Ratnadurg fort, Ratnagiri.

This fort is also called Bhagwati or Bhagwati Durga fort, named after Bhagwati temple which is situated in the fort premises. Bhagwati temple lies on the northern side of the fort and can be accessed by road. A few steps have to be climbed to reach the interiors of the fort. Navratri is celebrated here with pomp by deities of goddess Durga. The fort has a temple of Lord Hanuman at its entrance. The fort is surrounded on all the three sides by sea. There is a light house southwards at a distance from the main fort for which a narrow steep road passing through hamlets has to be taken. Entry to the lighthouse is only between 4pm to 5pm. One has to travel by your own vehicle to reach lighthouse. The lighthouse presents a beautiful view of the Arabian sea at the time of sunset.

Ratnadurga fort was originally built by the Bahamanis. The fort is built in the shape of a horse shoe. It was then captured by Adil Shah, followed by Shivaji Maharaj in the 17th century. The fort was then handed over to Kanhoji Angre, who lost the fort to Peshwas who joined the British to conquer the fort. The fort was later on taken over by the British in the  early 19th century.

                                                 Front view of Ratnadurg fort.

                                                      Bhagwati temple in the fort premises.

                                                                 Lighthouse 

One can see Ratnagiri town from this fort. Monsoon is a great time to visit this fort as there is  greenery all around. The fort presents a beautiful view of sun setting.
Ratnadurg fort is about 4km from center of Ratnagiri city.