Deep in the Amravati district of Maharashtra, lies Achalpur Fort—an overlooked monument that once played a crucial role in Vidarbha’s history. Known in old records as “Ellichpur Fort,” this stronghold was not only a center of power but also a symbol of the region’s resilience against waves of dynasties and rulers. Though time has reduced it to ruins, Achalpur Fort still carries the whispers of Mughal governors, Maratha warriors, and medieval battles.
Location and Accessibility
Achalpur Fort is located in Achalpur taluka of Amravati district in the Vidarbha region. The nearest railway station is Badnera Junction, around 50 km away, which connects to major routes of central and western India. Amravati city, about 50 km from the fort, also serves as a convenient base for travelers.
In terms of major cities, Achalpur Fort lies around 650 km from Mumbai, about 580 km from Pune, and roughly 470 km from Nashik. The fort is easily accessible by road, with buses and private vehicles connecting Achalpur to Amravati and other towns in Vidarbha.
Dynasties and Rulers
The story of Achalpur Fort begins in the medieval period when the region of Berar was a prized possession. The fort was strengthened during the Bahmani Sultanate era, later controlled by the Imad Shahi dynasty of Berar. During the 16th and 17th centuries, it fell into the hands of the Mughals, who used Achalpur (then Ellichpur) as their provincial capital in Berar. Later, it became a contested site during the Maratha expansion in the 18th century and also saw influence from the Nizams of Hyderabad.
Battles and Historical Events
The fort gained prominence during the Mughal-Maratha conflicts when Achalpur became a key administrative and military hub. Aurangzeb’s Deccan campaigns often referenced Ellichpur as a strategic outpost. While not the site of large-scale sieges like Raigad or Daulatabad, Achalpur Fort served as a garrison, and several smaller skirmishes took place around it, marking it as a witness to the turbulent power struggles of the Deccan.
Historical Significance
The historical importance of Achalpur Fort lies in its role as the capital of Berar Subah under the Mughals. Persian chronicles describe it as a thriving provincial center where Mughal officials administered land revenue, maintained troops, and guarded trade routes. The fort was not only military in nature but also symbolic of administrative control in Vidarbha. Its connection with the Imad Shahi dynasty also highlights it as a cultural and political node in medieval Berar.
Architecture and Features
Today, much of Achalpur Fort stands in ruins, but its remains still speak of its grandeur. The thick stone walls were once formidable, enclosing palaces, barracks, water tanks, and granaries. Bastions at intervals strengthened the fortifications, while the gateways bore Mughal-style arches with traces of Persian inscriptions.
Inside, one can still find the remains of step wells and water storage systems, a reminder of how self-sufficient the fort was in times of siege. There are also ruins of temples and mosques inside, reflecting the diverse cultural imprints left by successive rulers.
Unique Points of Interest
Among the intriguing aspects of Achalpur Fort are its rumored hidden escape passages, believed to have been used by soldiers and rulers during sudden attacks. Some stone carvings and inscriptions, though weathered, still exist and provide a glimpse of its Mughal-era artistry. Locals also narrate stories of old cannons once mounted on the bastions, though most have disappeared over the centuries.
Nearby Attractions
Within a short distance of 20–50 km, travelers can explore several sites of interest. The Melghat Tiger Reserve, around 45 km away, is a haven for wildlife lovers. Chikhaldara hill station, about 35 km from Achalpur, offers cool weather and scenic beauty. Another important fort, Narnala Fort, lies around 40 km away in Akot taluka and is one of the largest and best-preserved forts in Vidarbha.
Local Fairs and Events
Achalpur town is culturally vibrant, and various jatras and religious gatherings take place throughout the year in temples and dargahs nearby. These fairs bring together local communities and often coincide with traditional festivals. Though Achalpur Fort itself does not host a dedicated annual event today, its presence looms large during such gatherings as a reminder of the town’s historical significance.
Historical Mentions
The Ain-i-Akbari, Abu’l Fazl’s record of the Mughal Empire, mentions Ellichpur (Achalpur) as the headquarters of Berar Subah, underlining its importance in Aurangzeb’s reign. The Berar Gazetteer of the British period also highlights Achalpur Fort as a central administrative stronghold during Mughal times. Historians like James Grant Duff have also referenced Ellichpur in their works on the Marathas.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to explore Achalpur Fort is from November to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant. Summers in Amravati district are harsh, with temperatures often crossing 40°C, making trekking uncomfortable. Monsoons bring greenery but may make the ruins slippery and difficult to navigate.
Preparing for the Visit
Though the fort does not demand a strenuous trek like hill forts in the Sahyadris, visitors should prepare for uneven terrain and some climbing. Comfortable shoes are a must, along with a cap or scarf for sun protection. Carrying drinking water is essential as there are no dedicated facilities inside the fort premises.
What to Carry
A small backpack with water, snacks, and a torch is advisable. A first-aid kit can come in handy since the ruins may have sharp stones and broken walls. For photography enthusiasts, carrying a good camera is recommended to capture the fort’s rustic charm against the Vidarbha landscape.
Local Facilities
Currently, Achalpur Fort does not have commercialized tourist infrastructure. Local guides from Achalpur town can provide insights into its history. Small eateries and shops in Achalpur serve basic refreshments, while accommodations are better found in Amravati or Chikhaldara. For those planning a longer trip, Chikhaldara hill station offers a range of stay options from budget lodges to resorts.
FAQs about Achalpur Fort
Q1. Who built Achalpur Fort?
The fort was originally strengthened under the Bahmani and Imad Shahi dynasties, later expanded by the Mughals.
Q2. What is the nearest railway station to Achalpur Fort?
The nearest major railway station is Badnera Junction, about 50 km away.
Q3. Is Achalpur Fort a trekking destination?
Yes, but it is more of an exploration walk than a challenging trek, suitable for history enthusiasts.
Q4. What is the best time to visit Achalpur Fort?
The months from November to February are best for visiting due to the cool and pleasant weather.
Q5. What other attractions are near Achalpur Fort?
Nearby attractions include Chikhaldara hill station, Melghat Tiger Reserve, and Narnala Fort.
Post a Comment