{"id":2682,"date":"2025-08-20T13:46:00","date_gmt":"2025-08-20T08:16:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/?p=2682"},"modified":"2025-08-20T15:57:35","modified_gmt":"2025-08-20T10:27:35","slug":"12-maratha-forts-india","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/12-maratha-forts-india\/","title":{"rendered":"12 Maratha Forts \u2013 India\u2019s Latest UNESCO World Heritage Sites"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>In a <strong>proud moment for India<\/strong>, UNESCO has added the <em>Maratha Military Landscapes<\/em> to its <strong>World Heritage List in 2025<\/strong>. This recognition includes <strong>12 historic Maratha forts<\/strong>, which showcase the <strong>military skill, smart planning, and lasting legacy<\/strong> of the Maratha Empire. Out of these forts, <strong>11 are in Maharashtra<\/strong> and <strong>one is in Tamil Nadu<\/strong>. The UNESCO honor highlights the importance of the Maratha forts built between the <em>17th and 19th centuries<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These forts are not just <strong>strongholds of defense<\/strong> but also <strong>masterpieces of architecture<\/strong> that <em>blend beautifully with nature<\/em>. They reflect the <strong>vision and leadership of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj<\/strong> and other Maratha rulers, who shaped a <em>unique tradition of fort-building in India<\/em>. As the world now recognizes their value, these forts continue to tell stories of <strong>bravery, strategy, and heritage<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/12-maratha-forts-india\/#Raigad_Fort_%E2%80%93_The_Capital_of_the_Maratha_Empire\" >Raigad Fort \u2013 The Capital of the Maratha Empire<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/12-maratha-forts-india\/#Sinhagad_Fort_%E2%80%93_The_Lions_Fort\" >Sinhagad Fort \u2013 The Lion\u2019s Fort<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/12-maratha-forts-india\/#Rajgad_Fort_%E2%80%93_Shivajis_Hill_Capital_Before_Raigad\" >Rajgad Fort \u2013 Shivaji\u2019s Hill Capital Before Raigad<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/12-maratha-forts-india\/#Torna_Fort_%E2%80%93_The_First_Fort_Captured_by_Shivaji\" >Torna Fort \u2013 The First Fort Captured by Shivaji<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/12-maratha-forts-india\/#Lohagad_Fort_%E2%80%93_The_Iron_Fort\" >Lohagad Fort \u2013 The Iron Fort<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/12-maratha-forts-india\/#Pratapgad_Fort_%E2%80%93_The_Site_of_Shivaji%E2%80%93Afzal_Khan_Duel\" >Pratapgad Fort \u2013 The Site of Shivaji\u2013Afzal Khan Duel<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/12-maratha-forts-india\/#Sindhudurg_Fort_%E2%80%93_The_Sea_Fort\" >Sindhudurg Fort \u2013 The Sea Fort<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/12-maratha-forts-india\/#Vijaydurg_Fort_%E2%80%93_The_Eastern_Gibraltar\" >Vijaydurg Fort \u2013 The Eastern Gibraltar<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/12-maratha-forts-india\/#Rajmachi_Fort_%E2%80%93_The_Twin_Fortresses\" >Rajmachi Fort \u2013 The Twin Fortresses<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/12-maratha-forts-india\/#Khanderi_Fort_Underi_%E2%80%93_Khanderi_%E2%80%93_The_Island_Sentinel\" >Khanderi Fort (Underi \u2013 Khanderi) \u2013 The Island Sentinel<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/12-maratha-forts-india\/#Suvarnadurg_Fort_%E2%80%93_The_Golden_Fort\" >Suvarnadurg Fort \u2013 The Golden Fort<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/12-maratha-forts-india\/#Gingee_Fort_%E2%80%93_Great_Wall_of_South_India\" >Gingee Fort \u2013 Great Wall of South India<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/12-maratha-forts-india\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Raigad_Fort_%E2%80%93_The_Capital_of_the_Maratha_Empire\"><\/span>Raigad Fort \u2013 The Capital of the Maratha Empire<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Location:<\/strong> <em>Mahad, Raigad district, Maharashtra<\/em><br><strong>Built By:<\/strong> <em>Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1674<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"649\" src=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Raigad-Fort-1024x649.jpg\" alt=\"Raigad Fort\" class=\"wp-image-2692\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Raigad-Fort-1024x649.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Raigad-Fort-300x190.jpg 300w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Raigad-Fort-768x486.jpg 768w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Raigad-Fort-150x95.jpg 150w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Raigad-Fort.