Discover 12 UNESCO Forts from Maharashtra Hills to Tamil Nadu

When the monsoon paints Maharashtra in emerald, its forts rise like sentinels from the clouds, towering over hills, guarding coasts, and whispering tales of empires gone by. For centuries, these forts were more than just military bases; they were thriving townships, symbols of power, and ingenious works of architecture that leveraged nature as their strongest ally.

Now, UNESCO has recognised 12 such marvels, 11 in Maharashtra and 1 in Tamil Nadu, under the Maratha Military Landscapes of India. These UNESCO-protected forts showcase how the Marathas turned mountains, islands, and seas into formidable protective shields. From sea-battered bastions to grassy highlands, these forts are not just stone structures; they’re timeless travel experiences. Let’s dive into each one.

Shivneri Fort, Pune

Shivneri is steeped in significance as the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The fort is cleverly designed with seven massive gates, each making the invaders’ progress more difficult. Inside, you’ll find rock-cut water tanks, ancient caves, and the modest temple dedicated to goddess Shivai, after whom Shivaji was named. The monsoon lends Shivneri a surreal charm, with mist hugging its walls and valleys spread out like a green quilt below.

Lohgad Fort, Pune 

Near Lonavala, Lohgad is the quintessential trekking fort. Its famed Vinchu Kada (Scorpion’s Tail) is a narrow ridge that juts dramatically into the sky. Historically, the fort was used to store treasures and provisions, thanks to its secure location. Today, its moss-coated steps and sweeping Sahyadri views attract monsoon hikers in droves. On a cloudy day, it feels like you’re walking into the clouds themselves, a photographer’s delight.

Rajgad Fort, Pune

Meaning “King of Forts,” Rajgad truly lives up to its name. It once served as the Maratha capital before Raigad, and its sprawling design covers three separate hilltops. The fort houses the remains of palaces, water cisterns, and the grand Balekilla (citadel) that offered unmatched security. The fort is linked visually to Torna, Purandar, and other forts, reflecting the Maratha strategy of building inter-visible fortresses. 

Pratapgad Fort, Satara 

Pratapgad is etched into history for the legendary battle between Shivaji Maharaj and Afzal Khan. The fort’s towering bastions dominate the Mahabaleshwar landscape, while its pathways lead to ancient temples, such as that of Bhavani Mata, where Shivaji once sought blessings. During the rains, the fort’s dense green surroundings turn the climb into a refreshing escape. Easy to access and loaded with stories, Pratapgad is perfect for history buffs and casual travellers alike.

Panhala Fort, Kolhapur

Unlike most forts that feel remote, Panhala is like a living settlement wrapped around a fortress. It’s the only fort where Shivaji Maharaj is known to have spent over a year. Wide-open spaces, such as the Andhar Bavadi (hidden well), secret escape routes, and the imposing Teen Darwaza, highlight its strategic brilliance. Monsoon adds a misty mystery to its broad walls, while the adjoining town provides visitors with easy access to food, accommodation, and the irresistible flavours of Kolhapur.

Vijaydurg Fort, Sindhudurg

One of the strongest naval forts of the Marathas, Vijaydurg, sits proudly on a laterite promontory surrounded by sea on three sides. It once featured underwater defences, stone walls built into the seabed to trap enemy ships. Inside, you’ll find granaries, secret passages, and a commanding view of the Konkan coastline. The fort is also linked with maritime trade and shipbuilding, making it more than just a military outpost. In the monsoon, waves crash against its walls in a breathtaking spectacle.

Khanderi Fort, Raigad

Just off the coast of Mumbai lies Khanderi, once the headquarters of Maratha naval commander Kanhoji Angre. The island fort is compact yet powerful, with bastions and ramparts designed to control sea routes. A lighthouse built later still stands tall, guiding ships through the waters. The salty breeze, crashing waves, and tales of naval battles make Khanderi a unique spot where sea and history merge seamlessly.

Suvarnadurg Fort, Ratnagiri

Nicknamed the “Golden Fort,” Suvarnadurg stands on an island off Dapoli. This coastal fort was part of Shivaji Maharaj’s grand naval vision, built to dominate sea routes and resist foreign fleets. Reaching Suvarnadurg requires a boat ride, adding adventure to its charm. Once inside, you can walk along sturdy laterite walls, peek into ruined chambers, and imagine fleets anchored off its shores. Surrounded by pristine beaches and fishing villages, its history blended with Konkan’s natural beauty.

Sindhudurg Fort, Sindhudurg

Built directly on the rocky Kurte island near Malvan, Sindhudurg is an engineering marvel of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Its ramparts rise from the Arabian Sea, enclosing temples, houses, and freshwater wells. A small temple dedicated to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj himself still stands inside, rare for a warrior-king. The fort once functioned as a bustling naval base, and today it remains one of the most iconic sea forts in India. With Malvani seafood, snorkelling, and beaches nearby, it’s both heritage and holiday in one package.

Raigad Fort, Raigad

Raigad was Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s coronation site and his capital. A ropeway now ferries visitors up its steep slopes, but walking through its gates feels like entering a kingdom in the clouds. Inside, the Queen’s chambers, public durbar, and the remains of marketplaces speak of its once-thriving life. The fort is also Shivaji’s final resting place, adding solemn significance to its grandeur. In the monsoon, Raigad’s vast plateau becomes a carpet of green, with clouds rolling dramatically across its walls.

Salher Fort, Nashik

Salher is the highest fort in the Sahyadris and the site of the famous Battle of Salher in 1672, the first open-field victory of the Marathas against the Mughals. The fort is massive, with expansive grasslands, rock-cut steps, and a commanding view of the surrounding hills. For trekkers, Salher is a challenge worth every drop of sweat. Its solitude and raw scale make it feel untouched by time, especially during the monsoon when waterfalls lace its slopes.

Gingee Fort, Tamil Nadu

The lone fort outside Maharashtra, Gingee, is often called the “Troy of the East.” This sprawling complex of three forts, Rajagiri, Krishnagiri, and Chandrayandurg, stretches across rocky granite hills. With seven kilometres of walls and numerous temples, granaries, and halls, Gingee was once considered nearly impregnable. The climb up its stairways rewards travellers with sweeping views of Tamil Nadu’s countryside. Its inclusion in the UNESCO list highlights the southern reach of Maratha power and adds to the diversity of the landscape of heritage forts.