Shivneri Fort

Overview | How to Reach | Sightseeing | Hotels | Photos

Shivneri Fort is the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj who was the founder of the Maratha Empire. This association has made the fort a sacred location and the government has declared Shivneri Killa as a protected monument. The history of Shivneri fort is honored to witness the birth of Shivaji on 19th February 1630.

As Shahaji Raje, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s father, was concerned about the safety of his wife Jijabai when she was pregnant he decided to trust the Shivneri Killa and shifted Jijabai here. Not only this, Shivneri Fort still cherishes the moments when Shivaji used to play here during his childhood.

Shivneri Killa is triangular in shape and it has several rock-hewn cisterns and ponds. The important quality of two of its ponds called Ganges and Yamuna is that they have water throughout the year. The tourists are awe-struck by the dazzling beauty of the ponds at Shivneri Fort.

Recently the house where Shivaji Maharaj was born has been restored and looks amazing. The addition of a temple called Shivakunja with statues of Shivaji and Jijabai is marvelous and breathtaking.

Shivneri Killa was completely flattered when Sir Richard Temple remarked about Shivneri fort saying, “You will see what a rugged precipitous place this is and what a fitting spot it was for a hero to be born in!”

The best thing is Shivneri Killa is just 90 Kms. from Pune and easily accessible. Other features, which make the fort charming and appealing, include Badami Talav that is situated right in the center. Then there is a temple dedicated to Goddess Shivai, after whom Shivaji was named.

There is a mosque as well at Shivneri Fort whose two towers an arch, which looks archaic and stunning, join. Moreover, the steep rocks, the high boundary walls, and the rugged terrain make the Shivneri Fort an ideal place for trekkers. They come here and have a lot of fun as they enjoy the fort’s physical attributes and connect with Shivneri Fort’s historical significance.

Other Destinations Near Shivneri Fort

Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary

Bhimashankar Jyothirlingam

Lenyadri Caves

Malshej Ghat

Bhandardara Hill Station