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Raigad Fort<\/strong>, locally called <em>Raigad Killa<\/em>, holds a <strong>special place in Maratha history<\/strong> as the <em>capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj\u2019s empire<\/em>. After his coronation as the king of the Maratha Kingdom, Shivaji Maharaj chose Raigad as the heart of <em>Hindavi Swaraj<\/em>. Rising <strong>820 meters above sea level<\/strong> in the Sahyadri Range, this mighty fortress was both a <em>strategic military base<\/em> and the site of his royal coronation. It remains one of the <strong>strongest fortresses on the Deccan Plateau<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The fort\u2019s <strong>architecture<\/strong> features watchtowers, market areas, residential quarters, and the queen\u2019s chambers, all safeguarded by advanced defense systems. Key highlights include the <strong>Jagadishwar Temple<\/strong>, <strong>Maha Darwaja<\/strong>, the <strong>Samadhi of Shivaji Maharaj<\/strong>, and the dramatic <strong>Takmak Tok<\/strong>\u2014a cliff once used for executing enemies. Walking through Raigad today feels like stepping into the <strong>living history of the Maratha Empire<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sinhagad_Fort_%E2%80%93_The_Lions_Fort\"><\/span>Sinhagad Fort \u2013 The Lion\u2019s Fort<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Location:<\/strong> <em>Pune district, Maharashtra<\/em><br><strong>Famous For:<\/strong> <em>Battle of Sinhagad (1670) and as a popular weekend destination from Pune<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"663\" src=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sinhagad-fort-pune-1024x663.jpg\" alt=\"sinhagad fort pune\" class=\"wp-image-2693\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sinhagad-fort-pune-1024x663.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sinhagad-fort-pune-300x194.jpg 300w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sinhagad-fort-pune-768x497.jpg 768w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sinhagad-fort-pune-150x97.jpg 150w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sinhagad-fort-pune.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Sinhagad Fort<\/strong> is famous for the legendary <em>Battle of Sinhagad<\/em> (Kondhana) in 1670, where <strong>Tanaji Malusare<\/strong>, the brave military commander and companion of Shivaji Maharaj, <strong>sacrificed his life<\/strong> to recapture the fort from the Mughals. It was one of the first forts that Shivaji Maharaj reclaimed following the <em>treaty of Purandar<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Perched <strong>760 meters (2,490 ft) above ground<\/strong>, the fort\u2019s <strong>steep slopes, narrow entrances, and dramatic topography<\/strong> made it a perfect strategic location for <em>guerilla warfare<\/em>, a tactic mastered by the Marathas. Today, Sinhagad Fort is a <strong>popular trekking spot<\/strong> near Pune. On clear days, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of other Maratha forts like <strong>Rajgad, Purandar, and Torna<\/strong>, making it a living testament to Maratha history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Rajgad_Fort_%E2%80%93_Shivajis_Hill_Capital_Before_Raigad\"><\/span>Rajgad Fort \u2013 Shivaji\u2019s Hill Capital Before Raigad<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Location:<\/strong> <em>Pune district, Maharashtra<\/em><br><strong>Built On:<\/strong> <em>Murumbadevi Dongar (hill) at 1,376 meters<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"566\" src=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/rajgad-fort-pune-1024x566.jpg\" alt=\"rajgad fort pune\" class=\"wp-image-2694\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/rajgad-fort-pune-1024x566.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/rajgad-fort-pune-300x166.jpg 300w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/rajgad-fort-pune-768x425.jpg 768w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/rajgad-fort-pune-150x83.jpg 150w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/rajgad-fort-pune.jpg 1150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Rajgad Fort<\/strong> served as the <strong>first capital of the Maratha Empire<\/strong> under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj for nearly <strong>26 years<\/strong>. Sprawling over <strong>four ridges<\/strong>, its name\u2014<em>Royal Fort<\/em>\u2014truly reflects its <strong>architectural grandeur<\/strong>. The fort features <strong>strong bastions, palaces, water cisterns, and secret pathways<\/strong>, making it a remarkable example of Maratha military architecture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Rajgad Fort also holds <strong>personal significance<\/strong> for Shivaji Maharaj: his wife <em>Saibai passed away<\/em> here, and his son <em>Rajaram I was born<\/em> here. A historic event of note is the <strong>burial of Afzal Khan\u2019s head<\/strong> within the Mahadarwaja walls of <em>Balle Killa<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Today, Rajgad Fort is a <a href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/most-visited-destinations-in-india-by-foreign-tourists\/\">popular tourist destination<\/a> near Pune, especially during the <strong>monsoon season<\/strong>. Its vastness often requires visitors to <strong>stay overnight<\/strong> to fully explore the fort. The <strong>Padmavati Temple<\/strong> inside can accommodate around <strong>50 people<\/strong>, while several <strong>water tanks<\/strong> ensure a fresh water supply year-round. Local villagers at the foothills sell <strong>traditional items and antiques<\/strong>, adding a charming touch to the visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Torna_Fort_%E2%80%93_The_First_Fort_Captured_by_Shivaji\"><\/span>Torna Fort \u2013 The First Fort Captured by Shivaji<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Location:<\/strong> <em>Pune district, Maharashtra<\/em><br><strong>Built By:<\/strong> <em>Shiva Panth in the 13th century<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"594\" src=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/torna-fort-pune-1024x594.jpg\" alt=\"torna fort pune\" class=\"wp-image-2695\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/torna-fort-pune-1024x594.