{"id":460817,"date":"2025-07-12T18:38:00","date_gmt":"2025-07-12T18:38:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/?p=460817"},"modified":"2026-04-03T06:37:41","modified_gmt":"2026-04-03T06:37:41","slug":"indian-maratha-forts-join-unesco-heritage-list","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/indian-maratha-forts-join-unesco-heritage-list\/","title":{"rendered":"A Monumental Win for India: 12 Maratha Forts Join UNESCO Heritage List"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>On 11th July 2025, the World Heritage Committee declared 12 Maratha forts as a World Heritage Site. Spread across the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, the mighty Arabian Sea, and the southernmost state of India, Tamil Nadu, these forts are living testaments to the grandeur of the Maratha Empire and their unmatched military strategy. India now has 44 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making it the 6th country on the global list and 2nd in the Asia-Pacific region in terms of the largest number of heritage sites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Collectively termed as the Maratha Military Landscapes, this World Heritage Site includes Shivneri, Lohgad, Salher, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Panhala, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg, Suvarnadurg, Khanderi, and Gingee forts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>To honor the legacy, let&#8217;s have a brief overview of these majestic forts, their history and how you can experience them.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Raigad Fort<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/raigad-fort-maharashtra-india-february-26-1196739145\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\" noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"770\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/07\/Raigad-Editorial.jpg\" alt=\"Raigad fort's inner structure and Gangasagar water tank\u00a0\n\" class=\"wp-image-460882\" style=\"object-fit:cover;width:770px;height:480px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Raigad fort&#8217;s inner structure and Gangasagar water tank, Raigad, <strong>Maharashtra<\/strong><br>Image Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/raigad-fort-maharashtra-india-february-26-1196739145\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Satish Parashar\/Shutterstock<\/a><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Built by Hiroji Indulkar, the chief engineer of the Maratha Empire, Raigad is the Capital fort of the independent Maratha Empire, also known as Swarajya. This fort hosted Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj\u2019s coronation ceremony and also saw the death of the mighty warrior king. The fort is built on a strategic location from where it was easy to overlook other forts in the surrounding region, such as Torna, Lingana, Sinhagad, Purandar, and Lohagad.<br>Today, visitors to Raigad can explore Gagdishwar Temple, Saat Mahal, Maha Darwaja, market ruins, and Shivaji Maharaj\u2019s memorial (Samadhi).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to Reach Raigad:<\/strong> The nearest city is Mahad, accessible by train and bus. From Mahad, you can take an auto or local bus to Pachad village, which is the base of Raigad Fort. From Pachad, you can either climb the fort by trekking or take the ropeway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Rajgad Fort<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/rajgad-sunset-pune-maharashtra-india-2210-1149090467\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\" noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"770\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/07\/Rajgad-2.jpg\" alt=\"Rajgad Fort, Pune, Maharashtra.\n\" class=\"wp-image-460881\" style=\"object-fit:cover;width:770px;height:480px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Rajgad Fort, Pune, Maharashtra.<br>Image Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/rajgad-sunset-pune-maharashtra-india-2210-1149090467\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">aamolphoto\/Shutterstock<\/a><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Before Raigad, there was Rajgad. The first capital of the Maratha Empire, this fort witnessed the rise of Shivaji Maharaj and served as his home for over 25 years. This fort was an important hub for Maratha planning, where the treasure from Sutrat was kept, and is the birthplace of Rajaram I.<br>Today, if you visit Rajgad, you can see the Padmavati Temple, Chor Darwaja, Sanjeevani Machi, the fort&#8217;s ruins, and the scenic Sahyadri ranges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to Reach Rajgad: <\/strong>You can reach Rajgad Fort by road from Pune. The trek commonly starts from the base villages of Gunjavane or Pali. Both villages are accessible by bus, taxi, or private vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>AT Tip: <\/strong>You can stay at some of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/hotels\/city\/hotel-in-pune\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">best hotels in Pune<\/a> spend a few extra days exploring nearby forts like Torna, Sinhagad, and Lohagad.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. Shivneri Fort<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/01-14-2009-vintage-history-heritage-2314614849\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\" noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"770\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/07\/Shivneri-editorial.jpg\" alt=\"\nShivneri Fort, Pune, Maharashtra.\n\" class=\"wp-image-460883\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Shivneri Fort, Pune, Maharashtra.<br>Image Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/01-14-2009-vintage-history-heritage-2314614849\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">AnilD\/Shutterstock<\/a><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Situated in Junnar, Pune, this fort is the birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj and hence has a very special place among the 12 Maratha forts on this list. This triangular fort is situated on a hilltop and has seven gates, water tanks, and a Shiva temple.<br>If you visit Shivneri today, you can see the birth chamber of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Badami Talav, Shivai Devi temple, Chain Gate (secret entrance) and execution point.