Durgadi Fort Kalyan Historical Charm of Kalyan Maharashtra

Introduction

Durgadi Fort is located in Kalyan, Maharashtra, Indian. Durgadi Fort Kalyan is located Durgadi Fort, Eidgah Rd, Dudh Nakah, Kalyan, Maharashtra to the west of Kalyan. With the pincode of 421301 Durgadi is a derived from union of two Marathi words Durga (A Hindu Goddess) and Gad (Which means ‘Fort’ in Marathi language). The entire Durgadi Fort and Kalyan Bandar area is owned by the Malshej Naneghat and other forest area and tourism Association. (Suyash ShirkeSatavahana). Durgadi Fort was built hundreds of years ago by the Hindu Kshatriya Maratha Shirkesatavahan. Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Shivaji Maharaj captured Kalyan and Bhiwandi from Adilshah on 24th October 1654.

He built a fort near the creek as a support to Kalyan and used it as a dock to manufacture ships. It is said that wealth was found during excavation for the fort foundation. Since it was due Goddess Durga’s blessings, the fort was named “Durgadi”.Sacred temple of Durga Devi on the top of the fort. The view of the Ulhas River from the fort is amazing. During the sunset and sunrise it is the best place to relax and energize with the divine power of Durga Devi. Place is quite and crowd free. Fort has religious significance due to the Durga devi temple and the mosque. Kalyan creek is visible from the temple.

Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj used this fort as dock. It is a testament to the efforts of local authorities and heritage enthusiasts in preserving this historical gem. Visitors are encouraged to treat the fort with respect, ensuring its beauty remains intact for generations to come. Durgadi Fort is an excellent destination for both solo travelers and families.

The Durgadi fort Kalyan is not just a historical landmark but also a vibrant cultural hub, especially during the Navaratri festival. The renowned Shiv Sena chief, Bal Thackeray, initiated the Navaratri celebrations at the Durgadi Temple, a tradition that continues to this day. During this festival, the temple comes alive with the devotion of visitors from mumbai , creating an atmosphere of joy and reverence.

History of Durgadi Fort kalyan

This fort was built in 1694 AD. Construction of this Killa started during Shahajahan’s reign. It was completed in Aurangzeb’s reign. Later Shivaji Maharaj captured the fort from Adilshah in 1654 AD.

The Durgadi fort Kalyan construction started during Shah Jahan’s reign and was completed in Aurangzeb’s reign in 1694 AD. Durgadi Fort is built on a hill beside the Kalyan creek. The fort came under Marathas when Shivaji captured Kalyan and Bhiwandi from Adilshah in 1654. Shivaji built the fort close to the creek and used it as a dock to build boats and ships. During British Raj, stones from the fort wall were used to construct the Kalyan and Thane piers

Under the rule of Marathas, a new gate about 150 feet to the south of the Ganesh Gate was opened near the mansion of Maratha General Ramji Mahadev Biwalkar. In the citadel of the fort, Marathas built a small temple of Hindu goddess Durga and named the fort Durgadi in honor of the goddess, a name it still bears.

In 1682, Moghul Sardar Hasan Ali Khan captured the fort, later recaptured by Sambhaji, the second Chhatrapati of the Maratha Empire. However, the Moghuls took it over again in 1689. It later came under Peshwas. In 1728, the Portuguese attacked the fort but were repelled by Shankarji Keshav Phadke, a Peshwa commander.

The city of Kalyan was surrounded by a fort wall, the construction of which began during Shah Jahan’s reign and was completed during Aurangzeb’s reign in 1694 A.D. This city wall, which ran in excess of 2000 yards, 2123 to be precise, was guarded by 4 gates and 11 towers. The fort wall enclosed an area of 70 acres and on a high mound near the Kalyan creek, where the current Ganesh ghat stands, was a fine fort since as early as 1570.The wall of the Durgadi fort Kalyan along the top of the inner bank of the ditch, and, near the north end, had a gateway known as the Delhi or Killyacha Darwaja.

Under the Marathas (1760–72), a new gate about 150 feet (46 m) to the south of the Ganesh gate was opened near the mansion of Ramji Mahadeo Biwalkar, the Peshwa’s Governor. In the citadel of the fort Marathas built a small wooden temple of Durgadevi behind the mosque, and called the fort Durgadi Killain honorr of the goddess, a name which it still bears. The fort measures 220 feet (67 m) in length and some what less in breadth. Under the English rule, the fort wall was dismantled and stones carried to build the Kalyan and Thane piers and a dwelling for the customs inspector in the west of the Kalyan fort. The gate to the north-west is almost the only trace of the fort wall, which is of rough stone masonry. During 1876 the original idol of the goddess Durga was stolen

How to reach Durgadi Fort Kalyan

Visiting Durgadi Fort offers a unique experience of exploring a historic site while soaking in the spiritual Ambiance of the temple. It’s a must-visit for history buffs, cultural enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a scenic and enriching experience.