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/torna-fort-pune-300x174.jpg 300w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/torna-fort-pune-768x446.jpg 768w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/torna-fort-pune-150x87.jpg 150w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/torna-fort-pune.jpg 1120w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>In <strong>1646<\/strong>, a young <strong>Shivaji Maharaj<\/strong>, just <strong>16 years old<\/strong>, captured <strong>Torna Fort<\/strong>, marking it as the <strong>first fort of the Maratha Empire<\/strong>. Earlier, the fort had been captured by <strong>Malik Ahmed<\/strong>, a Bahamani ruler, during the reign of <strong>Alauddin Khilji<\/strong> in the late 1470s.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Torna, meaning <em>\u201cpride\u201d<\/em>, lives up to its name with <strong>tall towers<\/strong> and a <strong>high elevation of 1,403 meters<\/strong>, making it one of the <strong>tallest forts in Maharashtra<\/strong>. After taking control, Shivaji discovered <strong>large quantities of gold<\/strong> buried within the fort, which were later used to build forts like <strong>Rajgad<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also known as <strong>Prachandagad<\/strong>, the fort includes a <strong>citadel, granaries, temples, and water tanks<\/strong>, showcasing its <strong>strategic importance<\/strong> and ability to <strong>withstand sieges<\/strong>. Its historical and architectural significance earned it a place among the <strong>12 Maratha forts recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2025<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Lohagad_Fort_%E2%80%93_The_Iron_Fort\"><\/span>Lohagad Fort \u2013 The Iron Fort<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Location:<\/strong> <em>Near Lonavala, Maharashtra<\/em><br><strong>Built By:<\/strong> <em>Lohtamia dynasty in the 10th century CE<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"613\" src=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/lohagad-fort-lonavala-1024x613.jpg\" alt=\"lohagad fort lonavala\" class=\"wp-image-2696\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/lohagad-fort-lonavala-1024x613.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/lohagad-fort-lonavala-300x180.jpg 300w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/lohagad-fort-lonavala-768x460.jpg 768w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/lohagad-fort-lonavala-150x90.jpg 150w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/lohagad-fort-lonavala.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Lohagad Fort<\/strong>, meaning <em>\u201cIron Fort\u201d<\/em>, truly lives up to its name as an <strong>almost impenetrable stronghold<\/strong>. Situated near <strong>Lonavala<\/strong>, the fort is connected to the nearby <strong>Visapur Fort<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj<\/strong> captured Lohagad Fort in <strong>1648 CE<\/strong>, but had to surrender it to the Mughals in <strong>1665 AD<\/strong> under the <strong>Treaty of Purandar<\/strong>. He recaptured it again in <strong>1670<\/strong> and used it as a <strong>treasury<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A unique feature of the fort is the <strong>Vinchukata (Scorpion)<\/strong>, a long, tail-like fortification that adds to both its <strong>visual appeal<\/strong> and <strong>strategic importance<\/strong>. Lohagad remains a remarkable example of <strong>Maratha military architecture<\/strong> and resilience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Pratapgad_Fort_%E2%80%93_The_Site_of_Shivaji%E2%80%93Afzal_Khan_Duel\"><\/span>Pratapgad Fort \u2013 The Site of Shivaji\u2013Afzal Khan Duel<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Location:<\/strong> <em>Near Mahabaleshwar, Satara district, Maharashtra<\/em><br><strong>Built By:<\/strong> <em>Shivaji Maharaj in 1656<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"593\" src=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/pratapgad-fort-mahabaleshwar-1024x593.jpg\" alt=\"pratapgad fort mahabaleshwar\" class=\"wp-image-2697\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/pratapgad-fort-mahabaleshwar-1024x593.