4 OF THE VERY POPULAR MONSOON TREKS IN MAHARASHTRA – ENJOY THE THRILL OF RAIN-SOAKED ADVENTURES
When the monsoons arrive, the Sahyadris in Maharashtra burst into life, shedding their dusty façade and revealing enchanting shades of green and brown. The lush forests teem with vibrant flora and fauna, creating a captivating spectacle. Amidst these hills, you’ll discover ancient forts that add to the thrill. Maharashtra becomes the ultimate destination for adventure seekers, offering a perfect blend of nature and history. Here are three exhilarating monsoon treks to plan in the brave-hearted city.
Known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse flora and fauna, Maharashtra becomes a haven for trekkers during this time. The heavy rains transform the hills into a lush green paradise, dotted with cascading waterfalls and mist-covered valleys. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a nature enthusiast looking for a memorable experience, Maharashtra offers a plethora of popular monsoon treks that promise adventure, beauty, and a deep connection with nature. Lace up your boots, grab your rain gear, and get ready to explore the stunning trails that come alive during the rainy season.
1. Harishchandragad Trek
Harishchandragad, a hill fort situated in Maharashtra’s Ahmednagar district, offers a captivating trek enriched with historical significance. The temple on the fort dates back to the 6th century, tracing its roots to the Kalachuri dynasty. Nestled in the Western Ghats, this location adds an adventurous charm to the journey. Multiple routes, including Junnar Gate, Sadhale Ghat, Nalichi Wat, and Indore Vaat, allow access to the temple, each offering a unique twist. Sadhale Ghat presents a challenging route for hikers, while Junnar Darwaja rewards with a traverse of seven hills before reaching the Lord Shiva temple. An easier shortcut through dense forests near the citadel of Balekilla is also available. During the monsoon season, Nalichi vaat and Taramati Ghal routes are not recommended, but Khireshwar and Pachnai routes provide equally enjoyable and less risky alternatives. The main highlight of this hill fort is the awe-inspiring Konkan Kada (Konkan cliff), a nearly 1,800 feet high concave fall resembling a cobra’s hood, offering panoramic views. Exercise extreme caution as it can be extremely windy in that area.
2. Rajgad Trek
Known as the “King of the Forts,” Rajgad holds a significant place in Maharashtra’s history as the capital of the Maratha Empire under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This majestic fort is a must-visit during the monsoon season. Located near Gunjavane village, approximately 60 kilometers southwest of Pune, Rajgad offers breathtaking views of the Sahyadri ranges. The trek is considered moderate to difficult, spanning around 15-20 kilometers depending on the chosen route, and takes a full day to complete.
Starting early in the morning is advisable to allow ample time for exploration before sunset. The trek involves climbing steep slopes, navigating rocky terrain, and sometimes passing through dense forests. The best time for the Rajgad Fort Trek is during the winter and post-monsoon seasons, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the surroundings are lush green.
The popular routes to reach the fort are the Pali Village Route and the Gunjavane Route. The Pali Village Route is the most common, taking around three to four hours and encompassing steep slopes and dense forests. The Gunjavane Route offers better views, is less crowded, and takes longer to complete.
Upon reaching the fort, you’ll encounter notable attractions such as the Padmavati Temple, Suvela Machi, Palkhi Darwaza, and the Ganga Sagar Lake in close proximity to the fort. These highlights add to the allure and historical significance of Rajgad Fort.
3. Alang Madan Kulang Trek
Nestled in the serene Ambewadi village, the Alang Madan Kulang hills of the Kalsubai range present one of the most challenging treks in the Sahyadris. This trek involves conquering three forts—Alang, Madan, and Kulang—in close proximity to each other within Maharashtra’s Nashik district. Known for its difficulty, the Alang Madan Kulang Trek requires prior trekking experience and excellent physical fitness.
Throughout the trek, you’ll encounter steep ascents, rappelling down jagged rocks, rock climbing, traversing exposed ridges, and navigating challenging terrain. As you embark on this thrilling journey, marvel at the enchanting crystal formations found in rocks and indulge in light backpacking.
The duration of the AMK Trek typically spans 3 to 4 days, depending on the chosen route and pace. Covering a total distance of approximately 20 to 25 kilometers, it demands careful planning, preparation, and experience. It is crucial to gather up-to-date information and seek guidance from experienced trekkers or local trekking groups before embarking on this challenging expedition.
4. Kalsubai Trek
The Kalsubai Trek is an exhilarating adventure that takes you to the summit of Mount Kalsubai, the highest peak in Maharashtra, India. Located in the Sahyadri Range of the Western Ghats, near the village of Bari, this trek offers breathtaking views and a thrilling experience.
The Kalsubai Trek is considered moderate to difficult, with a total distance of around 13 kilometers. The trail includes steep ascents, rocky terrain, and some challenging sections. However, with proper preparation and a moderate level of fitness, it is achievable for most trekkers.
Along the way, you’ll encounter beautiful landscapes, lush greenery, and refreshing waterfalls during the monsoon season. The highlight of the trek is reaching the summit of Kalsubai, where you can witness panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and nearby forts.
To make the most of your trek, it’s advisable to start early in the morning to avoid the heat and allow sufficient time to reach the summit and return before sunset. The trek usually takes around 5-6 hours to complete, depending on your pace and rest breaks.
As you conquer the Kalsubai Trek, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region and enjoy the sense of achievement that comes with reaching the highest peak in Maharashtra.
