Visapur Fort is a historic hill fortress located near Lonavala in the Indian state of Maharashtra. The fort, along with its twin fort Lohagad, was built during the reign of the Maratha Empire and has played an important role in the history of the region.
History:
Visapur Fort was built by the first Peshwa of the Maratha Empire, Balaji Vishwanath, in the early 18th century. The fort was later renovated by his grandson, Bajirao I. The fort was strategically important because of its location between Pune and Mumbai, two important cities in the region.
During the British Raj, Visapur Fort was used as a military outpost and played an important role in the Anglo-Maratha Wars. In 1818, the British East India Company captured the fort from the Marathas and used it as a prison. The fort was abandoned in the 1860s.
Architecture:
Visapur Fort is built on a hilltop and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding valleys and hills. The fort is surrounded by a thick wall with bastions and watchtowers. There are several entrances to the fort, including the famous Ganesh Darwaja, which is decorated with intricate carvings.
The fort has several buildings, including a palace, a temple, and a mosque. The palace is in ruins, but the temple and mosque are still in use. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, while the mosque is dedicated to Saint Pir Baba.
The fort also has several water tanks, including the Peshwa’s Tank, which is the largest. The tank has steps leading down to the water and is surrounded by lush greenery.
Visiting the Fort:
Visapur Fort is a popular tourist attraction and is accessible by trekking from the base of the hill. The Visapur trek is a moderate one and takes about 1-2 hours. Visitors can also hire a guide to take them around the fort and explain its history and architecture.
Visitors can explore the fort’s many buildings, including the palace, temple, and mosque, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding valleys and hills. The fort is also a popular spot for picnics and camping.
In conclusion, Visapur Fort is an important historical monsoon treks in maharashtra and is worth a visit for anyone interested in history or architecture. Its stunning location and panoramic views make it a popular destination for trekkers and nature lovers as well.
