Dhodap

Dhodap (Marathi: धोड़प), is one of the hill forts of Maharashtra state in India. Situated in the Nashik district, the fort is approximately 4750 ft (1452 mt) above sea level.

Location

The base village is called as Dhodambe from where you can start to climb the fort. The fort is 42 km to the Nashik, about 3 km from Hatti Village, in the Satmala range, Nasik region of Sahyadris.

Parts of the fort

The top of the fort was built using a combination of dressed stone and brickwork. There is a tank with an idol of Lord Hanuman and a tunnel 5m wide. The fort has a pointed cliff named Shembi. You can find caves at the base. One end of the fort shows a domical structure. The eastern face shows a fearsome cliff named Ikhara which is ideal for rock climbers. One Temple situated in one of the caves is in good condition. Few other caves are also seen around and are quite big in size. Also Trunk of Dhodap fort is in good condition.

History

The fort played an important role during the Peshwa period. It was here that Raghobadada Peshwa hatched a plot against Madhavrao Peshwa.

Tourism

This fort is a good site for trekkers and adventurous tourists to visit. Accommodation can be arranged at the base village with the help of local villagers. very little Water is available at the top. Therefore carry enough water while climbing this fort.

Routes

One can climb the fort from two routes. One from Dhodambe village side and other from Deola side. From Pune the route can be as Pune to Nashik (road/rail, 202 km)- Dhodambe (road, 40 km) - Hatti (road, 3 km).

See also

• List of forts in Maharashtra