About Jivdhan Fort

Jivdhan Fort is a historic hill fortress located just 1 km from the modern town of Ghatghar in Junnar Taluka, Pune district, Maharashtra, India. Standing tall at 1,145 meters (3,757 feet) above sea level, the fort is nestled in the Sahyadri mountain range. Once a stronghold, Jivdhan Fort was captured, looted, and ultimately destroyed by the British during a siege between 1815 and 1818.

Jivdhan Fort is part of the "Famous 5" trekking circuit in Maharashtra, alongside Chavaand, Hadsar, Shivneri, and Naneghat. Known for its high-difficulty trek, Jivdhan is a favorite for seasoned trekkers, with challenging paths through dense jungle and the need for climbing equipment. The rock-cut steps leading to the Kalyan Gate are skillfully crafted, with hooks placed along the walls to assist climbers.

Historically, it is said that Murtaza Nizam Shah III, the last nominal ruler of the Nizamshahi dynasty, was imprisoned at Jivdhan Fort by Shah Jahan. Shahaji Maharaj later rescued the boy king, honoring his promise to keep him safe.

History of Jivdhan Fort

Jivdhan Fort's origins trace back to the Satavahana era. Like many forts built by Shivaji Maharaj, Jivdhan has a distinctive 'Kalas' (decorative feature) and a carving of Lord Ganesh at its entry points. The fort's strategic location near Naneghat, a key trade route, made it crucial for commercial and military purposes. Traders passing through the Naneghat pass used it as a toll station, and the fort served as an important guard post to protect the surrounding kingdoms.

In 1635, Shivaji Maharaj’s father, Shahaji, freed Murtaza Nizam Shah III from imprisonment at Jivdhan and restored him as the ruler of Ahmednagar. The area between Jivdhan and Naneghat offers a clear, open field that allowed for a clear view of approaching enemies, making it an ideal defensive position.

In 1818, during the British colonial period, Jivdhan Fort was captured by Colonel Prother of the East India Company, and parts of the fort were destroyed.

Major Features of Jivdhan Fort

• Storehouses

  The fort has several unexplored storehouses, adding to its historical intrigue. At the top of the fort is a temple dedicated to the Goddess. The Main Gate and Kalyan Gate are still in relatively good condition.

• Water Tanks

  Jivdhan Fort is home to multiple water tanks. While the tanks near the storehouses contain water that is not potable due to being open year-round, the rock-cut cistern near the Kalyan Gate provides drinkable water. The fort is surrounded by prickly shrubs like Lepidagathis cuspidata (Kate adulsa) and is home to the Malabar giant squirrel, locally known as "Shekhru," which can be spotted in the forest at the base of the fort.

• North Front Views

  At the top of the fort, you can enjoy breathtaking views of surrounding hilltops and forts. The panoramic view includes Harishchandragad, Chavaand, Ratangad, Naneghat, Hadsar Fort, Nimgiri Fort, Manikdoh Dam, and the expansive Junnar plateau.