Introduction
Due to the upcoming movie on the life of Sambhaji Maharaj, there is curiosity about the character. Sambhaji Maharaj was one of the most prominent of the sons of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the second ruler of the Maratha Empire. For those who wish to tread the grounds where history was written in the making, here is the travel itinerary of M’rey path through Sambhaji Maharaj’s birthplace, forts, and places of significance in his reign.
Let us consider these historical places and make a tour to have a glimpse of Maharashtra’s historical past.
Who Was Sambhaji Maharaj?
Sambhajiraje was born in 1657 at Purandar Fort in Pune, and he was the elder son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. He was taught to be a fighter and rose to the rank of the second Maratha Empire head after Shivaji’s passing. Noted for his absolutely sound tactics and valour, he defeated the Mughals, Siddis, and the Portuguese, which further entrenched the Maratha Empire. He accorded sovereignty to numerous wars and was an unflinching fighter until he was captured and killed in 1689 by Aurangzeb. Sambhaji Maharaj may have met his unfortunate death, but actually, he is remembered very well in history.
Must-Visit Places Related to Sambhaji Maharaj
1. Birthplace: Purandar Fort
Description: Purandar Fort is 50 kilometers from Pune and is also known as Sambhaji Maharaj’s birthplace. It is located at a height of 4,472 feet above sea level and has a panoramic view of the Sahyadri mountain range. It is historically important because this place is related to the Marathas, and battles were fought here as well.
- Location: Near Saswad, Pune, Maharashtra
- Why Visit? Birthplace of Sambhaji Maharaj (1657), historical temples, and panoramic views of the Western Ghats.
- How to Reach:
- By Road: 40 km from Pune; taxis and buses are available.
- By Train: Pune Railway Station is the nearest.
- By Air: Pune International Airport (50 km away).
- Best Time to Visit: October to March (pleasant weather for trekking).
- Entry Fees: No entry fee.
- Things to Do: Trekking, sightseeing, and exploring Narayaneshwar Temple inside the fort.
- Travel Tip: A moderate trek is required to reach the top.
2. Forts Ruled by Sambhaji Maharaj
a) Raigad Fort (Capital of the Maratha Empire)
- Description: This hilltop fort was the capital of the Maratha Empire and the place where Sambhaji Maharaj was crowned as Chhatrapati.
- Location: 140 km from Mumbai.
- Significance: Sambhaji Maharaj took charge of the empire here after Shivaji Maharaj’s death.
- How to Reach:
- By Road: 3.5-hour drive from Mumbai, 2.5-hour drive from Pune.
- By Ropeway: A ropeway is available for easy access to the fort.
- Things to Do: Explore the ruins, visit Shivaji Maharaj’s Samadhi, and enjoy panoramic views.
b) Sindhudurg Fort (Coastal Defense Fort)
- Description: Built by Shivaji Maharaj, later used by Sambhaji Maharaj to strengthen Maratha naval power.
- Location: Malvan, Maharashtra.
- Significance: A key Maratha naval fort.
- How to Reach:
- By Train: The nearest station is Kudal.
- By Air: Goa Airport (130 km away).
- Things to Do: Boat rides, fort exploration, and beach activities.
c) Panhala Fort (One of the Largest Maratha Forts)
- Description: A strategic fort that served as a refuge during Sambhaji Maharaj’s conflicts.
- Location: Near Kolhapur, Maharashtra.
- Significance: Used by Sambhaji Maharaj for military planning.
- How to Reach: Well connected by road, 30-minute drive from Kolhapur.
- Things to Do: Explore tunnels and historic sites, and enjoy Kolhapuri cuisine.
d) Vishalgad Fort (Last Stronghold of Sambhaji Maharaj)
- Location: Near Kolhapur.
- Significance: Sambhaji Maharaj took refuge here during battles.
- How to Reach: Best reached via road from Kolhapur.
How to Plan Your Trip
Best Travel Route:
Start from Pune (Purandar Fort) → Raigad Fort → Sindhudurg Fort → Panhala Fort for an immersive experience.
Best Time to Visit:
October to March for pleasant weather.
Travel Options:
- By Car: Best for a scenic road trip.
- By Train: Well-connected railway stations near each location.
- By Air: Closest airports – Pune, Mumbai, and Kolhapur.
- Ideal Duration: 3-5 days to explore all the forts properly.
Things to Do Near Sambhaji Maharaj’s Sites
- Trekking: Raigad, Purandar, and Panhala Forts offer great trekking experiences.
- Maratha Cuisine: Try Zunka Bhakri, Pithla, Misal Pav, and fresh seafood at Malvan.
- Shopping: Buy souvenirs such as replica Maratha weapons, turbans, and handwoven Kolhapuri chappals.
Travel Tips & Safety Advice
- What to Carry: Comfortable shoes, water bottles, sunscreen, and trekking gear.
- Safety: Some forts require trekking, so ensure you are physically prepared.
- Local Guides: Hire a local guide for deeper historical insights.
Conclusion
These places will help you establish a closer relationship with how Sambhaji Maharaj and the Maratha Empire were. Whether the reader is a history lover, an experienced trekker, or a traveller on the search for the next adventure, this journey will do that to them.
Ready to step into history?
Start planning your trip to Sambhaji Maharaj’s forts today!
Have you visited any of these sites before? Share your experiences in the comments below! Subscribe to ValU Tourism for more travel guides!
🚀 Get ready to explore the warrior legacy of Sambhaji Maharaj! 🏰🔥
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