The Great Escapers

 Harihar Fort, also known as Harshagad, is renowned for its thrilling trek, especially during the monsoon season. Located in the Nashik district of Maharashtra, this fort is famous for its unique rock-cut steps and breathtaking views. Here's everything you need to know about the Harihar Fort trek:

Overview of Harihar Fort

• Location: The fort is situated in the Trimbakeshwar range, about 40 km from Nashik, 120 km from Mumbai, and 130 km from Pune.
• Elevation: The fort stands at an elevation of about 3,676 feet (1,120 meters) above sea level.

Historical Significance

• Maratha Empire: Harihar Fort played a crucial role in the history of the Maratha Empire as a strategic watchtower.
• Yadava Period: The fort's construction dates back to the Yadava dynasty, making it a site of historical importance.

Trekking Experience

• Trail Difficulty: The trek to Harihar Fort is considered moderately difficult due to its steep and narrow rock-cut steps. It requires a good level of fitness and caution, especially during the monsoon.
• Trek Duration: The ascent typically takes around 2 to 3 hours, and the descent takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
• Starting Point: The trek usually starts from Nirgudpada or Harshewadi village.

Unique Features

• Rock-Cut Steps: The most striking feature of the Harihar Fort trek is the nearly vertical, rock-cut steps with notches for handholds. These steps provide an adrenaline-pumping experience.
• Scenic Views: The fort offers panoramic views of the surrounding Sahyadri mountains, lush valleys, and other nearby forts like Brahmagiri, Anjaneri, and Bhaskargad.

Best Time to Visit

• Monsoon Season (June to September): The monsoon season adds a lush green cover to the landscape, making the trek visually stunning. However, the rock-cut steps can be slippery, so extra caution is required.
• Post-Monsoon Season (October to February): The weather is pleasant, and the clear skies offer spectacular views, making it an ideal time for trekking.

How to Reach

• By Road: Harihar Fort is accessible by road from Mumbai, Pune, and Nashik.
  • From Nashik: Drive towards Trimbakeshwar and continue to Nirgudpada village.
  • From Mumbai and Pune: Take the Mumbai-Agra National Highway (NH3) towards Nashik, and then proceed to Trimbakeshwar and Nirgudpada.
• By Public Transport: Buses and trains are available to Nashik. From Nashik, local buses or taxis can be hired to reach the base village.

Preparation and Tips

• Trekking Gear: Wear sturdy trekking shoes with good grip, especially important during the monsoon. Carry a raincoat or poncho, and use a waterproof bag for your belongings.
• Essentials: Pack sufficient water, snacks, a first aid kit, and insect repellent. It's also advisable to carry a rope for added safety on the steep steps.
• Safety: Trek in groups, follow the marked trails, and be extremely cautious on the rock-cut steps. Hiring a local guide can be helpful, especially for first-time trekkers.

Additional Attractions

• Trimbakeshwar Temple: Visit the ancient Trimbakeshwar Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, located nearby.
• Anjaneri Fort: Another trekking destination close to Harihar Fort, known for its mythological significance as the birthplace of Lord Hanuman.

Guidelines and Etiquette

• Respect Nature: Avoid littering, respect the local flora and fauna, and carry back all your waste.
• Local Customs: Be respectful towards the local communities and their customs.

The Thrill of Monsoon Trekking

• Waterfalls and Streams: The monsoon season transforms the region with numerous small waterfalls and streams along the trekking path, enhancing the trekking experience.
• Lush Greenery: The entire trail is surrounded by vibrant green landscapes, offering a refreshing and picturesque environment.

Harihar Fort trek during the monsoon is an adventurous and exhilarating experience, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and adrenaline-pumping challenges.

 Tikona Fort, also known as Vitandgad, is a popular trekking destination in Maharashtra, especially enchanting during the monsoon season. It offers a perfect blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and adventure, making it a favored spot for trekkers near Mumbai and Pune.

Overview of Tikona Fort

• Location: Tikona Fort is situated in the Maval region of the Pune district, about 60 km from Pune and 120 km from Mumbai.
• Elevation: The fort stands at an elevation of about 3,500 feet (1,066 meters) above sea level.

