Arnala Fort
Off the coast near Virar in Palghar, Arnala emerges from the Arabian Sea like a weathered maritime sentinel. The fort feels cinematic from the moment you board a small fishing boat to reach it. The sea breeze blows fiercely against the moss-covered battlements, and the wild grasses grow in the overgrown courtyards. It’s more of a vibe than a monument

Salher Fort
The tallest fort in Maharashtra, Salher Fort in Nashik district, is more of a trekking pilgrimage for ardent trekkers. The trek is long, but the rhythm is soothing, with steps carved into the mountainside and vistas that unfold slowly. The Fort is a part of the UNESCO-designated Maratha Military Landscapes of India, placing it among the globally recognised hill forts that defined the Maratha Empire’s strategic brilliance. The top of the fort features ancient temples and vistas that are the reward for all the hard work

Kandhar Fort
In the heart of Marathwada, near Nanded, the Kandhar Fort is a surprise in terms of its massive proportions. The fort is enclosed by massive stone walls, with serene water tanks and arched entrances. Unlike the Sahyadri hill forts, the Kandhar Fort is laid out on a flat surface, with its moat and fortifications giving the appearance of a desert fort under the Deccan sun

Naldurg Fort
Stretched over almost 100 acres of land in the Dharashiv district, Naldurg is awe-inspiring in terms of its sheer size and architecture. The most impressive part of this fort, the Pani Mahal, is very cleverly incorporated into the walls of the dam. During the monsoon season, the waterfall creates a natural screen around the monument. The fort features broad walls, magnificent entrances, and long stone corridors

Khanderi Fort
Located off the coast of Alibaug, Khanderi Fort sits quietly in the Arabian Sea, alongside its sister fort, Underi. Today, it is a place of raw beauty, where one can listen to the waves, look at the weathered structures, and see a lone lighthouse standing by. As a part of the UNESCO-listed Maratha Military Landscapes of India, Khanderi is a testament to the sea-faring prowess and engineering genius of the Maratha Empire (Image for representational purpose only)