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to Reach Shivneri: <\/strong>Take a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/domestic\/mumbai-to-pune-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cheap flight to Pune<\/a>, then travel 95 km by road to Junnar taluka and reach the fort via a short climb up well-maintained steps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. Pratapgad Fort<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/pratabgad-fort-one-most-crucial-forts-1817012579\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\" noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"770\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/07\/Pratapgad.jpg\" alt=\"Pratapgad fort, Satara, Maharashtra.\n\" class=\"wp-image-460884\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Pratapgad fort, Satara, Maharashtra.<br>Image Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/pratabgad-fort-one-most-crucial-forts-1817012579\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Abhijeet Khedgikar\/Shutterstock<\/a><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The fort where Shivaji Maharaj defeated Bijapur Sultanate general Afzal Khan and established himself as a powerful military leader is the next among 12 Maratha forts that were recognized as a World Heritage Site. The history of the Maratha Empire cannot be told without mentioning the battle of Pratapgad. At the Pratapgad fort, you can visit the Bhawani Temple, Afzal Khan\u2019s tomb, and the museum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to Reach Pratapgad: <\/strong>Take a bus or taxi from Mahabaleshwar, or travel via Pune or Satara by road or rail, then continue to the fort by road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>For a comfortable and hassle-free journey, you can check out <a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/india-tour-packages\/maharashtra-tour-packages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">all-inclusive Maharashtra tour packages<\/a> that take care of your reservations and transport, allowing you to explore the glorious state without worry.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5. Panhala Fort<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/kolhapur-india-8-september-2024-ruins-2518879595\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\" noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"770\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/07\/Panhala.jpg\" alt=\"Ruins of the inner gate - Teen Darwaza of Panhala Fort at Maharashtra, India\n\" class=\"wp-image-460887\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Ruins of the inner gate &#8211; Teen Darwaza of Panhala Fort at Maharashtra, India<br>Image Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/kolhapur-india-8-september-2024-ruins-2518879595\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">arun sambhu mishra\/Shutterstock<\/a><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Among the 12 Maratha forts listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Panhala stands out for its unique serpent-shaped layout and its role in the Battle of Pavankhind. It is also the largest fort in the Deccan. Visitors can still explore key spots like Ambarkhana granary, Andhar Bavadi (hidden well), Teen Darwaza, and Sajja Kothi.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to Reach Panhala: <\/strong>Panhala is easily accessible by bus, taxi, or private vehicle from Kolhapur, which is well-connected by train and located approximately 20 km away. Travelers can also look for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/domestic\/pune-to-kolhapur-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cheap flights to Kolhapur<\/a> to make their journey more convenient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>6. Lohgad Fort<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/lohagad-fort-popular-historic-structure-over-707946589\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\" noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"770\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/07\/Lohagad.jpg\" alt=\"Lohagad, Pune, Maharashtra\" class=\"wp-image-460888\" style=\"width:770px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Lohagad, Pune, Maharashtra<br>Image Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/lohagad-fort-popular-historic-structure-over-707946589\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">varsha wani\/Shutterstock<\/a><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re visiting Lonavala, this is one of the 12 Maratha forts you must explore. Its strategic location and strong fortifications played a key role in overseeing trade routes and safeguarding treasures. Don\u2019t miss the iconic Vinchukada for aerial shots, and be sure to visit Ganesh Darwaja and the Mahadev Temple.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to Reach Lohgad:<\/strong> You can take a train or drive to Malavli via Lonavala, then either trek or hire a shared auto to reach Lohagadwadi, the base village for the fort climb. Popular among trekkers, Lohagad is best visited during the monsoon season from June to September. For a comfortable stay, choose from some of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/hotels\/city\/hotel-in-lonavala\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">best hotels in Lonavala<\/a> and explore the surrounding region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Also Read: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/best-seven-monsoon-treks-in-maharashtra\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Best 7 Monsoon Treks in Maharashtra!