Maharashtra is well known for its martial tradition. For hundreds of years Maratha warriors fought off foreign aggression under heavy odds and displayed exemplary courage in the face of terrible reverses. Today, the remnants of old forts amidst the craggy mountains, dense forests and river basins stands testament to the valor of Maratha warriors who put up a defiant and resolute opposition to often superior armies.

These 350 odd forts of the erstwhile Maratha - land have presently become some of the most interesting tourist hot-spots in India. Throughout India, nowhere else you will find a region with so many forts of so different types. While some are precociously hidden in the craggy terrains of the Sahyadri hills, others can be found camouflaged in the forests. Some forts can also be found dotting the coast line.

The forts have stood witness to the tide of time. Its walls and gates still bear the scars of battles that were fought. The influence of foreign powers on these forts too can hardly be denied. Even to this day, the forts reverberate with the valor of the Maratha warriors. Some of the forts that are definitely worth a visit are Bassein, Daulatabad, Gavilgad, Panhala and Raigad.