On July 11, 2025, a significant addition was made to the UNESCO World Heritage List during the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee in Paris: the ‘Maratha Military Landscapes of India.’ This inclusion, part of the 2024-25 nomination cycle, acknowledges the sophisticated military architecture and strategic planning employed by the Maratha Empire from the 17th to the 19th centuries. The newly inscribed site features 12 forts, strategically located across Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, which collectively illustrate the extensive geographical reach and innovative defense strategies characteristic of the Maratha military system.
This latest inscription brings India’s total number of World Heritage Sites to 44. The nomination for these 12 forts was initially submitted by India in January 2024, setting the stage for their eventual recognition by UNESCO. The forts, 11 of which are in Maharashtra and one in Tamil Nadu, each hold unique historical and architectural significance, embodying a rich legacy of military prowess and engineering ingenuity.
Salher Fort: A Strategic Maratha Stronghold
Salher Fort, located in Baglan Taluka, Nashik District, Maharashtra, stands at an imposing height of 1,567 meters (5,141 feet) above sea level. It holds the distinction of being the highest fort in the Sahyadri (Western Ghats) range and the second-highest peak in Maharashtra, surpassed only by Kalsubai.
Historically, Salher Fort played a crucial role in the Maratha Empire. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj captured it on January 5, 1671, during his campaign in the Baglan region. The fort’s strategic location made it ideal for surveillance and a vital component of Shivaji Maharaj’s northern defense line.
Salher is also steeped in ancient mythology, renowned as the place where Parashuram performed his penance. Legend has it that after conquering the earth and donating it, he created his own land by pushing back the sea with his arrows, starting from this very spot.
Beyond its mythological significance, Salher Fort is famous for its battles during Shivaji’s reign. In 1672, the Mughals launched a major attack on the fort, leading to a fierce confrontation involving nearly one lakh (100,000) soldiers. The ensuing Battle of Salher resulted in a decisive victory for the Marathas under Chhatrapati Shivaji, marking one of their most significant triumphs over the Mughal Empire.
The fort itself boasts an impressive perimeter of approximately 11 kilometres, covering an area of about 600 hectares. Its structures showcase remarkable military brilliance, featuring massive stone constructions, long stairways, ancient temples, and numerous water cisterns.
Shivneri Fort: Birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Shivneri Fort, situated near Junnar in the Pune district of Maharashtra, stands at an elevation of 1066.8 meters (3,500 feet). It holds immense historical significance as the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, making it a powerful symbol of Maratha heritage and resistance.
This hill fort is where Shivaji Maharaj spent his formative years, imbuing it with a rich history. The fort’s defensive features include fortified walls, seven entrance gates, and the revered temple of Goddess Shivai, from whom Shivaji received his name. Shivneri Fort’s design showcases early Maratha defensive planning, incorporating strategic moats, hidden entrances, and robust bastions. Now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the fort is celebrated for its historical aura and offers commanding panoramic views.
Visitors to Shivneri Fort can explore several significant architectural features and attractions. These include the Birthplace room of Shivaji Maharaj, the Badami Talav (a central water tank), the Shivai Devi Temple, and the Chain Gate, which served as a secret entrance. Statues of Jijabai (Shivaji’s mother) and young Shivaji further commemorate the site’s historical importance. From its vantage point, the fort provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Sahyadri hills.
Lohagad Fort: A citadel of shifting empires
Lohagad Fort, nestled in the Sahyadri range near Lonavala, Maharashtra, stands at an elevation of 1,033 meters (3,389 feet). This impressive fort boasts a long and layered history, shaped by numerous rulers over centuries. Originally constructed in the 10th century during the Lohtamia dynasty, Lohagad subsequently fell under the control of the Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Yadavas, Bahamanis, Nizams, Mughals, and eventually the Marathas.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj first captured Lohagad in 1648, but was forced to cede it to the Mughals in 1665 following the Treaty of Purandar. However, he reclaimed it in 1670 and famously used it to store the wealth plundered from his Surat campaign. During the Peshwa era, Nana Phadnavis sought refuge here, contributing to its infrastructure by constructing a tank and a step-well, both of which survive to this day.
In 2019, a remarkable discovery was made by trekkers: a Jain Brahmi inscription in a cave on the fort’s southern side, dating back to the 2nd or 1st century BC. This finding hints at an even older spiritual past for this historic site. Lohagad’s massive stone constructions, long stairways, temples, and water cisterns are a testament to its military brilliance and enduring legacy.
