Random ramparts- Fort Jadhavgarh,Pune

Drive out at random and if you manage to get away 43 kms from Pune, towards Saswad and just off the main road, you're bound to encounter a vision! A gravelly driveway snaking through guava and fig orchards brings across the horizon a majestic ,solid and almost imperious structure- replete with turrets , stone walls, square windows and the atmosphere of a bygone era.You've reached Fort Jadhavgarh.Dating back to early 1700 this authentic fort has now metamorphosed from a residence to a more generous heritage hotel- kind courtesy of the Orchid group.Not only do the stone flagged stairs lead you to the reception area but also transports you into the times of a Swash buckling musketeers , royal intrigue and out of this world 'adab'!Up another flight carrying the fragrance of pot pourri and perfumed candles for sale at the souveneir shoppee opposite the reception,is a spacious courtyard which tempts you to explore more....There are are self contained, elegantly designed and furnished rooms bordering the verandah,Each with a different equally amazing view and world class excellence. The open to sky showers are a dream and the modern luxuries inside could really give you a pleasant perplexity are you in the present .past or the future?!the restaurant which is a clever mix of ethnic and modern chic, leads out to a cozy balcony , inviting you to settle into one of the most comfortable settees and simply gaze at the greenery,the sunset...stirring experience.IS this the place from where farewells were waved and covert glimpses snatched for a treasure chest of fond memories?Hmmmm.A corridor lined with alcoved windows lures to a deliciously intriguing dungeon...all dark and eerie not to mention cooool!Worth sinning just to get there I tell you! Its now converted into a wine cellar...still..!Placed above is an al fresco bbq and grill area overlooking an inviting swimming pool and out and beyond is the 'Bar under the Bargad'( to be effective a couple of months later!)Cool idea! Up and and above is a two storeyed 'akhada' an authentic wrestling ring with the walls still wearing the frescoes of ancient times- a bit of Ajanta and Ellora here.A short stroll leads to the in house Museum which houses myriad artefacts- old hookahs and chillums, accessories like combs and musical instruments from the tribals around almost 600 yrs old!Amazing, just so.Theres a plaque at the foot of the fort.."Lad Jhagad, Aage Badh" ...soon ,with the ancient amount of parking place, its going to take on a totally real meaning ,I'm sure!!!But its going to be worth it.Perfect getaway .Thanx Mr. V Kamat for making History accessible in such a royal manner!