# Nhavigad

- **Country:** India
- **Coordinates:** 20.833111, 74.044861

Nhavigad Fort, also known as Nhavagad or Ratangad, is a historic hill fort situated in the Selbari mountain range within the Baglan area of Nashik district, Maharashtra. Constructed around the year 1400 using stone, the structure stands at an elevation of 4,100 feet. Its primary historical purpose was strategic surveillance over the ancient commercial trade route connecting Burhanpur and Surat, which passes between the parallel Selbari and Dholbari hill ranges. Although small in size compared to other regional strongholds, its location made it a critical checkpoint for monitoring movement along this vital economic corridor during the medieval period.

The site holds significant historical weight due to a fierce battle recorded in 1439 between the Bahamani king and the King of Gujarat at the base of the fort and the adjoining Tambolya hill. The conflict resulted in massive casualties for both armies, eventually forcing them to retreat under the cover of night. Today, Nhavigad exists in a state of ruins with no remaining major fortifications or significant constructions. Visitors can observe a few rock-cut water cisterns and caves, alongside a small temple dedicated to Saptashringi Devi located halfway up the ascent. Despite its dilapidated condition, the fort offers panoramic views of neighboring peaks including Mangi-Tungi, Salher, and Mulher.

Currently owned by the Government of India, Nhavigad remains open to the public but presents a challenging experience for trekkers. The journey begins at Patalwadi village, accessible by motorable road from Taharabad, followed by a steep one-hour climb that is rated as a tough, three-star trek. The pathway is notably risky, devoid of trees or protective rocks, and becomes extremely slippery during the monsoon season, making the optimal visiting window between October and May. Due to the lack of reliable water sources on the summit, visitors are strongly advised to carry sufficient supplies and hire local escorts from the base village for safety.

![Photo of Nhavigad](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/ef/Nhavigad.jpg)

**Source:** https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nhavigad (Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)