Vajragad Fort

Gherapurandhar, Maharashtra, India

---

Vajragad Fort, also known as Rudramal, is a smaller but strategically important twin fort located adjacent to the Purandar Fort in Pune district, Maharashtra.

It served as a crucial watchtower overseeing the Purandar Fort, providing defensive support and early warnings against enemy attacks. Historically, it was part of the Maratha Empire's efforts under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to strengthen and protect the region.

The fort witnessed significant battles, including the Mughal siege when Diler Khan captured Vajragad and used its elevated position to bombard Purandar with heavy cannons, leading to fierce hand-to-hand combat. Vajragad is perched about 1,387 feet above sea level in the Sahyadri mountain range and features two main levels, with structures like the Balekilla and Machi. The fort’s architecture reflects Maratha, Mughal, and Islamic styles owing to its varied historical rulers.

During British rule, Vajragad served as a prison and was also used as a sanatorium for British soldiers. Its location offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and it remains an important symbol of Maratha military resilience and history. Today, it attracts history enthusiasts and tourists for its scenic treks and historical significance.