You don't have to hop on a plane to some faraway place to take a break from your hectic life. WHAT's ON takes you on a trip to Fort JadhavGadh
You don't have to hop on a plane to some faraway place to take a break from your hectic life. WHAT's ON takes you on a trip to Fort JadhavGadh
A short trip to Fort JadhavGadh, situated just 22 km from Pune, will help you forget the daily grind and return rejuvenated and absolutely fresh.
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Located amid the picturesque rolling hills of Saswad, past Magarpatta City, is the tiny hamlet of Jadhav Wadi. Fort Jadhavgadh, which has now been converted into a heritage hotel, was built in 1710 as a residence as well as a safe haven from enemies and is a fitting tribute to the regal Maratha era. Built by Pilaji Jadhavrao, who rose to fame as a Maratha general in the army of Chhatrapati Shahu, the fort also offers a fine example of Maratha craftsmanship.
The fort houses a number of dungeons which were for the purpose of storing grains. But it was inevitable that during tumultuous times, prisoners of war were also kept here. To date, four of the enigmatic dungeons have been traced and are being restored. It is believed that one of the dungeons may be a secret pathway that Pilaji Jadhavrao and his men used in times of crisis.
The fortress was built for practical purposes and is devoid of intricate designs, delicate carvings or decorative art on the ceilings and walls. But the woodwork and the main Durwaaza with an armor of spikes, the rock stairways and the main residential quarters are quite impressive.
In order to preserve the 300 year-old structure, the rooms of the hotel have been laid out in such a manner that they seem to fit naturally on the side walls of the fortress. The interiors are a balance between old-world charm and new-world luxuries.
Highlights of the fort
Chhajja-The Coffee Shop
Located on the upper level of the fort, the elegant round-the-clock coffee shop serves Maharashtrian cuisine, and also offers Indian, Continental and Oriental dishes. Overlooking the Sahyadris, the view is to die for.
Payatha
Located on the foothill of the fort, it serves ethnic royal cuisine. You can have a great dining experience with the fort as a backdrop on one side and the museum on the other side.
For reservations, call 9766328328/ 9987573819 or send an email to sales@fortjadhavgadh.com / fom@fortjadhavgadh.comu00a0
Cost: Rs 10,000 inclusive of food and room tariff for a family.
Itinerary of weekend package
Day one: Check out the traditional welcome with Aarti, Tikka and a welcome drink. There are complimentary fruit baskets and cookies in your room on the day of arrival. You go for a tour of the fort, with special visits to temples, dungeons, farms and hill areas.
Day two: Take part in deer watching on the hillocks besides the fort, between 6 am to 8 am. You can go for milking the cow in the morning. You have the option to visit Balaji, Sangameshwar, Narayanpur, and Jejuri with packed snacks. Post lunch, you can opt for a guided tour of the museum. You also have the option to learn Tutari / Lejim or listen to the story behind the fort. The day ends with a candle light dinner on the rooftop.
Day three: You are given a farewell gift on the day of departure. There is also a free option of "anytime anywhere" dining, where guests can enjoy a meal at any location at the fort.
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