Natures Trail: Harishchandragad, scenic peak of Maharashtra

As high as you can get

Located at the top of Malshej Ghat, at height of 4710 ft, it takes two day (Mumbai to the base village by road and trekking up from here ) to reach the fort at Harishchandragad. We started our journey from Kalyan, where we boarded a bus at the crack of dawn. On our way, we passed Malshet ghat while on Khubi Phata road. The early morning mist had disappeared, as the sun had made its way through layers of clouds, its rays stroking the damn trees that stood still in the breezy-less morning. The diminishing essence of civilization was a sign we were very close to the base village, Khireshwar.

Khireshwar is flanged by landscapes that symboliyses serenity, harmony and peace. The spectacular view offered me heady mix of scenic landscapes and avenues of adrenaline rush. Standing next to gigantic dense mountains makes you wonder at nature and its creation. You can spend the night at their local school which is open for travelers or can camp as well.

After lounging around, eating mouth-watering food made by villagers and visiting the Nageshwar temple, we decided to start our hike. The say that the journey is the destination and our walk over narrow pebbly road proved just that . From tall , lush greens trees to rainbows and a misty sky, it was a beautiful hike.

From trekking one mountain to another we arrived at the most difficult part of the trek, the rock climbing patch. As the locals had warned us , we took small steps holding on to support rods at strategic spots. Shifting my eyes to the valley down made me realize the great height we had already covered. The splendid view of mountains falling away into the valley, through which we had climbed, and ocean blue sky painted and frozen crystal clouds embracing the heads of mountain peaks soothed all my brain cells. Once we crossed the rocky patch , it was a light trek up the small hills to the top of the mountain. Sweet smelling the air through the narrow stony mountain path, and watching the fort appear bit-by-bit into our line of vision was quite exciting.

The destination at last

The fort displays breathtaking architecture. The ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, atop Harishchandragad, is a spot of tranquility . There is a big Shivlinga inside a huge cave that was built by the Pandavas in medieval period and the roof was earlier supported by four (now,just one) pillars. the cave is surrounded by water that is five feet deep and taking a dip into this water is considered sacred, as people believe the water has sacred healing properties .Close to the temple is the Kedareshwar cave which has a very fascinating history and also offers trekking enthusiasts a place to rest. Travelers hiking up usually camp here during night.

Harischandragad is known for its marvelous beauty, adventurous trek and the most breathe taking view of Konkan Kada ( an overhanging cliff, in a shape of cobra's head). When the air is thick with fog and the clouds are beneath you , makes for a scenic experience. you will forget you city life and worries soaking in this mesmerizing view.

Harishchandragad is a dream trek, one that you should undertake at least once in a lifetime. Throw off the bowlines, sail off the shore, and plan an adventure trip to Harishchandragad as it guarantees a memorabl experience

Twenty years by now you will be more disappointed for the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do, so Explore. Dream. Discover.

Fact File

Location: Harishchandragad, Malshej Ghat, Maharashtra 92 Kms from Kalyan

Height: 4710 ft above sea level

How to get there:

Mumbai - Kalyan - Khubi phata- Khireshwar- Harischandragad

Local transport from Mumbai up to Khubi Phata

Necessity:

Carry enough warm clothes as the temperature decreases at night

Carry enough water while trekking

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