Historical Significance

• Maratha Empire: Tikona Fort holds historical importance as it was a strategic military fort during the Maratha Empire.
• Peshwa Period: The fort was used by the Peshwas for military and administrative purposes.

Trekking Experience

• Trail Difficulty: The trek to Tikona Fort is considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for beginners and families.
• Trek Duration: The ascent typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, and the descent takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
• Starting Point: The trek starts from Tikona Peth village, where you can park your vehicle and begin the journey on foot.

Scenic Beauty

• Views: The trek offers panoramic views of the surrounding Sahyadri mountains, Pawna Lake, and the nearby forts of Tung, Lohagad, and Visapur.
• Flora and Fauna: During the monsoon, the trail is lush with greenery, wildflowers, and vibrant landscapes.
• Tikona Caves: The fort features ancient caves, water tanks, and a temple dedicated to Trimbakeshwar Mahadev.

Best Time to Visit

• Monsoon Season (June to September): This is the most popular time to visit Tikona Fort. The rains bring the landscape to life with lush greenery, making the trek more enjoyable.
• Post-Monsoon Season (October to February): The weather is pleasant, and the views are clear, making it a great time for trekking and photography.

How to Reach

• By Road: Tikona Fort is accessible by road from both Mumbai and Pune.
  • From Pune: Take the Pune-Mumbai Expressway, exit at Kamshet, and follow local roads to Tikona Peth village.
  • From Mumbai: Take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, exit at Lonavala, and follow local roads to Tikona Peth village.
• By Public Transport: Buses and trains are available to Lonavala or Kamshet, from where you can hire a local taxi or take a bus to Tikona Peth village.

Preparation and Tips

• Trekking Gear: Wear sturdy trekking shoes with good grip, especially during the monsoon. Carry a raincoat or poncho if visiting during the rainy season.
• Essentials: Pack sufficient water, snacks, a first aid kit, and insect repellent.
• Safety: Trek in groups, follow the marked trails, and be cautious of slippery paths during the monsoon.
• Guide: Hiring a local guide can enhance the trekking experience and ensure safety.

Additional Attractions

• Pawna Lake: After the trek, you can visit Pawna Lake for some relaxation, boating, or camping.
• Nearby Forts: Explore other nearby forts such as Tung, Lohagad, and Visapur for a more comprehensive trekking experience.

Guidelines and Etiquette

• Respect Nature: Avoid littering, respect the local flora and fauna, and carry back all your waste.
• Local Customs: Be respectful towards the local communities and their customs.

Tikona Fort offers a rewarding trekking experience with its manageable trail, historical significance, and stunning views. The monsoon season, in particular, enhances the beauty of the trek, making it a memorable adventure for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. 

 Kalsubai is the highest peak in Maharashtra, rising to an elevation of 1,646 meters (5,400 feet) above sea level. It is part of the Sahyadri mountain range in the Western Ghats and is a popular destination for trekkers and nature enthusiasts. Here are the key details about Kalsubai:

Historical and Cultural Significance

• Kalsubai Temple: At the summit, there is a small temple dedicated to the local deity Kalsubai. The temple is an important pilgrimage site, especially during the Navratri festival.
• Local Legends: The peak is named after a woman named Kalsubai, who, according to legend, fled to the peak to escape social persecution. The temple at the summit was built in her honor.

Trekking Experience

• Trail Difficulty: The trek to Kalsubai is moderately difficult, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. The trail features steep ascents, rocky paths, and iron ladders installed at challenging points.
• Trek Duration: The ascent usually takes around 3 to 4 hours, while the descent takes about 2 to 3 hours.
• Starting Points: The most common starting points for the trek are the villages of Bari and Indore. Bari is the more popular starting point due to its better accessibility.

Scenic Beauty and Attractions

• Panoramic Views: The summit offers stunning views of the surrounding Sahyadri mountain range, including peaks like Alang, Madan, and Kulang.
• Flora and Fauna: The region is rich in biodiversity, with lush greenery, wildflowers, and various species of birds and butterflies, especially during the monsoon season.
• Waterfalls and Streams: During the monsoon, the region is adorned with numerous waterfalls and streams, adding to the trek's appeal.

