Mahipatgad Fort
Khed, Ratnagiri
If you are looking for a vast forest fort in Ratnagiri district, Mahipatgad is a great choice. It is the tallest and northernmost of the Rasalgad-Sumargad-Mahipatgad range at 942 metres, spread across roughly 200 acres of plateau. Six ruined gateways lead in, and the top holds temples, wells, caves and thick forest, so the ascent can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours depending on the route. Khed is the nearest station. This is a fort for explorers who like their history wild.
Why go
- Six historic gateway approaches
- Pareshwar temple and perennial well
- Vast forested plateau in a three-fort range
Travel at a glance
How to reach
From Khed take an early bus to Dahiwali, then follow the unpaved route through two clefts for about four hours; the shorter alternative is via Wadi Jaitapur and Wadi Beldar, followed by about an hour on foot.
Nearest railway station
Khed
Things to carry
The Dahiwali and range routes are long and pass through dense forest where losing the trail is possible. Start early, use a local guide for the forest route, carry offline navigation and stay away from ruined gateways and exposed cliffs.
FAQs
How long does Mahipatgad take?
About four hours from Dahiwali or roughly one hour from Wadi Beldar after reaching that village.
Can visitors stay overnight?
Pareshwar temple can accommodate about 20 to 30 people, but conditions should be confirmed locally.
Is drinking water available?
A well opposite Pareshwar temple is reported to hold water throughout the year, though visitors should treat it before drinking.