Harishchandragad: Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, India.

Harishchandragad fort is quiet ancient, with its origin dating back to the sixth century. There are caves situated all over the fort, believed to be carved out in the eleventh century. The various temples and carvings in the caves indicate that the fort belongs to the medieval period, since it is related to Shaiva, Shakta or Naath. Later, the fort was under the control of the Moguls. And by 1747, the Marathas captured it.

The cave of Kedareshwar hosts a big Shivlingam, which is surrounded by water. The lingam is surrounded by four pillars that essentially represent the four yugas of life on earth. The general belief is that the current phase is the Kali Yuga. The day the fourth pillar breaks down will be considered the end of this era.  

The fort is very popular to trekkers and nature lovers as it is one of the best forts to trek. Konkan Kada is a challenge for trekkers as it is at a height of 3,500 feet. Rohidas, Taramati and Harishchandra are the three peaks in Harishchandragad. Taramati peak is the highest one in the fort. Many peaks, fort and other beautiful places such as Malshej Ghat, Jivdhan, Nane Ghat, Ratangad, Kalsubai, etc. can also be seen from here.

What to see on the fort:

·         KEDARESHWAR CAVE - This temple is marvelous example of the fine art of carving sculptures out of stones that prevailed in ancient India. The river Mangal Ganga is said to originate from one of the tanks located close to the temple.

·         KONKAN KADA - A huge cliff at Harishchandragad which offers spectacular view of Konkan and also the sunset.

·         OTHER CAVES - There are many caves on this fort.

·         KEDARESHWAR CAVE: In this cave there is a Shivlinga which is surrounded by ice cold water. During rainy season this cave is not accessible as there's lot of water in the surrounding area.

·         TARAMATI PEAK: Also known as Taramanchi. This is the topmost point on the fort. It is the 2nd highest peak in Maharashtra. Leopards are seen in the forests beyond this peak. From here we can have a glimpse of the whole range of Naneghat and the forts near Murbad.

Gowalkot Fort: Maharashtra, India.

The Gowalkot Fort is located on the Southern Bank of Vashishti River near Chiplun in Maharashtra, India. Gowalkot Fort was constructed by Siddi Habshi of Janjira in 1690.

This fort is guarded by river on three sides and a trench on the forth side. It is an island situated around 10 km from Chiplun surrounded by the Vashishti River. In 1660 Shivaji Maharaj won this fort and renamed as Govindgad. Sambhaji Maharaj lost this fort to Siddi.In 1736 Chimaji Appa won this fort by killing Siddi Sat in battle. Tulaji Angre in 1745 captured it from.Later in 1755 Angre lost it to the Peshwa and eventually in 1818 East India Company took control from the Peshwa. Portuguese ships attacked this fort during the Siege of Dabhol.

The fort is almost ruined and at present is dilapidated. There is a temple of goddess Karanjeshwari at the foot hills of the fort. However from within the fort there are trees, buildings and dwellings and a dry well which is approximately 22 feet deep,Located on top of the small hill on the fort.The Vashisthi River,offers the most beautiful and stunning glimpse of the smoothly flowing Vashisthi River and the undulating valley. Nature enthusiasts can indulge themselves by setting out on a trek around the areas near the fort and soak in the atmosphere at the fort. 

Gawilghur Fort (also Gawilgarh or Gawilgad): Maharashtra, India.

The Gawilghur Fort is located in the vicinity of Melghat Tiger Reserve, Amravati District, Maharashtra. The exact date of its construction is unknown, but it was believed to have been heavily fortified around 1424. The Persian historian, Firishta, records that Ahmed Shah Wali, the ninth king of the Muzaffarid dynasty built Gawilgarh when he was encamped at Ellichpur in 1425. Likely this was the date when major fortification was carried out. This fort was in use 1426 AD to 1803AD. Until the 19^th century it was in the hands of the Muzaffarid dynasty later occupied by the Marathas and lost in the 2^nd Anglo-Maratha war to the east India Company. Gawilghur Fort this fort has the marks of guns and cannon firing on its walls, these are seen today also.

Gawilghur Fort Is a protected monument and a heritage hilltop fort worth seeing. This fort is one of the best fortresses in standing condition s surrounded by natural scenic environment.

Bhivgad Fort, Raigad District in Maharashtra (Near Mumbai).

Bhivgad fort also known as Bheemgad is located in the Raigad District in Maharashtra, India. The specific history of this fort is not known.  A small top, couple of water cisterns, a remnant is all that this fort offers us at the top. However, easy walk and small height, nice view of ranges around makes this nice, little one day trek. This fort is a hill fort. We can see Some fortification and two caves on the top. The height of this fort is around 800- 803 feet. Vadap is the base village which is Birthplace of Nanasaheb Peshawa. There is also a beautiful waterfall that is worth visiting in the monsoon.