Purandar Fort
A large twin fort near Saswad, linked with the birth of Sambhaji Maharaj, the heroism of Murarbaji Deshpande and the Treaty of Purandar.
Quick facts
- Location:
- Near Saswad, Purandar taluka
- Distance:
- About 45 km from Pune
- Twin fort:
- Vajragad
- Known for:
- Treaty of Purandar, 1665
- Timings:
- Check before visiting
History
Purandar is one of the most important forts in Maratha history. Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was born here in 1657. In 1665 the Mughal general Mirza Raja Jaisingh laid siege to the fort. Murarbaji Deshpande died defending it, and the siege led to the Treaty of Purandar, under which Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj had to give up many forts to the Mughals.
What you can see today
- The statue of Murarbaji Deshpande.
- The Purandareshwar temple and the old walls and bastions.
- Vajragad, the smaller twin fort on the next hill.
How to reach
Purandar is reached from Saswad via Narayanpur. Part of the hill is used by the Army, so the entry rules and timings are set by them. Check before you go and carry an ID card.
Tips for visitors
- Combine the trip with the Ek Mukhi Datta temple at Narayanpur and with Jejuri.
- Photography may be restricted in the Army area. Follow the signs.
More in Forts
- Sinhagad Fort The fort of Tanaji Malusare, south-west of Pune. The most visited fort near the city, famous for its history, its views and its kanda bhaji.
- Rajgad Fort The first capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and one of the biggest hill forts of the Sahyadri. A UNESCO World Heritage fort since 2025.
- Torna Fort The first fort taken by young Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, which gave the Maratha kingdom its start. The highest fort in Pune district.
- Shivneri Fort The birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, above the town of Junnar. A UNESCO World Heritage fort since 2025.
- Lohagad Fort An easy fort trek near Lonavala, with steps all the way and the long "scorpion tail" ridge. A UNESCO World Heritage fort since 2025.
- Visapur Fort The big twin of Lohagad, with a wide plateau, old cannons and monsoon streams flowing down its steps.
Questions and answers
Where was Sambhaji Maharaj born?
On Purandar fort, in 1657.
What was the Treaty of Purandar?
A treaty signed in 1665 between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the Mughal general Mirza Raja Jaisingh, after the Mughal siege of Purandar.
Sources: Written by PuneDiary. Facts checked 10 October 2026.