Chavand Forts
Sahyadri is not just a mountain range, but it is a great treasure of history, the history of the struggle by the great Marathas, & ancient Satvaahans, who left for us with their fine arts with which very few modern carvings can be compared. The Satvaahans ruled what is today called the state of Maharashtra, & their great regime is commemorated by the remnants of the forts & caves they constructed in the heart of the Sahyadris. The whole range that has been guarding the ancient commercial route of Naneghat for thousands of years includes the forts of Jeevdhan, Hadsar, and Mahishgad & Chavand. These belong to the Satvaahan era. And Chavand being one of them is a very significant one.
Situated at a height of 3000ft from sea level, the fort houses many a remnant of constructions that take us about 800 years back into the time. The fort is in Pune district, at a distance of 20 km from the city of Junnar. The region at the foothills of the fort contains exotic flora & fauna. It was here that we could spot at least 12 varieties of birds. Village of Chavandwadi lies at the base of the fort.
Type : Hill forts.
Fort Range : Naneghat.
District : Pune.
Grade : Medium.
How to reach :
The way to the top of the fort goes along the village school, from the western side of the fort. From here, it takes about 45 minutes to reach the entrance door. From here the footsteps take us to the plains, on which we can see the remnants of many constructions.
Accommodation Facility :
One can stay on the fort in the caves, but mice may pose a problem. Trekkers also stay in the village school. There is boarding facility in Kukdeshwar temple too.
Food Facility : Available in base village.
Drinking Water Facility : There are many a cisterns and tanks on the fort, but the two on the southwest side are more reliable.
Time To Reach : 45 minutes