The Mysterious Kattalgad (Fort of Death) Trek ⛰ Kamalgad-Koleshwar Plateau (कमळगड - कोळेश्वर पठार)⛰

Описание: Join me on an unforgettable trek to Kamalgad Fort, a hidden gem in the Sahyadri mountains of Maharashtra! 🏞️🌄
Nestled behind the scenic Dhom Dam and surrounded by its sparkling backwaters on two sides, this offbeat fort offers breathtaking views and a thrilling adventure through dense forests and steep rocky trails.

The highlight? The unique Kavechi Vihir (कावेची विहीर) – a deep ancient rock-cut well filled with distinctive red soil, complete with carved stairs allowing you to descend into its mysterious depths!

Located next to the lush Koleshwar plateau (sandwiched between Mahabaleshwar in the south and Rayreshwar in the north), the trail rewards you with epic panoramic views of Pandavgad, Panchgani, Mahabaleshwar, Kenjalgad, and Rayreshwar forts and plateaus.

Kamalgad Fort (also known as Bhelanja or Kattalgad, meaning "Fort of Death") is a hill fort in Wai Taluka, Satara district, Maharashtra, India. Located at an elevation of about 4,511 feet (1,375 m), it offers panoramic views of the Sahyadri mountains and Dhom Dam backwaters. The fort's plateau is square-shaped, covering 3-4 acres, with steep rocky cliffs providing natural defense—no walls, gates, or major buildings remain today.

Historical Details

Builder and Origins: The original builder is unknown. It predates the Maratha era, possibly dating to medieval times. Some sources link similar forts to earlier rulers like the Silaharas, but no direct evidence ties Kamalgad to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj or specific Maratha construction.

Maratha Period: During Maratha rule, Kamalgad and nearby forts (like Pandavgad) were administered by a mokasaddar (manager) from Bijapur. Early Marathi documents in the obsolete Modi script refer to it as Kattalgad.

British Era: In April 1818, the fort surrendered after brief resistance to British forces led by Major Thatcher during the Third Anglo-Maratha War. Under British control, it reportedly served as a site for executing prisoners of war.

The "Fort of Death" Legend: The name Kattalgad stems from a deep rock-cut well (18-20 feet) on the summit, still holding water. Legends claim prisoners were placed in recesses along its walls, forced to choose between starvation or drowning/jumping to death. (Note: These stories are folklore and lack verified historical proof; some suggest the well was a quarry or water source.)