Location Description

---

The Baleshwar range is the second great spur of Sahyadri which branches off at Ratangad at distance 11 km, South- East of Kulang. It completely traverses the Akola and Sangamner taluka forming the watershed between the Pravara in the North and the Mula in the South. The Baleshwar temple forms the centre with the Hemadpanti Shikhar which is now in ruins. All the other hills and forts radiate from this centre in all directions. The climate of this region is generally hot and dry except the rainy season during the major part of the year. There is erratic rainfall with uneven distribution with more uncertainties. The region receives all this annual precipitation from the South-West monsoon. The forts and peaks of Baleshwar range decrease in height from the East to west. Baleshwar range is about 100 km in length. The villages of Jawale Baleshwar, Sawargaon ghule, Pokhari Baleshwar and Sawarchol villages are located. All the forts and peaks in this range provide breathtaking views of the surrounding areas. Ratangad (4255 ft. from M.S.L.), is a fort which offers the best views of the lush green panoromas around. Ajoba (4511 ft. from M.S.L.), is famous for dense foliage with cascading waterfalls in it shows along the route during the monsoons. Muda (4986 ft. from M.S.L.) is not renowned as a fort. The view of Bhandardara dam along with the forts flanking the water is best seen form Muda being at a higher altitude. Sindola (4577 ft. from M.S.L.), which is close by has a sky high top and with the unforgettable views it gives, one feels the sheer joy of visiting this place. Pabargad (4347 ft. from M.S.L.), was conquered by the Marathas from the Mughal with lot of difficulties. Ghanchakkar (5028 ft. from M.S.L.), is not a hill fort, a beautiful backdrop of kalsubai along with the trio of Alang – Madan – Kulang is seen from here. Bhairavgad (Shirpunje)(height), Kaladgad (3608 ft. from M.S.L.) and Harishchandra gad are the three mighty forts of the range. Kunjhargad (4687 ft. from M.S.L.) being a part of Swarajya, was an important fort during the historic times. Bhairavgad (Kothale) (3445 ft. from M.S.L.) and Pemgiri fort (2759 ft. from M.S.L.), are towards the West end of the range.