Mahad, Raigad

Sagargad Fort, located about 1,357 feet up in the Raigad hills, combines exploration of local history with nature. Its story begins in the small village of Khandale, where a shaded path leads through forested slopes, streams, and the seasonal Dhondane waterfall, which is especially beautiful during the monsoon season. The two-hour trek leads to a Y-shaped plateau fortress with five bastions. This was once a lively defensive structure under Shivaji Maharaj. It was taken from the Adil Shahi in 1660 and given back in the Treaty of Purandar. There are some old shrines on top, like the "Monkey Point" cliff, the "Mahishasurmardini/Ganesha temple," and the "Shiva lingam."From the top, you can see Alibaug's greenery, nearby forts like Manikgad and Mirgad, and on clear days, you can even see the Arabian Sea beyond. The fort is open from June to February, and the trek is very rewarding because it combines the beauty of the monsoon with the clarity of winter.