Situated
on a small hill about 10 km away from Chiplun, the Gowalkot Fort covers an area
of around two acres.
According
to local reports, the fort was built about 1690 by the Habshi of Janjira.
Shivaji Maharaja renewed the fort in 1670 but the position of the Redjaji image
seems to show that it was part of the original fort and that the builder or the
person who renewed the temple was a Hindu King, probably Shivaji in 1670. From
Habshi it was captured by Angira in 1744, who lost it to the
Peshwa in 1755 and eventually the Peshwa lost control over it at the hands of
the British in 1818.
Almost
ruined, at present this fort is dilapidated, however, within the fort are
trees, buildings and dwellings and a dry well which is approximately 22 feet
deep.
Located
on top of the small hill, the Gowalkot Fort, opposite the Vashisthi
River, offers the most beautiful and
stunning glimpse of the undulating valley and the smoothly flowing Vashisthi River. Nature enthusiasts can indulge
themselves by setting out on a trek around the areas near the fort and soak in
the atmosphere at the fort. Enjoy a short walk of about 30 to 45 minutes, as
you walk through the track with the fort providing a gorgeous backdrop for your
stroll. Go here alone, with family or your partner, for a truly spectacular
experience!
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