Best Time to Visit

• Monsoon Season (June to September): This is the most popular time for trekking, as the landscape is lush and vibrant. However, be prepared for slippery trails and heavy rainfall.
• Post-Monsoon Season (October to February): This period offers pleasant weather and clear skies, making it ideal for panoramic views and photography.

Preparation and Tips

• Gear: Wear sturdy trekking shoes, carry rain gear if visiting during the monsoon, and pack sufficient water and snacks.
• Fitness: Ensure you are in good physical condition, as the trek involves steep climbs and can be strenuous.
• Guides: Hiring a local guide can be helpful, especially if you are unfamiliar with the trail.

How to Reach

• By Road: Kalsubai is well-connected by road. Regular buses and private vehicles are available from major cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Nashik to the base villages of Bari or Indore.
• By Rail: The nearest railway station is Igatpuri. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to the base village.

Additional Tips

• Safety: Trek in groups and avoid trekking during heavy rain or foggy conditions to ensure safety.
• Respect Nature: Carry back all your waste, respect local customs, and avoid disturbing the wildlife.

Kalsubai offers a rewarding trekking experience with its challenging trails, cultural significance, and breathtaking natural beauty. It is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the highest peak of Maharashtra.

 Lonavala, a popular hill station in Maharashtra, India, is especially enchanting during the monsoon season. The rains bring lush greenery, flowing waterfalls, and misty landscapes, making it a perfect getaway. Here are ten must-visit places in Lonavala during the monsoon:

1. Bhushi Dam

• Description: A popular spot where visitors can enjoy the overflow of the dam, creating a natural waterfall.
• Activities: Relaxing in the cascading water, picnicking.

2. Tiger's Leap (Tiger Point)

• Description: A cliff-top with a drop resembling a tiger leaping into the valley.
• Activities: Scenic views, photography, enjoying the mist and fog.

3. Rajmachi Point

• Description: Offers a panoramic view of Rajmachi Fort and the surrounding valley.
• Activities: Trekking, photography, enjoying the verdant landscape.

4. Lonavala Lake

• Description: A serene lake that fills up during the monsoon, surrounded by greenery.
• Activities: Boating, relaxing by the lakeside, picnicking.

5. Kune Waterfalls

• Description: One of the highest waterfalls in Maharashtra, cascading down in three tiers.
• Activities: Viewing the waterfall, nature walks, photography.

6. Karla and Bhaja Caves

• Description: Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves with intricate carvings and stupas.
• Activities: Exploring the caves, learning about history, trekking.

7. Pawna Lake

• Description: An artificial lake popular for camping and scenic views.
• Activities: Camping, boating, relaxing by the lake.

8. Lohagad Fort

• Description: A historic fort with well-preserved structures and panoramic views.
• Activities: Trekking, exploring the fort, photography.

9. Duke's Nose (Nagphani)

• Description: A cliff resembling the shape of a snake’s hood, offering breathtaking views.
• Activities: Trekking, rock climbing, enjoying the view.

10. Visapur Fort

• Description: A large fort adjacent to Lohagad Fort with ruins and scenic vistas.
• Activities: Trekking, exploring historical structures, enjoying the monsoon greenery.

Tips for Visiting Lonavala in Monsoon

• Travel Preparedness: Carry rain gear, wear sturdy shoes, and be cautious of slippery paths.
• Health and Safety: Stay hydrated, carry insect repellent, and be mindful of leeches in some areas.
• Timing: Start your day early to make the most of daylight and avoid afternoon fog and mist.

Lonavala transforms into a lush paradise during the monsoon, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers, trekkers, and those looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.

 Dategad Fort... Its known as Sundergad Fort.

Dategad Fort (Marathi: दातेगड) is a small fort located 75 kilometres (47 mi) South of Satara, in the Maharashtra state of India. This fort can be visited in a day from Satara. The nearest town is Patan. The base village is Tolewadi from where an easy trek of 45 minutes leads to the entrance of the fort.

