Every year monsoons brings an amazing natural beauty to the western ghats of Maharashtra.During this time the entire Sahaydri range turns into a trekkers paradise with some beautiful locations like green hills and valleys, lakes, waterfalls, and some adventurous cliffs to explore.

The Sahyadri, with their rugged topography, rocky mountains and pinnacles, historic hill forts, huge lakes and extensive forest region are a virtual paradise for trekking, climbing and camping. The Sahyadris provide a wide choice of outdoor and adventure to all lovers of outdoor life – the trekker, the climber and the nature lover.

Below are the other popular monsoon treks near Mumbai and Pune that will surely bring out the adventurer in you.

Rajgad Fort Trek

Rajgad means ‘The King of Forts’, and is considered as one of the most important forts in Maharashtra as far as the cultural heritage of the state is concerned. The Rajgad fort has an interesting history and was home to Shivaji for over 25 years till he became the Chhatrapati.

Rajgad Fort during monsoon

Rajgad is amongst the most popular trekking destinations near Pune. The majestic fort , offers a panoramic view of the surroundings and the best time to visit the Rajgad fort is just after monsoons, however one would find trekkers at Rajgad fort on weekends all throughout the year.There are 3 ways to reach the top of the fort Via Pali Route, Via Gunjawane Route and Via Bhor Route.

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Shivneri Fort Trek

The fort of Shivneri, is one of the historically important forts of Maharashtra, as it was the birth place of Shivaji Maharaj, who spent the major part of his childhood here. There is a temple of goddess Shivai in the close vicinity of the fort, and Shivaji was named after this goddess.

Trekking Shivneri fort is fairly easy, and there are 2 options for trekkers, one is to trek all the way to the top from the base village, and second take the motor able road half way to the top and start the trek from there. After that there is a series of stairs (400 steps) that lead to the top.

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Pratapgad Fort Trek

Pratapgad fort was built by Shivaji Maharaj, during mid 16th century, in order to defend the banks of Nira and Koyna River, as they were major trade route during that time. But the real reason for the forts popularity was for its famous tussle between Afzal Khan and Shivaji Maharaj, in which Afzal Khan lost his life.

A view of the Pratapgad Fort during Monsoon

Pratapgad fort is not very popular with experienced trekkers but is ideal for first time trekkers who want to get used to trekking forts. There is no specific trekking trail between the woods instead there is a series of 450 plus steps from the base of the fort to the top.Once trekkers reach the top they fill find well preserved fortifications, historic monuments and 360 degree panoramic views of the valley.

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Ratangad Fort

The Ratangad fort is believed to be about 2000 years old. It was initially having a number of naturally formed caves, but gradually over the centuries, its inhabitants built the fort around the natural rock structures. The fort has a rock peak, with a cavity in it at the top, which is called ‘Nedhe’ or ‘Eye of the Needle’.

The Ratangad fort trek is a fairly simple trek, which passes through small fields and thick forests by the Pravara River. The trek is divided into 3 stages; each stage is separated by small plateaus.

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Harishchandragad Fort Trek

The Harishchandragad fort is an ancient fort, with its origins dating back to the 6th century. The caves situated at the fort have ancient temples and carvings of deities, which suggest that the fort belongs to the medieval period. Harishchandragad is a beautiful hill fort, and a popular trekking destination. The trek here is difficult, and long and is not recommended in summers. The best season for Harishchandragad trek is just after monsoons and winters.

There are 3 trekking routes to the fort. One via Khireshwar village, via Nalichi Vaat(This is extremely difficult), via Pachnai village(This is the easiest route).The Khireshwar village route is one of the most preferred routes as it offers scenic views while trekking, but this route is a bit time consuming.

For detailed information on Harishchandragad Fort Trek  PLEASE CLICK HERE

Vasota Fort Trek

According to historians, the Vasota fort was under the Maratha rule, during the 16th century. It was named Vyaghragad(meaning tiger) by Shivaji Maharaj, because of its defensive capability. Later it was in control of the Peshwas (Bajirao Peshwe), only to fall in the hands of the British empire during the 18th century, who bombarded the fort
and destroyed many structures within the fort.

To reach the base of the fort one has to take a boat ride. There are 2 forts here i.e. old and new, the old Vasota is inaccessible and trekking is carried out only at the new Vasota fort. This is a dream trek for every trekker as it offers a thrilling experience of walking through a dense forest full of wild animals and an opportunity to get close to
nature.

For detailed information on  Vasota Fort Trek PLEASE CLICK HERE

 

Kalsubai Peak Trek

Kalsubai, according to local legend, was the name of a tormented daughter-in-law, who ran away to the top of a hill to escape harassment from her in-laws. She is believed to have disappeared here, and the locals built a temple in her memory on the peak’s summit. The hill is named Kalsubai after her.

Kalsubai is the highest peak in Maharashtra, and is one of the most enjoyable treks. The route to the top is well marked, and many trekkers and pilgrims visit to reach the peak, which has a small temple of Kalsubai. During monsoon the peak is like being in heaven, and is covered with fog and has strong winds blowing. But the best time to visit is during September, just after monsoon, when there are thousands of wild flowers blooming everywhere and the climate is just perfect for a trek.

For detailed information on Kalsubai Fort Trek PLEASE CLICK HERE

Jungli Jaigad Trek

There are several forts named Jaigad in Maharashtra. Jungli Jaigad is one of the forts of Jaigad that is surrounded by thick vegetation hence earning its name.

Jangli Jaigad is one of the most interesting jungle treks, where trekkers will get a chance to see a real dense forest. This forest is part of Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary, which is now part of Sahyadri Tiger Reserve. If lucky trekkers will be able to some wild animals and rare birds during the trek.

For detailed information on Jungli Jaigad Trek PLEASE CLICK HERE

Caution: The roads and trails leading to the fort are quite slippery during Monsoon so be careful while venturing on a trek.For more information read: Precautions to be taken during Monsoon trekking.

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