- Location
- Saswad, Pune District, Maharashtra
- Altitude
- 4,472 feet (1,363 meters)
- Nearest City
- Pune (50 km)
Overview
Purandar Fort, located about 50 km southeast of Pune, is one of the most prominent hill forts in Maharashtra’s Deccan plateau. Standing tall at 4,472 feet, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and holds immense historical importance.
It is famous as the birthplace of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and as the site of the 1665 Treaty of Purandar between the Marathas and the Mughals.
Highlights
Historic Treaty Site
The Treaty of Purandar (1665) between Shivaji Maharaj and Jai Singh of the Mughal Empire was signed here.
Stunning Hill Views
Offers breathtaking views of the Sahyadri range and lush valleys below.
Location & landscape
Perched in the Western Ghats near Saswad, Purandar Fort consists of two levels — the lower fort (Machi) and the upper fort (Balekilla). It served as a crucial defensive structure for the Maratha Empire.
Due to its altitude and strategic position, Purandar played a key role in Maratha defense and surveillance.
- Location
- Saswad, Pune District, Maharashtra
- Altitude
- 4,472 feet (1,363 meters)
- Nearest City
- Pune (50 km)
- Built By
- Yadava Dynasty, later fortified by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
- Construction Era
- 13th Century (later renovated in the 17th Century)
Best Time to Visit
Purandar experiences pleasant weather most of the year, with monsoon transforming the area into a lush green paradise.
- Best time: October to February – cool and clear skies ideal for trekking.
- Monsoon (June–September) – scenic but slippery trails.
Things to do
Trekking
A moderately challenging trek from Narayanpur village to the fort offers adventure and historical exploration.
- Trek duration: Around 1.5 to 2 hours (one way).
- Ideal for history and nature enthusiasts.
Photography
Capture the picturesque Sahyadri landscapes and the ancient Maratha architecture.
- Sunrise and sunset provide dramatic lighting conditions.
- Carry a zoom lens for architectural details.
Exploring Temples
Visit the old Kedareshwar temple inside the fort premises for its ancient stone carvings.
- Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Peaceful spot for rest and meditation.
Places to explore
Balekilla (Upper Fort)
The highest point of Purandar offering commanding views and historic remains of Maratha watchtowers.
Kedareshwar Temple
An ancient Shiva temple inside the fort complex, revered for its calm ambiance.
Birthplace of Sambhaji Maharaj
Historical site marking the birthplace of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, son of Shivaji Maharaj.
Local ecology
Purandar’s ecosystem comes alive in monsoon with fresh greenery and colorful birds.
Ideal for eco-tourism and weekend treks.
Flora
Covered with seasonal grasses, wildflowers, and small shrubs during monsoon.
Fauna
Commonly spotted species include peacocks, eagles, monkeys, and parakeets.
Practical Travel Tips
Begin your trek early morning to avoid the afternoon heat.
Carry rain gear during monsoon; trails can get slippery.
Bring sufficient water and snacks as facilities are limited at the top.
Local Transit & Routes
By Road
- From Pune: 50 km via Saswad-Narayanpur Road (approx. 1.5 hours).
- Parking available at the base village.
By Train
- Nearest station: Pune Junction (50 km).
- Taxis and buses available from Pune to Saswad or Narayanpur.
By Air
- Nearest airport: Pune International Airport (60 km).
- Private cabs available from the airport.