If you’re in Pune and you haven’t been to Sinhagad Fort yet, trust me—you’re missing out on something magical. As a college student, I had always heard stories of the fort: its history, its sunrise views, and of course, the famous pithla-bhakri. But visiting it in person turned out to be a much richer experience than I had imagined.
Historical Importance
Sinhagad Fort, also known as Sinhgarh Fort, has a rich history dating back several centuries. The fort has ancient roots and was initially known as Kondhana. It is believed to have been built more than 2,000 years ago and was originally named "Kondana" after the sage Kaundinya. The fort has witnessed the reigns of various rulers and dynasties over the centuries.
During the Maratha Empire, under the leadership of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Sinhagad gained prominence. The fort was strategically important to the Marathas as it served as a key defense post against the Mughals. The fort was originally controlled by the Adil Shahi dynasty, but Shivaji Maharaj captured it in 1670.
The fort continued to be of strategic importance during the Maratha rule. In 1818, the British East India Company captured Sinhagad from the Marathas after defeating them in the Third Anglo-Maratha War. The fort remained under British control until India gained independence in 1947. After independence, Sinhagad Fort became a part of the state of Maharashtra.
location
Sinhgarh Fort is a historic fortress located around 25 kilometers southwest of Pune, Maharashtra, The elevation of Sinhagad Fort from sea level is approximately 1,312 meters (4,304 feet). Sinhagad Fort is situated in the Sahyadri mountain range, and its elevated location provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Here quick link to Google map for your reference ( CLICK HERE ).
Private Vehicle: The most convenient way to reach Sinhagad Fort is by private vehicle. You can drive to the base village of the fort, which is either Atkarwadi or Thoptewadi, and then trek or take a vehicle to the top.
Taxi/Cab: Taxi or cabs can be hired from Pune to reach the base village. Several taxi services operate in Pune, and they can drop you off at any available time of the trek
Public Transport: Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) buses ply to the Sinhagad Fort base from Pune. You can take a bus to reach the base village and then trek or hire a local vehicle to go uphill
Bike Ride: Multiple trekking trails are leading the fort on a two-wheeler. Many enthusiasts prefer this mode of transport, and bike rental is available in Pune.
Auto-rickshaws can take you to the base village, but they might not be able to go to the top. You may need to trek the last part of the journey.
My Journey To Singhad Fort :-
We started early in the morning, a bunch of half-sleepy, half-excited college students crammed into a bus. The road uphill was filled with music, chatter, and that special kind of energy only a college trip can bring. With each turn, the air got fresher, and the view more breathtaking—green valleys, misty clouds, and the shimmering Khadakwasla dam below.
By the time u reach the base camp from where the trekking starts u will have a lot of scenic views and to add cherry to the cake that slow shower of rain all along the uphill will make u feel like u are in heaven
First Impressions of the Fort
The moment I stepped through the ancient stone gates, I felt an odd sense of connection. These walls have seen centuries of battles, victories, and sacrifices. Standing there, I could almost picture Tanaji Malusare fighting with valor, his spirit immortalized in history as “Gad ala, pan Sinha gela.”
Exploring the Fort
Sinhagad is not just about history—it’s also about the little experiences that make the visit unforgettable. The cool mountain breeze, the echo of footsteps on stone paths, the laughter of friends posing for a hundred photos. From the bastions, the view stretched endlessly—a patchwork of hills, clouds brushing over the landscape, and the city far away.
And yes—the food! Nothing beats the taste of hot pithla-bhakri with buttermilk after a trek or a long walk around the fort. Somehow, eating it there, in the middle of history and nature, makes it taste like the best meal in the world.
Reflections
What struck me most was how Sinhagad blends history with serenity. It’s not just a monument; it’s an experience that teaches you about courage, simplicity, and the beauty of living close to nature. For me, it was also about bonding—with friends, with the past, and with myself.
Why You Should VisitIf you’re a student, an adventure lover, or just someone looking for a peaceful escape from the city, Sinhagad is the perfect destination. Whether you hike your way up or drive, whether you’re there for the sunrise or the food, the fort gives you something memorable to take back.
Sinhagad, for me, wasn’t just a fort—it was a reminder that sometimes the best classrooms are outside four walls.
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