The city of Satara is well-known for the "Satara Hill Half Marathon" and Kass Plateau. Trust me; there is more to it. Satara is home to some of the most spectacular natural beauty spots, located in the heart of Sahyadri foothills and gets its name from the seven forts that lie close to Satara.
Satara does not come in the tourist circuit though it is close to Mahabaleshwar & Panchgani.
So let's explore the unexplored places in Satara City.
How to Reach Satara from Mumbai?
For me, this trip was part of an extended long vacation from the office to explore the unexplored Satara district to the fullest. I took a train from Mumbai to Satara and rented a bike to explore the entire Satara including Panchgani & Mahabaleshwar, Wai, Satara City, Vasota Fort Trek and Koynanagar. Alternatively, you can travel from Mumbai to Pune by train and rent a bike to ride to Satara, which would take around 2-3 hours.
Bus: Satara is easily reachable from Mumbai by bus, with high frequency services mostly departing at night. The journey takes around 5-6 hours to cover the 250 km distance, making it the preferred mode of travel.
Train: Satara enjoys good rail connectivity with Mumbai, Pune, and other parts of the country.
Private Car: For comfort and group travel, consider a private car. The Mumbai-Satara route via Mumbai-Pune Expressway or NH 4 takes approximately 6-7 hours.
Where should you stay in Satara (Budget Hotel)?
If you prioritize both comfort and environmental sustainability in your travel choices, The Fern Hotel in Satara stands out as an exceptional accommodation option. As a distinguished member of a well-established network of eco-conscious hotels throughout India, The Fern Hotel Satara embodies a harmonious blend of indulgent comfort and eco-friendly practices.
The Fern Hotel Satara, with its commitment to sustainability, mirrors the ethos of its sister properties across India, offering luxury with a green conscience.
Explore The Unexplored Satara City
Char Bhinti Hutatma Smarak
This memorial is dedicated to the brave hearts who laid down their lives for the nation. Perched atop a scenic hill, Char Bhinti Hutatma Smarak offers panoramic views of Satara. The memorial holds both historical significance and emotional weight, much like the India Gate in Delhi, which similarly honours fallen soldiers.
Char Bhinti serves as a silent guardian, reminding us of the sacrifices made for our freedom, much like the iconic India Gate stands tall in New Delhi.
Another story associated with this place is that it was developed by Chhatrapati Pratapsingh Maharaj in 1830 to provide his family with a good view of his arrival in the city.
Dakshin Kashi Shiv Temple
Often referred to as the "Kashi of the South," this temple is a major pilgrimage site. With its ancient architecture and sacred Shiva lingam, the Dakshin Kashi Shiv Temple invites parallels with the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi. Both places are regarded as highly sacred by Hindus and draw large numbers of devotees throughout the year.
Like the timeless Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi, the Dakshin Kashi Shiv Temple stands as a beacon of spirituality in the southern region of Maharashtra.
Shri Uttar Chidambaram Nataraj Mandir
Dedicated to Lord Nataraja, this temple mirrors the Chidambaram Temple in Tamil Nadu. The temple's architectural design and cultural significance link it to the ancient temples of South India. Its intricate carvings and peaceful atmosphere make it a haven for spiritual seekers.
This temple brings the grandeur of Tamil Nadu’s Chidambaram to Maharashtra, providing devotees a glimpse into the divine dance of Lord Nataraja.
Ajinkyatara Fort
A testament to the Maratha Empire's valor, Ajinkyatara Fort is one of the most important historical sites in Satara. With its strategic location and commanding views, this fort played a crucial role during Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's reign. It shares a heritage with other prominent forts in Maharashtra, such as Raigad and Pratapgad.
"Ajinkyatara, much like Raigad Fort, stands as a reminder of the strength and wisdom of the Maratha warriors, with its mighty walls guarding centuries of history."
Sajjangad Fort
Sajjangad Fort was built by the Bahamani Emperors between 13th and 15th century AD. The fort is also known as Asvalayana Rishi’, named after the Rishi who used to live there for an abundant period. It was also called ‘Aswalya gad’ because of the number of bears strolling around. The name of the fort means ‘Fort of good people’.
This particular fort is also known as the spiritual centre of King Shivaji. The popularity of the place can be traced back to its history. It has sheltered and served many rulers.
The Bahmani Kingdoms constructed the fort between (1347-1527), after which the Mughals conquered the fort. Later it was won by Shivaji’s Army in 1663. Samarth Ramdas Swami, a teacher and spiritual guide to Shivaji, spent a considerable span of his latter life in this fort. He was also a poet in the 17th century. As a tribute to his work, there is a temple constructed in the fort; it has attracted tourists as well as devotees since then.
Erected at an elevation of 914 metres the fort has two main gates. The fort covers a vast area of the hill. Being constructed majorly by stone, it comprises of a set of 300 stairs to reach the main door. The sightseeing at this fort also includes a few lakes, a temple devoted to Lord Ram and Lord Hanuman, and another temple dedicated to Anglai Devi. There is also a Math and a Tomb of Swami Samartha Ramdas. The tomb is very amicable and quiet, helping the devotees to practice meditation.
Sajjangad, the final resting place of the saint Samarth Ramdas, is a site of both historical and spiritual importance. It draws parallels with other saintly abodes in India, like the Samadhi Mandir of Sai Baba in Shirdi. The serene surroundings and peaceful ambience make it an ideal spot for reflection and meditation.
The fort consists of many small lakes including the Godade Lake which was built to provide water to horses and other domestic animals.
Sajjangad, like Shirdi, is not just a place to visit but a place to experience spiritual solace.
The fort has remained as a monument, a tourist site as well as a religious place. The fort stands as a symbol of the rich history of India.
Nandgiri Fort
Nandgiri Fort is lesser-known but holds immense historical significance. It offers trekkers a rewarding experience with its scenic views and rich past. Much like the forts in Rajasthan, Nandgiri is an offbeat location that provides a glimpse into the region's history and natural beauty.
Off the beaten path, Nandgiri Fort brings to mind the more remote forts of Rajasthan, where history meets breathtaking landscapes.
Jalmandir Palace
Jalmandir Palace adds a royal touch to the city’s landscape and it's a legacy of Shri Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Currently, it's a private residence of Shri Chatrapati Udayanraje Bhosale (Maratha heir). There is a beautiful garden and Jagdamba Mata Temple inside the palace. This place is not open for visitors or tourists, but on special occassions they do allow.
Dinner @ Hotel 7/12 Satara
This place is more for experiencing the ambience it is completely different from the regular thali hotels. Once you enter through the gate you will notice a different ambience, the entire place is decorated like a village home. The sitting arrangement is fixed build, has options of sitting on the ground level or at chair level. The food here is served on the thali system.
The way of eating and the plates will remind you of old village ways even the hand wash area. For ambience and food, I would rate it 4/5 but for services, I would rate it 1/5.
Goodbye - See You Soon
In conclusion, while Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani may steal the spotlight, Satara is a hidden gem that deserves a place on your travel itinerary. As you explore its historical sites, serene temples, and stunning landscapes, you’ll find that Satara is not just a stopover, but a destination that enriches your journey through India. Embrace the spirit of adventure, and let Satara unveil its treasures to you.
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