Overview
Raigad is a hill fort on a high plateau in the Sahyadri range, rebuilt by Shivaji in the 1650s and made the capital of his kingdom. He was crowned here in 1674 and died here in 1680, and his samadhi stands near the main gate.
It is one of twelve forts inscribed in 2025 as the Maratha Military Landscapes of India, a UNESCO World Heritage property. The ruins include the royal court, the market street and the queens' quarters.
What to look for
- The Maharaj's durbar hall and throne platform
- The Jagdishwar Temple and Shivaji's samadhi
- The Hirkani Buruj and Takmak Tok, the cliff-edge viewpoint
- The view over the Sahyadri valleys from the top
Visiting tips
- You can climb about 1,700 steps or take the ropeway; check that the ropeway is running.
- Go in the morning: the plateau is exposed and hot by midday.
- The fort is large, so wear sturdy shoes and carry water.
Why visit with a private guide
A private guide shows you where to stand, when to arrive and what most visitors miss at Raigad Fort, and fits the visit around the rest of your day.
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Journeys that include Raigad Fort
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