Worth a Journey

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The World’s 100 Best Castles & Fortresses

Rajgad Fort

Gunjavane, India

  1. THE WORLD’S BEST CASTLES WORTH A JOURNEY · 2026 ✦ ✦ N° 27 2026
Rajgad Fort

Hilltop fortress in the Sahyadri hills near Pune, the first Maratha capital and a site Shivaji developed. Visitors climb rocky trails to reach ramparts, water tanks, palace ruins and the Balekilla summit.

Highlights

  • Balekilla summit
  • Padmavati Machi
  • Sanjivani Machi

Good to know

  • Climb takes about 1.5 to 2 hours
  • No steps for most of the route, mud and rocks
  • Vehicle parking available at the base

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