The structure is built at a height of 686 m on top of a plateau which is located close to Matheran. Previously, the fort was known as Muranjan until it was taken over and renamed by the Maratha forces under Shivaji’s rule.
This fort is built of granite stones cut from the same hills. The bonding materials used here is the commonly used lime stone. It has got thick and strong walls, which are still not weathered off. The fort contains a temple to Ganesh and some stone ruins. On the inner part, there are many small and medium complexes found here. It does have watch towers on its top.
The fort can be approached via a chillingly steep climb. The steps leading up to the fort were cut into the rock of the hill. There are no safety rails on the edge and no ropes on the wall to grab on to.
The Kalavantin Durg is one of the places to visit in the fort from where tourists can also explore other forts like Irshalgad and Karnala Fort. There are some beautiful rivers flowing along the Durg namely, the Ulahas River, Patalganga River and the Gadhi River. Spending some time sitting by these rivers is very peaceful and contending. The panoramic view from the fort hill top is really mesmerizing. The surrounding of the fort being picturesque is ideal for photography.
Trekking up to the fort will be an amazing twist and adventure to your trip but you need to be very careful as the way to the fort is very steep. Only experienced and trained trekkers should indulge in reaching the high fort which takes about three hours time if you start from the village of Shedung. Even if you are a non trekker this place is amazing for sightseeing.
History
The origins of Prabalgad Fort are unknown but it is believed to have been built during the time of Buddha or in or around 500 BC for a queen named Kalavantin.
Around 1458AD, this fort was under the powers of the Ahmadnagar Sultanate. After the collapse of the Ahmadnagar Sultanate, the Mughals took control of Prabalgad along with Kalyan, Mahuli, Karnala and a number of other forts. In the 1657 AD, the great Maratha King Shivaji Maharaj won this region with a great battle with the Mughals and took over this fort. In 1818, Britishers won this fort and destroyed it a lot.
It is also believed that the Prabalgad Fort was also home to a freedom fighter named Umaji Naik who took shelter here along with his companions.
How to Reach Prabalgad Fort
The place is well connected by railway, airway and road transportation. After reaching the Mumbai airport, you can hire a taxi which will drop you to the fort place. The Panvel railway station is the nearest station if you are travelling by rail. From this station buses and cabs are available which drop you to the fort. Mumbai and Pune are also well connected by the bus routes which lead to Panvel. Tourists can opt for any way of travelling suitable for them.
Things to do in and around
Tourism to this place is also comprised of visiting some other places of interest which include the Louisa Point, Prabal Fort and the famous Pisanarth Temple. Being in Maharashtra, do try out the Malwan cuisine which will complete your holiday package to the place.
Best time to visit
The months of October to May are the perfect time to plan holidays to this place when the weather is soothing and pleasant.
