Tikona

Tikona Fort, also historically known as Vitandgad, is a prominent hill fortress located in the Maval region of Pune district, Maharashtra, India. Situated near the town of Kamshet and the village of Tikona-Peth, the site rises approximately 3,580 feet above sea level. True to its name, which translates to triangular, the fort is built upon a distinctively pyramidal hill overlooking the scenic Pawna reservoir. Constructed primarily from stone and mortar, the structure currently exists in a ruined condition but remains under the ownership of the Government of India and is open to the public. While the exact year of its original construction remains unknown, archaeological evidence within the complex includes a vihara dating back to the seventh or eighth centuries, indicating ancient habitation prior to its military use.

The fort holds significant historical value as a strategic nexus for controlling the entire Pawana Maval region. It was conquered by Malik Ahmad Nizam Shah I in 1585 before being captured by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1657 during his expansion of Maratha territory. Following the Treaty of Purandar in 1665, the fort was briefly surrendered to the Mughal commander Kubad Khan but was eventually recaptured by the Marathas. Notably, in 1682, Prince Akbar, son of Emperor Aurangzeb, was housed here following a meeting with King Sambhaji, though he was later moved due to the unfavorable climate. The fortress finally fell to the British East India Company after a small battle in 1818.

Today, Tikona serves as a popular trekking destination rather than an active military installation. Visitors are drawn to its large entrance doors, the Trimbakeshwar Mahadev temple, seven historic water tanks, and Satvahan caves carved into the rock. The summit offers panoramic views of the Pawna Dam and neighboring forts such as Tung, Lohagad, and Visapur. Although the structures are ruined, the site preserves a rich legacy of Maratha and Mughal conflicts, making it an important landmark for history enthusiasts and trekkers exploring western India.