Gavilgad Fort

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Gavilgad Fort is situated near the hill station of Chikhaldara in Amravati district. It is originally constructed by the Hindu rulers. It is located at a height of about 370 ft above sea level. It is believed by historians that Gavilgad Fort is 200-300 years old, although the fort's history is not known till date. Gavlis, who were sovereigns of the shepherd community in the 12th /13th century, constructed the fort. Then it came on the hands of Gond community till the time they were defeated by the Mughals. The fort is at present under the Melghat Tiger Project.

This Fort falls under the Melghat Tiger Project. Situated near Chikhaldara hill station in Amravati district and is presented with the natural beauty by dense forest. The tranquility of the forest today covers the dramatic war of conquering the fort over the years.

This 300 year old fort of Gavilgad has wonderfully carved idols. Built in 12th and 13th century by the Gavils, this fort was later occupied by the Gonds. Gavilgad fort today stands as an evidence of this bloody war. Gavilgad fort is an important place in the great land of Mahabharata. As per an anecdote- the Bhima killed Keechaka here and threw him down the cliff. The city of Chikhaldara got its name from here. It was then recognized as Keechakadara - Chikhaldara is its corruption.

The wall of this fort consists of stone sculptures of elephants, bulls, tigers, lions, and also Hindi, Urdu and Arabic scripts. There are ten cannons made of copper, iron and brass inside the fort. Statues of Hanuman and Shiva are also seen. 10 cannons made of iron; copper and brass are also there inside the fort. The best time to visit Gavilgad fort is October to June. During winter, temperature becomes 5 degree and 39 degree in winter.

Nagpur is the nearest airport, 230 km away, while Amravati is the nearest railway station, 100 km away.