Amruteshwar Temple & Ratangad Fort
About
The 9th-century Amruteshwar Temple at Ratanwadi, an ancient Bhandardara village, is one of the oldest Hemadpanthi stone temples in Maharashtra. It features finely carved exterior sculpture, a stone Shiva lingam, and sits in a mango orchard. The adjacent Ratangad Fort (1,297 m) was one of Shivaji's favourites, reached by a 3-km trek. It offers a distinctive 'needle's eye' rock hole near the summit. Visitors from any local Bhandardara resort, those enjoying Bhandardara camping, or guests exploring the Bhandardara valley, Bhandardara dam, Bhandardara lake, and any local Bhandardara waterfall often visit this stunning site in Bhandardara.
Highlights
What makes this place special
Amruteshwar Sculpture
The 9th-century Hemadpanthi exterior sculpture includes dancers, musicians, and mythological narratives carved in hard black basalt.
Ratangad Needle's Eye
A natural rock arch near the summit of Ratangad Fort remains the classic photographic destination of the region.
Things to Know
- •Temple open daylight hours
- •Free entry
- •Ratangad trek is moderate (3 km one way)
- •Carry water for trek
- •Morning best for both
