Manikgad (Raigad) Explained

Manikgad Fort (Raigad)
Location:Raigad district, Maharashtra
Map Type:India Maharashtra
Map Size:300
Type:Hill fort
Coordinates:18.8259°N 73.193°W
Built:1700 (approx)
Builder:Sarkhel Kanhoji Angre
Materials:Stone
Height:1876.64 feet
Demolished:1818
Condition:Ruins
Ownership:Government of India
Open To Public:Yes

Manikgad is a mountain fortress and temple in Gherakilla Manikgad, India. Located among rolling hills, the temple is a popular hiking spot. Manikgad was built to oversee the trade route from Maval (Pune) to coastal ports. The fort is situated near Vashivali (Rasayani MIDC), which is 27 km from Panvel.

History

The fort was built by Sarkhel Kanhoji Angre, to whom it was ceded in 1718 by Peshavas.[1]

Description

Only ruins of the fort remain. A big rock-cut cistern on the fort is called the "Darya take". A small shiva linga and a few small rock-cut cisterns are present. The Ganesh gate is the only standing structure. A circular trench is cut in the rock for lime mixing. Other nearby forts include Karnala, Prabalgad, Chanderi, Malang gad, Irshalgad, Sondai, Lohagad, Visapur, and Sankshi.

Notes and References

  1. Web site: The Gazetteers Department - KOLABA . raigad.nic.in . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20090410082312/http://raigad.nic.in/DG/1964/places_Manikgad%20Fort.html . 2009-04-10.