The 350-year-old fort sits 820 m above the sea level. Before, those who wished to explore the fort had to make a strenous climb over 1737 steps, but a couple of years ago a cable car was launched to facilitate access to the fort. While climbing the steps usually took several hours, a trip on the Raigad Ropeway can be completed within 10 minutes. The major revamp will add tourist facilities to the fort premises and allow access to the two remaining imposing watch towers of the fort.
The fort was built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the second half of the 17th century. The fort featured a beautiful palace, queen's quartes, and six private chambers. There used to be a fort market as well, accessible to horseback riders. The local tourist authorities hope that the makeover of the fort will encourage tourists to spend more time in the area exploring the fort and staying in the local villages. There over 20 villages in the vicinity of the fort where tourists can be accommodated.
The fort occupies the hilltop area of 1300 acre and is considered one of the largest fort complexes of India. Thanks to its commanding positin, it offers jaw-dropping views over vertical hill slopes and the valley beneath.
Raigad Fort in Maharashtra to Undergo Major Revamp
News in Asia
Chhatrapati Shivaji Raigad Fort located in Mahad, Maharashtra state, India, will soon get a much-needed facelift and become a global tourist stop.