Korigad: The ancient fort with a plateau and twin lakes

Korigad (also Koraigad) Fort is among the rare historical structures whose date of construction is unknown. Built near the Savashni Ghat, which connects Lonavala and Pali in Maharashtra, the fort is also unique because its fortification built to defend against attacks is still intact.

Historians estimate the fort, about 923 m above sea level, was built sometime before 1500. It is over 200 m higher than the neighbouring valleys. Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj incorporated the fort into his empire in 1657. 

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Interestingly, there is a huge plateau on top of the fort. There are two ways to reach the top – taking the stone stairs or trekking. The steps are estimated to be over 600. From the top, one can see Mulshi lake, Bhamburda mountain, and Durga Hill. Clouds float around the fort’s top and can reduce visibility beyond four to five feet during monsoon. 

This plateau is also home to twin lakes adjacent to each other. They drain through the fort’s wall, making for a spectacular waterfall.

There are two caves ahead of the lakes. One of them has an idol of lord Vishnu with the conch, discus, lotus and mace. 

The nearest village to Korigad Fort is Peth Shahpur. After entering the fort through the Ganesh Darwaaja on the Peth Shahpur route, the remnants of old buildings are visible. A temple dedicated to Goddess Koraidevi exists on the fort along with several smaller temples dedicated to Vishnu and Shiva. The Koraidevi temple was recently renovated after its roof was damaged. The temple has a 3-foot-high Deepmala (tower of lamps). 

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For the love of trekking

Since the fort’s walls are completely intact, one can walk along the entire 2 km perimeter. Its massive gate is also well-preserved. Several ruins of older structures can still be found within the fort. There are six cannons on the fort, the largest of which, called the Laxmi Toph, is located near the Koraidevi temple. 

Korigad Fort is also a favourite destination for trekkers and weekenders, regarded as a trekker’s paradise.

The trek is easy, requiring no formal training, making it ideal for beginners. Typically, the trek takes around 3 to 4 hours but one has to be careful of slippery surfaces during monsoon.

While the fort’s date of construction is not known, historical records say it was under an independent Nizamshahi for 146 years till 1636. In 1647, Chhatrapati Shivaji sent Dadoji Konddev to Maval to add Korigad to the Maratha Kingdom. Dadoji fought with Damale Deshmukh and brought the fort into Shivaji’s Swarajya.

After the death of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj in 1689, the Mughals took over most of the Maratha forts, including Korigad. On March 11, 1818, Col. Prother attacked this fort but failed despite prolonged fighting. Success came on March 14 when a cannonball struck the ammunition storage.

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