Embark On Exciting Treks in Maharashtra To Explore These Gorgeous Forts!

The 14th-century Karnala fort is the place to go if you’re looking to rejuvenate amidst nature steeped in history. Be ready to be greeted by songbirds like the paradise flycatcher and magpie robin, as you enter the Karnala Bird Sanctuary. Take your pick from the well-defined, motorable trail and the rocky track encircling the sanctuary while climbing uphill. Make sure to visit the Pandu Tower, a 125ft basalt tower at the centre of the higher level of the fort, shaped like a thumb, was once the watchtower of the fort.

Highest point: 1,500ft

Best time to visit: June to April

Duration: 1 day

2. Peb (Vikatgad) Fort Trek, Matheran

A lesser-known trekking destination, Peb or Vikatgad Fort is located next to Matheran, ideal for those looking for a quiet getaway. A trekking delight for beginners, the trail follows a straightforward route with monkeys to guide the way. The cave on the fort provides panoramic views of the Matheran range. You can also discover the hills at night while you camp out in the caves.

Highest point: 2,050ft

Best time to visit: July to September

Duration: 1 day

3. Duke’s Nose Trek, Khandala

This popular trek destination bearing resemblance to the Duke of Wellington’s sharp nose, has a steep cliff with a flat top that makes for a beautiful vantage point. There are two routes to get to the top- the smaller route beginning at Khandala station and another from Kurvande village, which is around four hours long. Irrespective of choosing any route, you are guaranteed panoramic views of Khandala and the Sahyadri peaks. While you take in the misty hills, you could add a little more thrill to the adventure by rappelling and rock climbing down. In October, you can take part in the slack lining festival too!

Highest point: 3,200ft

Best time to visit: July to September

Duration: 2-4 hours

4. Mahuli Fort Trek, Pune

Although the trail to Mahuli Fort may seem daunting because of its massive height, it is, in fact, pretty easy! Right near the temple that lies at the base of the hill is a well-laid-out and marked path that leads you straight to the top of the mountain. Throughout the trail, you will see lush green meadows, so beautiful that it looks like a painting! Go here during monsoon and you are in for a magical treat as the plants and trees light up in bright green thanks to the monsoon rainfall.

Highest point: 2,815 ft

Best time to visit: June to September

Duration: 1 day

5. Hatgad Fort Trek, Nashik

One of the lesser known trekking routes on the Gujarat-Maharashtra border, a trip to Hatgad Fort is a must, especially if you are visiting the hill station of Saputara in Gujarat. You'll find yourself amidst the ruins of a 300-year-old fort, perched on a hilltop, with a breathtaking mix of nature's wonders, thrilling waterfalls, colorful blooms, and a dash of history!

Highest point: 3,600 ft

Best time to visit: June to September

Duration: 2-3 hours

Also read: This Gorgeous Trek Trail To A Fort On The Gujarat-Maharashtra Border Will Leave You Speechless!

Difficulty Level: Medium

6. Kalsubai Peak Trek, Igatpuri

The highest peak in Maharashtra, Kalsubai is perhaps the most famous trekking spot in the state! The adventure to the summit hidden in clouds is divided into two sections. The first section through the farmlands is quite laid back with the exception of a few rocky patches and the second section consists of a steep ascent, facilitated by steel railings and ladders. The peak introduces you to a new vista at every turn. Many pitch a tent at the top of the hill to gaze at the stars overnight and catch the sunrise at dawn.

Highest point: 5,400ft

Best time to visit: June to August

Duration: 6 hours

7. Ratangad Fort Trek, Ahmednagar

If you’re craving more adventure after scaling up Kalsubai, you could venture to the jewel of the Sahyadris, Ratangad! A fort on the Kalsubai ranges, at the bank of the Bhandardara river, Ratangad is nearly 400 years old with two caves, four gates and a natural rock peak called ‘Eye of the Needle’ for visitors to explore. The trail is mostly flat with slight ascents and occasional narrow spurs. The flowers surrounding the fort are a sight for sore eyes.