Khanderi Fort: A maritime guardian of the Marathas
Khanderi Fort, officially known as Kanhoji Angre Island, is a formidable island fort situated off the coast of Maharashtra, south of Mumbai (specifically off Thal, Kihim). This sea fort, along with its counterpart Underi, is located about three kilometres into the sea. Early historical references, such as those from Portuguese Viceroy Dorn Joao da Castro in 1538 and John Fryer in 1674, describe Khanderi as an uninhabited island.
However, its strategic importance was recognised by the Marathas. In 1679, Khanderi was occupied by Shivaji’s forces under the leadership of Maynak Bhandari, who oversaw the construction of its fortifying walls. The fort was specifically built during the reign of Maratha Emperor Shivaji Maharaj in 1679 CE to monitor the activities of the Siddis at Murud-Janjira fort. Khanderi became the site of numerous naval battles between Shivaji’s forces and the Siddi navy, underscoring its crucial role in Maratha maritime defense.
Raigad Fort: The majestic capital of Hindavi Swaraj
Raigad Fort, located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra near Mahad, stands majestically at 820 meters (2,700 feet) above its base and 1,356 meters (4,449 feet) above sea level. Once known as Rairee, this hill fort achieved unparalleled significance when it became the capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s Hindavi Swaraj following his coronation in 1674.
Developed with the expert assistance of chief engineer Hiroji Indulkar, the fort was designed to house approximately 1,550 people. Today, visitors can ascend to this historic stronghold by climbing 1,737 steps or opt for a convenient 4-minute ride on the 750-meter-long Raigad Ropeway, making it accessible to a wider audience eager to explore its rich history and commanding views.
Rajgad Fort: The Maratha empire’s first capital
Rajgad Fort, literally meaning “ruling fort,” is a prominent hill fort in the Pune district of Maharashtra, standing at 1,376 meters (4,514 feet). Formerly known as Murumbdev, this fort served as the first capital of the Maratha Empire under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj for nearly 26 years before the capital was shifted to Raigad Fort.
Rajgad witnessed numerous pivotal historical events. It was the birthplace of Shivaji’s son, Rajaram I, and the place where Shivaji’s wife, Saibai, passed away. The fort also saw Shivaji’s return from Agra and the symbolic burial of Afzal Khan’s head within the Mahadarwaja walls of Balle Killa. It was also here that Sonopant Dabir delivered stern words of counsel to Shivaji. Notably, Rajgad was one of the 12 forts that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj retained when he signed the Treaty of Purandar in 1665 with the Mughal general Jai Singh I, a treaty that saw 23 forts ceded to the Mughals. Rajgad’s historical depth and strategic importance make it a cornerstone of Maratha history.
Pratapgad Fort: A symbol of Maratha valour
Pratapgad Fort, located in the Satara district of Maharashtra, rises to a height of 1,080 meters. Constructed under the direct orders of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire, its primary purpose was to safeguard the crucial Par Pass and maintain control over the Nira and Koyna rivers.
However, the fort’s true significance was cemented during the epic Battle of Pratapgad on November 10, 1659. In this legendary confrontation, Shivaji Maharaj and his forces decisively defeated the formidable Afzal Khan of the Bijapur Sultanate. This pivotal victory not only showcased Shivaji’s unparalleled military strategy but also significantly strengthened the Maratha foothold in the region. Today, every stone of Pratapgad Fort continues to resonate with the echoes of bravery and resilience, a testament to its glorious past.
Suvarnadurg Fort: The golden guardian of the coast
Suvarnadurg Fort, often referred to as the “Golden Fort,” is strategically situated on a small island in the Arabian Sea, off the coast of Dapoli in Ratnagiri, between Mumbai and Goa. This fort served as a key naval station for Shivaji’s Maratha navy. It was specifically constructed to counter foreign naval forces and assert Maratha dominance over the seas.
Accessible only by boat, the sight of Suvarnadurg Fort against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea is truly unforgettable. This island fort is meticulously fortified with high bastions, secret tunnels, and ample water tanks, showcasing advanced maritime military engineering. UNESCO’s recognition of Suvarnadurg Fort not only revives interest in Maratha naval power but also highlights the crucial role that coastal forts played in India’s broader maritime military history.