<\/a><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>7. Salher Fort<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/image-shows-top-salher-fort-maharashtra-1321935440\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\" noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"770\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/07\/Salher-Fort.jpg\" alt=\"Salher Fort, Nashik\n\" class=\"wp-image-460896\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Salher Fort, Nashik, <strong>Maharashtra<\/strong><br>Image Credit:<a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/image-shows-top-salher-fort-maharashtra-1321935440\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> Yogesh Raut\/Shutterstock<\/a><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Salher is the least known among the 12 Maratha forts recently designated as World Heritage Sites. Located on the second-highest peak in the Western Ghats, it stands as one of the tallest forts in Maharashtra. At Salher Fort, you can see old gates, walls, step-wells, a cave inscription, and the Parshuram Temple. To explore comfortably, you can choose to stay and relax in some of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/hotels\/city\/hotel-in-nashik\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">best hotels in Nashik<\/a>, which is the nearest major city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to Reach Salher:<\/strong> Take a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/domestic\/new-delhi-to-nasik-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cheap flight to Nashik<\/a>, then travel by bus or taxi to Satana or Taharabad, and finally reach the base villages of Waghambe or Salher Wadi to begin the trek.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>8. Vijaydurg Fort<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/vijaydurga-district-sindhudurga-mar-harashtra-india-1623850171\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\" noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"770\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/07\/Vijaydurg-Editorial.jpg\" alt=\"Vijaydurg Fort, Devgad, Sindhudurga, Maharashtra\n\" class=\"wp-image-460889\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Vijaydurg Fort, Devgad, Sindhudurga, Maharashtra<br>Image Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/vijaydurga-district-sindhudurga-mar-harashtra-india-1623850171\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Satish Parashar\/Shutterstock<\/a><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Often called the \u201cGibraltar of the East\u201d, Vijaydurg is the only coastal fort among the cluster of 12 Maratha forts of the Maratha Military Landscapes. Located on the coast of Devgad, Sindhudurga, this fort controlled the coast of Konkan, had a port that is still in use, and was the base of the Maratha Navy.<br>If you visit today, you&#8217;ll see fort bastions, sea-facing canons, anchor points and hidden underground tunnels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to Reach:<\/strong> Take a train to Kankavli or Kudal, or travel by road. You can also get there by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/domestic\/mumbai-to-sindhudurg-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cheap flights to Sindhudurg<\/a> Airport and then continue by bus or taxi to Vijaydurg Fort in Sindhudurg district.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>9. Sindhudurg Fort<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/sindhudurg-fort-drone-view-malvan-maharashtra-2640349319\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\" noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"770\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/07\/Sindhudurg.jpg\" alt=\"Aerial view of Sindhudurg fort\n\" class=\"wp-image-460890\" style=\"object-fit:cover;width:770px;height:480px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Aerial view of Sindhudurg fort, <strong>Maharashtra<\/strong><br>Image Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/sindhudurg-fort-drone-view-malvan-maharashtra-2640349319\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">prasunsaha\/Shutterstock<\/a><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Sindhudurg was built to protect the coastline from colonial (British, French and Portuguese) threat. Part of the 12 Maratha forts of Maratha Military Landscapes of India, this sea fort stands out for its massive laterite stone walls, 42 bastions, and a cleverly hidden entrance, hallmarks of Maratha naval architecture. When you visit Sindhudurg, don\u2019t miss visiting the only temple dedicated to Shivaji Maharaj and seeing his palm and foot impressions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to Reach Sindhudurg:<\/strong> Take a train or bus to Malvan via Kudal or get on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/domestic\/mumbai-to-goa-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cheap flights to Goa<\/a>, then reach Malvan. From Malvan jetty, board a short ferry to Sindhudurg Fort. For a true local experience, stay at the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/cheap-hotels\/tarkarli-malvan\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">best hotels in Tarkarli-Malvan<\/a>, renowned for it&#8217;s crystal-clear beach waters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>10. Suvarnadurg Fort<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/suvarnadurg-fort-that-located-between-mumbai-2633369255\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\" noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"770\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/07\/Suvarnadurg.jpg\" alt=\"Suvarnadurg, Dapoli, Ratnagiri\n\" class=\"wp-image-460893\" style=\"object-fit:cover;width:770px;height:480px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Suvarnadurg, Dapoli, Ratnagiri, <strong>Maharashtra<\/strong><br>Image Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/suvarnadurg-fort-that-located-between-mumbai-2633369255\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Navyug\/Shutterstock<\/a><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Suvarnadurg is a sea fort situated on an island near Harnai Port, Ratnagiri District. It was fortified with high bastions, water tanks, and a secret tunnel system and had shipbuilding facilities. Among the 12 forts of Shivaji Maharaj, Suvarnadurg held significant strategic value along the Konkan coast. However, now the fort is ruined, so when you visit there, you will only see ruins of the shipbuilding zone, stone walls and the remains of observation posts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to Reach Suvarnadurg:<\/strong> If you are coming from outside Maharashtra, take a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/domestic\/new-delhi-to-mumbai-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cheap flight to Mumbai<\/a>, then travel by train to Khed (the nearest major railway station), continue by road to Harne village near Dapoli, and finally take a boat from Harne port to reach Suvarnadurg Fort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Traveling abroad? Enjoy hassle-free\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/visa\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">online visa services for over 180 countries<\/a> and explore the world with total ease.