For convenience, you can reach Durgadi Fort by taking a shared auto or booking an Ola from the kalyan station or kalyan-bhiwandi by-pass, This makes the journey hassle-free and accessible for everyone.

Located next to the Main road. No parking space during peak hours but we can find a place roadside. Ideal time to visit here is early morning or evening. Small fort nothing much to explore. But very well maintained monument of history of royal marathas.

Durgadi Fort is in Kalyan, a city in the Thane district of the Maharashtra state of India. It is a historically significant location with nice views of the surrounding area. Here is a step-by-step procedure to reach Durgadi Fort.

Reaching Kalyan (Base Town)
Kalyan is well connected by road and rail with Mumbai and other regions of Maharashtra.

1.By Train:

Kalyan has a large railway station with frequent local and express trains from Mumbai (about 55 km away).
You can take a local train from Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CMST) or Dadar to Kalyan on the Central Line.
Kalyan is a big railway junction and can be easily reached from any location of Mumbai.

2.By Road:

Kalyan is well connected with the Mumbai-Nashik Highway (NH3).
You can take a bus from Mumbai to Kalyan (about 2 hours).
Taxis and private cars are also available for the trip, with a direct route via the Eastern Express Highway.

3.By Air:

The nearest airport to Kalyan is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai.
You can take a taxi or use public transport (train, bus) from the airport to reach Kalyan.

Reaching Durgadi Fort

Once you reach Kalyan, Durgadi Fort is in the town center, close to the Kalyan Railway Station. You can use the following steps:

By Auto Rickshaw/Taxi:

From Kalyan Railway Station, you can take an auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach Durgadi Fort. It’s barely a 10-minute ride (about 2 km).
Most of the local drivers will know where the fort is.

By Walking:

If you are a walking enthusiast, you can take a short walk from Kalyan station to Durgadi Fort.
The fort is situated on the scenic banks of the Ulhas River, which is the perfect spot for a romantic and scenic walk by the waterside.

On Foot (for adventure):

For people who are specifically interested in trekking or would like to experience something more adventurous, it is absolutely possible to trek to the fort. The fort itself is situated on a small hill, and there is a clearly visible path ascending from the nearby town.
Although the walk to the fort is by no means steep, it is highly recommended to wear proper and comfortable footwear in order to have a comfortable journey.

Best Time to Visit

Winter (October to February): This specific season is the most ideal time to visit because the weather during these months is not only good but also cool, making it very pleasant for activities outdoors.
Monsoon (June to September): During monsoon, the fort becomes extremely slippery due to rain, and the general weather is wet and humid, so any visit during the season requires lots of precautions and preparation.
Summer (March to May): Summer season can typically be unbearably hot, so it would be best to schedule visits in the early morning or late evening when the temperatures are relatively lower and more manageable.\

Architectural Elements of Durgadi Fort

Durgadi Fort is a small but solid structure that portrays the conventional military architecture of the Maratha era. Compared to other large forts, Durgadi Fort is small, but it is no less influenced by powerful design principles adopted in those days.

• Walls and Gates:
  The walls of the fort, though not as tall as the walls of other bigger forts, are strong and solid. The defense layout of the fort comprises bastions and strategically located areas where soldiers could man them to prevent would-be invaders. These walls are constructed from stone and mortar, a convention in the forts of the Maratha era. The design of the fort also exploits the surrounding natural topography, as the river is a natural defense in one direction.The “Durgadi Darwaza,” or main gate, is a foreboding structure leading to the fort’s inner courtyard. The gate, simple in design though it may be, bears the artisanship and defense skills practiced during the Maratha era. It’s the doorway to the past, and traversing through it provides the visitor a feeling of stepping back in time.

• The Temple of Goddess Durgadi:
  The temple of Goddess Durgadi, the eponymous fort’s namesake, is perhaps one of the most notable elements of Durgadi Fort. The temple of Goddess Durgadi is an important religious temple in the area and is a small temple that houses idols of Goddess Durgadi and other gods within its premises. The temple has a serene and pious ambience and is frequented by numerous devotees who make pilgrimages there to offer prayers. The presence of the temple within the fort gives an added touch of sanctity to the historic monument.The temple is also a reminder of the religious and cultural importance of the fort. People feel that the temple and the fort helped to provide the local people with a sense of security and well-being in times of trouble.

