Pargad Fort
Pargad, Chandgad taluka, Kolhapur district
If you are looking for a living fort near the Goa border, Pargad is a great choice. Built by Shivaji Maharaj in Chandgad taluka of Kolhapur district, it is still home to families descended from its original defenders. Rock-cut steps, gateways, cannons, the Bhavani temple, wells and named bastions fill 2 to 3 hours of exploring at 738 metres. Belagavi is the practical railhead for this corner. October to February is the best season.
Why go
- Living fort community descended from defenders
- Bhavani temple, cannons and historic relics
- Rock-cut steps, wells and named bastions
Travel at a glance
How to reach
Reach Chandgad, then drive about 28 km to Pargad village. A road reaches the fort settlement; the historic approach has roughly 360 rock-cut steps.
Nearest railway station
Belagavi
Things to carry
The fort has steep valleys and long rock-cut steps. Respect residents and active temples, supervise children near edges and avoid the steps in heavy rain.
FAQs
Who built Pargad?
Shivaji Maharaj built it in 1676 to watch the Goa-border region.
Is the fort inhabited?
Yes. Descendants of historic fort defenders still live there.
How is it reached?
By road from Chandgad to Pargad village; the old approach has about 360 steps.