Bankot Fort - A Beautiful and Historic Tourist Destination

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Bankot Fort / Himmatgad Fort / Fort Victoria is a fort located in Maharashtra, 210 kilometers from Mumbai. This fort is significant in the Ratnagiri district. The Fort is situated on a prominent and commanding vantage point to protect the trade route along the Savitri River, which runs until Mahad and was a busy route in medieval times. It is a fort on a hill overlooking the sea.

The first mention of this fort can be found in the records of the Greek geographer Ptolemy in the first century AD. Mandargiri or Mandagora was the name given to it at the time. In 640 AD, the Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang is said to have set sail from Bankot.

In 1548, the Portuguese captured this fort from Mohammed Adil Shah of Bijapur. It was named Himmatgad Fort after Maratha Koli Admiral Kanhoji Angre who won it in 1700. Because of the rivalry between Tulaji Angre and the Peshwas. The Peshwas allied with the British and fought a war against Tulaji, leading to the fall of Suvarnadurg in 1755 and the fort’s surrender to Commodore James of the British fleet. The British forces then took control of the fort and renamed it Fort Victoria. Despite changing hands several times over the years, the fort remained a beloved and important part of the local community.

Over the years, the fort played a crucial role in the region’s history. It was attacked many times by invaders but always managed to hold its ground. The fort became a symbol of pride for the people of Bankot as time passed. It was a haven of safety and security, and it provided the people who lived there with strength and courage.

But as the years went by, the fort began to show its age. The walls were crumbling and the gates were rusting, and it was clear that the fort needed to be repaired and restored. The people of Bankot knew that they had to take action, and they began a campaign to raise the funds needed to repair the fort. They organized fundraisers and collected donations, and they worked tirelessly to restore the fortress to its former glory.

Finally, after many years of hard work, the fort was fully restored and once again stood tall and proud on the shores of the Arabian Sea. The people of Bankot were filled with pride and joy as they looked upon the restored fort, knowing that it would protect them for many more centuries to come.

Bankot Fort is a beautiful and historic structure that sits on the shores of the Arabian Sea, offering breathtaking views of the water. It is a popular tourist destination, attracting history buffs and those simply looking for a beautiful and interesting place to visit.

The fort was constructed using lateritic rocks, and it is surrounded by a moat dug out of the same material. It has two entrances, with the main gate facing Bankot Creek to the north and a western gate leading to a plateau. The fort also has a bastion on the ramparts, which was built by the Siddis to fortify the structure.

Inside the fort, visitors can explore the vestibules near the main entrance, the Nagarkhana, and the steps leading to the Savitri river. They can also visit the two temples dedicated to the gods Shri Rameshwar and Kalbhairav, which were built by Moroba Dada Phadnis and Nana Phadnis, respectively.

Whether you are interested in history or just want to take in the beautiful views, Bankot Fort is a great place to visit. It offers a glimpse into the rich history of the region and a chance to explore a truly unique and beautiful structure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I get to Bankot fort?

The nearest airport is the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai, which is about 250 kilometers from the fort. From there, you can take a train or bus to the town of Chiplun, which is the nearest town to the fort. From Chiplun, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the base of the fort.

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Is the fort open to visitors?

Yes, the fort is open to visitors. It is a popular destination for hikers and history enthusiasts.

Is there an entrance fee to visit the fort?

There are no entry fees to enter the fort at the time of writing this article. It is best to check with the local authorities or the tourism department for current entrance fees and visiting hours.

Is there food and water available at the fort?

It is recommended to carry your own food and water when visiting the fort, as there are no food stalls or facilities available at the fort itself. It is also a good idea to carry a hat, sunscreen, and other protective gear, as the weather can be quite hot and sunny.

Is there a guide available to show me around the fort?

You may be able to hire a guide to show you around the fort, but it is best to check with the local authorities or the tourism department for availability and fees. Alternatively, you can also explore the fort on your own, but it is recommended to be cautious and take necessary safety precautions.

Are there any other activities or attractions near the fort?

There are several other attractions and activities in the area surrounding the fort, such as visiting the nearby beaches, and waterfalls. You can also consider trying local activities such as fishing, and boat rides, and visiting nearby villages to learn about the local culture and traditions. It is best to check with the local tourism department or a travel agency for more information on activities and attractions in the area.

Where to Stay?

Visitors can stay at Green Cliff Homestays in the eco-village of Velas. At affordable rates, simple no-frills Konkani style beachfront ocean view rooms are available for accommodation. The accommodations are typically simple, homey dormitory-style rooms.