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>11. Khanderi Fort<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>This is the only fort among the 12 Maratha forts listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is located near Mumbai. The fort features cannons, a lighthouse, and underwater barriers that protected the coast of Mumbai and Alibaug from colonial and Siddhi attacks. The island on which the fort is situated was renamed Kanhoji Angre Island in honor of the Maratha naval general to recognize his contribution.<br>If you visit the island, you will see the lighthouse, ruins of maritime installations, cannons, fort structures, and enjoy a scenic island walk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to Reach Khanderi: <\/strong>Travel to Thal or Mandwa near Alibaug, where you\u2019ll find some of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/hotels\/city\/hotel-in-alibaug\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">best hotels in Alibaug<\/a>, stay there, then take a boat to Khanderi Island, where the fort is located.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Also Read: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/from-sea-to-skyline-discover-mumbai-hotel-rooms-with-the-best-views\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">From Sea to Skyline: Discover Mumbai Hotel Rooms with the Best Views<\/a><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>12. Gingee Fort of Tamil Nadu<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/view-rajagiri-hill-excavated-palace-site-2366658569\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\" noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"770\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/07\/Gingee-Fort.jpg\" alt=\"View of Rajagiri hill and the Gingee Fort complex in Villupuram district, Tamil Nadu\n\" class=\"wp-image-460892\" style=\"object-fit:cover;width:770px;height:480px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>View of Rajagiri hill and the Gingee Fort complex in Villupuram district, Tamil Nadu<br>Image Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/view-rajagiri-hill-excavated-palace-site-2366658569\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Manivannan T\/Shutterstock<\/a><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This is the only fort among the 12 Maratha forts situated outside Maharashtra. Gingee is often called &#8220;Troy of the East&#8221;. The fort is situated in Tamil Nadu\u2019s Villupuram district and is spread across three hills Krishnagiri, Rajagiri and Chandrayandurg. When you visit here, explore the granary, Kalyana Mahal, temples, and enjoy the panoramic views.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to Reach Gingee<\/strong>: Take a train to Tindivanam or Villupuram, then hire a taxi or take a bus to Gingee Fort, which is also accessible by road from Chennai, Pondicherry, and nearby cities.You catch <a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/domestic\/mumbai-to-chennai-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cheap flights to Chennai<\/a> stay in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/hotels\/city\/hotel-in-chennai\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">best hotels in Chennai<\/a> and then drive to Gingee, which is just 3 hours away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>To Sum Up<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>On July 11, 2025, 12 Maratha forts were officially declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing their unparalleled historical, architectural, and military significance. Spanning Maharashtra\u2019s Western Ghats and coastal regions, as well as Tamil Nadu\u2019s hills, these forts collectively showcase the grandeur and strategic genius of the Maratha Empire. This prestigious designation not only honors their legacy but also boosts global awareness, conservation efforts, and tourism. From Raigad, the coronation site of Shivaji Maharaj, to Gingee, the \u201cTroy of the East,\u201d each fort offers a unique glimpse into India\u2019s rich past. Exploring these forts, accessible via nearby cities with comfortable accommodation options, provides a memorable journey through history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you\u2019re a history enthusiast, a trekker, or a cultural explorer, these forts offer a timeless journey into India\u2019s glorious past, waiting to be experienced, preserved, and cherished. Start planning your journey today. Pack your bags and immerse yourself in India\u2019s remarkable heritage. These forts are waiting to tell their timeless stories!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>FAQs &#8211; 12 Maratha Forts<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Which Maratha ruler had 240 forts?<br><\/strong>Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is believed to have possessed around 240 forts at the end of his reign.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How many forts are in Maharashtra?<br><\/strong>There are over 390 forts in Maharashtra, which belonged to different dynasties, trade centers, Marathas, and Mughals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How many UNESCO world heritage sites are in Maharashtra?<br><\/strong>Maharashtra has six UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves, Elephanta Caves, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai, and the Western Ghats.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Why are Maratha forts destroyed?<br><\/strong>Most of the Maratha forts were deliberately demolished by the British in 1818 and further in 1857 so that they could not be utilized by an emerging Maratha army. Moreover, neglect and natural decay in harsh environments also led to their destruction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Who is the strongest Maratha king?<br><\/strong>Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the creator of the Maratha Empire, is regarded as the most powerful ruler because he was a military strategist, an administrator, and expanded the empire against the Mughals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Which are the 12 forts of Shivaji?