Bhudargad Fort

Bhudargad fort is located about 63 km south of Kolhapur. This has a characteristic mountain cap and easily accessible by road. The remnants here are still quite intact.
History :
This fort was built by Shilahar king Bhoj II. Then being with Adhilshah for many years, it was captured by Marathas in 1667. Shivaji Maharaj renovated the fort and made it an important army post. However, it was recaptured by Adilshah and then again by Marathas in 1672. Rajaram Maharaj had stayed on the fort while returning from Gingee.

Towards the end of 18th century, Parshurambhau Patwardhan took over the fort. The Chatrapati of Karveer won the fort after a decade. In 1844, during the mutiny in Kolhapur, the militia on this fort took part in the same. Babaji Ayrekar was the commanding officer on the fort and he was supported by Subhana Nikam and his 300 soldiers in defending the fort. The British cannoned the fort to destroy the main entrance.

Type : Hill forts.

Fort Range : None.

District : Kolhapur.

Grade : Easy.

How to reach :
Peth Shivapur is near Gargoti. Kolhapur Gargoti route is well known route with ST buses plying regularly. From Gargoti, we can get a jeep or a six-seater till Pal village, which is 5 km away. From Pal, Path Shivapur is half an hour by vehicle. If we have a private vehicle, we can go to the top of the fort.

Accommodation Facility : Accommodation is available on the fort in the temple, but no resorts / lodges nearby.

Food Facility : Packed lunch recommended.

Drinking Water Facility : Recommended to carry water, though there is a hand pump near Bhairavnath temple.

Time To Reach : About 2 hours from Kolhapur to Peth Shivapur.

Best Season To Visit : All the year.