Shivneri Fort
The birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, above the town of Junnar. A UNESCO World Heritage fort since 2025.
Quick facts
- Location:
- Junnar, Junnar taluka
- Distance:
- About 95 km from Pune
- Known for:
- Birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
- World Heritage:
- Yes, since 2025
- Timings:
- Check before visiting
History
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was born on Shivneri. The Government of Maharashtra celebrates Shiv Jayanti on 19 February, the date it accepts for his birth in 1630. The fort is named after the goddess Shivai, whose temple stands on the hill, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is said to have been named after her.
The hill was used long before the Marathas. Buddhist caves cut into its sides are about two thousand years old. In 2025 Shivneri became part of the UNESCO World Heritage site "Maratha Military Landscapes of India".
What you can see today
- Shivkunj, with statues of young Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Rajmata Jijabai.
- The building where Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is believed to have been born.
- The Shivai Devi temple, seven gates on the way up, and the Badami tank.
- Rock-cut caves on the slopes of the hill.
How to reach
Drive to Junnar via Narayangaon on the Pune Nashik road. A path with steps leads up through the gates. Fit visitors need about an hour to reach the top.
Tips for visitors
- Combine the visit with Lenyadri and Ozar, two Ashtavinayak temples close to Junnar.
- Shiv Jayanti (19 February) brings very large crowds.
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.
- 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.
- 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 Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj born?
On Shivneri fort, near Junnar in Pune district.
Is Shivneri a World Heritage Site?
Yes. Since July 2025 it is part of the UNESCO site "Maratha Military Landscapes of India".
Sources: Written by PuneDiary. Facts checked 10 October 2026.