Bhavanigad is located in Sangameshwar
district, 12 km north of Sangameshwar town on Mumbai-Goa old Highway. There is
a big temple of Goddess Bhavani which is visited by many pilgrims every year.
Very less is known about the history of
this fort. Experts claim it to be built in the 14th century. Shivaji Maharaj
renovated this fort in 1661 and built the temple of Bhavani Mata. The British
won this fort in 1818.
Kadvai is the village near to the fort. As
we proceed on the trail to the fort, we pass through Mhadgewadi, Gosaviwadi and
Shirkewadi, 3 communities in the area of the fort. The trail divides into two
and the way to the right takes us to the top. After a steep walk for 5 minutes,
we reach towards few cisterns. After some time we reach towards the main
entrance and to the main temple; this is a good accommodation on the fort. In
this temple, there is a bust of Shivaji Maharaj and an ancient idol of Goddess
Bhavani. This is the citadel of the fort, where the temple is located. Behind
the temple is the entrance of the citadel, and the trail through this leads to
the southern tip where a few more cisterns are present.
Accommodation is available on the fort in
the temple, but no resorts / lodges nearby.
By Air : Mumbai is nearest airport.
By Rail : Sangmeshwar is nearest railway station.
By Road : The diversion to Tural village is 11 km
north of Sangameshwar on Mumbai-Goa highway. From here, reach to Kadvai (by
rickshaw) or Mhadgewadi (if a private vehicle). The trail to fort starts from
here. ST buses ply regularly on this route. The fort is about 2 km from
Mhadgewadi.