Pratapgad - A Mighty Fort Of Maharashtra

Afzal Khan reached Pratapgarh fort with over 20,000 cavalry, 15,000 infantry, 1,500 sepoys, 80 guns, 1,200 camels and 85 elephants. On the other hand, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj had around 6,000 light cavalry, 3,000 light infantry and 4,000 reserve infantries only.

Afzal Khan put his best efforts to take out “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj” from this fort for face-to-face battle. To provoke Shivaji Maharaj, he demolished many Hindu gods’ temples. Shivaji Maharaj prepared plan to defeat Afzal Khan and they succeed in that. The main advantage of Pratapgarh fort to Marathas army was that, it was surrounded by dense forests and high hills.

With proper planning, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj agreed to meet Afzal Khan on 9 November 1659.

They met in a tent built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Afzal Khan went to embrace Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. While doing so, Afzal Khan took out a knife from inside his coat and tried to stab Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the back. However, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj wore armour under his clothes, which protected him from treacherous attacks. Then Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj tore open Afzal Khan's stomach with tiger claws hidden in his hands. Afzal Khan fled in distress, shouting to his men that he was under attack.

"Kawji" the warrior from Maratha empire captured and beheaded Afzal Khan and his head was later sent to Jijamata as a victory.

You can visit this historic Maharashtra fort at any moment or season. But we recommend to visit during August to March month. You definitely enjoy the whether if you visit this location during mansoon season (Aug to Oct). You will enjoy the sunset near this fort, but please understand the closing timing of fort.

1. You can find Mahadev and Bhavani Mata temple on fort along with tower which was used to keep eye on enemy which is situated at main entrance of fort.
2. You can also find 17 feet tall statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj which glorify the surroundings of this Maharashtra fort.
3. Artificially demonstrated or established old village (Shivkalin Khede Gaon) which shows living styles during those days
4. Shivakalin Cave
5. Bhavani Lake (Talav)