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Ajinkyatara Fort is a popular destination in Maharashtra. Ajinkyatara Fort is a large structure sitting on a hill, watching over the city of Satara in Maharashtra. Built in the 17th century, it has a rich history and shows the proud past of the Maratha Empire. Because of its important location, the fort has seen many battles and changed hands several times throughout history. Today, Ajinkyatara is a popular spot for trekking, attracting history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike.
Ajinkyatara Fort Location
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Ajinkyatara Fort is approximatеly 3 kilomеtrеs from thе city cеntrе of Satara in Maharashtra. Sajjangad Fort is about 3,200 feet above sea level and provides beautiful views of the surrounding area, including the scenic Koyna Dam and the impressive Sahyadri hills. Its location made it a perfect spot for watching over the region in ancient times. Satara is known for its rich history and is a popular place for travellers exploring the Western Ghats, making Ajinkyatara Fort an essential stop. Visitors can reach the fort via a marked trekking path starting at the hill’s bottom.
How To Reach Ajinkyatara Fort
Photo: ज्ञानदा गद्रे-फडके / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The nearest airport to Ajinkyatara Fort is Pune International Airport, about 120 kilometres away. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to Satara.
By Train: Satara has its railway station, which is well-connected to major cities like Pune, Mumbai, and Kolhapur. Trains like the Deccan Express and Koyna Express stop at Satara, making it convenient for travellers.
By Road: Ajinkyatara Fort is easily accessible by road. You can drive from Pune via the NH48 and NH166 highways, which take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Local buses and private taxis are also available from nearby cities.
Places To Visit In And Around Ajinkyatara Fort
Here are some of the best places near Ajinkyatara fort to explore when visiting this natural attraction in Maharashtra:
1. Koyna Dam
Photo: सुबोध कुलकर्णी / Wikimedia Commons
Koyna Dam, located about 30 kilometres from Ajinkyatara Fort, is one of the largest dams in Maharashtra. Nestled amidst the lush greenery of the Sahyadri hills, this dam is an engineering marvel and a vital source of hydroelectric power for the state. The area around Koyna Dam offers stunning views of the reservoir and the surrounding hills, making it a popular picnic spot. The scenic beauty of Koyna Dam is particularly captivating during the monsoon season when the waterfalls in the region are in full flow.
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
2. Narayangad Fort
Photo: Ccmarathe / Wikimedia Commons
Narayangad Fort, situated approximately 20 kilometres from Ajinkyatara, is a historical fort worth visiting. Nestled atop a hill, this fort was strategically built to guard the Koyna Valley. The trek to Narayangad Fort is exhilarating, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The fort features ancient ruins, water cisterns, old structures of the fort and remnants of walls that tell the tale of its glorious past. The peaceful atmosphere and the scenic surroundings make it an ideal spot for history enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
3. Sajjangad Fort
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Sajjangad Fort, located just a short drive from Ajinkyatara Fort, is a revered site that holds significant importance in the history of the Maratha Empire. It was the final resting place of Saint Samarth Ramdas, a spiritual leader and mentor to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The fort offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and hills, making it a great place for trekking and photography. Visitors can explore the temple dedicated to Samarth Ramdas and enjoy the ambience that envelops the fort.
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
4. Thoseghar Waterfall
Photo: VikasHegde / Wikimedia Commons
Thoseghar Waterfall, located about 30 kilometres from Ajinkyatara Fort, is a mesmerising waterfall known for its stunning view. It cascades down from approximately 500 metres, making it one of the highest waterfalls in Maharashtra. The scenery around the waterfall provides an ideal picnic spot for many of the tourists coming to the place, making it one of the popular places to visit near Ajinkyatara Fort. The smell of the wet greenery with the roaring water creates a genuinely breath-taking view and becomes perfect for photography.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
5. Kaas Plateau
Photo: Pratishkhedekar / Wikimedia Commons
The Kaas Plateau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is about 25 kilometres from Ajinkyatara Fort. Known for its unique biodiversity, the plateau is home to a stunning variety of wildflowers that bloom during the monsoon season, creating a vibrant carpet of colours. The best time to visit Kaas Plateau is from August to September when the flowers bloom. It’s an excellent spot for nature lovers, photographers, and those looking to experience the natural vision and wonderful places of Maharashtra.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹100 for adults
Where To Stay
Photo: JamesDeMers / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
When visiting Ajinkyatara Fort, there are several accommodation options available in Satara. For a comfortable stay, Hotel Suman Royal is a popular choice among travellers, offering modern amenities and easy access to the fort and other nearby attractions. Another option is Hotel Aishwarya, known for its cosy rooms and warm hospitality. For those looking for a more rustic experience, homestays and lodges in the surrounding villages provide a glimpse into local life and culture. Additionally, many travellers camp near the fort, enjoying the beautiful starry skies and serene environment.
Where To Eat
Photo: buffetcrush / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Satara boasts a variety of dining options that cater to different tastes. Hotel Prakash is well-known for its delicious Maharashtrian cuisine, including dishes like puran poli, vadi, and thalipeeth. For those craving North Indian food, Sagar Veg Restaurant offers a range of vegetarian dishes in a cosy setting. Shivaji Nagar is another popular eatery known for its local snacks and quick bites. Don’t miss out on trying the famous Satara cheesecake, a delightful treat that the city is renowned for.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Anonymous / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The best time to visit Ajinkyatara Fort is during the winter months, from November to February. During this period, the weather is pleasantly cool and perfect for trekking and exploring the fort and its surroundings. The post-monsoon season also enhances the area’s natural beauty, with lush greenery and blooming flowers, making it a picturesque time for photography. While summer can be quite hot, early morning or late afternoon visits are still manageable. The fort can be visited throughout the year, but the winters offer the most comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Dr. Raju Kasambe / Wikimedia Commons
Average Trip Cost To Ajinkyatara Fort
A trip cost to Ajinkyatara Fort can be quite budget-friendly. On average, you can expect to spend around ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 per person, including transportation, food, and entry fees for nearby attractions. Local transportation, such as auto-rickshaws or shared taxis, is economical, typically costing between ₹200 to ₹500 from Satara. If you stay overnight, accommodations range from ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 per night, depending on your preferences. Meals at local restaurants are affordable, averaging around ₹200 to ₹500 per person.
Tips For Travellers
- The trek to Ajinkyatara Fort involves steep paths, so wear sturdy footwear.
- Stay hydrated, and bring some snacks for energy during your trek.
- Keep the area clean by not littering and following local guidelines.
- Start your trek in the early morning to enjoy the cooler temperatures and stunning sunrise views.
- Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery and historic architecture.
Ajinkyatara Fort is not just a historical monument; it embodies Maharashtra’s rich heritage and culture. Its strategic location, breathtaking views, and nearby attractions offer a unique experience for history buffs and nature lovers. Exploring famous places near Maharashtra and its surroundings is an adventure that promises to leave lasting memories. Plan your visit today and discover Ajinkyatara Fort and Satara’s vibrant culture with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