The Patankars were the Deshmukhs under the Marathas of the whole surrounding district and had charge of Dategad fort.[1] The fort was under the control of Maratha dynasty before the fort was taken into control by Captain Grant in May 1818.

The fort is located on a high tableland with escarpments on all the sides. The scarp is about 30 feet high. There is an entrance gate to enter the table land. One has to climb 20 steps to reach the top of the fort. The fort is spread over an area of 3 acres. There are 10 feet tall idols of Lord Hanuman and Lord Ganapati on the fort. There is a Shivalinga carved in the laterite stone near the well. The well is 100 feet deep cut in the laterite rock. There are two large water tanks on the fort.

 Ramsej or Ramshej Fort (Ramshej - Rama's bed)(Marathi: रामशेज किल्ला) is a small fort located 10 kilometres (6.2 mi) north-west of Nashik, in the Indian state of Maharashtra. It is believed that Lord Rama stayed in the fort for a short time when he travelled to Sri Lanka. The fort can be visited during the day, and is located on the busy Nashik-Vapi route.

किल्ल्याचा इतिहास

नाशिक-पेठ रस्त्यावर पंचवटीपासून १० किलोमीटर अंतरावर रामशेज किल्ला आहे. रामशेज इतर किल्ल्यांप्रमाणे दऱ्याखोऱ्यांत, जंगलात अथवा खूप उंचीवर नाही. एका सपाट आणि मोकळ्या मैदानावर त्याने आपले बलदंड शरीर झोकून दिले आहे. प्रभू श्रीराम या किल्ल्यावर विश्रांतीला यायचे, म्हणून या डोंगराला रामशेज म्हटले जाते, अशी अख्यायिका आहे. रामशेजचे वैशिष्ट्य असे की, तो कोणत्याही बाजूने सहज चढता येतो अन्‌ तोही अगदी तासाभरात. किल्ल्याजवळच राम मंदिर आहे. तेथे राम, सीता, लक्ष्मण व हनुमानाच्या मूर्ती आहेत. पाण्याचे कुंड आणि एक बोगदाही आहे. सीतागुंफेतून रामशेजला जाण्यासाठी बोगदा असल्याचेही म्हटले जाते. मात्र, सध्या तो बंद आहे.

रामशेज किल्ल्यात प्रवेश करण्यापूर्वी राम मंदिरावरील एक शिलालेख नक्की पहा. रामशेजचा इतिहास अत्यंत रोचक आहे. शिवकाळानंतर महाराष्ट्रावर मोगलांची आक्रमणे वाढू लागली. मराठा साम्राज्य काबीज करण्यासाठी छत्रपती शिवाजी महाराजांच्या मृत्यूनंतर औरंगजेबाने आखलेल्या पहिल्या मोहिमेत रामशेज या छोट्याशा किल्ल्याचाही समावेश होता. यावरून हा किल्ला मोगलांसाठी किती महत्त्वाचा असेल हे लक्षात येते. औरंगजेबाचा सरदार शहाबुद्दीन खानाने १६८२ मध्ये रामशेज मिळविण्याचे जोरदार प्रयत्न केले, पण तो अपयशी ठरला.रामशेजवर यावेळी अवघ्या सहाशे मावळ्यांनी किल्ला लढवला.

यावेळी शहाबुद्दीन खानाने हल्ल्यासाठी रामशेजच्या उंचीचा लाकडी बुरूज (धमधमा) तयार केला. महाराष्ट्रातील युद्धतंत्रात हा अजब प्रकार पहिल्यांदा पहायला मिळाला. धमधम्यावरून तोफांचा मारा करूनही रामशेज झुकेना. रामशेजवरून होणाऱ्या दगडांच्या वर्षावामुळे शहाबुद्दीनखानाचे मोगल अधिकारी मारले जात होते. दुसरीकडे छत्रपती संभाजी राजांनी रामशेजच्या मदतीसाठी सैन्य पाठवून किल्ल्याभोवतीचा वेढा तोडण्याचे तंत्र अवलंबले होते. औरंगजेबाच्या अनेक सरदारांनी राजशेज मिळविण्यासाठी धडपड केली. पण १६८४ पर्यंत रामशेज हलला नाही. अखेर रामशेजचा वेढा सुटला. संभाजी महाराजांनी रामशेजच्या किल्लेदाराला चिलखत पोषाख, रत्नजडित कडे आणि नगद देऊन कौतुक केले. त्यानंतर रामशेजवर आलेला नवा किल्लेदार फितुर झाला अन् १६८७ मध्ये रामशेज औरंगजेबाच्या ताब्यात गेला. राजशेज किल्ला सहा वर्षे झुंजत होता. त्यामुळे हा किल्ला अनुभवताना हा इतिहास मनात साठवणे हा एक थरार ठरतो.

