Rangana Fort

Rangana Fort, also known as Prasiddhagad is situated deep within the forest near the village of Patgaon in Maharashtra’s Kolhapur district. Nestled in the Sahyadris, the fort lies on the border of Kolhapur and Sindhudurg.

Built by Raja Bhoj II, the 2600 feet tall Rangana Fort is 3km long and about 1 km wide. It is one of the 15 forts built during the regime of the Shilhara dynasty (940 AD). Later, the fort was captured the Bahamani Sultan and Adil Shah. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj conquered this fort in 1659, after slaying Afzal Khan. The fort was then restructured on his orders. In the pages of history, there are references of Shivaji Maharaj bestowing rewards on the fort’s builders, Aroji Yadav and Firoji Farjand. It is also believed that Shivaji Maharaja would stay on this fort while traveling between Raigad, Kokan and Karnataka.

Hidden by a thick forest and deep inside the jungle, Rangana Fort is not easily visible. Owing to this fact, it has remained reasonably inaccessible to the common man. But if you are seeking a fun adventure through the jungle, a trip to Rangana Fort is a must, especially if you are in south of Kolhapur. From Kolhapur, prodeed to Gargoti, and from Gargoti go to the village of Patgaon. Then, from Patgaon go to Tambewadi. There is an 8-km pathway in Tambewadi that leads to Rangana. Ask a local person to show you the correct path. This route goes through thick forested areas, deep valleys and more than a couple of heavy water streams. There is signage throughout the trail directing you towards the fort. At the end of this route, you reach Chikkewadi village, which is at the base of Rangana Fort.

A relatively steep ascend to the top of Rangana starts at Chikkewadi. Cautiously tread over the rocky hill covered with shrubs. You will the come across a couple of entryways and a big bastion. On the fort, there are remnants of old buildings, arches, red stone walls, water cisterns, ponds and an old water well. There is also a lake which is filled with water throughout the year. Located near this lake is the ancient temple of Goddess Ranganai. Outside the temple, there is tall ‘Deep Stambh’ or pillar of lights. Inside the temple you will also find old statues of Lord Hanuman and Lord Ganesha.

From the top of Rangana Fort, enjoy the breathtaking views of the deep valleys below and the beautiful surrounding region. You will be able to spot Hanuman Ghat, the Sawantwadi to Vengurla region, Manohargad and Mansantoshgad. Due to its location within the forest, on a rare occasion a wild animal such as bison or a bear may be spotted on the fort. Therefore, it always better to travel in groups and preferably wear neutral-coloured clothes that don’t attract the attention of wild animals.