Shivaji’s Raigad Fort set to get a makeover, and turn into a global tourist spot

The 350-year-old majestic fort of Chhatrapati Shivaji, which is situated at the hilltop Raigad Fort, is all set to undergo a major revamp to become a global tourist hotspot. Often referred to as the impregnable and majestic fort, it stands on a hill of 820 m, and is currently maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

Standing tall in the picturesque Sahyadri Range of the Western Ghats, this Raigad Fort was earlier accessible by climbing only, and it took several hours to climb as many as 1737 steps. However, this place has witnessed some major developments in the past few years. Now, one can gain access to the fort by hopping into a cable car, the Raigad Ropeway, which takes around 10 min to reach the said spot.
As per the latest reports, there are around 84 small and big natural bodies around the fort that were converted into tanks during Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaja’s rule to ensure residents were provided with clean drinking water. Now, as per the said revamp ideas, these natural bodies will be cleaned up in a scientific manner, so that any artefacts found there are recollected without any damage.
The brand ambassador of the fort said that the main focus behind the revamp is to encourage tourists to spend at least two or three nights to explore and appreciate the beauty of this imposing fort. Locals will be trained as guides and NGOs will be encouraged to bring fort and heritage lovers here.
There are also plans to start ‘sound and light show’ and ‘facade lighting’ to attract visitors at night. There are also around 21 villages within the fort’s vicinity, which will also undergo vast development along with the fort.

The locals will be further encouraged to participate in tourism-related activities under certain schemes.
This royal fort is spread across 1,300 ac on the hilltop, thereby earning a fame of being one of the largest fort complexes in India. Further its unique topography on an almost vertical and hill slope offers glorious views of the surrounding valleys and hills. Therefore, revamping this fort will encourage both domestic and international visitors to visit this place and experience its beauty.