Medieval fortification, hill with nearly vertical sides and remnants of defensive structures – although due to steep clifs not much additional structures were needed. Contains also two Hindu rock-cut cave temples – Gorakhgad Caves. Rock-cut steps lead to the summit, at one place going through rock-cut gate. Rock contains several water tanks cut in cliff. Rock-cut steps closer to the summit are especially risky and one has to traverse the cliff hanging over an abyss. On the summit there is located small temple of Goraknath with small statue of Nandi in front and linga inside the temple.
During the monsoon period the steep hill offers exotic jungle-covered mountain scenery with waterfalls sliding down along the steep walls of ancient fort.
Possibly the Alka-Palka fortress mentioned in connection with the capture of nearby Ankai-Tankai hill fort by the general of Mughal Shah Jahan.
Fort was vital link between the important Fort Durg to north-east and Fort Siddhagad to the south-west. During the times of Shivaji Maharaja (great Maratha king, 1642 – 1680) it was used to patrol the nearby area.
Although there are not known any significant historical events connected with this fort, nowadays it is beloved destination for trekkers.
References
- Ankai-Tankai-Gorakshanath, Picasa, photo collection by sameer, accessed in 5 May 2010.
Gorakhgad hill fort on the map
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| Location, GPS coordinates: | 20.1933 N 74.4238 E |
| Categories: | Fortifications, Fortresses and forts |
| Values: | Archaeology, History, Visual |
| Rating: |  |
| Where is located? | Asia, India, Maharashtra, Thane district, hilltop 7 – 8 km south from Manmad, west from Ankai Quila railway station |
| Alternate writing: | Gorakshadh hill fort, Gorakhnath fort, Alka-Palka? |
| Age: | ?? |
Video of Gorakhgad hill fort
Sujit Mallick, September 2016
Landmarks of India
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Wondermondo considers that India is the second richest centre of architectural heritage in the world after Europe and maybe no single country of the world can match it in this respect.
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