Dhodap Fort: Maharashtra’s Second Highest Fort and the Trek That’ll Test Your Limits
So you’ve heard whispers about this massive fort near Nashik that locals call “the second highest” and you’re wondering if it’s worth the hype. Trust me, I went in skeptical too, and came out completely obsessed. Dhodap Fort second highest status in Maharashtra isn’t just a fun fact for trivia night—it’s the real deal, and the trek up there will humble you in the best possible way.
If you’re into trekking, history, or just love that feeling of standing on top of the world with the wind nearly knocking you off your feet, stick around. I’m walking you through everything—the route, the ruins, the water tanks, the campfire nights, and yes, even the monkeys that’ll try to raid your snacks.
Where Exactly Is Dhodap Fort?
Dhodap Fort sits roughly 70 km from Nashik city, tucked away in a region that doesn’t get nearly as much foot traffic as the more “Instagram famous” forts around Maharashtra. And honestly? That’s part of its charm.
If you’re coming from Mumbai or Pune via public transport, you’ll need to first get to Nashik city. From there, head to Wadi Bhoyi Phata (also called Dilip Phata), and catch a state transport bus toward Dhodambe village. Just a heads up—these buses don’t run super frequently, so plan accordingly.
- Nearest base villages: Hatti village and Kundane village
- Distance from Dhodambe to base villages: around 7 km
- Most popular starting point: Hatti village
Why It’s Called the Second Highest (And the Fifth Highest Peak Too)
Here’s where it gets interesting. Dhodap Fort second highest ranking refers to its position among Maharashtra’s tallest forts. But if you’re looking at peaks specifically rather than forts, the mountain on which Dhodap sits ranks as the fifth highest peak in the entire state.
That’s a pretty wild combination—a fort that’s both massively elevated AND sitting on one of the tallest peaks around. No wonder the climb felt never-ending at times!
A Bit of History Behind the Walls
This fort has deep roots connected to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s era. During the Peshwa period, the fort gained even more significance—there’s actually a “karwa” (a kind of jail) that was used here, which tells you this wasn’t just a lookout post but a fully functioning administrative and military hub.
Given its height, Dhodap was strategically perfect for keeping an eye on nearby trade routes. Imagine being a guard up there centuries ago, watching caravans move across the valleys below.
My Trek Experience: Starting From Kundane Village
Most trekkers start from Hatti village, but our little group decided to begin from Kundane instead. Why? Well, we were trekking in the afternoon (yeah, not the smartest timing in peak summer heat), and the Kundane route is supposedly a bit easier.
The first 30 minutes were manageable, but then the heat really started hitting hard. Water became precious—like, we were rationing sips kind of precious. If you’re attempting this in summer, please carry way more water than you think you’ll need.
That Unexpected Tractor Ride
Okay, this part still makes me smile. While trudging along, a local farmer’s tractor came rolling down the path. There genuinely wasn’t space for us on it, but the driver squeezed us in anyway. Sometimes the kindness of strangers on a trek route hits you right in the feels.
He dropped us near a point behind which Hatti village sits—and from there, the trail toward the fort’s plateau really opens up. The path itself is what I’d call a “gentle slope”—long, but not brutally steep. You could honestly imagine a vehicle making it up part of the way.
What You’ll See Along the Way
This isn’t a trek where you just climb and reach the top with nothing in between. Dhodap is packed with things to explore along the route:
- Old stepwells with stunning Peshwa-era construction
- A Hanuman temple (Veer Maruti idol) near the trail
- Maha Darwaja—the grand main gate, fully built in stone
- Multiple water tanks carved into rock
- Caves used historically for storage and lookout points
- Remnants of old “wadas” (residential structures)
The Veer Maruti Temple
One thing I learned on this trip—Hindu temples often depict Maruti (Hanuman) in different forms. The “Veer” or warrior form shows him fearless and strong, tail raised above his head, hand lifted in a powerful stance. You’ll see this specific form at the top of almost every major fort in Maharashtra, and Dhodap is no exception.
The Night Trek and Camping Experience
Here’s the thing about reaching Dhodap—by the time you cross the jungle stretch and reach the plateau, evening is creeping in fast. We actually ended up doing part of our trek at night, which added this eerie-but-exciting vibe to the whole thing.
We didn’t have proper tents (long story—one friend bailed last minute and he was supposed to bring it). But we managed. We found a sheltered spot near a water source, had a small meal, and just… slept under the stars basically. Cold? Absolutely. Worth it? A hundred percent.
Sunrise From the Top
Waking up to a proper sunrise from Dhodap’s plateau is something else. The view stretches out across valleys, with Kanchana Fort visible from certain pinnacle points. If you’ve ever wanted that “top of the world” photo, this is your spot.
The Water Tanks: Beautiful But Be Careful
Now here’s something I want to be honest about. Dhodap has gorgeous ancient water tanks—some with bridge-style stone construction dating back to the Peshwa period. They’re genuinely beautiful pieces of engineering.
