If you love misty mountains, ancient forts, and the sound of monsoon rain tapping on stone walls then Visapur Fort is calling you. Today I’m sharing one of the most thrilling treks I’ve experienced. Along with two of my friends, I started my journey at 5 AM from Panvel towards Lonavla, determined to embrace nature, history, and adventure all in one day.
What began as a simple ride into the Sahyadris turned into an unforgettable trek through fog-covered steps, hidden caves, and historical wonders. If you’re planning the Visapur Fort Trek, this guide has everything you need straight from the trail!
Route to Visapur Fort
We rode from Panvel to Lonavla early in the morning. As we reached the base of Lohagad Fort, we saw two paths one towards Pawna Dam and another to Lohagad. But adventure took a twist. Instead of Lohagad, we chose to explore Visapur Fort first.
The route to Visapur is slightly longer but more adventurous. After reaching the Visapur base village, the trek begins with a rocky trail surrounded by dense greenery. Around 1 km into the trek, the fog becomes heavier, and the real thrill begins. Stone steps lead you to the fort, offering panoramic views, and historical remains.
History of Visapur Fort
Perched at an elevation of 3,556 feet, Visapur Fort stands as a majestic symbol of Maratha pride and strategic brilliance. Built in the early 18th century by Balaji Vishwanath, the first Peshwa of the Maratha Empire, the fort was originally part of the Lohagad–Visapur twin fortification system. Its elevated position made it an ideal lookout and defense point during the Maratha rule.
In 1818, during the British offensive against the Marathas, Visapur Fort was seized and used to launch cannon fire on the nearby Lohagad Fort. The British later destroyed many of Visapur’s internal structures, attempting to weaken Maratha strongholds. Yet, even today, the grandeur and resilience of the fort continue to amaze trekkers and history lovers alike.
While trekking through the misty trails of Visapur, we stumbled upon the haunting yet beautiful remains of Peshwa Wada. These ruins, believed to be constructed by Balaji Vishwanath himself, whisper stories of royal Maratha life. The crumbling walls, strategic layout, and secluded location all surrounded by dense forest and monsoon fog create a scene straight out of history.
Though time has worn down its walls, Peshwa Wada still holds the aura of power, legacy, and pride that once defined the Maratha Empire.
Shiv Mandir – A Sacred Hidden Gem
Deep inside the fort lies a well-maintained Shiv Mandir. As we reached here, we were surrounded by cool monsoon winds, gentle rain, and an atmosphere of peace. The temple is simple but spiritual, offering a great resting spot for trekkers.
It’s also a beautiful example of how ancient forts were not just military posts, but also places of worship and cultural importance.
Maruti Shilp & Delhi Darwaja
As we continued exploring Visapur Fort, we were drawn toward the Uttar Darwaja (North Gate), where we discovered one of the fort’s hidden spiritual treasures a beautifully carved sculpture of Lord Hanuman, known locally as the Maruti Shilp. Nestled inside a small cave-like area, this sacred spot exudes peace and divine energy, offering a quiet place for reflection amidst the fort’s rugged terrain. It’s a place many trekkers unknowingly skip, but it stands as one of the most spiritually powerful corners of Visapur.
Just a short distance from here, we reached the Delhi Darwaja, a grand arched entrance that once served as a key strategic point for the Marathas. With its impressive stone architecture and towering walls, the gate speaks volumes about the fort’s military importance in its time.
What truly impressed us, though, was the cleanliness maintained around these areas. We saw fellow trekkers and volunteers taking care to keep the environment garbage-free, making the experience even more meaningful. A big salute to everyone working to preserve the natural and historical beauty of Visapur Fort.
Final Thoughts
Visapur Fort isn’t just a trekking spot. It’s a blend of adventure, spirituality, history, and nature wrapped in mist and monsoon charm. Whether you’re an explorer, a rider, or just someone seeking peace in the mountains, Visapur Fort Trekking will leave you speechless.
