Tourist Footfall Jumps At Lohagad Fort As People Want To See Ketan Agarwal Murder Site

Lohagad Fort, one of Maharashtra's most popular trekking destinations, has witnessed a sharp increase in tourist arrivals following the sensational murder case involving Ketan Agarwal. While the centuries-old fort is known for its historical significance and scenic trails, many visitors are now arriving with a different purpose: to see the location where police allege Ketan was pushed into a gorge by his fiancée Siya Goyal and her alleged lover, Chetan Chaudhary.

Visitor Numbers Climb Following Murder Case

Officials said the number of tourists visiting Lohagad Fort, located around 50 km from Pune, has increased by more than 50 per cent since details of the murder case emerged last week.

According to officials, holiday footfall has risen from around 1,000 visitors to nearly 1,500, while weekday attendance has grown from approximately 400 to over 600.

The fort was closed earlier than usual on one of the days to allow investigators to recreate the alleged crime scene. The closure left several tourists waiting outside, while others who had already completed their visit said they had specifically come because of the widely discussed case.

One visitor from Maharashtra said curiosity about the incident had altered his travel plans.

"Actually, we had planned to go trekking at Visapur Fort. But this tragic incident involving Ketan Agrawal has been making news across Maharashtra. So, we wanted to see what actually happened and where it happened. We were curious and wanted to see the actual spot where he was murdered. But since they closed the fort early today, we can't go up anymore," he said.

Another tourist, who had travelled from outside Maharashtra to visit a friend in Pune, shared a similar reason for visiting.

"Because of the recent news, we became even more eager to come to the fort and see what happened," he said.

Visitors Reflect On The Incident

Among those who managed to enter the fort before it was closed was Pratik Bansode, who said conversations throughout the site revolved around the murder investigation.

"I didn't initially plan on coming to Lohagad today. I left this morning, visited another spot and then ended up coming to Lohagad. As soon as I went up, the first thought in my mind was to see the exact spot from where Ketan was pushed by Siya. Many people who are going up right now are looking for that very spot. That is what everyone is discussing, whether it's children or the elderly," he said.

Bansode said visiting the location left him emotional and urged people to be careful in personal relationships.

"When I went to the spot, I felt deep sorrow thinking about what must have gone through that boy's mind when he was pushed. All the dreams he had built for his marriage were shattered in a second when that girl pushed him. I would also like to share a message that people need to stay alert and cautious. They had allegedly tried something similar with Ketan once before, but he survived. Even after that, he trusted her and came here," Bansode added.

Another tourist, Mukesh Mali, echoed the sentiment.

"Even if you love someone, you shouldn't get blinded by it, and should keep your guard up. People need to remain a bit cautious," he said.

Historic Fort Draws Attention For A Different Reason

Lohagad Fort, believed to date back to the 10th century, is closely associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and remains one of Maharashtra's best-known trekking destinations. Recognised as part of a UNESCO-listed heritage landscape, the fort is popular for its relatively easy two to three-hour trek and panoramic views.

However, the recent murder case has shifted public attention away from its historical significance, with many visitors now seeking the exact location linked to the investigation.

How The Murder Investigation Unfolded

According to investigators, Ketan left home on the morning of June 18 and picked up 20-year-old Siya Goyal from Kiwale Bridge on the Pune-Mumbai highway before travelling to Lohagad Fort.

At around 10.45 am, Siya allegedly called Ketan's mother and informed her that he had accidentally fallen into a gorge.

The death was initially treated as an accident. However, Ketan's family later approached the police after becoming suspicious. During the investigation, police allegedly uncovered evidence suggesting Siya and Chetan Chaudhary had been planning the murder for some time. Investigators also claim that an attempt to kill Ketan in a similar manner at the same fort had been made four days before the fatal incident.