Purandar

Purandar is a town and taluka in Pune district, Maharashtra, India. The taluka is named after Purandar Fort, a prominent hill fortress situated on the Purandar range of the Western Ghats. The region is known for its historical associations and its role in the broader history of the Maratha kingdom, as well as for its scenic hill landscapes.

Purandar Fort has been a strategic military site for centuries. In the 17th century it figured prominently in the conflicts between the Marathas and the Mughal Empire. The Treaty of Purandar, signed in 1665, involved Shivaji negotiating with Mughal authorities and led to the cession of several forts to the empire under terms that were later contested and modified as power shifted in the region. The fort today is primarily studied for its ruins, which include gateways, bastions, reservoirs, and rock-cut steps, as well as temples that reflect its historical and religious roles.

Geographically, the Purandar hills are part of the Western Ghats, contributing to the area’s monsoonal climate. The region experiences a marked wet season and a relatively dry period, and agriculture is a major activity in the surrounding taluka. Common crops include sugarcane and various pulses, with rural livelihoods shaped by the seasonal nature of rainfall and farming cycles.

Tourism and trekking are notable in Purandar, as the fort and surrounding landscapes attract visitors interested in history, architecture, and nature. Access is mainly by road from Pune and neighboring towns, with the fort serving as a focal point for outings and local culture.

See also: Purandar Fort; Purandar Taluka; Pune district.