Ravlya Fort

Nashik, India

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Ravlya Fort, located about 43 km from Nashik in Maharashtra, forms a pair with Javlya Fort on the same hill plateau, known collectively as the "Rola-Jola" forts.

Originally captured by Alavardi Khan for the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in 1636, Ravlya Fort was later taken by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1670. It was a strategically important fort overseeing the trade route from Khandesh to Nashik. The fort faced several battles, including a siege by the Mughals under Diler Khan in 1671, although the Marathas successfully defended it initially before it was later captured by Mahabat Khan. The fort remained under Peshwa control until the British took over in 1818, after which they deliberately damaged parts of the fort to prevent further use by rebels.

Today, few ruins remain, including rock-cut water cisterns and an idol of Lord Ganesh at the gate. The trek to Ravlya Fort starts from Babapur village and offers beautiful views of nearby forts and natural surroundings, making it a popular site for history lovers and trekkers.