Vasota Fort Trek

About Vasota Fort Trek

Vasota Fort (also referred as Vyaghragad) is situated in Maharashtra’s Satara district. This Satara hill fort is located near Bamnoli. This fort is approximately 3842 feet above sea level. The trek to the top is thrilling because it involves walking through dense jungle for the duration of the journey. This is every trekker’s dream trek because of the breathtaking views it provides. Furthermore, the fort will provide you with a breathtaking view of the Koyna Backwaters and the Wildlife Sanctuary Forest Area.

The fort has become dilapidated and overgrown. There are remnants of Shree Mahadev mandir and the plinth of a massive “sadar” (discussion place). It’s a designated natural reserve.The most fascinating defending capability is that of Vasota Fort, which was named by King Chatrapati Shivaji. The fort’s name was chosen because of the difficulty entangled during its passage, which ultimately means “The Tiger.”

Even the most ardent and efficient trekkers find the trekking level to be too difficult. The journey from the jungle to the Vasota fort can take up to three hours. Above all, when you arrive at your destination after defensive trekking, you should see an ancient temple called Nageshwar Temple and a location called ‘Babukada.’  The beauty of the surroundings and the path throughout the trek will provide visitors with an unforgettable experience at the Vasota Fort.

History of Vasota Fort

The name is derived from a Tai Telin, a mistress of Pant Pratinidhi, a killedar of the fort, famously defended it when he was captured.

The Vasota fort was built by Kolhapur Shilahara Chief Bhoja II (1178-1193) of Panhala.

Vasota was always loyal to the Marathas, Shirkes, and Mores in the 16th century.

During the conquest of Javli in 1655, Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj incorporated the fort into Swarajya. Due to the fort’s difficult natural defence, Shivaji renamed it “Vyaghragad” (Vyaghra – means tiger).

The British bombarded the fort with heavy artillery in 1818, destroying many buildings on Vasota (Chandika mandir, Daru-kothar, and so on) and looting property worth 5 lakhs.

How to reach the Vasota Trek base?

Satara is the city closest to the base. Satara is well connected to major cities by road and railway station. After arriving at Satara bus station, proceed to Bamnoli, the base village located approximately 40 kilometres from Satara.

A boat ride on the SHIVSAGAR LAKE from Bamnoli will take you to the fort base, where you will begin your trek.

To go to Vasota, one must obtain a permit from the Forest Department in Bamnoli. 

Additional Information about Amount/Fees: 3500 Rupees (Open to negotiation) per boat for up to 12 people (to and fro), plus 150 INR for boat parking and 100 INR for Tiger entry – (Perfect for larger groups of 8-12 people.)