Siddhagad (Malvan)
Fort Images
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Siddhagad (Malvan)
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Introduction
In ancient times, the shipments arriving at the port of Malvan and Achara were transported to different market places for business and trade via several mountain routes. Hence, many forts were constructed at strategic locations to protect these important trade routes. Siddhagad fort in Sindhudurg district was built to keep a watch on the route from Malvan and Achara port towards Ajara market. This route passes through Kasal River and the mountain passage of Ghotgi and the fort was strategically constructed to keep a watch on this route.
Historical Background
Siddhagad was built by Savant clan. In April-May 1818, A British Colonel, Henry Imlach (1760-1830), attempted to capture the fort. However, due to strong defense from Savant’s,Henry Imlach had to retrieve. A division of 80th Regiment from Malvan was called upon to strengthen the regiment. The Colonel again attacked the fort and captured it.
How to Reach
Ovaliye, the base village of fort Siddhagad can be accessed from Malvan well as Kankavli.
01) Malvan – Achara Masade – Ovaliye – Siddhagad (35 kms) or
Malvan – Kasal – Ovaliye (36 kms)
02) From Kankavali towards Kudal on Mumbai-Goa National Highway, one has to take a right turn approx. 1 km before Kasal leads to Ovaliye which is 2 kms further.
03) There is a State Transport bus service (S.T.) for Malvan - Kasal and/or Kankavli – Kasal. But the bus access is limited for Ovaliye from Kasal. It is advisable to book a private auto-rickshaw to-and-from Kasal while visiting the fort.
A crude (Kaccha) road from Rameshwar Temple in Ovaliye Village leads to Siddhagadwadi. 3/4th part of the hill can be accessed by vehicles (as per 2009). A 10 minute walk from this point takes to the top of Siddhagad plateau.
Points of Interest
Siddhagad is spread around 25 acres. However, today, there are no signs to indicate that the fort was once spread around 25 acres. As one enters the fort,there is a large plateau covered in laterite (Jambha) known as ‘Kaap’ or ‘Sada’ in native Malvani Language. There is a small settlement on this plateau called Siddhagadwadi. From the plateau, one can view the Kasal River and the other surroundings on the fort. A blooming variety of wild flowers can be seen during the monsoon month of September.
Facilities & Amenities
Accommodation
10 people can easily be accommodated on the porch of the school in Ovaliye village.
Food
There is no access to food on the fort but one may get some food in Kasal village nearly 3 kms from Siddhagad.
Water
Potable water is available on the fort.
Additional Information
It takes around 30 minutes by walk and 10 minutes by a vehicle to reach Siddhagad from Ovaliye.
There is a possibility of visiting 4 forts viz; Bharatgad, Bhagwantgad, Ramgad and Siddhagad with proper planning and time management.
If left early in the morning from Malvan, it is fairly possible to visit Bharatgad and Bhagwantgad forts near Masure village (approx 12 kms from Malvan) and Ramgad fort (approx 17 kms from Masure). Siddhagad in Ovaliye village can be approached next (10 kms from Ramgad).
While returning, one can reach Malvan viaOvaliye – Kasal route (36 kms from Ovaliye).
Other Forts in Malvan, Sindhudurg
Planning Your Trek?
Pack Smart
Carry essentials, water, and first aid kit
Start Early
Begin your trek early in the morning
Trek in Groups
Always trek with companions for safety