But here’s the sad reality: a lot of these tanks are filled with garbage. We’re talking plastic bottles, wrappers, all kinds of trash that’s either been dumped directly or blown in from nearby areas over the years.
There’s exactly ONE water tank on the entire fort that’s still usable for drinking—it’s near the temple area. We actually spent time cleaning trash out of it during our visit, and honestly, every trekker should consider doing the same.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Nashik | ~70 km |
| Best Starting Point | Hatti Village |
| Trek Difficulty | Moderate (gentle slope but long duration) |
| Drinking Water Source | Single tank near temple |
| Ideal Season | Post-monsoon to early winter |
Exploring the Fort’s Architecture
Once you’re up on the plateau and through the jungle trail, the real magic begins. The Maha Darwaja (main gate) is a masterpiece—completely stone-built, with carved “kirtimukh” designs (those fierce face carvings meant to ward off evil) right above the entrance.
Inside, you’ll find a “devdi”—a resting chamber that’s said to have been used by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj himself. There are also old column holes where wooden doors were once locked into place.
The Caves Below the Pinnacle
Behind the main pinnacle, there’s a network of caves that most casual visitors completely miss. These were likely used as lookout points or storage—small enough that you might walk right past without noticing, but spacious inside.
Beginner Guide: First-Timer’s Checklist for Dhodap Fort
If this is your first big trek, especially one involving an overnight stay, here’s what I’d tell a friend before they head out:
- Carry at least 3-4 liters of water per person, especially in summer
- Pack a proper tent or sleeping bag—don’t rely on luck like we did
- Bring a headlamp/torch if there’s any chance of night trekking
- Wear sturdy trekking shoes—the rocky sections can be slippery
- Inform someone about your trek plan and expected return time
- Carry basic snacks that won’t attract monkeys aggressively
Pro Tips From Someone Who’s Been There
- Start early morning instead of afternoon—seriously, the heat is no joke
- The Kundane route is shorter time-wise but Hatti route is more commonly used and better marked
- Fill water at the temple-side tank, but always carry extra as backup
- Time your trek for post-monsoon season when the fort is lush green and the views are insanely clear
- Carry a trash bag—seriously, even a small effort to clean up makes a difference
- If trekking at night, stick close to your group near the old water tank areas (it’s deep and not always visible)
Common Mistakes Trekkers Make at Dhodap Fort
- Underestimating water needs—this is the #1 mistake. The gentle slope tricks people into thinking it’s “easy”
- Not checking bus timings in advance—the ST bus frequency to Dhodambe is low, and getting stranded isn’t fun
- Throwing trash near water tanks—even “biodegradable” waste ends up polluting the only drinking source
- Leaving bags unattended—the monkey population near the temple area is aggressive and will go through your stuff
- Skipping the caves and side trails—rushing straight to the top means missing some of the best historical spots
A Quick Storytelling Moment
I have to tell you about this one moment that stuck with me. We were exhausted, sitting near the old stepwell, and one of us joked about how the construction looked “too perfect for ancient times.” We genuinely debated whether it was built during the Peshwa era or later restored.
Turns out, looking closer at the bridge-style stonework over the well, it really was from the Peshwa period—just incredibly well preserved compared to other ruins on the fort. Little discoveries like that make every tired step worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Dhodap Fort really the second highest fort in Maharashtra?
Yes, in terms of overall fort elevation, Dhodap holds the second highest position in Maharashtra, while the peak it sits on ranks fifth highest among all peaks in the state.
2. How long does the trek to Dhodap Fort take?
Depending on your starting point and pace, it can take anywhere from 4-6 hours one way. Starting from Hatti village tends to be slightly longer but more gradual.
3. Is there drinking water available on the fort?
There’s one main water tank near the temple area that’s usable for drinking, but it’s often affected by trash. Always carry your own water as a backup.
4. Can beginners attempt this trek?
Yes, but with preparation. The slope is gentle compared to many forts, but the overall duration and lack of shade make it physically demanding, especially in summer.
5. Is camping allowed on Dhodap Fort?
Camping is commonly done by trekkers near the plateau area close to water sources. Just make sure to carry proper gear and follow Leave No Trace principles.
6. What’s the best time of year to visit?
Post-monsoon (October-December) is ideal—you get green landscapes, cooler temperatures, and clearer views without the harsh summer heat.
Final Thoughts: Should You Add Dhodap to Your Trekking List?
Honestly? If you’re someone who loves a mix of history, adventure, and breathtaking views without the crowds of more “famous” forts, Dhodap deserves a spot on your list. Just go prepared—water, proper gear, and respect for the historical site (please, no littering near those water tanks).
The Dhodap Fort second highest title isn’t just a label—it’s an experience that’ll test your stamina and reward you with views and history you won’t forget. Plan smart, start early, and you’ll come back with stories worth telling.
Got questions about planning your own trek? Drop them in the comments, and check out our complete Maharashtra fort trekking guide for more hidden gems like this one.
For official trekking guidelines and safety tips, you can also refer to resources from Maharashtra Tourism’s official website.
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