Article Published On - 23-09-2025
Nestled on the periphery of Satara and Mahabaleshwar, the double fortress of Chandan Vandan stands vigil at an elevation of 3800 feet. Developed to secure the paths converging on Satara, these fortresses now serve as a popular location for hiking lovers. Found in Bhuinj, Satara District, Maharashtra, India, the Chandan Vandan Forts, comprising Chandan Fort and Vandan Fort, are appropriately called the “Twin Forts.” The well-preserved Chandan Fort is a center of activity, with numerous treks and pilgrimages throughout the year. At 3836 feet above sea level, the fort offers spectacular views and warm hospitality from the local villagers. Visitors can optimistically plan to explore both forts in a single day, relishing their rich history and natural beauty.
Beginning Point: Village Ibrahimpur (Banawadi) or Belmachi, Bhuinj, Satara District. Chandan Vandan Trek Gradient is an easy grade-level trek, an easy trail that results in an exceptionally great view from the top point of the fort.
Water Resources: There is no drinking water source available at the fort. Carry adequate water for the fort trek. Everyone should bring a minimum of 2 liters of water for the walking.
Finest months to visit: It is more suitable to see the Chandan fort in Shravan month as the villagers and all the villages around the fort hold a renowned festival. Shravan month is the month of July.
Chandan Fort, also called Chandangad Fort, comes from the Marathi word “gad,” which implies fort. While the fort’s entrance remains in ruins, the rest of the defensive structures remain unspoiled. The fort has numerous fascinating spots, including the Gaus Pak Baba (Mebub-e-Subhani) Dargah and an ancient Shiva temple decorated with Linga sculptures. The perfect time to check out the fort remains in July, and the neighboring base villages provide abundant sugarcane crops and other growings. Among the fort’s various rooms, which were utilized for storage, the roofs were now dependent on disrepair. During the month of Shravan, dedicated pilgrims regularly visited the temple. The trek begins through a small entrance gate, where a large water tank is readily available for trekkers and visitors to quench their thirst. The path up to the fort is well-kept and consists of correctly preserved actions. After rising the stairs for around one and a half hours, one will reach the top and experience an unspoiled Shiva temple. Adjacent to the temple, a sprawling banyan tree uses a shady resting spot. Even more along, the Dargah called “Dastgir Dargah” appears.
Vandan Fort has many doors to explore the fort thoroughly. The first and the main entryway is called “Maha Darwaja” by residents. There are few actions upward after entering the door. The 2nd door on the fort, which will be discovered, is now under construction. The doors are destroyed and not in appropriate condition. Continuing will go to the third door, an entryway to the market in golden times. It is said that regional markets in the past used to be established here. There’s a lot more to check out on the fort; however, many things are still a secret due to the distorted conditions. Well-marked routes and damaged steps are there to reach the leading point of the fort. Overall, three substantial godowns on the fort were built with stones and bricks. Comparable to Chandan fort, a Dargah is also present at the Vandan fort. The Dargah is locked from the outdoors but is still in good condition.
The forts’ summits serve a remarkable landscape worth climbing, and check out strange mountains and ruins. The manuscripts discovered on the copper plates state that the forts Chandan and Vandan were constructed by King Bhor– II of the Shilahar Dynasty. Chandan Vandan forts are said to have been developed around 1191. After King Bhor– II, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj fought and won these forts in 1673 from Adilshah of Bijapur. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj won the fort after taking oath on Raireshwar, and the castle was under Maratha rule till 1689. Moghuls entered power shortly after 1695. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj won this fort.
Wai is a charming weekend escape from Pune and a sought-after destination for filmmakers. It’s simple to see why – after the rains, the town changes into an attractive sanctuary of lavish greenery. Just a brief 1.5 km from the Wai ST depot lies Bavdhan Village, offering a hassle-free and cozy location, to remain. You can select to stay at the base of the temple in Bavdhan, offering a serene and serene environment.
Because it is just a one-day trek, you will only require the following things.
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With over 12 years of experience in the Himalayas, Preetam has summited multiple 6000 - 7000 meter peaks and led more than 200 expeditions across iconic routes like Bali Pass, Buran Ghati, Rupin Pass, Pin Bhabha, Stok Kangri, and Black Peak. His deep mountain experience and leadership make him a trusted name in Himalayan trekking. Write to him at: preetam@trekupindia.com
