Pratapgad Fort

Things to do in Pratapgad Fort

Pratapgad fort, also known as Valour Fort, is located in Satara district of Maharashtra. The fort is at 3500 ft above sea level and overlooks the Par village. This historical site is famous for the Battle of Pratapgad which was fought between Shivaji and Mughals in 1656. The fort famous for its long corridors and tranquil paths is an architectural marvel and is divided into 2 parts- upper and lower. The upper part is situated on the top of the hill and the lower part is situated on the south eastern side of the fort. This fort was constructed by Moropant Pingale and Hiroji Indulkar. The Pratapgad Fort is visited by both history and nature lovers and gives a beautiful view of Konkan coast. The fort is open 7 days a week from 10 am to 6 pm.

Food and Shopping in Pratapgad Fort

Food
One can carry packed food and water along while visiting the fort.
The restaurants in Mahabaleshwar serve a iety of cuisines. Maharashtrian food at Hirakani’s is a must try. There is something for everyone. For pure vegetarians, there is Temple View restaurant. And, those who love non-vegetarian food may like the restaurant at Hotel Poonam. You may also find Chinese and Continental cuisines at the restaurant in the the Brightlands Hotel. You will not want to miss out on the lip smacking batata vada sold outside the Mahabaleshwar Temple.
Shopping
No shopping experience in mahabaleshwar can be complete without fresh fruits and jams. although fruits like strawberry and raspberries are available at every small vendor, try and visit the mapro garden. the produce there is fresh and inviting. you can choose from a wide iety of jellies, jams and squashes. There are numerous government authorized shops selling honey, which is a must buy when in mahabaleshwar.
Visit town bazaar for buying handicrafts, leather goods, kolhapuri footwear, tribal jewellery and other decorative items.

How to reach Pratapgad Fort

By Bus
Both state owned and private buses operate regularly between mumbai and mahabaleshwar. You can also take a bus from mumbai or pune for mahabaleshwar. The fort is located 25 kms away from mahabaleshwar and is easily accessible by bus. After reaching the fort there is an easy hike of half an hour to reach the main fort.
There are government buses going around the tourist main attractions in Mahabaleshwar.
By Taxi
The fort is easily accessible from mumbai goa highway. A small diversion from poladpur and you will reach the fort. Taxis are easily available in mahabaleshwar and will charge you ard rs 750 for a two way trip to pratapgad fort.
By Train
Although Wathar is the nearest railway station from Mahabaleshwar but the more easily accessible and convenient one is in Pune. There are a number of trains operating from Mumbai to Pune as well as from other major cities across India. One can take a bus or a hire taxi from Pune to Mahabaleshwar.
By Air
Mahabaleshwar doesn’t have an airport of its own. The nearest airports are in Pune and Mumbai, from where travelers can come from different parts of the country. And that solves the issue of reaching Mahabaleshwar by air. One can easily avail a taxi or take a ride on the bus from either of the airports to Mahabaleshwar.

Pratapgad Fort Distance from nearby Places
Pratapgad Fort from Mahabaleshwar: 24 Kilometers
Pratapgad Fort from Satara: 76 Kilometers
Pratapgad Fort from Pune: 150 Kilometers
Pratapgad Fort from Mumbai: 225 Kilometers