Visit forts that represent the valor of the Maratha Empire and narrate the story of Chhatrapati Shivaji's life

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was a great warrior and strategist of Indian history, who laid the foundation of the Maratha Empire. His valor, intelligence, and administrative skills made him an immortal personality. Shivaji Maharaj built and renovated many forts for the protection and expansion of his empire. These forts were not only important from a military point of view but also symbolized his strategic thinking. There is an initiative to get 12 of these forts recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Let us know about the 12 major forts associated with Shivaji Maharaj.

Famous forts of Shivaji Maharaj:

1. Raigad Fort- Raigad Fort in Raigad district, Maharashtra, is the erstwhile capital of Shivaji Maharaj. Raigad Fort is also known by the title 'Gibraltar of the East'. The fort is famously known for its impenetrable structure and historical importance.
2. Sindhudurg Fort- Sindhudurg Fort on the Malvan shore of Maharashtra is built in the Arabian Sea. Sindhudurg Fort is built by Shivaji Maharaj to protect against marine attacks. Sindhudurg Fort is renowned for its architecture.
3. Torana Fort- The Torana Fort, located in the vicinity of Pune, is where Shivaji Maharaj's conquests began. The emergence of the Maratha Empire is represented by this fort.
4. Rajgad Fort- The fort in the Pune district is symbolic of the power and foresightedness of Shivaji Maharaj. The height and strong structure of the fort have made it world-famous.
5. Shivneri Fort- The birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj, this fort is located in and around Pune and is historically and culturally quite significant.
6. Salher Fort- The Fort in Nashik district is symbolic of the military power of the Maratha Empire. The height and defense system of the fort has made it legendary.
7. Sinhagad Fort- This fort located near Pune is famous for the saga of the bravery of Tanaji Malusare. This fort is an important part of Maratha history.
8. Lohagad Fort- This fort located in the Bhiwandi area of ​​Maharashtra is known for its impenetrable structure. It is also called 'Giant Fort'.
9. Panhala Fort- The Panhala Fort, located in and around Kolhapur, is the biggest of the forts of the Maratha Empire. The Panhala Fort is famous for its culture and heritage.
10. Ankai-Tankai Fort- The two hills where this fort is located fall under the Nashik district. The natural landscape and position of this fort have rendered it prominent.
11. Padmdurg Fort- The fort is located in Ratnagiri district and is constructed to protect against marine attack. The architecture of this fort is special.
12. Pratapgad Fort- The Pratapgad Fort is located in the Satara district and symbolizes the military style of Shivaji Maharaj. The fort is historically noteworthy for having witnessed various battles.