Santoshgad Fort Information | History, Location, Route and Places to See
Santoshgad Fort Information in Marathi | Santoshgad Killa History, Location, Trek & Places to See
Santoshgad Fort, situated on a high mountain near Tathawadi village in Phaltan Taluka of Satara district, is one of the important hill forts of Maharashtra. The high mountain range, steep cliffs, fortification, bastions, gateways, remains of the granary, water well and temple remains give Santoshgad special historical and geographical importance.
Even today, several ruined structures can be seen in the fort area. From these remains, it can be estimated that in earlier times there may have been settlements for soldiers, storage facilities for food grains or ammunition, and structures required for daily activities on the fort.
Where is Santoshgad Fort Located?
Santoshgad is located near Tathawadi village in Phaltan Taluka of Satara district. From Tathawadi village, the fort can be reached by climbing the mountain along the footpath leading towards the fort.
Phaltan is the nearest major Taluka headquarters for Santoshgad. According to local information, Santoshgad is approximately 24 kilometers from Phaltan. Similarly, the fort is about 40 kilometers from Lonand.
What is the Height of Santoshgad?
Santoshgad is approximately 2,900 feet above sea level. Since it is situated on a high mountain, this fort belongs to the hill fort (Giri Durg) category.
While approaching the fort, visitors experience a mountain climb and, at some places, a footpath passing through stone slabs and rocky terrain.
How Much Time Does It Take to See Santoshgad?
It may take approximately half an hour to one hour to see the main area of the fort. However, it is advisable to keep more time for the journey to the fort, the climb, exploring the remains in the area and taking rest.
Route to Santoshgad Fort
To visit Santoshgad, one must first reach Tathawadi village. The route towards the fort can be taken from near the Bal Siddhanath Temple in the village.
After taking darshan at the temple, the gradual climb of the mountain begins as you proceed along the path in front of the temple. There is no wide vehicle road to the fort; instead, the climb has to be undertaken on a footpath in some sections.
As you continue climbing the mountain, you can reach the entrance of the fort by making your way through fallen stones and rocks at various places.
Bal Siddhanath Temple
The Bal Siddhanath Temple in Tathawadi village is considered the village deity. The temple is ancient, and according to local information, it is said to be approximately three hundred years old.
There is a beautiful pinnacle on the upper part of the temple, and the internal structure of the temple includes a mandap and a sanctum sanctorum. A beautiful idol of Bal Siddhanath can be seen in the sanctum.
Taking darshan at this temple before starting the climb to Santoshgad is an important part of the journey.
Gateways of Santoshgad
After walking for approximately 20 to 25 minutes along the footpath towards the fort, the first gateway is encountered.
First Gateway
There are bastions on both sides of the first gateway. The entrance door was situated between these bastions.
Today, a large part of this gateway appears to have collapsed. The upper portion of the doorway has been damaged, and the bastions on the lower side also appear to be in a partially ruined condition.
Second Gateway
After entering through the first doorway and continuing upwards, the second gateway is encountered. This entrance passage is situated between two walls, and the upper portion of its arch appears to have collapsed over time.
The Mahadarwaja of Santoshgad
As you continue climbing upwards, the fortification and the Mahadarwaja of the fort can be seen. A considerable portion of the fortification in this area has collapsed, although some sections are still in a strong condition.
A part of the arch of the Mahadarwaja has collapsed. Beautiful linear patterns can be seen carved on the door frame. After entering through the doorway, guard rooms, known as Devadis, can be seen on both sides.
The Devadi on one side is comparatively in good condition. Inside it, small niches made for placing lamps and storing some materials can be seen. The Devadi on the other side is in a ruined condition.
After passing through the Mahadarwaja, one can enter the main summit area of the fort.
Hanuman and Ganesh Templ
As you proceed further into the upper part of the fort, a flagpole can be seen. Near it, within a small bastion-like structure, the remains of the Hanuman and Ganesh temples can be seen.
These religious structures on the fort provide an idea of the religious and cultural life that existed on the fort.
Remains of the Granary at Santoshgad
After reaching the summit of the fort, a ruined structure consisting of three rooms can be seen. The side walls are still relatively strong, but the roof has collapsed.
A separate small entrance can be seen for each room. It is believed that this structure may have been used as a granary for storing food grains or ammunition.
Remains of Old Structures
Several remains of structures that once existed on Santoshgad can still be seen. The wooden construction and roof sections have been destroyed over time, but platforms and foundation structures can still be seen at some places.
These remains indicate that residential structures may have been built on the fort for soldiers and other residents.
Fortification of Santoshgad
A considerable portion of the fortification surrounding the fort is now seen in a ruined condition. However, strong remains of the fortification can still be seen at some places.
Santoshgad has the natural protection of a mountain range and steep natural cliffs. Therefore, the structure of the fort suggests that it must have had strong natural protection in earlier times.
Bastions and Secret Paths on the Fort
Remains of bastions can be seen at different places on Santoshgad. At some locations, the structure of double-layered or protected bastions can also be seen.