<br><\/strong>The 12 forts recognized by UNESCO as &#8220;Maratha Military Landscapes of India,&#8221; which include those associated with Shivaji Maharaj, are Salher, Shivneri, Lohgad, Khanderi, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, and Sindhudurg in Maharashtra, along with Gingee Fort in Tamil Nadu.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Which Indian city has 2 Unesco World Heritage sites?<br><\/strong>Jaipur is the Indian city with two UNESCO World Heritage sites. It is home to both the Jantar Mantar and the Pink City (Walled City of Jaipur).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Which state has the 2nd highest UNESCO world heritage sites in India?<br><\/strong>Gujarat has the second-highest number of four sites of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 1<sup>st<\/sup> Maharashtra that has five (excluding the Western Ghats that are common).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Stay Curious and Keep Reading!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/unesco-world-heritage-sites-in-india-43-marvels-that-define-indias-beauty\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Think You Know India? UNESCO World Heritage Sites That Will Prove You Wrong<\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/hill-stations-in-india-with-airport-near-them-a-direct-flight-to-the-hills\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10 Hill Stations in India with Airport Near Them: A Direct Flight to the Hills<\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/uae-launches-new-golden-visa-for-indians-at-just-rs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">UAE Launches New Golden Visa for Indians at Just Rs\u2026<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Akbar Travels Services<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><br><\/strong><strong>Best Flight Deals<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/domestic\/mumbai-to-new-delhi-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mumbai to Delhi Flight Tickets<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/domestic\/mumbai-to-bangalore-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mumbai to Bangalore Flight Tickets<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/domestic\/kolkata-to-mumbai-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Kolkata to Mumbai Flight Tickets<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/international\/kochi-to-abu-dhabi-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Kochi to Abu Dhabi Flight Tickets<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/international\/lucknow-to-riyadh-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Lucknow to Riyadh Flight Tickets<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/domestic\/new-delhi-to-ahmedabad-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Delhi to Ahmedabad Flight Tickets<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><br><\/strong><strong>Domestic Flights<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/domestic\/pune-bangalore-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pune to Bangalore Flights<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/domestic\/chennai-delhi-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Chennai to Delhi Flights<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/domestic\/bangalore-chennai-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bangalore to Chennai Flights<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/domestic\/mumbai-delhi-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mumbai to Delhi Flights<\/a>&nbsp;|<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/domestic\/bangalore-hyderabad-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">&nbsp;Bangalore to Hyderabad Flights<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/domestic\/ahmedabad-goa-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ahmedabad to Goa Flights<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/domestic\/mumbai-kolkata-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mumbai to Kolkata Flights<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/domestic\/hyderabad-delhi-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hyderabad to Delhi Flights<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/domestic\/bangalore-goa-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bangalore to Goa Flights<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/domestic\/mumbai-goa-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mumbai to Goa Flights<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><br><\/strong><strong>International Flights<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/travel\/international-flights-booking\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">International Flights Booking<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/international\/delhi-dubai-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Delhi to Dubai Flights<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/international\/delhi-bangkok-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Delhi to Bangkok Flights<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/international\/delhi-toronto-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Delhi to Toronto Flights<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/international\/mumbai-to-dubai-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mumbai to Dubai Flights<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/international\/delhi-singapore-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Delhi to Singapore Flights<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/international\/delhi-london-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Delhi to London Flights<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/international\/delhi-kathmandu-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Delhi to Kathmandu Flights<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/international\/mumbai-london-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mumbai to London Flights<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/international\/chennai-singapore-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Chennai to&nbsp; Singapore Flights<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/international\/mumbai-singapore-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mumbai to Singapore Flights<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/international\/delhi-newyork-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Delhi