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Nestled in the Sahyadri
mountain range at an altitude of 2851 feet above the sea level is
Raigad - the former capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Meaning
the ‘the king’s fort’, Raigad is a mountainous terrain famed for its
breathtaking natural beauty as evident from its canyons, deep gorges
and lush vegetation. The beauty of the place is further enhanced by
the crisscrossing rivers of Gandhar and Kal that rushes down through
the beautiful valley.
How to Reach Raigad
By Air: Mumbai, 205 km away is the nearest airport.
By Rail: Vir Dasgaon railway station is the nearest railhead to
Raigad. This station is connected to Mumbai and Pune with regular
trains.
By Road: State transport buses ply from Mumbai and Pune to Raigad.
Raigad is well connected to all neighboring cities by the public
transport buses, including Kolhapur (250 km), Pune (150 km), Mumbai
(140 km) and Mahabaleshwar (75 km).
History of Raigad
Raigad is the very heart of Maratha country wherein is situated the
famous Raigad fort. In 1656, in a fierce battle, Shivaji defeated
Chandarrao More. And won the fort. This fort was considered to be a
fantastic military site that had tremendous security potential.
Strategically perched atop a wedge-shaped block of hill, split off
from the Western Ghats and inaccessible from three sides.
Unfortunately, it had little by way of fortification. 4 years later,
in the summer of 1670, Shivaji moved his capital to Raigad. Raigad
got its name from the mountain Rairi. The fort was so inaccessible
in those days that it came to be known as the Gibraltor of the
East.It was in this fort that Shivaji was coronated on 6th June,
1674. He also breathed his last here on 3rd April 1680.
Places to visit in Raigad
Gangasagar Lake - An artificial lake constructed adjacent to the Raigad fort, Gangasagar Lake is a wonder. The popular belief is that
this pond was built in the time of Sivaji’s coronation and water
from the holy river Ganges had been brought to this lake for
Sivaji’s crowning ceremony.
Jagadishwar Temple - Sivaji was an ardent follower of the Hindu
religion. Jagadishwar temple built in his royal palace is a clear
proof of his devotion. History says that Sivaji used to visit this
temple daily.The dome at the top of the temple is the reflection of
the mughal architecture of that time. The main deity is a
Jagadeeswara idol, which inspires the devotee for its uniqueness.
The temple holds an idol of Nandi outside, facing the entrance of
the temple.
Jijamata Palace - Jijamata Palace at Pachad holds significant place
in the history of Maratha kingdom. Jijabai, the mother of Shivaji is
credited for the greatness of Sivaji.
Jijamata palace is the place where Jijabai, a lady of high values
lived till her death. Unfortunately, this monument was destroyed by
the British during their rule in India. What remains is only the
ruins of the grand mansion.
Mahad - A small town on the bank of river Savitri, Mahad is famed
for the water agitation mooted under the leadership of Dr. Babasaheb
Ambedkar. A 'Kranti Stambh' has been put up in memory of this
agitation.One of the important places to be visited in Mahad is the
holy shrine of Shri Varad Vinayak Temple. It is one among the Ashta
Vinayak shrines of the state. The temple’s holy pond and Gomukh
fills the devotee with devotion. What makes oneself wonder is the
eternal lamp, which was burning since 1892 A.D.
Activities at Raigad
Rock Climbing - Raigad holds so many interesting routes to reach
there, varying from the comparatively simple ones to the exigent.
From Pachad, Raigad is an easy destination, but those who want to
deviate from the ordinary path can opt the adventure-filled route
either from Mahabaleshwar or Pune.Rock climbing in Raigad region is
a worth attempting adventure. Scattered evergreen forests and fast
wind makes the surroundings of this area very cool even during
summers.Raigad provides excellent place of rock climbing like Torana
Fort, Lingana Fort, Nijampur – Fort, Birwadi - Raigad Trek and
Mangad – Raigad trek. Situated in the lap of the Sahyadri mountain
range, Raigad is a center of enlivening peaks and vibrant ancient
forts that are quite thrilling for climbers.
Where to Stay in Raigad
Accommodation in Raigad is limited and there are few basic stay
options available.
Places to eat
in Raigad
The Lodge has a restaurant called Sarja at the base station which
serves decent South Indian thalis for Rs 30. Snacks, coffee and tea
are available here and at MTDC. You can also get a good meal at the
clean and spacious Sukh Sagar Restaurant at Hotel Pride on the
highway at Mahad, which also has a fast-food counter called McRohans!
Try the kadhai veg and paneer masala, which goes well with their
garlic naans and masala kulcha.
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