New Delhi:Lohagad Fort has been in the news lately, but not for the reasons it is usually known for. The death of 26-year-old Ketan Agarwal, son of Pune-based real estate businessman Vishal Agarwal, has brought the historic site into sharp focus. What was first described as an accidental fall during a visit has since taken a darker turn, with police now investigating it as a murder case and arresting Ketan's fiancée Siya Goyal along with her alleged lover Chetan Chaudhary.
The story continues to develop and has also generated fresh interest in the Lohagad Fort itself. To many, particularly trekkers and weekend travellers, it is a familiar name. Situated at a height in the Sahyadri hills near Lonavala, the fort has silently stood for centuries with layers of history, stories of changing powers and views that seem to be endless across the valleys below.
Where is Lohagad Fort located?
Lohagad Fort is located near Lonavala in the Pune district of Maharashtra, about 50 kilometres from the city of Pune. It is located at an altitude of around 1,033 meters above sea level and has a commanding view of the surrounding landscape. It is a part of Western Ghats and its proximity to Visapur Fort adds to the charm of the place for history lovers as well as trekkers who usually visit the two together.
What does Lohagad mean?
The name “Lohagad” is of Marathi origin where “Loha” means iron and “gad” means fort. Together it means "Iron Fort", a name that hints at its strength and the natural advantage of its location.
History of Lohagad Fort
It is not so easy to trace the exact origin of Lohagad Fort. What is clear though is that it has been around for centuries and seen many rulers come and go. It has been associated with several dynasties over time including Satavahanas, Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Yadavas, Mughals and Marathas.
The fort is most commonly associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. In 1648 he captured Lohagad, but lost it to the Mughals under the Treaty of Purandar in 1665, only to regain it in 1670. These changes were a reflection of the larger political struggles of the time, where forts such as Lohagad were crucial in controlling land.
Accounts exist that Lohagad was used to store wealth collected during Maratha campaigns including the famous Surat expedition. It’s security would have been a practical choice for such purposes.
What makes Lohagad Fort unique?
The first thing that catches your eye about Lohagad is the Vinchu Kata or "Scorpion's Tail". It is a long and narrow appendage to the fort, a visually striking and strategically important extension of the main structure. That would have been an additional defensive feature in the old days.
The gateways and walls of the fort are other notable features. Many have survived remarkably well and give an idea of what the fort might have looked like in its prime. Visitors can walk through these structures today to get a tangible connection to its past.
Why is Lohagad Fort important today?
Today Lohagad Fort is famous as a trekking destination. During monsoon, the entire region becomes a different place with green hills, mist and streams flowing, making the climb very popular. It's easy enough for first-timers, but addictive enough to bring folks back.
The fort has cultural and historical significance apart from tourism. Recognised as an important heritage site, efforts by the Archaeological Survey of India, including self-guided digital audio tours, are helping visitors to connect more deeply with its story.
Centuries later, Lohagad Fort is not just a scenic spot. It’s a place where history is palpable, quietly reminding visitors of the many lives, battles and moments that have shaped it through the years.