to New York Flights<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/international\/kolkata-bangkok-flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Kolkata to Bangkok Flights<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><br>Best Hotel Deals<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/city\/cheap-hotels-dubai-india\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hotels In Dubai&nbsp;<\/a>|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/city\/cheap-hotels-mumbai-india\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hotels In Mumbai India<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/city\/cheap-hotels-pune-india\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hotels In Pune India<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/city\/cheap-hotels-singapore-singapore\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hotels In Singapore<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/city\/cheap-hotels-kochi-india\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hotels In Kochi India<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/city\/cheap-hotels-munnar-india\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hotels In Munnar India<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/city\/cheap-hotels-bangkok-thailand\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hotels In Bangkok Thailand<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/city\/cheap-hotels-kuala-lumpur-malaysia\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hotels In Kuala Lumpur Malaysia<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/city\/cheap-hotels-mecca-saudia\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hotels In Mecca Saudi Arabia<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/city\/cheap-hotels-mahabalipuram-india\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hotels In Mahabalipuram&nbsp;India<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><br><\/strong><strong>Apply Visa Online<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/visa\/dubai-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Dubai Visa Online<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/visa\/14-days-dubai-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">14 days Dubai Visa<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/visa\/30-days-dubai-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">30 days Dubai Visa<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/60-days-dubai-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">60 days Dubai Visa<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/visa\/96-hours-dubai-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Dubai Transit Visa<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/uae-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">UAE Visa<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/visa\/singapore-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Singapore Visa<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/visa\/malaysia-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Malaysia Visa<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/visa\/thailand-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Thailand Visa<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/visa\/srilanka-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sri Lanka Visa<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/visa\/usa-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">US Visa<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/visa\/uk-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">UK Visa<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/visa\/schengen-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Schengen Visa<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/visa\/canada-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Canada Visa<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/visa\/australia-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Australia Visa<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/visa\/newzealand-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New Zealand Visa<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/visa\/france-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">France Visa<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/visa\/italy-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Italy Visa<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/visa\/turkey-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Turkey Visa Online<\/a>&nbsp;|<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/visa\/philippines-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">&nbsp;Philippines Visa<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/visa\/cambodia-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Cambodia Visa Online<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/visa\/vietnam-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Vietnam Visa Online<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/visa\/oman-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Oman Visa<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><br><\/strong><strong>International Tour Packages<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/international-tour-packages\/dubai-tour-packages?utm_source=FOOTER&amp;utm_medium=WEBSITE&amp;utm_campaign=HOLIDAYSFOOTER\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Dubai Tour Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/international-tour-packages\/singapore-tour-packages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Singapore Tour Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/international-tour-packages\/thailand-tour-packages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Thailand Tour Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/international-tour-packages\/malaysia-tour-packages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Malaysia Tour Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/international-tour-packages\/sri-lanka-tour-packages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sri Lanka Tour Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/international-tour-packages\/united-states-tour-packages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">US