Vairatgad Fort
Vyajwadi near Wai, Satara district
If you are looking for a Shilahara-era fort near Wai, Vairatgad is a great choice. The compact hill fort near Vyajwadi in Satara district keeps a surviving rampart and entrance bastion, with cisterns, a cave and a Hanuman temple on top. The climb takes about 1.5 hours to 1,018 metres, and the views over the Satara landscape are broad and open. It is about 101 km from Pune. October to February is the best window.
Why go
- Shilahara fort and historic military station
- Cisterns, cave and Hanuman temple
- Intact rampart and Satara-range views
Travel at a glance
How to reach
Reach Vyajwadi from Kadegaon bridge on the Wai-Satara road. Two routes merge near the fort; the shorter left route takes about 30 minutes before the final ascent.
Things to carry
The final trail and Mhasava-side descent are very slippery; avoid them in rain and use the normal Vyajwadi route unless locally guided.
FAQs
How long does Vairatgad take?
Approximately 1.5 hours for the climb, with about an hour to explore.
Which base is used?
Vyajwadi near Kadegaon bridge on the Wai-Satara road.
What needs caution?
The last section and the alternate Mhasava descent can be very slippery.