Historical fort Songiri Fort, often referred to as Sonori Fort, is situated in the Indian state of Maharashtra. It is located 64 kilometres northeast of Ahmednagar city in the Songiri village in the Ahmednagar district.
Maloji Bhosale, the grandfather of Shivaji, the leader of the Maratha Empire in India, is thought to have constructed the fort in the 17th century. During the mediaeval era, it protected the neighbourhood by acting as a strategic fortress.
The Songiri Fort is renowned for both its formidable walls and its rocky topography. It features several gates, bastions, and a citadel at the top with sweeping views of the surroundings. In addition, the fort features a few water tanks, temples, and a Sufi saint’s tomb.
Songiri Fort is now a well-liked location for those who prefer walking and hiking because they may explore the ancient remains of the fort and take in the beautiful splendour of the Sahyadri mountain range. The Archaeological Survey of India has designated it as a protected monument, and it is accessible to visitors all year long.
Getting to Songiri Fort
Songiri Fort is a road-accessible location in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, India. The following are some approaches to the fort:
Via Road: Traveling by car is the most practical method to get to Songiri Fort. Songiri village is reachable from Ahmednagar city via taxi, vehicle, or bus. Around 64 kilometres to the northeast of Ahmednagar City stands the fort. You can rent a car or drive yourself to the fort.
Via Rail: The Ahmednagar Railway Station, which is well-connected to important towns in Maharashtra and other areas of the nation, is the closest train station to Songiri Fort. You may take a bus or a cab to get to the fort from the railway station.
Via Air: The Pune Airport, which is 130 kilometres from Songiri Fort, is the closest airport. You may take a bus or a cab from the airport to go to the fort.
You will need to hike to the fort because it is located on top of a hill after you arrive at Songiri hamlet. The walk may be finished in a few hours and is not particularly challenging. It is advised to bring extra food and drink for the journey and to wear suitable hiking shoes. In order to avoid excessive temperatures, it is also advised to visit the fort in the milder months of November to February.
when to visit Songiri Fort is ideal
The winter season, which lasts from November to February, is the greatest time to visit Songiri Fort. This time of year is perfect for trekking and fort exploration because of the lovely, mild weather. This time of year, when temperatures range from 10 to 25 degrees Celsius, is pleasant for guests who want to hike and explore the fort.
It is challenging to travel across the area and visit the fort during the monsoon season, which lasts from June to September. Visitors risk being in danger because of the terrain’s potential for slipping and hazard. It is thus advised to stay away from the fort during the rainy season.
The summer months of March through May may be quite hot, with highs that exceed 30 degrees Celsius. Due to the heat, it is advised to carry enough water and stop frequently while trekking during this time of year.
In conclusion, the winter months of November to February are the greatest times to visit Songiri Fort since the weather is favourable for visitors to travel through the fort and investigate it.
songiri fort history
An old hill fort called Songiri Fort is situated in India’s Maharashtra state’s Ahmednagar district. The Rashtrakuta dynasty’s emperors are said to have constructed the fort around the ninth century AD. Later, it was taken over by the Nizam Shahi dynasty of Ahmednagar, the Bahamani sultans, and the Yadavas of Devagiri.
The fort was a military bastion for the local tyrants and was strategically placed on a hill. It was well renowned for having strong natural barriers such cliffs, passes, and ravines. The fort was renowned for its water supply system, which included wells and tanks with large water storage capacities.
The Mughal emperor Akbar captured the fort in the 16th century and used it as a base for his military operations in the Deccan area. To accommodate a bigger garrison, the fort underwent substantial renovation and expansion throughout this period.
The fort was taken over by the Maratha Empire after the Mughal Empire’s fall, who exploited it as a strategic outpost to rule the surrounding area. Up until the British East India Company seized control of the fort at the beginning of the 19th century, it was still under Maratha rule.
The fort is now a well-liked tourist spot that draws tourists from all across the nation. It is renowned for its striking architecture, which includes the main gate’s elaborate carvings and sculptures. The fort’s remains, which offer a look into the area’s rich history and cultural legacy, also allow visitors to explore the palaces, temples, and other buildings that formerly stood there.
nearby attractions to Songiri Fort
Visitors may explore a number of tourist sites close to Songiri Fort. These are a few of the well-liked tourist destinations close to Songiri Fort:
Harishchandragad Fort is a well-known hiking location in the Western Ghats and is situated around 20 kilometres from Songiri Fort. Together with its historic temples and caverns, the fort is renowned for its breathtaking views of the nearby hills and valleys.
Malshej Ghat is a beautiful mountain pass in the Western Ghats, situated around 70 kilometres from Songiri Fort. It is renowned for its stunning waterfalls, luxuriant vegetation, and varied fauna, including several bird species.
Ahmednagar Fort is a mediaeval fort constructed in the 15th century and is situated around 60 kilometres from Songiri Fort. It is renowned for its spectacular architecture and has historically housed several kings as a military fortress.
The little settlement of Shani Shingnapur, which is roughly 80 kilometres from Songiri Fort, is well-known for its old Lord Shani temple. The temple is considered to have special qualities and attracts followers from all around the country.
Bhandardara: This well-liked hill resort, which is roughly 100 kilometres from Songiri Fort, is renowned for its stunning surroundings and unspoiled natural beauty. It is home to various tourist attractions, including the Randha Falls, Wilson Dam, and Arthur Lake.
These are just a handful of the many tourist attractions situated around Songiri Fort. Tourists may also visit other surrounding locations, such as the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Nashik, and Pune, which are located within a few hours’ drive from the fort.
faq about songiri fort
Well, here are some commonly asked questions (FAQ) regarding Songiri Fort:
What is the history of Songiri Fort?
Songiri Fort was established around the 9th century AD by the monarchs of the Rashtrakuta dynasty. Later, it was taken over by the Nizam Shahi dynasty of Ahmednagar, the Bahamani sultans, and the Yadavas of Devagiri. The fort was also utilised as a base by the Mughal Empire during their expeditions in the Deccan area.
How can I approach Songiri Fort?
Songiri Fort is located in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, India. It may be accessible by road from large cities such as Mumbai, Pune, and Nashik. The nearest railway station is at Ahmednagar, which is roughly 50 kilometres from the fort. The nearest airport is at Pune, which is around 150 kilometres from the fort.
What is the ideal time to visit Songiri Fort?
The ideal time to see Songiri Fort is during the winter season, from November through February. This time of year is perfect for trekking and fort exploration because of the lovely, mild weather. The summer season may be exceedingly hot, with temperatures climbing beyond 30 degrees Celsius, while the monsoon season can make the terrain treacherous and risky for tourists.
What are the surrounding tourist spots to visit from Songiri Fort?
There are various tourist destinations nearby near Songiri Fort that visitors may explore, such as Harishchandragad Fort, Malshej Ghat, Ahmednagar Fort, Shani Shingnapur, and Bhandardara.
Is there an admission cost to visit Songiri Fort?
There is no admission fee to enter Songiri Fort, and tourists can explore the fort and its surrounds free of charge. Nonetheless, tourists may need to pay for parking, guiding services, or other activities.