• Strategic Location and Scenic Views:
  One of the main attractions of Durgadi Fort is where it is. It is situated on the bank of the Ulhas River, and the fort provides stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscape. The view from the walls of the fort is serene and beautiful, and it is a great place for tourists to appreciate nature. You can look out over the surrounding areas, including the town of Kalyan, from several points within the fort.The fort is situated on a small hill, and this adds to its strategic importance. It would have been easy to see enemy troops approaching from this high point, and the defenders could have prepared for a fight. The layout of the fort shows the need for a strong defense and the ability to see the surrounding area well.

Things to Do Near Durgadi Fort:

When in Kalyan, you can also check these out alongside Durgadi Fort:

Kalyan Railway Station: Located in Kalyan, this popular railway station is a key bus stop and landmark which brings deep roots into Indian History. Constructed over 150 years ago, this station is an utter masterpiece of traditional Indian architecture that continues to serve modern Indian travelers.

Ulhas River: The river Umber Rivulet is very picturesque and ideal for strolls and picnics. It’s also located beside the Durgadi Fort making the area fascinating as a whole.

Kalyaneshwar Temple: This ancient temple of Lord Shiva near umber is very famous among the locals for its archaeological and spiritual significance.

Ganesh Ghat: One of the most famous picnic spots in the region, it offers picturesque views of the river and is perfect for relaxation and enjoying the natural scenery.

Conclusion:

Durgadi Fort in Kalyan, India makes for a wonderful holiday trying to reconnect with one’s historical roots and also offers a serene break from the current hustle bustle. The fort is an important piece of history and reflects the skill of the Maratha Empire in architecture and warfare. Its strategic placement alongside religion and the natural region surrounding it makes it a place one should never miss if interested in the state of Maharashtra.

Durgadi Fort is guarded from many commercialized Forts and hence provides a peaceful enclave for those wanting to relax. This makes it an ideal place for people who are interested in history, the outdoors, or wish to enjoy a less crowded historical fort. It is no doubt a gem for people looking to experience the beauty of Maharashtra’s cultural history.

FAQs

1. What is the Durgadi Fort, and what is its historical significance?

Durgadi Fort happened to be a well known fort and its importance is well accepted in the entire Kalyan region of Maharashtra. Portions of the fort helped in the Defense of the entire Konkan Region and served as a Base Point for the Maratha Empire while fighting the Portuguese, and Mughals.

2. When was the Durgadi Fort Construction started and at what time did the construction get completed?

Durgadi Fort was built when the Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was in power during the 17th century. His main intention was to strengthen the Maratha Empire’s command over the Konkan coastline and safeguarded trade routes.

3. Durgadi Fort’s Architectural Elements?

Durgadi Fort has are most identified with the genre of Marathe Warfare architectural style like the Other ordinary temples that build inside the forts are the most noticeable. Thick walls, bastions, Entire Water reservoir, and it has numerous temples like the well known Durgadi Devi Temple, a significant place of worship for the followers.

4. How to reach Durgadi Fort from the City of Kalyan?

Durgadi Fort is one of the more convenient Tourist Attractions of Durgadi. The fort is situated approximately 5 km from the Kalyan Bus Stand. The local populace uses taxis, auto-rickshaws, and public buses to commute to the fort. Roads leading to the fort provide easy access.

5.Are there any entry expenses or allows required to go to Durgadi Fort?

Answer: There isn’t any access price to visit Durgadi Fort, making it an low-cost vacation spot for history fanatics and tourists. However, site visitors are endorsed to respect the web site and follow any suggestions furnished by local authorities.

6. What are the excellent instances of 12 months to visit Durgadi Fort for most effective weather and visibility?

Answer: The pleasant time to visit Durgadi Fort is throughout the winter months, from November to February, whilst the climate is exceptional and perfect for hiking and exploring. The monsoon season can make the trek slippery and challenging.

7. What sports can travelers interact in whilst travelling Durgadi Fort?

Answer: Visitors can discover the fortress’s ancient architecture, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, and go to the Durgadi Devi Temple. Photography and nature walks are also popular sports.

8. Are there any guided excursions to be had for exploring the castle’s records and importance?

Answer: While there may not be formal guided excursions to be had each day, local historians or guides may be to be had on weekends or in the course of top traveller seasons. It is really useful to test with nearby tourism places of work for any prepared excursions.

9. What must traffic carry alongside whilst planning a experience to Durgadi Fort?

Answer: Visitors ought to put on comfortable hiking shoes, carry sufficient water, snacks, a camera for taking pictures the views, and sun safety like hats and sunscreen. It’s additionally clever to deliver a mild jacket all through wintry weather months.

10. Are there any nearby legends or memories associated with Durgadi Fort that site visitors should know?

Answer: One famous legend related to Durgadi Fort is that it become constructed to shield the location from invasions. The citadel is known as after Goddess Durga, who’s believed to have included the locals. Many trust that the goddess presents needs to folks who visit her temple in the fort.