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/pratapgad-fort-mahabaleshwar-300x174.jpg 300w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/pratapgad-fort-mahabaleshwar-768x444.jpg 768w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/pratapgad-fort-mahabaleshwar-150x87.jpg 150w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/pratapgad-fort-mahabaleshwar.jpg 1220w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Pratapgad Fort<\/strong> is famous for the <strong>duel between Shivaji Maharaj and Afzal Khan<\/strong>, the general of the Bijapur Sultanate, in <strong>1659<\/strong>. The fort features <strong>several watchtowers and bastions<\/strong>, designed to provide <strong>strategic military advantages<\/strong> during its time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The fort holds great significance in <strong>Maratha history<\/strong> and is one of the few forts that still retains much of its <strong>original structure<\/strong>, including the <strong>Tulja Bhawani Temple<\/strong>. Its <strong>hilltop location<\/strong> offers <strong>breathtaking views<\/strong> of the surrounding region, reflecting both the <strong>military genius<\/strong> and <strong>vision of Shivaji Maharaj<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sindhudurg_Fort_%E2%80%93_The_Sea_Fort\"><\/span>Sindhudurg Fort \u2013 The Sea Fort<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Location:<\/strong> <em>Malvan, Maharashtra<\/em><br><strong>Built By:<\/strong> <em>Shivaji Maharaj between 1664 and 1667<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"695\" src=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sindhudurg-fort-malvan.jpg\" alt=\"sindhudurg fort malvan\" class=\"wp-image-2698\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sindhudurg-fort-malvan.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sindhudurg-fort-malvan-300x204.jpg 300w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sindhudurg-fort-malvan-768x521.jpg 768w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sindhudurg-fort-malvan-150x102.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Sindhudurg Fort<\/strong> is unique among Maratha forts as a <strong>sea fort<\/strong> built on the islet of <em>Khurte Island<\/em> in the <strong>Arabian Sea<\/strong>. Constructed over <strong>three years<\/strong> with the help of thousands of workers, the fort was designed to <strong>counter the influence of English, Dutch, French, and Portuguese merchants<\/strong> and to <strong>curb the rise of the Siddhis of Janjira<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The fort\u2019s design features a <strong>concealed main entrance<\/strong>, <strong>freshwater reservoirs<\/strong>, and several <strong>temples<\/strong>, including one dedicated to <strong>Shivaji Maharaj<\/strong>, a rare honor. Sindhudurg\u2019s <strong>strategic and architectural brilliance<\/strong> makes it a key part of the <strong>12 Maratha forts recognized by UNESCO in 2025<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Vijaydurg_Fort_%E2%80%93_The_Eastern_Gibraltar\"><\/span>Vijaydurg Fort \u2013 The Eastern Gibraltar<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Location:<\/strong> <em>Sindhudurg district, Maharashtra<\/em><br><strong>Built By:<\/strong> <em>Raja Bhoja II of the Shilahar dynasty (1193\u20131205) and later restructured by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"644\" src=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/vijaydurg-fort-sindhudurg-1024x644.jpg\" alt=\"vijaydurg fort sindhudurg\" class=\"wp-image-2699\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/vijaydurg-fort-sindhudurg-1024x644.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/vijaydurg-fort-sindhudurg-300x189.jpg 300w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/vijaydurg-fort-sindhudurg-768x483.jpg 768w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/vijaydurg-fort-sindhudurg-150x94.jpg 150w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/vijaydurg-fort-sindhudurg.jpg 1260w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Vijaydurg Fort<\/strong>, located on the <strong>Konkan Coast<\/strong>, is one of the <strong>oldest forts in Maharashtra<\/strong>. Originally built by <strong>Raja Bhoja II<\/strong> in the 12th century and later fortified by <strong>Shivaji Maharaj<\/strong>, it served as a <strong>key naval base<\/strong>. A notable feature is the <strong>undersea wall<\/strong> designed to <strong>trap enemy ships<\/strong>, a testament to the <strong>Maratha naval engineering<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dubbed the <em>\u201cEastern Gibraltar\u201d<\/em> for its <strong>formidable defenses<\/strong>, the fort was considered nearly <strong>impregnable<\/strong>. Its strategic location near the <strong>40-kilometre-long Waghotan (Kharepatan) Creek<\/strong> gave the Marathas a major advantage: the creek\u2019s shallow waters <strong>prevented large enemy ships from entering<\/strong>, while Maratha warships could anchor safely <strong>hidden from view<\/strong>. Vijaydurg played a <strong>pivotal role in expanding Maratha presence<\/strong> along India\u2019s western coastline.