Panhala Fort: The serpent of fortresses
Panhala Fort, located about 20 kilometres northwest of Kolhapur in Maharashtra, stands at an elevation of 845 meters (2,772 feet). This formidable fort played a significant role during Shivaji’s reign, renowned for its unbreachable triple-layered fortification. Overlooking the majestic Sahyadri mountain range, Panhala is also one of the largest forts in the Deccan region. Its key features include the massive Andhar Bavadi (a subterranean well), the imposing Teen Darwaza (three gates), and the strategically designed Sajja Kothi. Often referred to as the ‘Fort of Snakes’ due to its serpent-like structure, Panhala Fort, constructed between 1178 and 1209 CE, remains a living monument to Maratha courage and strategy, preserving many of its original structures and architectural elements.
Vijaydurg Fort: The Gibraltar of the east
Vijaydurg Fort, situated in the peninsular region of Vijaydurg in Devgad Taluka, Sindhudurg district, Maharashtra, is famously known as the “Gibraltar of the East.” Its origins trace back to the 12th century, when it was built by Raja Bhoj II of the Shilahar dynasty. Initially named “Gheria” after the nearby village of Girye, the fort’s strategic location along the Arabian Sea made it a crucial military outpost.
It wasn’t until 1653 that the legendary Maratha warrior, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, seized control of the fort from the Adilshahi rulers and renamed it Vijaydurg, meaning “Fort of Victory.” Recognising its potential as a formidable naval base, Shivaji further strengthened its defenses, transforming it into one of India’s most impenetrable coastal fortresses. Under Maratha rule, Vijaydurg played a pivotal role in naval warfare. The legendary Admiral Kanhoji Angre utilised the fort as a stronghold, cementing the Maratha Navy’s supremacy over the Arabian Sea. Despite multiple attempts, the British and Portuguese, threatened by its strategic positioning and military might, failed to capture Vijaydurg. The fort’s history is a testament to unyielding resilience and strategic mastery.
Sindhudurg Fort: A maritime masterpiece
Constructed between 1664 and 1667 by Shivaji Maharaj on a rocky island off the Malvan coast in the Arabian Sea, Sindhudurg Fort stands as a masterpiece of Maratha Sea defense. Built using locally sourced laterite stone, the fort is characterised by its 42 bastions and a cleverly concealed main entrance. Within its formidable walls lies the only known temple dedicated to Shivaji himself. Located on Khurte Island, this strategic fort was meticulously designed to counter the growing dominance of European naval powers. Now recognised by UNESCO, Sindhudurg continues to stand as a sentinel of Maratha naval power and architectural innovation.
Gingee Fort (Senji Fort): A southern stronghold
Gingee Fort, also known as Senji Fort, is a unique inclusion on the list as the only entry from outside Maharashtra, located in Tamil Nadu’s Viluppuram district. Originally built by the Cholas, it was later significantly strengthened by the Marathas under Shivaji. The fort is impressively spread across three hills: Rajagiri, Krishnagiri, and Chandrayandurg. It is renowned for its massive ramparts, granaries, temples, and a striking seven-story Kalyana Mahal. Its strategic design made it one of the most impregnable forts in the country, showcasing a blend of architectural styles and military ingenuity across centuries.
The inscription of the ‘Maratha Military Landscapes of India’ on the UNESCO World Heritage List marks a pivotal recognition of a remarkable historical legacy. The 12 forts – from the towering heights of Salher to the strategic coastal defenses of Sindhudurg and Vijaydurg, and extending to the unique southern outpost of Gingee – collectively represent an unparalleled testament to the Maratha Empire’s military ingenuity, architectural prowess, and strategic foresight between the 17th and 19th centuries.
These formidable structures, each with its own compelling narrative of battles fought, empires shifted, and resilience demonstrated, were more than mere fortifications. They were vital nerve centres for defense, administration, and trade, embodying the spirit of a kingdom that rose to prominence through sheer determination and innovative warfare. The inclusion of these sites not only elevates India’s count of World Heritage Sites but also shines a global spotlight on a crucial chapter of Indian history, emphasising the sophisticated military engineering and adaptable defence strategies that defined the Maratha era. Their recognition ensures that the stories of these iconic strongholds and the rich heritage they preserve will endure for generations to come.
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