Dhodap Fort Information
Dhodap Fort
• Location:
Dhodap Fort is located near Hatti village in Kalwan Taluka of Nashik district in the state of Maharashtra, India. The fort lies in the Ajintha-Satmala sub-range of the Sahyadri mountain range.
• Height:
The fort stands at an average height of 1451 meters and is considered the second highest fort in Maharashtra.
Routes to Reach Dhodap Fort
• From Mumbai, one can travel to Nashik and then take the Dhule road towards Vadalibhoi village. From there, via Dhodambe village, one can reach Hatti village and then climb the fort on foot.
• The fort can also be reached through the Nashik – Dindori – Vani – Kalwan route and then via the Vani-Kalwan link road through Otur.
• Another route is Nashik – Dindori – Kasba Vani – Vani – Pargaon – Indiranagar – Hatti village.
• The fort is shaped like a Shivling.
Places to See on Dhodap Fort
Hanuman Temple
While walking towards the fort from Hatti village through the forest trail, visitors first come across an open temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The idol is painted in saffron color. Hanuman is worshipped as the deity of strength and bravery.
First Gate
After visiting the Hanuman temple and walking further, the main entrance gate of the fort appears. The beautifully carved arch and sturdy gateway still reflect the grandeur of the past.
Shiva and Ganapati Temples
Further ahead on the climbing route, there are two to three small temples with dome-shaped structures. One contains a Shivling and another houses Lord Ganesha. Lord Ganesha is worshipped as the remover of obstacles, while Lord Shiva symbolizes peace and courage.
Square Stepwell
Further ahead, a square-shaped well carved with steps can be seen. Its water is still used today. The arched structure above suggests that it was built to fulfill the water needs of the fort.
Rock-cut Stairway
During the climb, visitors can see steps carved into the rock. At some places where the original steps are broken, iron ladders have been installed for climbing.
Second Entrance Gate
Further ahead lies the second gateway carved into the rock. Guard chambers can be seen inside the gate. Outside the entrance, a Persian inscription is visible. It states that in Hijri year 1046, during the festival of Muharram, Alivardi Khan captured Dhodap and 14 surrounding forts under Mughal rule.
Bastions and Fortification Walls
Most of the bastions and fortification walls have been damaged over time, but their remains can still be seen.
Water Tanks
Several water tanks have been carved at various places on the fort. The stones removed during excavation were likely used for other constructions. These tanks supplied drinking and utility water.
Ruined Mansion (Padka Wada)
The remains of a ruined mansion can be seen on the fort. Although much of it has collapsed, the remaining structure still reflects its former grandeur.
Upper Peak, Caves, and Water Tanks
After a difficult rocky climb beyond the mansion, one reaches the highest point of the fort called the “Shendi.” Rock-cut square caves and water tanks are present here.
Among these, two caves are spacious. One houses the temple of Dhodamb Devi and the other contains a Shiva temple. A water tank can also be seen inside.
The Notch (Khach)
A large natural notch or gap can be seen on the plateau of the fort, which is considered the identity of Dhodap Fort.
From the top of the fort, nearby forts such as Ravlya-Javlya and Markandeya Fort can also be seen.
Historical Information About Dhodap Fort
• Many forts in the Baglan region were built during the ancient Satavahana and Yadava periods. During the Yadava rule, caves and water tanks were specially carved here.
• Later, these forts came under Sultanate rule, and Dhodap Fort also became part of the Sultanate.
• After the fall of the Sultanate, the fort came under Bahamani rule.
• After the division of the Bahamani kingdom, the fort came under the Nizamshahi dynasty.
• In 1636 CE, after the fall of the Nizamshahi, its territories were divided between the Adilshahi and the Mughal Empire. Dhodap Fort became part of the Mughal territory.
• On the orders of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, Alivardi Khan captured all forts in the Baglan region, including Indrai, Dhodap, Chandwad, Koldeher, Rajdeher, Kanchana-Mochana, Kanher, Javlya, Ravlya, Markandeya, Achala, Ramshej, and Ahivantgad.
• Later, the fort came under the control of the Marathas.
• After the Second Surat campaign, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj visited this fort.
• During the Peshwa era, Raghunathrao Peshwa (Raghoba Dada) rebelled against Madhavrao Peshwa. To settle the dispute peacefully, a meeting between Madhavrao Peshwa and Raghunathrao was held at this fort.
• In 1818 CE, after the fall of the Peshwa rule, Dhodap Fort came under British control. The British destroyed many structures on the fort to prevent future Maratha rebellions.
• After India gained independence on 15 August 1947, the fort came under the Government of India.
Accommodation :
There are caves on the fort where visitors can stay. Water from the cisterns can also be used.
Food Facility :
Food arrangements may be available in Hatti village.
Best Time to Visit :
The best time to visit and trek to Dhodap Fort is from June to March.
Conclusion
Dhodap Fort is one of the most important and highest forts in Maharashtra. Its historical significance, natural beauty, ancient architecture, caves, temples, and adventurous trekking route attract history lovers and trekkers from all over Maharashtra.
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