Sajjangad, Satara: Famous Historical Fort

Satara is a city that is known for its historical and cultural significance, but it also has a hidden gem that is not known to many. Sajjangad, also known as the Fort of Good People, is a fort that is the final resting place of Sant Ramdas, a 17th century saint and spiritual guru who was the mentor of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. Sajjangad is famous fort in Satara, visit during One day trip From Pune. It is a perfect place for those who want to explore the history and spirituality of the Maratha era.

Location of Sajjangad

Sajjangad is located about 16 kilometers away from Satara city in Maharashtra, India. It is situated on a hilltop in the Western Ghats, at an altitude of about 900 meters above sea level. It is a part of the Sahyadri Sub Cluster of the Western Ghats, and it became a part of a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 2012. It is a protected monument that covers an area of about 5 acres.

Timing/Entry Fees Sajjangad

The fort is open to visitors every day from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM. There is no entry fee for visiting the fort. However, visitors are expected to follow the rules and regulations of the fort. Photography is allowed outside the fort, but not inside. Visitors are also advised to not pluck or damage any flowers or plants, not litter or pollute the area, not make noise or disturb the wildlife and not venture into restricted areas.

How to Reach Sajjangad

There are various modes of transport available to reach the fort from different parts of Satara. You can take a bus, taxi, auto-rickshaw or motorcycle taxi to reach the fort. The nearest bus stop is at Kasarsai Dam, about 2 kilometers away from the fort. The nearest railway station is at Satara, about 16 kilometers away from the fort. The nearest airport is at Pune, about 120 kilometers away from the fort.

You can also rent a car, bike or scooter to explore the area at your own pace. There are many rental agencies in Satara that offer these services at reasonable rates. You can also hire a guide to accompany you and explain the history and significance of the fort.

Things to Do/Must See Sajjangad

Sajjangad is a paradise for history lovers and devotees. Here are some of the things you can do and see at Sajjangad:

• Enjoy the scenic beauty of the fort and the surrounding hills: The fort offers a panoramic view of the city and the hills. You can see various landmarks such as Kasarsai Dam, Kaas Plateau, Thoseghar Waterfall and Chalkewadi Windmill Farm from the fort. You can also enjoy the fresh air and greenery of the forest around the fort.
• Explore the various structures and monuments inside the fort: The fort has various structures and monuments that reflect its history and architecture. Some of them are:
  • Shivaji Mahadarwaja: The main entrance gate of the fort that has a plaque in Persian language that mentions its construction by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1673.
  • Samadhi (tomb) of Sant Ramdas: The most sacred place in the fort where Sant Ramdas’s mortal remains are kept in a silver casket. It is also known as Manas Mandir or Ramdas Mandir. It has an idol of Sant Ramdas and his writings such as Dasbodh and Manache Shlok on display.
  • Temple of Nahar Singh Bhomia: A temple dedicated to Nahar Singh Bhomia, a Rathore prince who died fighting against Aurangzeb’s army in 1700. His spirit was believed to haunt the fort and obstruct its construction until it was pacified by building this temple in his memory.
  • Temple of Jaipur monarchs’ deity: A temple near the entrance gate that has an idol of Shri Ramchandraji Maharaj, 

Significance of Sajjangad

Sajjangad is one of the most important and sacred places in Maharashtra that showcases the history and spirituality of the Maratha era. It is a place where you can learn about the life and teachings of Sant Ramdas, who was a saint, poet, philosopher and social reformer. He was also the mentor of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who was inspired by his ideals and values.

Sant Ramdas wrote many books such as Dasbodh, Manache Shlok, Atmaram and Karunashtake that are considered as classics of Marathi literature and spiritual wisdom. He also established many mathas (monasteries) and temples across India to spread his message of devotion, service and patriotism.

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Conclusion

Sajjangad is a hidden treasure of Maharashtra that offers a rare opportunity to enjoy history and spirituality in their purest form. It is a place where you can relax, rejuvenate and reconnect with yourself or your loved ones. Whether you visit it by road or by trekking, you will be amazed by its beauty and charm.