When one hears "Ajanta," the world-famous Ajanta Caves immediately come to mind. These caves have such a strong influence on visitors that other historical structures in the region are almost entirely overlooked. One such forgotten structure is the Fardapur Fort (also known as Sarai), located just 2 km from the Ajanta Caves. The word Sarai comes from the Persian word Sarai, meaning a royal rest house or mansion. Situated on the Aurangabad–Jalgaon road, Fardapur was once a significant town. It is about 105 km from Aurangabad and just 3–4 km from Soygaon Phata when coming from Jalgaon. As one crosses Soygaon Phata en route to Aurangabad, the Ajanta hills and the Ghat come into view. At the base of this Ghat lies the village of Fardapur. ... To secure this important pass, two forts were constructed: Ajanta Fort at the top and Fardapur Fort at the bottom of the Ghat. This rectangular fort spreads over approximately 2 acres and features four corner bastions, plus two bastions beside each of its two main gateways—totalling eight bastions. The layout includes two main gates, one postern gate, battlements, and underground stairways leading to the ramparts, arched storage rooms, and other structures— all of which remain in relatively good condition. Built during the Mughal period, the fort reflects strong influences of Mughal architecture. Coming from Aurangabad, after passing the Ajanta Caves, a left turn leads to Fardapur village. Shortly along this road, the gate of the fort (Sarai) appears on the right. Upon entering through this gate, a second gate stands directly ahead. Both gates are about 25 feet tall and feature four prominent pillars at each corner. Guard rooms are situated inside the gates, and storage rooms are built into the ramparts. Remarkably, the wooden doors of both gates are still intact. Each bastion contains internal stairways leading up to the ramparts, but due to encroachments on all but one of the bastions, only the one in the left corner remains accessible. Along the entire perimeter of the ramparts, narrow slits (called jangya) for firing are visible. Walking along the top of the fort offers a view of its structural details and interior remnants, including a mosque at the centre. Unfortunately, large-scale encroachments have affected the entire fort. A school now operates inside the storage rooms within the ramparts, and the fort’s original well has been filled in. While the exact history of the fort remains unknown, locals believe it was constructed during the reign of Aurangzeb. Visitors to the Ajanta Caves can easily include a quick stop at this nearby fort. A fine example of medieval architecture, Fardapur Fort is certainly worth seeing at least once. A full tour of the fort takes about half an hour.
© Suresh Nimbalkar