Tour Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/international-tour-packages\/united-kingdom-tour-packages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">United Kingdom Tour Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/international-tour-packages\/south-africa-tour-packages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">South Africa Tour Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/international-tour-packages\/europe-tour-packages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Europe Tour Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/international-tour-packages\/bali-tour-packages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bali Tour Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/international-tour-packages\/mauritius-tour-packages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mauritius Tour Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/international-tour-packages\/maldives-tour-packages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Maldives Tour Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/cruises\/cordelia-cruises\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Cordelia Cruise Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><br><\/strong><strong>Domestic Tour Packages<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/india-tour-packages\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">India Tour Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/india-tour-packages\/goa-tour-packages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Goa Tour Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/india-tour-packages\/kerala-tour-packages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Kerala Tour Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/india-tour-packages\/leh-ladakh-tour-packages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Leh Ladakh Tour Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/india-tour-packages\/himachal-pradesh-tour-packages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Himachal Tour Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/india-tour-packages\/andaman-and-nicobar-tour-packages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Andaman Tour Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/india-tour-packages\/rajasthan-tour-packages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Rajasthan Tour Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/india-tour-packages\/uttarakhand-tour-packages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Uttarakhand Tour Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/india-tour-packages\/jammu-and-kashmir-tour-packages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Jammu and Kashmir Tour Packages<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><br><\/strong><strong>Packages by Themes<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/theme\/honeymoon-packages?utm_source=FOOTER&amp;utm_medium=WEBSITE&amp;utm_campaign=HOLIDAYSFOOTER\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Honeymoon Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/theme\/adventure-packages?utm_source=FOOTER&amp;utm_medium=WEBSITE&amp;utm_campaign=HOLIDAYSFOOTERhttps:\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/theme\/adventure-packages?utm_source=FOOTER&amp;utm_medium=WEBSITE&amp;utm_campaign=HOLIDAYSFOOTER\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Adventure Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/theme\/visa-on-arrival-packages?utm_source=FOOTER&amp;utm_medium=WEBSITE&amp;utm_campaign=HOLIDAYSFOOTER\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Visa on Arrival Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/theme\/family-packages?utm_source=FOOTER&amp;utm_medium=WEBSITE&amp;utm_campaign=HOLIDAYSFOOTERhttps:\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/theme\/family-packages?utm_source=FOOTER&amp;utm_medium=WEBSITE&amp;utm_campaign=HOLIDAYSFOOTER\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Family Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/theme\/romantic-packages?utm_source=FOOTER&amp;utm_medium=WEBSITE&amp;utm_campaign=HOLIDAYSFOOTERhttps:\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/theme\/romantic-packages?utm_source=FOOTER&amp;utm_medium=WEBSITE&amp;utm_campaign=HOLIDAYSFOOTER\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Romantic Packages<\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/holidays\/theme\/getaways-packages?utm_source=FOOTER&amp;utm_medium=WEBSITE&amp;utm_campaign=HOLIDAYSFOOTER\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Weekend Getaways Packages<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>On 11th July 2025, the World Heritage Committee declared 12 Maratha forts as a World Heritage Site. Spread across the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, the mighty Arabian Sea, and the southernmost state of India, Tamil Nadu, these forts are living testaments to the grandeur of the Maratha Empire and their [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":460899,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":true,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[49,1402,64],"tags":[8632,8633,2374,2176,7534,2845,3537,3393,7535],"class_list":["post-460817","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-experiences","category-travel-tips-guides","category-travel-toolkit","tag-12-maratha-forts","tag-forts-in-maharashtra","tag-maharashtra","tag-maharashtra-tour-packages","tag-total-unesco-world-heritage-sites-in-india","tag-trekking-spots-in-maharashtra","tag-unesco","tag-unesco-world-heritage-site","tag-world-heritage-sites-in-india"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v20.8 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>A Monumental Win for India: 12 Maratha Forts Join UNESCO List<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"A Monumental Win for India: 12 Maratha Forts earn UNESCO World Heritage Tag! Dive into history, architecture, and breathtaking views.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/indian-maratha-forts-join-unesco-heritage-list\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"A Monumental Win for India: 12 Maratha Forts Join UNESCO List\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"A Monumental Win for India: 12 Maratha Forts earn UNESCO World Heritage Tag! Dive into history, architecture, and breathtaking views.