Overview:
| Type: | Hill Fort |
| Location: | Located between Raigad and Torna, 35 km away from Mahad town. |
| District: | Raigad. |
Located between Raigad and Torna, Lingana is the highest point of Sahyadris. Resembling the shape of a ‘Linga’, this pinnacle attains a towering height of 2,969ft and entices trekkers from across the country.
History:
Lingana fort was built by Shivaji Maharaj in 1648 to secure central Konkan against the Sidis. Under the Marathas, Lingana was used as a penal settlement. The prisoners were confined to rock dungeons with one dungeon holding 50 prisoners. Lingana was captured by a Colonel Prother in 1818.
Places to Visit on Fort:
The fort is not a very big fort. However the soil here is eroded at much faster rate as all the existing grass that grows on the mountain slopes is burnt down. Due to this the soil loses its grip and is washed away. Hence we find bit difficult to climb and walk on the top of the fort. In the root of the pinnacle is a cave where 50 people can stay. This is supposed to be a storehouse for grains. It faces the western side, to the fort of Raigad. As the dawn arises, we can have a beautiful glimpse of Raigad.
As we go ahead of the cave, we come across some cisterns that contain potable water. Ahead of this are few broken steps, which lead us to remnants of old constructions. Here there are more cisterns.
As we traverse along the periphery of the pinnacle, we have to walk all the way on slippery route, and it is necessary to carry a rope. As we reach the northern end, we have to climb some vertical rock patches. After ascending for about 150 ft., we come across broken fortification. At this height there is a cistern that is the only spot for water. Then one has to ascend some 200 ft. more to reach the top of the pinnacle. From here we can view Nagaarkhana and Jagdishwar temple of Raigad. We can also see Rajgad and Torna on the east. Right at the base of the pinnacle, above the cave are some remnants.
How to reach:
Path 1 – From Mahad:
One can reach Mahad by ST buses or Railway. From Mahad, we need to take a bus to Panne Villege. From here we can reach the village on plateau called Lingana-machi. Then there is 1 hr slippery walk that leads us to base of the Pinnacle.
Path 2 – From Pune:
Lingana lies along the small path going around Torna towards Raigad. From Singapur / Mohari villages it is about 1 hr. walk upto plateau of Railingi. Then through the Gully near plateau called as ‘Boratyachi Nal’ we come to the base of the pinnacle.
Related Video (Lingana Fort):
Best time to visit:
The whole trek, which is mostly rock climbing is best done during winters or early summers. Best time to visit is from November to March.
