Chawand Fort

Chawand, Maharashtra, India

---

Chawand Fort, also known as Prasannagad, is a hill fort located in Junnar Taluka of Pune district, Maharashtra, around 30 km from Naryangoan.

The fort rises about 1,036 meters above sea level in the Sahyadri mountain range and is part of the famous 'Famous 5' trek along with Hadsar, Shivneri, Jivdhan, and Naneghat forts. Its origins date back over 800 years, with significant historical importance during the Maratha Empire. The fort was initially captured by Nizam Ahmed, founder of the Nizam Shahi dynasty, after the dissolution of the Bahmani Empire.

It later came under Mughal control through a treaty with the Nizams, and subsequently was held by Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj who renamed it Prasannagad. The British East India Company captured the fort during their conquests, and it was partially destroyed during the siege. Today, the fort remains in ruins but is a popular trekking destination known for its historic legacy and surrounding scenic beauty.

The nearby village of Chavandwadi lies at the fort’s base, with several temples and remnants of fortifications still visible.