Purandar Fort figures in the list of famous forts that dots the historical landscape of Pune region. Perched atop gigantic mountain mass in the Western Ghats about 1398 m. above sea level, Purandar is situated at a distance of 40kms south-east of Pune and some 10kms south-west of Sasawad.

Like other famous forts & palaces from the yesteryears, Purandar fort too possesses a rich and glorious history that dates back to the 13th century. The earliest foundation was laid by the Bahamani Sultans in the 14th century, and for over 3 decades came under the rule of Nizamshahi rulers. During the reign of Shivaji, much struggle was needed to regain the control over the fort in 1646 AD. During the colonial rules, the British even used the fort to keep the German war prisoners. One of them, Dr. H. Goetz undertook a detailed study of Purandar fort and even wrote a monograph on it. During the post independence era, the premises were also used for National Cadet Crops (N.C.C.) Training unit.

A mythological legend is also associated with the fort, according to which Purandar was built by Lord Indra-the king of gods. The structure is surrounded by 26 miles curtain walls with six bastions guarding the three main gates. One has to pass through a steep, misty cliff path mostly covered by thick shrubby terrain to reach to the entrance. The route also serves ideally for rock climbing expeditions. Although over 700 years old, the fort is in commendably preserved condition, except for the modern coloring. It is advised to carry potable water from the base village itself as purandar region lacks potable water.

The fortress architecture is divided into two monuments - Purandar, the stronger and more important one and Vajragarh, lying to the east as the small sister. Attractions inside the fort include Sawai Madharao Peshwe Madir (temple), Kedareshwar mandir (temple), Statue of Murarbaji Deshpande, Purandareshwar mandir and Sar darwaja (door). Apart from the attractions located within the fort, some important monuments located nearby are Kedareshwar and Wajrangad.

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