Dronagiri Fort

Dronagiri Fort is a historic hill fort located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, India, situated near Uran town within Navi Mumbai. Constructed from stone on a densely forested hilltop, the exact year of its original construction remains unknown, though it has been a site of strategic importance since ancient times due to its proximity to Uran and Karanja. The fort is currently in a ruined state, having been partially demolished in 1818, yet it remains under the ownership of the Government of India and is open to the public year-round. The trek to the summit is considered simple and safe, passing through thick woods primarily composed of Mexican Lilac trees planted by the Forest Department.

The historical narrative of Dronagiri is marked by a succession of powerful rulers and significant architectural additions. Originally under the control of the Yadav dynasty of Devgiri, the fort was repaired by the Portuguese in 1530. During their tenure, Father Antono-de-porto constructed three churches in 1535, including Nossa Senhora da Penha, which still stands today in good condition despite lacking idols or inscriptions. Control later shifted to the Adilshah Sultanate in the sixteenth century before eventually passing to the British. Notably, the Maratha commander Manaji Angre captured the fort along with the nearby Uran fort on March 10, 1739, highlighting its military value during regional conflicts.

Visitors exploring the ruins today can observe remnants of the fortification, including two ancient water tanks known as Gagoni and Gijoni located near the church. The main southern gate features a broken arch, though the adjacent guard rooms remain intact and house a carved Ganpati statue originally from the gate's keystone. A ruined Vetal mandir lies along the path leading toward Karanja village, while another large water tank sits hidden within the forest. Although the fort offers a commanding view of the nearby ONGC plant, photography of the industrial facility is strictly prohibited. The site serves as both a historical landmark and a accessible trekking destination for locals and tourists alike.