Nandgad Fort – The Forgotten Guardian Fort of Karnataka–Maharashtra Border

Nandgad Fort (Nandgadh / Nandagada Killa) is a historic hill fort located near Nandgad village in Khanapur Taluka of Belagavi district, close to the Maharashtra–Karnataka border. Though lesser known compared to famous Maratha forts, this fort played an important strategic role in controlling trade routes and military movements between the Deccan plateau and Konkan region.

Surrounded by dense forests, rolling hills, and peaceful rural landscapes, Nandgad Fort today stands as a silent witness to centuries of Deccan history, Maratha valor, and regional warfare.

📜 History of Nandgad Fort

The origins of Nandgad Fort trace back to the Bahmani and Adil Shahi period, when many frontier forts were constructed to secure important passes. Later, during the rise of the Maratha Empire, this fort became a minor but important outpost for surveillance and defense.

During Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s expansion, several forts in this belt were either captured or strengthened. Nandgad served as a watch point to monitor enemy movement from Belgaum and Goa sides.

In the later years, the fort changed hands between Marathas and the British, eventually losing its military relevance.

🏰 Architecture & Structure

• Hilltop fort with natural defensive slopes
• Stone-built fortification walls
• Remains of bastions (buruj)
• Water tanks carved in rock
• Ruins of old structures and gateways
• Forest-covered trekking path

The fort uses natural topography as defense, a typical feature of Deccan forts. Even today, the stone walls reflect traditional Maratha military architecture.

🌿 Trekking & Experience

Nandgad Fort is ideal for:

• History lovers
• Weekend trekkers
• Photographers
• Nature enthusiasts

The trek is moderate and takes about 30–45 minutes from the base village. From the top, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of forests and valleys.

📍 How to Reach

• Nearest Village: Nandgad
• District: Belagavi (Karnataka)
• Nearest City: Belgaum (45 km approx.)
• By Road: Easily accessible via Khanapur route
• Best Time to Visit: October – February, Monsoon for greenery

✨ Why Visit Nandgad Fort?

If you want to explore a peaceful, uncrowded historic fort away from commercial tourism, Nandgad offers a perfect blend of history, trekking, and nature. It reminds us of the forgotten frontier forts that silently supported the great Maratha Empire.