Highest point: 4,255ft

Best time to visit: June to September/October to December

Duration: 1 day

8. Sudhagad Fort Trek, Pali

Trekking up this secluded hill fort would make for a memorable getaway for beginners and amateur hikers alike. Start your way upwards on the well-defined tar roads that lead to a stone walkway. As soon as the walkway ends, you reach a temple with a tall tower in its courtyard. What pulls most people on this trek is the main gate or the Mahadarwaja, and the lakes nearby.

Highest point: 5,175ft

Best time to visit: June to September

Duration: 2 days

9. Takmak Fort Trek, Palghar

During the monsoon, from vibrant rice paddy fields to meadows of starflowers in full bloom, you can find a piece of natural beauty every step of the way to the 12-century fort. Broken pieces of the Takmak Fort provide tidbits of history along the path too. But make sure to make your expedition with a guide as the windy trails make people lose their way. This trek would require some training beforehand, as the ridges at the end are narrow with loose boulders that can be challenging to climb.

Highest point: 2,000ft

Best time to visit: June to September

Duration: 1 day

Difficulty Level: Hard

10. Harihar Fort Trek, Nashik

Built in an extremely unique location on a triangular prism rock with a vertical inclination of 90°, the Harihar Fort contributes to its challenge. In order to reach the fort, you are required to ascend 117 stairs, walk below an overhang with a sheer drop and climb up another narrow staircase. At the entrance, you will see the plateau with a small raised level. The plateau includes small idols of Lords Hanuman, Shiva and Nandi and a quaint pond. Getting to the higher level, we come across a two-room palace that can accommodate approximately 12 people. This palace may not be in its best form but the 360° view of the Sahyadri range peaks makes up for it. Don’t forget to also visit the ‘Scottish Kada’, one of the vertical drops, named after Doug Scott, the mountaineer who first climbed it.

Highest point: 3,676ft

Best time to visit: June to August

Duration: 2 days

11. Salher Fort, Nashik

The most celebrated forts of the Maratha Empire and the second-highest peak in Maharashtra, the pyramid-shaped Salher fort can be scaled from one of three villages: Waghambe, Salher or Maldar. The trails are slippery and the carved steps are tricky to climb but the trek makes for a memorable adventure. The Salher even has a twin fort right across called the Salota Fort. The two are separated by a saddle (the low point between two peaks). The highest point of the summit has a Parshuram temple.

Highest point: 5,140ft

Best time to visit: August to February

Duration: 2 days

12. Torna Fort Trek, Pune

The Torna Fort, originally known as Prachandagad, has a rich history attached to it: It was the first fort captured by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at the age of 16. Look forward to crossing many streams and ridges on the exhilarating and demanding trek to Torna Fort. As you exert yourselves on the upward path, vast meadows of bright, yellow flowers offer some respite. Make sure to reach the top early so you get enough time to soak in views of the surrounding forts and dams. The rules suggest you leave by 5 pm. On your way back, you can treat yourself to lip-smacking Maharashtrian food at the Velhe Village at the base.

Highest point: 4,603ft

Best time to visit: August to February

Duration: 2 days

13. Jivdhan Fort Trek, Pune

Perched near the town of Ghatghar in Pune, the hill fortress of Jivdhan has challenged trekkers in more ways than one. When you embark on this trail, you would need to have a guide to navigate through the jungle and appropriate climbing equipment to make the steep climb to the pinnacle. Less experienced climbers would have to make their way to the Kalyan gate to use the carved rock steps with hooks attached to the walls to assist the climb. The fort comprises unexplored storage units, water tanks and cisterns, and offers compelling views of Harishchandragad, Chavaand, Ratangad, Naneghat forts.

Highest point: 3,757ft

Best time to visit: August to February

Duration: 2 days

Caution and preparation are essential, but the thrill, sense of achievement, and breathtaking views make these treks truly unforgettable for the intrepid explorers! So, this monsoonwhich of these fort treks are you planning to go?

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