Harishchandragad is a hill fort in the Ahmednagar district of India. Its history is linked with that of Malshej Ghat, Kothale village and it has played a major role in guarding and controlling the surrounding region. It is elevated by 1422 meter (4665 feet).Harishchandragad is a beautiful hill fort in the Ahmednagar region and very popular trekking destination in the western ghats.
Historical Importance of Harishchandragad
The fort is quite ancient. Remnants of microlithic man have been discovered here. The various Purans(ancient scriptures) like Matsyapurana,Aggnipurana and Skandapurana include many references about Harishchandragad. Its origin is said to have been the 6th century, during the rule of Kalachuri dynasty. The citadel was built during this era. The various caves probably have been carved out in the 11th century. In these caves are idols of Lord Vishnu. Though the cliffs are named Taramatiand Rohidas they are not related to Ayodhya. Great sage Changdev (one who created the epic Tatvasaar) used to meditate here in the 14 th century. The caves are from same period. The various constructions on the fort and those existing the surrounding region point to the existence of diverce cultures here. The carvings on the temples of Nageshwar (in Khireshwar village) in the Harishchandreshwar temple and in the cave of Kedareshwar indicate that the fort belongs to thr medieval period since it is related to mahadev as a totem of tribes Mahadev Koli. They were controlling the fort before Moguls. Later the fort was under the control of Moguls. The Mararathas captured it in 1747.