Ramsej Fort was used in the fight against the Mughal Empire that lasted for six and a half years.[2] The fort's first Killedar (Fort commander) was Suryaji Jadhav, but he was transferred after five and a half years and a new Killedar was soon appointed, as per the rotation policy of the Maratha Empire. In 1682 Aurangzeb sent Sahabuddin Khan to conquer the fort. Shahbuddin Khan, with his 40,000 man army and strong artillery, vowed to capture the fort within a few hours, but the 600 Maratha soldiers in the fort held their posts and pushed the forces back for many months with a fierce array of slingshots, lit haystacks, and huge stones - even though there were no cannons in the fort. Mughal artillery managed to break the fort walls in the evening. They assumed that the fort would be captured easily. However, all 600 Marathas on the fort worked for the full night to rebuild the entire broken section of the wall, much to the despair and awe of the Mughals.

The inability of the artillery to capture the fort made Aurangzeb very frustrated and uneasy. He raised a wooden platform to storm the fort. Marathas were amazing planners, and Shivaji and his son Sambhaji had a policy of keeping a healthy supply of ammunition in the fort, even though it had no cannons or guns. Ramsej was no exception and, even though it did not have cannons, the fort had sufficient ammunition. The Fort Commander came up with the idea to use amply-available animal skin and wood to make wooden cannons. Coupled with the ammunition already available in the fort, these wooden cannons inflicted heavy damage to the Mughal army. The retaliation from the Marathas was so strong that Aurangzeb left the command to Bahadurkhar Khan Kokaltash and fled to Junnar.

Bahadurkhan also tried to capture the fort by fooling Marathas into believing that the Mughals were preparing for a full-fledged frontal assault, while his real plan was to send 200 of his best troops from the rear side of the fort by climbing the steep cliff. The Maratha commander was aware of the fact and allowed these 200 soldiers to climb the rope. While they were climbing up the rope, he cut the rope and as a result 200 of the best Mughal soldiers fell and died in the valley. Bahadurkhan was distraught and found that Marathas were receiving secret supplies from the nearby forts. He carefully blocked all the paths to nearby Maratha forts. It created a dire shortage of food in the fort. Seeing the situation, Maratha King Sambhaji acted quickly by sending his sardars - Rupaji Bhosle and Manaji - with an 8,000 extra soldiers and more supplies.

They tried to break through the Mughal line but were unable to supply the fort. Sambhaji worried greatly that his fiercely loyal and brave warriors were fighting without food. However, the weather supported the Marathas and due to severe weather conditions, Bahadurkhan relaxed his encirclement for one day. This enabled Rupaji and Manaji to supply the fort with supplies enough for six more months. Bahadurkhan then tried to win the fort with the help of a 'mantrik' believing that the Marathas had ghosts under their control.

The Marathas again fooled him as the Mantrik was himself as a Maratha soldier in disguise who led the Mughal army to a deadly ambush of the Marathas. Bahadurkhan and Mughals fled the deadly ambush and several Mughals were killed in this surprise attack. Bahadurkhan was unable to siege the fort. Finally, he burnt the wooden platform and left the battle. Aurangzeb sent Kasim Khan Kirmani to lead the battle and the Mughals conquered Ramshej Fort. Ramsej was one of the forts which surrendered to the British Army in 1818 after the fall of Trymbakgad fort. Captain Briggs reported that there were eight guns, 9 small cannons called jamburasand 21 jingals on the fort.

Photos : Ramshej Fort