Mangad Fort

Mangad Fort is a historic hill fort located in Borwadi, near Mashidwadi in the Mangaon taluka of Raigad district, Maharashtra, India. Situated approximately 150 kilometers from Mumbai and standing 235 meters above sea level, the structure is built primarily of stone. Although specific construction dates are not detailed in available records, the fort holds immense historical significance due to its association with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire, whose footsteps are believed to have sanctified the site. The fort played a strategic role during the colonial era, notably being surrendered to the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb under the Treaty of Purandar in 1665 and later captured by British Colonel Prother in 1818 following the end of Peshwa rule.

The architectural layout includes remnants of soldier quarters, a large residence for the Killedar or fort commander, and four ancient water tanks that still hold potable water. A notable feature at the base is an old temple dedicated to Goddess Vinzai, distinguished by a unique cow-mouth style entrance and carvings of a fish and lotus. Historically, the site also featured a cave capable of sheltering fifty people, which served as a grain storage facility, alongside an open ground used for military training. Today, the fort exists as ruins under the ownership of the Government of India but remains open to the public. It offers visitors clear views of the Arabian Sea, Sudhagad Fort, and Tala Fort, making it a popular destination for trekkers, particularly during the winter and monsoon seasons.