Mohandar Fort/ Shidka Fort

Kundane Kanashi, Maharashtra , India

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Mohandar Fort, also known as Shidka Fort, is located about 55 km from Nashik in Nashik district, Maharashtra, as part of the Ajintha Satmal hill range.

The fort stands at around 3,900 feet and was historically significant for guarding the nearby Ahivant Fort. One of its unique features is a needle-shaped hole in the cliff formed either by natural erosion or local folklore attributing it to Goddess Saptashrungi's battle with a demon. The fort has remains of fortification walls, bastions, and several water tanks, though most of the water is non-potable.

There are three main trekking routes to the fort starting from Mohandari village, with some sections requiring climbing equipment to scale the needle-shaped rock formation. The fort provides panoramic views of nearby forts such as Ahivantgad, Saptashrungi, and Dhodap. It is a challenging but rewarding trek and is not frequently crowded, making it a special destination for adventure seekers.