A video from the historic Lohagad Fort is now going viral online. In the clip, a local man is seen scolding a group of tourists from Delhi for allegedly smoking cigarettes inside the fort. The video has sparked a discussion online regarding the smoking rules at ASI-protected monuments. Here’s what the rules say.
Man Confronts Tourists For Smoking At Lohagad Fort
लोहगड वर दिल्लीचे पब्लिक!
महाराष्ट्रातील गड-किल्ल्यांचे पावित्र्य राखण्यासाठी सिगरेट, तंबाखू व मद्यसेवनावर (दारू) पूर्णपणे कायदेशीर मनाई आहे।
हे यांना माहिती नसावं की सिया पॉईंट बघायला आले असावे?#लोहगड pic.twitter.com/50CWQZYpoW— 🇮🇳Bhakta’s Vikas/भक्तांचा विकास (@kisora_pat7606) July 29, 2026
Lohagad Fort is a historic hill fort in Maharashtra and is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). It is located at an elevation of 1,033 metres near Lonavala. The historic site is once again making headlines. According to a video posted on X by @kisora_pat7606, a group of tourists were scolded by a local man for allegedly smoking inside the fort.
The man can be heard telling them, “This is our temple. Why are you smoking here?” The tourists responded by saying that they were not aware of the rules and would not have smoked if they had known about them. The local man angrily rebuked them and asked them to hand over all their cigarettes. He also warned the tourists that he could file a police complaint if they smoked inside the fort again.
Also Read: Why Lohagad Fort Is A Risky Monsoon Trek, And Precautions To Keep In Mind
What Are The Rules at ASI-Protected Monuments?
The viral video has once again sparked a discussion on following basic rules regarding smoking inside historical monuments. According to NDTV, the consumption of tobacco products, gutkha, pan masala, cigarettes, alcohol and other intoxicants is prohibited inside protected monuments. Visitors are also not allowed to carry matches, lighters, candles or other flammable materials.
Preserving historical monuments is the responsibility of every visitor. Individuals found damaging heritage structures or violating rules can face penalties, including a fine of up to ₹1 lakh, imprisonment of up to two years, or both. The viral video has also made many netizens angry. Some commented, “This is not a picnic spot,” while others wrote, “Don’t allow entry to these kinds of people.”
Also Read: No More Waiting! You Can Now Book Online Tickets For India’s Iconic Monuments On District
What do you think of this viral video? Do share your thoughts with us in the comments section below!
Cover Image Courtesy: Lohagad, Wikipedia/Rangan Datta Wiki
FAQs
Where is Lohagad Fort?
Lohagad Fort is located near Lonavala in Maharashtra.