Bhupatgad Fort, Jawhar - Timings, History, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 20 km from Jawhar, Bhupatgad Fort is an ancient fort in the Palghar district of Maharashtra state in India. It is one of the most beautiful scenic treks in Maharashtra, and among the top places to visit near Jawhar.

Bhupatgad Fort is a prominent attraction in Jawhar, especially for history buffs. Established by Chhatrapati Shivaji, this fort is comparatively small in size and is almost synonymous with Maratha Kingdom. Bhupatgad is the only fort in the Jawhar region. In 1672, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj included the region on Bhupatgad in Swarajya. As per the legend, Chhatrapati used to hold his official and particular gatherings in this fort. Following Shivaji Maharaj's death, the Mughals seized Bhupatgad in 1688 AD.

The fort is made of incapacitated rocks and has dull internal chambers.It is also said the Lord Ram also visited this fort along with his wife Sita and their son Lava and Kusha. The evidence of Lord Ram's visit can be seen in form of the four footprints present here. There are no proper fortifications or bastions left on the fort except for two entrance gates - one from the north and one from the south. Additionally, there are a few rock-cut water cisterns and statues of Mhasoba and Hanuman on the fort.

Bhupatgad trek is one of the most beautiful scenic treks in monsoon with amazing landscape and lush green trail. The fort can be reached after an easy one-hour trek from the base village of Kurlod or Zaap. From Bhupatgad, visitors can enjoy views of Tringalwadi, Harihar, Trambakeshwar, Jawhar, and Mokhada.

Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM

Entry: Free