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/indian-maratha-forts-join-unesco-heritage-list\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Akbar Travels Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2025-07-12T18:38:00+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-04-03T06:37:41+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/07\/Fort-Feature.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1200\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"628\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Sonali Jadhav\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Sonali Jadhav\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"14 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/indian-maratha-forts-join-unesco-heritage-list\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/indian-maratha-forts-join-unesco-heritage-list\/\",\"name\":\"A Monumental Win for India: 12 Maratha Forts Join UNESCO List\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/#website\"},\"datePublished\":\"2025-07-12T18:38:00+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-04-03T06:37:41+00:00\",\"author\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/#\/schema\/person\/8a1b6d57a17f4301a9de3e301acc5d1b\"},\"description\":\"A Monumental Win for India: 12 Maratha Forts earn UNESCO World Heritage Tag! Dive into history, architecture, and breathtaking views.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/indian-maratha-forts-join-unesco-heritage-list\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/indian-maratha-forts-join-unesco-heritage-list\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/indian-maratha-forts-join-unesco-heritage-list\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"A Monumental Win for India: 12 Maratha Forts Join UNESCO Heritage List\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/\",\"name\":\"Akbar Travels Blog\",\"description\":\"Your Travel Partner\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":\"required name=search_term_string\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/#\/schema\/person\/8a1b6d57a17f4301a9de3e301acc5d1b\",\"name\":\"Sonali Jadhav\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/cadff83b1821f43b6b512bedf2a4b82b?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/cadff83b1821f43b6b512bedf2a4b82b?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"Sonali Jadhav\"},\"description\":\"A travel enthusiast with love for writing, politics, and visual art. Sonali is passionate about crafting content that inspires change and broadens perspectives.\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/author\/sana_dhamia\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"A Monumental Win for India: 12 Maratha Forts Join UNESCO List","description":"A Monumental Win for India: 12 Maratha Forts earn UNESCO World Heritage Tag! Dive into history, architecture, and breathtaking views.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/indian-maratha-forts-join-unesco-heritage-list\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"A Monumental Win for India: 12 Maratha Forts Join UNESCO List","og_description":"A Monumental Win for India: 12 Maratha Forts earn UNESCO World Heritage Tag! Dive into history, architecture, and breathtaking views.","og_url":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/indian-maratha-forts-join-unesco-heritage-list\/","og_site_name":"Akbar Travels Blog","article_published_time":"2025-07-12T18:38:00+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-04-03T06:37:41+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1200,"height":628,"url":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/07\/Fort-Feature.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Sonali Jadhav","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Sonali Jadhav","Est. reading time":"14 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/indian-maratha-forts-join-unesco-heritage-list\/","url":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/indian-maratha-forts-join-unesco-heritage-list\/","name":"A Monumental Win for India: 12 Maratha Forts Join UNESCO List","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/#website"},"datePublished":"2025-07-12T18:38:00+00:00","dateModified":"2026-04-03T06:37:41+00:00","author":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/#\/schema\/person\/8a1b6d57a17f4301a9de3e301acc5d1b"},"description":"A Monumental Win for India: 12 Maratha Forts earn UNESCO World Heritage Tag! Dive into history, architecture, and breathtaking views.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/indian-maratha-forts-join-unesco-heritage-list\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/indian-maratha-forts-join-unesco-heritage-list\/"]}]},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/indian-maratha-forts-join-unesco-heritage-list\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"A Monumental Win for India: 12 Maratha Forts Join UNESCO Heritage List"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/","name":"Akbar Travels Blog","description":"Your Travel Partner","potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":"required name=search_term_string"}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/#\/schema\/person\/8a1b6d57a17f4301a9de3e301acc5d1b","name":"Sonali Jadhav","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/cadff83b1821f43b6b512bedf2a4b82b?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/cadff83b1821f43b6b512bedf2a4b82b?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"Sonali Jadhav"},"description":"A travel enthusiast with love for writing, politics, and visual art. Sonali is passionate about crafting content that inspires change and broadens perspectives.","url":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/author\/sana_dhamia\/"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/460817","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/10"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=460817"}],"version-history":[{"count":50,"href":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/460817\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":483659,"href":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/460817\/revisions\/483659"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/460899"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=460817"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=460817"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=460817"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}