Stretching for over 1600 km from Gujarat to
Kanyakumari, the Sahyadri mountain range is a trekker’s haven with its rugged
topography, majestic hill forts, ancient temples, expansive forests and
picturesque lakes.
Sahyadris, or the
Western Ghats, have been proclaimed as one of the ten ‘hottest biodiversity
hotspots’ in the world. They offer numerous destinations and a wide range of
outdoor adventure activities to nature enthusiasts and those seeking adventure.
Since Sahyadri is not the archetypal mountain range, its highest peaks
including Anaimudi in Tamil Nadu (at 2695 meters) and Kalsubai in Maharashtra (at 1200 meters) are formidable yet approachable even for the
amateurs.
It is because of its geography and easy
accessibility that Sahyadris boast of over 200 hill forts, more than 50
splendid ancient caves and several religious centres in Maharashtra alone. The
combination of revisiting history amongst splendid backdrop of hills, valleys
and forests attracts many fun loving enthusiasts to
famous trekking locations located in Maharashtra.
1. Ratangad :
Located in the Igatpuri region, the majestic Ratangad fort is a feast for the
eyes because of its scenic surroundings of forests, caves and numerous water
reservoirs including the spectacular man made umbrella falls. It offers
breathtaking views of Kalsubai, the highest peak of Western Ghats. Even the
Kalsubhai mountain offers an interesting and not very difficult trekking trail
to the trekkers. Shirpunja Bhairavgarh is a small mountain on the way with
interesting caves on the top and is worshipped by the tribal people.
2. Harishchandragad :
Harishchandragad, in the Junnar region, is one of the most popular treks in
Maharashtra for its indescribable charm and beauty. The ruined fortifications
and Brahmanic caves add mystique to the hike route.
Taramati peak,
which is the highest amongst the three peaks of Rohidas, Taramati and
Harishchandra, offers picturesque views of the Naneghat Range, various forts
and other beautiful places including Ratangad, Kalsubai and Malshej Ghat.
The
Harishchandragad Fort, from the medieval period, is one of the best forts to
trek and is known for its strength, inscrutability and the prominent rock-cut
face called ‘Konkan Kada’ at a height of 3,500 feet. This spectacular
cliff, which is an overhang like a cobra’s hood, is a challenge for the
trekkers and is one of the most interesting highlights of the trek.
Harishchandra
Temple in the fort, which has a beautiful Nandi idol, is another high point of
the fort. The Kedareshwar cave nearby has a huge Shivling surrounded by cold
water. On their way, trekkers can sometime see wild animals and beautiful
birds including flamingoes.
3. Bhimashankar :
Bhimashankar, located at a height of 3250 feet, is one of the twelve
Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The beautiful temple, built in the Nagara style of
architecture, has a huge bell and is located in Bhorgiri village, 160 km from
Pune. The trek to the hill temple through thick forests of the Bhimashankar
Wildlife Sanctuary and Bhorgag hill fort is a photographer’s delight. The
highest point, called Nag Phani, is nearby and offers picturesque views of
valley.
4. Korigad :
Korigad is an isolated hill near Lonavala which offers beautiful hike
route full of vegetation, flowers and a variety of stones. Dhangad Fort is a
small fort nearby offering a steep climb to the trekkers. Sudhagad Fort along
the way is one of the better conserved forts in Maharashtra. It is said to be a
replica of Raigarh Fort, which was the capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji. The fort
has two beautiful lakes and also offers grand views of nearby forts including
Sarasgad and Dhangad.
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