India, a land steeped in history and heroism, has taken a proud step forward by nominating 12 iconic Maratha forts for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage list. These forts, spread across Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, represent the military genius, administrative brilliance, and architectural foresight of the Maratha Empire—especially under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
These forts were more than just military strongholds—they were administrative centers, symbols of regional pride, and examples of how geography and strategy blended to form powerful defense systems. Now, they stand as proud witnesses to India's warrior spirit, waiting to be recognized on the world stage.
List of 12 Maratha Forts Nominated for UNESCO World Heritage (2024–25)
1. Salher Fort – Nashik District, Maharashtra -
Significance: Site of the famous Battle of Salher (1672), one of the largest Maratha-Mughal conflicts.
Highlights: Panoramic views, high altitude (1,567 m), rugged trekking trails.
2. Shivneri Fort – Pune District, Maharashtra
Significance: Birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (1630).
Features: Well-preserved bastions, gates, water tanks, and temples.
3. Lohagad Fort – Lonavala, Maharashtra
Significance: Strategically located; merged with Visapur Fort.
Popular For: Monsoon trekking, “Vinchu Kata” (Scorpion-tail structure).
4. Khanderi Fort (Kanhoji Angre Island Fort) – Raigad Coast, Maharashtra
Built By: Shivaji Maharaj in 1679
Location: Arabian Sea, 20 km off Mumbai
Famous For: Naval defense, lighthouse, and sea-facing bastions.
5. Raigad Fort – Raigad District, Maharashtra
Importance: Capital of the Maratha Empire (1674); coronation site of Shivaji Maharaj.
Must See: Jagdishwar Temple, Shivaji Maharaj Samadhi, Queen’s quarters.
6. Rajgad Fort – Pune District, Maharashtra
Significance: Capital of Maratha Empire before Raigad.
Highlights: Massive area, Suvela Machi, Padmavati Temple, military stronghold.
7. Pratapgad Fort – Satara District, Maharashtra
Historic Event: Battle of Pratapgad between Shivaji Maharaj and Afzal Khan (1659).
Attractions: Bhavani Temple, Afzal Khan’s tomb, panoramic views of Mahabaleshwar.
8. Suvarnadurg Fort – Ratnagiri Coast, Maharashtra
Built By: Shivaji Maharaj
Role: Sea fort used for naval control and protection from pirates.
Located On: A small island in the Arabian Sea, near Harnai port.
- How to reach Suvarnadurg Fort
9. Panhala Fort – Kolhapur District, Maharashtra
Notable For: Largest fort in the Deccan; held by Queen Tarabai
Famous Event: Escape of Shivaji Maharaj during the siege by Siddi Johar.
10. Vijaydurg Fort – Sindhudurg District, Maharashtra
Known As: “Eastern Gibraltar”
Unique Traits: Triple-layered walls, underwater trench defense system
Significance: Naval base developed by Kanhoji Angre
11. Sindhudurg Fort – Malvan Coast, Maharashtra
Commissioned By: Shivaji Maharaj in 1664
Located On: An island off the Malvan coast
Features: Shivaji’s footprint and handprint preserved in stone
- How to reach Sindhudurg Fort
12. Gingee Fort – Tamil Nadu
Built By: Originally by Chola kings, later fortified by Marathas
Significance: Shivaji’s son Rajaram took refuge here during Mughal invasion
Nickname: “Troy of the East” for its impregnable design and defense
🌍 Why This Nomination Matters?
These forts are living symbols of Maratha valor and resistance.
They showcase the geographical diversity of fort-building—hilltops, sea forts, island fortresses.
This is a step to preserve indigenous architectural and military styles.
Recognition will boost tourism and heritage conservation.
🧭 Plan Your Visit
Many of these forts are accessible from major cities like Mumbai, Pune, Kolhapur, and Chennai. They are ideal destinations for trekking, history tourism, and monsoon getaways.
Best Time to Visit: October to March (except monsoon treks like Lohagad and Rajgad)
Entry Fees: Mostly free or nominal
Guides: Available at major forts (Raigad, Pratapgad, Shivneri)
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