Bankot Fort
Bankot, Ratnagiri district, Maharashtra
If you are looking for a sea fort with big river views in Ratnagiri district, Bankot Fort is a great choice. It stands where the Savitri River meets the Arabian Sea at Bankot Creek, a spot older records call Himmatgad and Fort Victoria. The laterite ramparts, moats and carved gateway are still in good shape, and you will also find historic water tanks, a well and a secret entrance. The climb from Bankot village takes only about an hour. November to February, roughly 199 km from Mumbai, is the ideal window.
Why go
- Savitri River and Arabian Sea confluence views
- Laterite ramparts, moats and carved gateway
- Historic water tanks, well and secret entrance
Travel at a glance
How to reach
From the Mumbai-Goa highway, turn before Mahad toward Ambet, Mandangad and Bankot. The walk from Bankot village to the fort takes about one hour.
Things to carry
Stay away from unguarded rampart edges, the deep well and slippery laterite in rain; start back before dark and check local road and ferry conditions.
FAQs
What other names does Bankot Fort have?
It has been known as Himmatgad and, under the British, Fort Victoria.
How long is the approach?
About one hour walking from Bankot village.
What can be seen there?
Laterite moats, a carved gateway, water tanks, ramparts, a deep well, a secret entrance and views over the Savitri estuary.