Sajjangad Fort

Sajjangad Fort, meaning 'Fort of Good People', is a historic hill fort located near Satara, Maharashtra. Originally known as Parali Fort, it was built by Bahamani rulers and later captured by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1673. It is renowned as the final resting place (Samadhi) of Sant Samarth Ramdas, making it a significant pilgrimage site. The fort offers panoramic views of the Sahyadri range and remains an active spiritual center with daily religious rituals.

Visitors can expect a blend of historical exploration and spiritual atmosphere at this active pilgrimage site. Access involves climbing approximately 230 steps from the parking area to reach the fort entrance. Key sites include the Samadhi of Samarth Ramdas, temples dedicated to Lord Rama and Hanuman, and historic lakes like Sonale and Ghodale. Devotees are served free Mahaprasad (lunch and early dinner) by the trust. The fort provides panoramic views of the surrounding Sahyadri hills and Urmodi Dam.

Built by Bahamani rulers between 1347-1527 AD, the fort was later held by the Adilshahi dynasty before being captured by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on April 2, 1673. Shivaji renamed it Sajjangad and invited Samarth Ramdas to reside there. The Mughals briefly controlled it in 1700, renaming it Navrous Tara, but the Marathas recaptured it shortly after. It remained under Maratha control until British annexation in 1818.

It is the Samadhi sthal of Sant Samarth Ramdas, author of Dasbodh and spiritual mentor of Shivaji Maharaj. The site is managed by Shri Ramdas Swami Sansthan Trust which continues centuries-old traditions including daily prayers, Abhishek, Bhajans, and reading of Dasbodh. Thousands of devotees visit during Shiv Jayanti for processions and folk performances.