Trav-EL! - Enchanting Sahyadri's & Sinhgad Fort!

Hey from EL The Cook!

Its that time of year when the rains transform the landscape from a dull yellow to a vibrant green!

Pune's hills showcase this ode to green with a spectacular flair! For this weeks Trav-EL we head up high into one of Shivaji Maharaj's Forts, known for its spectacular views and unforgettable cuisine!

Sinhgad Fort or the Lions Fort is roughly 30 kilometers from Pune City. Historically famous for many battles it is strategically perched on an isolated cliff. Given its superb natural protection, it can be accessed only via 2 gates.

During the monsoon, the Fort's visitors are plentiful, so our suggestion is to go on a weekday.

Don't be surprised when you reach the top, you'll be in the midst of clouds.. 

Our culinary journey on the Sinhgad Fort starts with the several shacks located next to the parking lot. With plentiful options, choose a shack that suits you best. We chose Chandu Dhaba, for its spectacular view over the valley!

KANDA BHAJJI

Kanda Bhajji or Onion Bhajjis are Sinhgad Fort's main culinary attraction. Amidst the clouds, crisp, caramelized bhajjis are exactly what you need after that breath-taking trip up the mountain. The crunchy exterior gives way to a soft, sweet center. The flavor is characteristic of the hills, served up with a side of spicy garlic sauce, Kanda Bhajji is truly the taste of Sinhgad.

Coupled best with a steaming hot cup of chai; a heavenly combination!

SMOKED BUFFALO CURD

Next up, we tried something different. We ordered some curd or fresh yogurt. The beauty of these mini yogurt kulhads (mini earthen pots) is that they are smoked! (Who knew?)

For even seasoned Sinhgad goers this was new. The kulhads are placed in a wood fired oven, for the warm temperature to set. The smoke from the oven is surprisingly incorporated into the curds!

Made with fresh buffalo milk, this is the closest thing to mozzarella cheese we've tasted in India! The thick, smoky curd is a wonderment to the palette!  

VEGETARIAN THALI WITH PITLA BAKHRI

A generous lunch awaited us next; another Maharashtrian speciality Pitla with jowari bhakri. Pitla is basically a chick-pea flour gravy with fresh, aromatics such as cumin, chilly and coriander. The locals love eating the gravy with healthy jowari (a grain) chapatis!

Served with sides of spicy,caramelized onion and deliciously rich sprouted beans, its a completely balanced meal with carbs, protein and fat!

Coupled with the super-windy environment, the plate arrives steaming hot, giving you a completely refreshing feel! 

The Enchanting Sahyadri mountains & the lush greenery of the western ghats, usher in the monsoon with fervor! The tropical landscape and the drive up the hill is peaceful and if you're lucky you can spot peacocks en-route.

The cuisine is fresh and unforgettable. The crispy kanda bhajji and smoked buffalo curds are the highlights of our trip! 

With a fort stooped in rich Peshwa and Maratha history, beautiful surroundings and gorgeously fresh food, Sinhgad Fort makes this one of the best Trav-EL's we've had in a while!

EL The Cook recommends spending a day on Sinhgad Fort for some memorable experiences!