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.
Quick facts
- Location:
- Near Donje, Haveli taluka
- Distance:
- About 35 km from Pune
- Old name:
- Kondhana
- Known for:
- Battle of 1670, Tanaji Malusare
- Timings:
- Check before visiting
History
Sinhagad was earlier called Kondhana. In 1670 Tanaji Malusare, a close companion of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, climbed the steep cliff at night with his men and captured the fort. Tanaji was killed in the battle. The story says that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, on hearing the news, said "Gad aala, pan sinha gela": the fort is won, but the lion is gone. In popular memory the name Sinhagad, the lion's fort, honours him.
What you can see today
- The memorial of Tanaji Malusare.
- The Pune Darwaja and the Kalyan Darwaja, the two main gates.
- The cliff point known as Tanaji Kada, where the climb of 1670 is said to have happened.
- The samadhi of Rajaram Maharaj, the younger son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
- Old water tanks, and views of Khadakwasla lake and the Sahyadri hills.
How to reach
Drive or ride towards Khadakwasla and Donje, then take the ghat road up to the parking near the top. Trekkers climb from the base village of Atkarwadi. The road is sometimes closed or controlled on busy days, so check before you go.
Tips for visitors
- Weekends and monsoon Sundays are very crowded. Go early or on a weekday.
- Try the local food at the top: kanda bhaji, pithla bhakri and curd in clay pots.
- The ghat road has sharp bends. Drive slowly, especially in fog.
More in Forts
- 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.
- 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
Why is it called Sinhagad?
Sinhagad means the fort of the lion. Popular tradition links the name with Tanaji Malusare, who died capturing the fort in 1670.
Can I drive to the top of Sinhagad?
Yes, a ghat road goes up to a parking area near the top. Rules for vehicles can change on busy days, so check before you go.
Sources: Written by PuneDiary. Facts checked 10 October 2026.