It is around 4500 ft above sea level and has a natural rock cavity, which is known as 'eye of the needle', at the peak of the fort. The peak offers an amazing view of the entire region. The fort as its name indicate, is a jewel among all hill forts in Sahyadri. Bhandardara lake in Ahmednagar is located near the fort . Journey through the fresh water lake with the great hills on the sides is a great experience. It will take almost 3 hours to reach the top from the base. The climb to the fort is not so steep, and merely before the last climb there are two steel ladders and some rock steps before reaching the door of the fort. There is a chance of losing the way at this point and better hire local guides to show the route.
From here route right leads to the fort where the route left leads to Rani Mahal. The rock steps are slippery and dangerous and should take care at this point. The oldest contrived catchment area with its beautiful locale of Bhandardara is really amazing. An ancient temple about 1000 years old is located at the base of this fort. This well-preserved temple of Lord Shiva at Amurteshwar is an apotheosis of architectural skill of ancient civilisation.
Getting There
By Air : Nearest airport Mumbai or Pune.
By Rail : Igatpuri is the nearest railway station. This is about 50 km from Ratangad.
By road : This fort is on the Mumbai-Nasik highway about 130 km from Mumbai, overlooking the picturesque locale of Bhandardara, one of the oldest artificial catchment area
Picturesque Views Of Ratangad
Images Via: http://photos.ibibo.com/photo/3726562/ratangad
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