Tikona Fort, also known as Vitandgad, is a hill fort located in the Maval region of the Pune district in Maharashtra, India. It is renowned for its triangular shape and offers spectacular views of the surrounding region. Here are some key details about Tikona Fort:
Historical Significance
- Maratha Empire: Tikona Fort played a significant role in the history of the Maratha Empire. It was a strategic fort used by the Marathas to control the surrounding region.
- Historical Events: The fort witnessed several important historical events, including battles and the presence of key historical figures.
Location and Accessibility
- Proximity: Tikona Fort is located about 60 km from Pune and around 28 km from Lonavala.
- Base Village: The base village for the trek to Tikona Fort is Tikona Peth, which is easily accessible by road from Pune and Lonavala.
Trekking
- Trek Difficulty: The trek to Tikona Fort is considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for beginners and families. It takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours to reach the top from the base village.
- Scenic Views: The trek offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including Pawna Lake, other forts like Tung and Lohagad, and the lush greenery of the Western Ghats.
Key Features
- Triangular Structure: Tikona Fort is known for its unique triangular shape, which gives it the name “Tikona,” meaning “triangle” in Marathi.
- Fortifications: The fort has several gates, bastions, and ramparts that are still in good condition. The main entrance, known as the Tikona Darwaja, is particularly noteworthy.
- Water Tanks and Caves: There are several water tanks and rock-cut caves on the fort, which were used for water storage and shelter.
- Trimbakeshwar Mahadev Temple: The fort has a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known as the Trimbakeshwar Mahadev Temple, which is a place of worship for trekkers and locals.
Tips for Visitors
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Tikona Fort is during the monsoon season (June to September) when the surroundings are lush green, or in the winter months (November to February) when the weather is pleasant.
- What to Carry: Comfortable trekking shoes, water, snacks, a raincoat or umbrella during the monsoon, and a first-aid kit. It is advisable to start the trek early in the morning to avoid the afternoon heat.
Nearby Attractions
- Pawna Lake: Located near Tikona Fort, Pawna Lake is a popular spot for camping and picnics, offering beautiful views and a tranquil environment.
- Tung Fort: Another nearby fort, Tung Fort, also known as Kathingad, is a popular trekking destination offering panoramic views of the region.
- Lohagad Fort and Visapur Fort: These forts are located relatively close and can be combined with a visit to Tikona Fort for a comprehensive trekking experience in the region.
Tikona Fort is a great destination for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and trekkers. Its unique structure, historical significance, and scenic beauty make it a must-visit spot in the Western Ghats.
