In the Indian state of Maharashtra’s Nashik district sits the hill fort known as Dhodap Fort. It is a component of the Sahyadri mountain range and is located at a height of 1,439 meters above sea level. The fort is triangular in design and is encircled by sheer cliffs on all sides. A tiny ridge connects the main fort to a smaller hill.
Dhodap Fort is significant historically because the Maratha Empire turned over one of its 17 forts to the British after the Third Anglo-Maratha War in the early 19th century. During the Maratha era, the fort served as an observation post to keep an eye on the trade routes between Nashik and the Konkan coast.
Trekkers and adventure seekers visit Dhodap Fort frequently today to take in the expansive vistas of the mountains and valleys around. A walking trail leading to the fort departs from the village of Anjaneri, which is situated around 20 kilometers from Nashik. Visitors may tour the fort ruins and the shrine dedicated to Lord Hanuman that are situated on the peak after completing the 3- to 4-hour climb.
how to reach dhodap fort
The Dhodap Fort is situated in India’s Maharashtra state’s Nashik district. The following are the instructions to the fort:
Via Air: The Nashik Airport, which is 45 kilometers from Dhodap Fort, is the closest airport. To get to Anjaneri village, which is where the hike to Dhodap Fort begins, from the airport, you may take a bus or a cab.
Rail: Nashik Road Railway Station, which is around 35 kilometers from Dhodap Fort, is the closest train station. You may take a cab or a bus to go to Anjaneri hamlet from the railway station.
Via Road: The walk to Dhodap Fort begins at Anjaneri hamlet, which is well-connected by road. To go to Anjaneri from Nashik, you can take a bus or call a cab. Nashik has excellent road connections to other significant Maharashtrian cities like Mumbai and Pune.
You may begin the trip to Dhodap Fort once you are in Anjaneri village. It takes 3 to 4 hours to finish the fairly challenging climb. It is advised to bring enough water and food for the journey. It’s also a good idea to take a backpack with necessary supplies like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. You should also wear cozy hiking shoes.
best time to visit dhodap fort
Winter in Maharashtra lasts from October to February, making those months the ideal time to explore Dhodap Fort. The temperature is temperate and pleasant around this time, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking. Walking would be comfortable in the 15° to 25°C temperature range.
The trip to Dhodap Fort can be difficult during the monsoon season, which lasts from June to September, because of the heavy rain and slick terrain. Visits to the fort during this period are not advised.
Maharashtra’s summer season, which runs from March to May, can have high temperatures of up to 35°C. To escape the heat, it is suggested that you begin the walk early in the morning if you choose to visit at this season.
It is also advised to consult the weather prediction before making travel arrangements and to pack clothing and equipment suited for the season.
history about dhodap fort
Maharashtra’s Dhodap Fort has a long history that dates to the Middle Ages. The fort’s precise history is uncertain, although it is thought that the ‘Kols,’ a local tribe, erected it around the eighth century AD.
Dhodap Fort was taken by the Bahamani Sultanate in the sixteenth century, and then subsequently by the Nizam Shahi Dynasty of Ahmednagar. The Maratha Empire, led by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, took control of the fort in 1635. The fort was thereafter utilized as a tactical observation post to keep an eye on the trade routes between Nashik and the Konkan coast.
The Maratha Empire handed up the fort to the British in 1818 during the Third Anglo-Maratha War. Following this, the fort was abandoned since it was no longer useful as a military bastion. The Lord Hanuman temple and the fort remains are currently the main draws for tourists.
Dhodap Fort, which served as a warehouse for the Maratha army’s weaponry and supplies, is also said to have had a significant impact in the battle of Panipat in 1761. The Marathas also utilized the fort to obtain information about the movements of the adversary during the conflict.
Overall, Dhodap Fort is a remarkable landmark that showcases the Maratha Empire’s architectural and military supremacy. It holds a special position in Maharashtra’s history.
Option for accommodation
Being a hill fort and protected landmark, Dhodap Fort does not provide any lodging alternatives. Nonetheless, there are other lodging possibilities in the close-by town of Nashik, which is situated 35 to 45 kilometers from the fort.
Maharashtra’s major tourist destination Nashik has a range of lodging choices to meet all preferences and financial constraints. There are several lodging alternatives, ranging from modest motels and lodges to opulent resorts and homestays.
In Nashik, some popular lodging choices include:
Soma Vine Village Resort Anand Resort Nashik Hotel Express Inn Nashik Ibis Nashik The Gateway Hotel Nashik Green Estate Farms
To minimize any trouble, it is advised to make your hotel reservations in advance, especially during the busiest travel season. You can also choose to camp or stay in a homestay in one of the adjacent villages, which can be arranged through regional tour guides or travel companies.
FAQs on Dhodap Fort
Undoubtedly, these Dhodap Fort questions and answers are commonly asked:
How tall is the Dhodap Fort?
The elevation of Dhodap Fort is 1,475 meters above sea level.
How much time is required to go to the fort?
It takes around 3–4 hours to walk from Anjaneri hamlet to Dhodap Fort.
Is the ascent to Dhodap Fort challenging?
It takes good physical condition to complete the walk to Dhodap Fort, which is quite challenging. The route is rough and steep, and there are a few places where you have to scramble over stones.
Do you have to pay to enter Dhodap Fort?
No admission fee is required to enter Dhodap Fort.
What time does Dhodap Fort open and close?
Dhodap Fort is accessible all day long and does not have set operating hours.
What time of year is ideal for visiting Dhodap Fort?
Winter in Maharashtra lasts from October to February, making those months the ideal time to explore Dhodap Fort.
Do you have any lodging alternatives in Dhodap Fort?
Unfortunately, there aren’t any lodging alternatives in Dhodap Fort because it’s a protected landmark. But, the neighboring town of Nashik offers a variety of lodging choices.
Does Dhodap Fort provide any dining options?
Sorry, there aren’t any dining alternatives in Dhodap Fort. It is recommended to have enough food and water for the hike. You can also bring snacks or food from the village of Anjaneri.