Remains of passages running through the inner side of the fortification, as well as routes leading towards the surrounding mountain, can be found in these areas. Such routes may have been used to escape during emergencies, bring supplies to the fort or for movement.
Large Stone Slab on the Fort
At one place on the fort, a tall stone slab supported by a small stone can be seen. Some signs or markings are visible on this stone slab.
According to local tradition, it is believed that this stone slab may have been worshipped.
Stones Used in the Construction of Santoshgad
Laterite stone appears to have been used in the construction of Santoshgad. Some of the stones used in the construction of the fort are very large and heavy.
Looking at the structure and arrangement of these huge stones creates curiosity about the construction techniques used during that period.
Well at Santoshgad
In the central part of the fort, there is an old stepped well among the trees and vegetation. It is not easily visible until one gets close to it.
There are steps carved into the stone for entering the well. There is an arched structure at the upper part, and a considerable portion of it has been damaged over time.
This well must have been an important water source for the fort. However, the water in the well should not currently be used for drinking. Since the water is not regularly used, algae has grown in it and the roots of surrounding trees can be seen extending into the well.
Therefore, it is essential to carry sufficient drinking water with you when visiting the fort.
Mahadev Temple Near the Well
Near the pathway of the steps leading down into the well, there is a small square temple. This is the Mahadev Temple, and a Shiva Lingam can be seen inside the sanctum.
Like the other religious remains found on the fort, this temple is also a part of the cultural heritage of Santoshgad.
Other Remains on the Fort
Several remains of old residential structures and other buildings can be seen on Santoshgad. At some places, only the platforms remain.
It is also locally believed that a Sadar may have existed here for administrative activities on the fort. Today, only the platform or foundation remains of that structure can be seen.
History of Santoshgad Fort
Since there are no definite and universally accepted written records regarding the establishment of Santoshgad, different views are found regarding its early history.
According to local information, it is believed that this fort may have been built during the Shalivahana or Yadava period. After that, the fort may have remained under the control of various ruling powers.
The major sequence of history described about the fort is as follows:
- In the early period, the construction of the fort is associated with the Shalivahana or Yadava period.
- Later, this region may have remained under the influence of the Sultanate and Bahmani powers.
- After that, the fort was under the control of the Adilshahi rule.
- Later, Santoshgad was incorporated into the Swarajya of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
- For some time, the fort may have come under Mughal control.
- It is said that the fort later came back under the control of Swarajya.
- In 1818, after the end of Maratha rule, the British gained control over the fort.
- During British rule, it is said that some parts of the fort and its gateways were demolished.
- After India became independent, this historical heritage became part of independent India.
Note: Some information regarding the early construction of Santoshgad and its transfer between different ruling powers relies on local information and traditions. Therefore, it is appropriate to verify official evidence before presenting these details as definitive history.
Accommodation at Santoshgad
There is no special accommodation facility at the summit of Santoshgad. Therefore, if you wish to stay overnight, it is advisable to arrange accommodation in Tathawadi, Phaltan or the surrounding area.
Food Facility at Santoshgad
There is no regular food or refreshment facility available at the fort. Therefore, it is advisable to carry the necessary food items with you.
Drinking Water at Santoshgad
The well located on the fort does not currently appear to be suitable for drinking. Therefore, it is very important to carry sufficient drinking water with you.
Precautions While Visiting Santoshgad Fort
Since Santoshgad is located on a high mountain, a few things should be kept in mind before visiting the fort.
- Wear comfortable and sturdy footwear for the climb.
- Carry sufficient drinking water with you.
- Do not climb on the ruined fortification, bastions or gateways.
- Take special care near the well.
- Do not throw plastic or garbage on the fort.
- Do not write your name or make any other marks on historical structures.
- During the rainy season, stones and footpaths can become slippery, so extra care should be taken.
- Before drinking water from any water source on the fort, make sure that it is safe for consumption.
Why Visit Santoshgad Fort?
Although grand palaces or completely preserved structures are not seen on Santoshgad today, the gateways, bastions, fortification, Devadis, granary remains, well, temples and platforms of old structures help in understanding the historical layout of the fort.
The surrounding landscape visible from the mountain top and the natural defensive structure provide a different experience during the fort visit. For those interested in history, forts and trekking in the Sahyadri ranges, Santoshgad can be an informative and worthwhile place to explore.
Conclusion
Santoshgad Fort is a historical hill fort located near Tathawadi village in Phaltan Taluka of Satara district. Situated at an elevation of approximately 2,900 feet, the fort still has ancient gateways, fortifications, bastions, remains of the granary, Devadis, temples, a well and platforms of old structures.
Although a large portion of the fort has been destroyed over time, the remaining ruins remind us of the fort heritage of Maharashtra. Therefore, while visiting the fort, respecting history and preserving the historical structures is the responsibility of every visitor.
, Santoshgad Fort, Forts in Maharashtra
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