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Rajmachi_Fort_%E2%80%93_The_Twin_Fortresses\"><\/span>Rajmachi Fort \u2013 The Twin Fortresses<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Location:<\/strong> <em>Near Lonavala, Maharashtra<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"541\" src=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/rajmachi-fort-lonavala-1024x541.jpg\" alt=\"rajmachi fort lonavala\" class=\"wp-image-2700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/rajmachi-fort-lonavala-1024x541.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/rajmachi-fort-lonavala-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/rajmachi-fort-lonavala-768x406.jpg 768w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/rajmachi-fort-lonavala-150x79.jpg 150w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/rajmachi-fort-lonavala.jpg 1210w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Rajmachi Fort<\/strong>, set against the <strong>Sahyadri mountains<\/strong>, is famous for its <strong>twin fortresses<\/strong>: <em>Shriwardhan<\/em> and <em>Manaranjan<\/em>, surrounded by a wide <strong>machi (plateau)<\/strong> with two <strong>Balekillas (watch towers)<\/strong>. Although the fort <strong>pre-dates Shivaji Maharaj<\/strong>, it gained <strong>strategic importance during his rule<\/strong>, as it was further fortified to <strong>monitor the Bor Ghat trade route<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The fort is <strong>popular among trekkers and history enthusiasts<\/strong>, thanks to its <strong>lush greenery during the monsoon<\/strong> and <strong>historic caves<\/strong>. Its unique <strong>architecture and location<\/strong> make it an important part of the <strong>12 Maratha forts recognized by UNESCO<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Khanderi_Fort_Underi_%E2%80%93_Khanderi_%E2%80%93_The_Island_Sentinel\"><\/span>Khanderi Fort (Underi \u2013 Khanderi) \u2013 The Island Sentinel<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Location:<\/strong> <em>20 km off the Coast of Mumbai, Maharashtra<\/em><br><strong>Built By:<\/strong> <em>Shivaji Maharaj in 1679<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"580\" src=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/khanderi-fort-maharashtra-1024x580.jpg\" alt=\"khanderi fort maharashtra\" class=\"wp-image-2701\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/khanderi-fort-maharashtra-1024x580.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/khanderi-fort-maharashtra-300x170.jpg 300w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/khanderi-fort-maharashtra-768x435.jpg 768w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/khanderi-fort-maharashtra-150x85.jpg 150w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/khanderi-fort-maharashtra.jpg 1220w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Khanderi Fort<\/strong>, located about <strong>20 km off the coast of Mumbai<\/strong>, is a <strong>fortified island<\/strong> that, along with its twin fort <strong>Underi<\/strong>, played a <strong>key role in Maratha naval defense<\/strong> against the <strong>British and Portuguese forces<\/strong>. These island strongholds were equipped with <strong>lighthouses, cannons, and maritime surveillance systems<\/strong>, showcasing <strong>Shivaji Maharaj\u2019s strategic naval vision<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The fort also houses the <strong>tomb of Daud Pir<\/strong>, a revered local saint, and features a <strong>musical stone<\/strong> that produces metallic tones when struck. A <strong>secret passage<\/strong> is believed to connect it to <strong>Kulaba Fort<\/strong> in Alibag. Today, <strong>Khanderi is accessible by boat<\/strong>, offering visitors a glimpse into the <strong>maritime strength and ingenuity of the Maratha Empire<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Suvarnadurg_Fort_%E2%80%93_The_Golden_Fort\"><\/span>Suvarnadurg Fort \u2013 The Golden Fort<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Location:<\/strong> <em>Near Dapoli, Maharashtra<\/em><br><strong>Built By:<\/strong> <em>Adil Shahi dynasty and further fortified by Shivaji Maharaj in 1660<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"566\" src=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/suvarnadurg-fort-dapoli-1024x566.jpg\" alt=\"suvarnadurg fort dapoli\" class=\"wp-image-2702\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/suvarnadurg-fort-dapoli-1024x566.