Kothaligad (Peth)
Kothaligad is a small Fort (1500 ft) is situated to the east of Karjat in Maharashtra. Kothaligad is more commonly known as the fort of Peth because the village of Peth is situated at its base. This fort though small in stature has a vast historical background. This fort was more of a ‘defense station’ than a strong fort. Peth was mainly used for ammunition storage. Peth gained importance during Sambhaji’s era.
To get to Kothligad one has to first reach Karjat. Karjat can be reached by central railway local trains. Karjat to Ambivali (base village) S.T buses are available, first bus from Karjat to Ambivali is at 8:15 a.m. From Ambivali top of Kothligad can be reached via Peth in two and half hours. This was our night trek because of high summer heat. We had rented a jeep from karjat station.
The pinnacle of the Peth can be seen from the village. It looks like a filed surface. On reaching the top of the fort, we see caves carved in huge rocks. The first one is the cave of Goddess, besides which is a water cistern and the last one is the specious Bhairoba cave. A flat floor and well-sculpted pillars are specialty of the cave. Along the Bhairoba cave, steps are carved leading the pinnacle. From the top of the pinnacle look out for Bhimashankar towards north, Dhak Bahiri & Rajmachi towards south-west. The cave on the fort is the best place to spend a night. There are many a cisterns and tanks on the fort, but the one near the cave is drinkable.
Some pics by group : -
