The short answer
Udgir Fort: what visitors should know first
Go if you care about Maratha–Nizam history and have a spare day. The fort is open to the public but largely in ruins, so confirm access locally and expect basic facilities.
History and context
The story behind Udgir Fort
Wikipedia says the fort dates to the 12th century and predates the Bahmani period, with an unknown builder. It is named after the saint Udaygiri Rishi. In the 1760 Battle of Udgir, the Marathas under Sadashivrao Bhau defeated the Nizam, and the Treaty of Udgir was signed afterwards.
The Marathas held the fort until 1818, after which it passed to the Nizam under British influence. It is owned by the Government of Maharashtra and is now largely in ruins. A deep tunnel is said to link it with the forts at Bhalki and Bidar, but this is a claim rather than something visitors can see.
Useful facts
Udgir Fort facts at a glance
- Location
- Udgir town, about 65 km from Latur
- Experience type
- Fort and trench walk
- Known for
- 1760 battle and treaty; samadhi of Udaygir Maharaj
- Built
- 12th century; builder unknown
- Trench
- About 12 m deep, around the fort
- Time or schedule
- Open to the public; hours not published
Why it matters
Why Udgir Fort is worth your time
Udgir Fort is tied to one of the turning points of the Maratha–Nizam rivalry. The 1760 Battle of Udgir saw Sadashivrao Bhau's forces defeat the Nizam, and the Treaty of Udgir followed. Standing in the trench and walking the walls helps you picture the ground on which that campaign was fought.
It is also a rare example of a fort with a deep trench, inscriptions and a revered samadhi, all in a small town that sees few visitors. For history enthusiasts, it adds a second chapter to Ausa's Deccan sultanate story.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The deep trench
A trench about 12 m deep rings the fort and is its most striking feature.
- 02
Samadhi of Udaygir Maharaj
The saint's tomb lies about 18 m below ground level, within the fort.
- 03
Battle of Udgir
The 1760 victory of Sadashivrao Bhau over the Nizam gives the fort its place in Maratha history.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Start at the outer trench, which is about 12 m deep and encircles the fort, and walk along its edge to appreciate how formidable it was. Inside, look for the remains of palaces, the Arabic and Persian inscriptions and the samadhi of Udaygir Maharaj, which lies about 18 m below ground level.
The fort is named after the saint Udaygiri Rishi and dates to the 12th century, built by an unknown hand before the Bahmani period. After the Marathas defeated the Nizam here in 1760 under Sadashivrao Bhau, they used it as a base until 1818. In 2022, volunteers cleaning the site found five cannons and many cannonballs, thought to be from the 14th or 15th century.
Go early, carry water and wear sturdy shoes. The fort is now in ruins, so manage expectations and treat it as a history walk rather than a polished monument. Hills nearby hold old observation points built of white clay.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Confirm access locally before you travel
- Wear shoes with grip and carry water
- Start early to avoid heat
- Allow time for the long drive from Latur
- Take care near the trench edges
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Udgir town, Latur district, about 65 km from Latur and 1.5 km from Udgir railway station
- Time needed
- 1.5 to 2 hours
- Best time
- October to February, morning
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- The paths are uneven and the samadhi lies far below ground level, which involves steps. Shade and seating are limited. Older visitors may prefer to see the outer walls and trench.
- Tickets and access
- Wikipedia lists the fort as open to the public. Fees and hours are not published; check locally.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Udgir Fort
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The paths are uneven and the samadhi lies far below ground level, which involves steps. Shade and seating are limited. Older visitors may prefer to see the outer walls and trench.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
How far is Udgir Fort from Latur?
About 65 km by road. Udgir has a railway station about 1.5 km from the fort.
What happened at Udgir in 1760?
The Marathas under Sadashivrao Bhau defeated the Nizam in the Battle of Udgir, after which the Treaty of Udgir was signed.
Is the fort open to visitors?
Yes, it is open to the public but is largely ruined. Fees and hours are not published.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.