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/suvarnadurg-fort-dapoli-300x166.jpg 300w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/suvarnadurg-fort-dapoli-768x425.jpg 768w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/suvarnadurg-fort-dapoli-150x83.jpg 150w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/suvarnadurg-fort-dapoli.jpg 1260w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Suvarnadurg<\/strong>, meaning <em>\u201cGolden Fort\u201d<\/em>, served as a <strong>vital naval headquarters<\/strong> under <strong>Shivaji Maharaj<\/strong> and later the <strong>Angres<\/strong>, guarding <strong>trade routes and coastal security<\/strong>. Situated on a <strong>rocky island<\/strong>, the fort complex includes both <strong>land and sea fortifications<\/strong> and was equipped with <strong>advanced surveillance systems<\/strong>, reflecting the <strong>strategic genius of Maratha maritime defense<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is believed that <strong>Kanakadurga Fort<\/strong>, along with mainland forts like <strong>Bankot, Fattehgarh, and Gova<\/strong>, formed a <strong>network of lookout posts<\/strong> to protect Suvarnadurg. Access to the fort is via the <strong>rocky island\u2019s sandy shoreline<\/strong>, as it lacks a proper jetty. A <strong>narrow sea channel<\/strong> separates the mainland forts, enhancing natural defenses. Suvarnadurg is accessible <strong>only during low tide<\/strong>, making visits easier. Though partially in ruins, it stands as a <strong>vivid reminder of Maratha naval legacy<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Gingee_Fort_%E2%80%93_Great_Wall_of_South_India\"><\/span>Gingee Fort \u2013 Great Wall of South India<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Location:<\/strong> <em>Viluppuram district, Tamil Nadu<\/em><br><strong>Originally Built By:<\/strong> <em>Cholas, later captured by the Marathas in 1698<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"565\" src=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/gingee-fort-villupuram-1024x565.jpg\" alt=\"gingee fort villupuram\" class=\"wp-image-2703\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/gingee-fort-villupuram-1024x565.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/gingee-fort-villupuram-300x166.jpg 300w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/gingee-fort-villupuram-768x424.jpg 768w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/gingee-fort-villupuram-150x83.jpg 150w, https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/gingee-fort-villupuram.jpg 1180w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Gingee Fort<\/strong> is the <strong>only fort on this list outside Maharashtra<\/strong>. It was captured for <em>Swarajya<\/em> by <strong>Subedar Harji Rajemahadik<\/strong> for the Marathas under <strong>Shivaji Maharaj<\/strong> in <strong>1677 AD<\/strong>. During <strong>Aurangzeb\u2019s southward invasion<\/strong>, Gingee even served as a <strong>temporary Maratha capital<\/strong>. Set across <strong>three hillocks<\/strong> and often called the <em>\u201cTroy of the East\u201d<\/em>, the fort features <strong>enormous granaries, temples, and fortified citadels<\/strong>, reflecting the Marathas\u2019 ability to <strong>adapt and fortify distant territories<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong>UNESCO World Heritage designation<\/strong> recognizes the <strong>cultural, architectural, and historical significance<\/strong> of these forts. The <strong>Maratha Military Landscapes<\/strong> are celebrated for their:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Innovative, location-specific military architecture<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Integration with natural terrain<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strategic planning and use in guerrilla warfare<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Blend of utility, spiritual, and aesthetic design<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Enduring symbols of regional and national pride<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>These forts are <strong>living chronicles of the Maratha spirit<\/strong> and a strong reminder of <strong>India\u2019s rich regional heritage<\/strong>. Preserving and promoting them ensures that the <strong>legacy of the Maratha forts will continue to inspire and endure<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>These <strong>12 Maratha forts<\/strong> are <strong>living chronicles of bravery, vision, and architectural mastery<\/strong>. From hilltops to seasides, they represent the <strong>strategic genius of the Maratha Empire<\/strong> and the rich <a href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/explore-the-royal-heritage-of-indias-rajasthan-land-of-kings\/\">heritage of India<\/a>. Preserving them ensures that <strong>the Maratha legacy continues to inspire generations<\/strong> worldwide.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>In a proud moment for India, UNESCO has added the Maratha Military Landscapes to its World Heritage List in 2025. This recognition includes 12 historic Maratha forts, which showcase the&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":2690,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[297,299,295,298,300,296],"class_list":["post-2682","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-heritage","tag-historical-forts-india","tag-indian-heritage-sites","tag-maratha-forts","tag-maratha-history","tag-maratha-military-landscapes","tag-unesco-world-heritage-india"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.1.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>12 Maratha Forts in India \u2013 UNESCO World Heritage Sites<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Explore the 12 iconic Maratha forts recognized by UNESCO in 2025. 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