Detailed Description

Location: Malshej Ghat / Ahmednagar
Distance from Mumbai: 210 km
Distance from Pune: 165 km
Trekking Duration: 1 day / 2 day
Trekking Length: 6 hours
Starting point: The fort can be reached by 3 routes via Khireshwar / Belpada / Kothale villages.
Best season: Monsoon and winters
Difficulty: Moderate / Medium
Height: 1435 mt (4710 feet) above sea level

What to see at the fort:

-Kedareshwar Caves
-Konkan Kada
-Taramati peak
-Views of Naneghat and forts near Murbad
-Kedareshwar Temple
-Other Caves

A brief history:

The Harihchandragad 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. According to recent history the fort was in control of the Mughal Empire during the 17th century and was later in control of the British Empire.

Harishchandragad is a beautiful hill fort and a popular trekking destination. The trek here is difficult and long and is not recommended for summers. The best season for Harishchandragad trek is just after monsoons and winters. The most popular base for Harishchandragad trek is the Khireshwar village.

From Khireshwar Harishchandragad trek is about 9 Km long. The trek route to Harishchandragad is via Junnar Darwaza and Tolar Khind. Enroute the Harishchandragad trek one would cross seven hills each offer magnificent views.

The most fascinating spot in Harishchandragad fort is the Konkan Kada. One can have a breathtaking view of the surrounding region from here. Taramati peak is another spot for panoramic view of the valleys and is the second highest peak in Maharashtra. There are a few ancient caves and temples at Harishchandragad fort. The temple of Harishchandreshwar and Kedareshwar Cave is worth a visit.

Routes:

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.

Camping info:

There are several caves at the fort which can be used for overnight camping and can accommodate a 100 people. Trekkers can also carry their own tents and sleeping bags.

Carry plenty of water and food as there is no source of portable water or edible food at the fort or base villages. Collect enough fire wood before night fall as the temperature at night is really low at the top and carry enough warm clothing.

How to reach:

Mumbai to Khireshwar
Mumbai - > Kalyan - > Via NH 222 - > Malshej Ghat - > Khireshwar - > Harishchandragad fort

Mumbai to Pachnai
Mumbai > Ighatpuri > Ghoti -> Bari - > Rajur -> Pachnai village - > Harishchandragad fort

Pune to Khireshwar
Pune -> (NH 50 Nashik Highway) - > Alephata - > Otur - > Khireshwar - > Harishchandragad fort

Pune to Pachnai
Pune - > Alephata - > Sangamner - > Akole -> Rajur -> Pachnai village - > Harishchandragad fort