Purandar is a renowned hill fort that has played a crucial role in the medieval history of Deccan. It is even known as one of the significant forts of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The fort of Purandar is well known as it is the birthplace of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the first son of Great Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.  Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was even the successor of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. 

Districts/Region

Pune District, Maharashtra, India.

History

One can trace back to the Yadava Period from the 11th century while looking at the history of this fort. The belief is Persian invaders defeated the Yadavas and captured this fort.  Further, they did some developmental works in the fort in 1350 CE. 
This fort was under the control of different dynasties like BaridShahi, NizamShahi, Maratha, Mughal, British before being a part of  Indian territory. 
The fort has well-constructed walls from all sides with semi-circular bastions exploring the bravery of Shivaji Maharaj. There are two levels of the fort on different structures situated appropriately. The lower level of the fort on the tabletop is called ‘Machi’. It shows different structural remains and some of the functioning temples like the temple of Purandareshwara. The northern part of the machi has a low fall with a few strongholds and a monumental door with two pinnacles.
The upper part of the fort is known as Balikilla, and it is the core of the fort. This was supposed to be the residential complex of nobles and kings. Peshwas also captured this fort and stayed here for some time. Later in the British period, it is believed that some of the buildings here were used as a prison for political prisoners.
Purandar also has a twin fort called Vajragad. It is smaller in size and serves as the protector of the Purandar fort.
A sculpture of MurarbajiDeshpande (Maratha commander), is raised in this area. There is also a statue of Sambhaji Maharaji in the fort premise. 
The base village at the foothill is called Narayanpur. It has a 12th-century dry masonry temple of Narayaneshwara the temple is an architectural masterpieces. The temple complex comprises various smaller temples and a ritual water tank. The main temple is ornamented with sculptural panels.

Geography

The fort of Purandar is located 50 KM southeast of Pune city. It stands at the height of 4,472 ft. above sea level in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra.

Weather/Climate

The region has a hot-semi arid climate year-round with an average temperature ranging from 19-33 degrees Celsius. 
April and May are the hottest months in the region when the temperature reaches up to 42 degrees Celsius.
Winters are extreme, and the temperature can go as low as 10 degrees Celsius at night, but the average daytime temperature is around 26 degrees Celsius.
The annual rainfall in the region is around 763 mm.

Things to do

●      This fort consists of two different levels; the lower level is called Machi, while the upper level is of Balekilla. There is a staircase from Machi leading to the Balekilla.
●      The DilliDarwaza is the first structure of the Balekilla.
●      A statue of Murarbaji Deshpande, a fort commander, who sacrificed his life while fighting against the Mughals and protecting the fort.
●      The ancient Temple of Kedareshwar can also be seen.
●      Ruins of the Church built by the Britishers can be seen

Nearest tourist places

There are many places here that a tourist can visit.
●      Bhatghar Dam (27.2 KM)
●      Sardar Purandare Wada (27.3 KM)
●      Necklace Point (21.5 KM)
●      Baneshwar Waterfall (23.9 KM)
●      Subhanmangal Fort (22 KM)
●      Narayaneshwara Temple (28 KM)

Special food speciality and hotel

There are various Hotels and Restaurants which will serve you tasty Maharashtrian cuisine.

Accommodation facilities nearby & Hotel/ Hospital/Post Office/Police station

There are various facilities of accommodation near to this fort-like home stay, bed and breakfast, several Hotels, etc.
Saswad Police Station(28.1 KM) is the nearest Police station to this fort.
There is a Rural Hospital about 28 KM away from this fort.

Visiting Rule and Time, Best month to visit

●      The fort opens around 9:00 A.M. to all and closes by 5:00 P.M.. One cannot wait on this fort beyond 5:00 P.M.
●      To enter this fort one has to show their ID proof and if you are a foreign tourist you will need to carry your passport along with you to enter the fort.
●      There is no entry fee to enter this fort.
●      This fort can be visited throughout the year.
●      Several rules and regulations need to be followed as currently the Army unit and the National Cadet Corps Academy is set up on the fort for training purposes.
●      Cameras are not allowed on this fort.

Language spoken in area 

English, Hindi and Marathi.