Harishchandragad Trek | Iconic Sahyadri Fort Trek in Maharashtra

The Harishchandragad Trek is a trek that begins in Tolar Khind and ends in Khireshwar Village. The best time to go on this trek is from August to February, when the greenery is at its peak. There are small shops that sell mineral water and snacks. The only downside is that the trek isn’t very strenuous. The route is mostly flat with some stretches that require some climbing.

You can choose to start your trek from any point, but the best route is from the village of Pachnai. It takes around six hours to complete the trip from beginning to end. The trek begins with a hut in Pachnai, but you can also begin your journey at Khireshwar Village. 

For this trek, you will need trekking shoes, trekking poles, extra socks, and extra clothes. The weather is unpredictable, but you can be certain that it will be a magical experience.

Once you reach the fort, you can spend the night there. If you have the time, you can also take a short walk up to the temple. This is a good opportunity to see the history of Maharashtra. The city is home to many sacred sites. The ancient fort dates back to the Tatvasaar era. The fort also has a number of shrines and holy books.

The fort is surrounded by natural caves. The biggest one is called the Nalichi Vaat, and it is located on the extreme right side of the mountain. The rocky patch is approximately 80 degrees in angle and is meant for the fittest and most experienced trekkers. There are many dhabas along the way to accommodate your party and enjoy the trek. You can also enjoy camping in the fort.

Many beautiful temples can be found along the trek trail. The Pushkarni and Kedareshwar caves are from the 6th century. The Harishchandraeshwar Temple is an outstanding example of the skilled artisans of that time. You will be astonished at the fine art stone carvings.

The Shiv Linga is protected by The Kedareshwar Cave, which is covered with water all year.

Saptateertha Pukarni, a lake east Harishchandraeshwar Temple, was once home to Lord Vishnus. They were originally built in the temple on the bank of the lake, but they were later moved to the caves. These caves are protected and maintained by the government of MH.

It is a perfect destination for trekking in the Sahyadris. There are ancient caves and ancient forts that are worth exploring. You can also learn about the Hindu myths and legends of the area.

The trek is open for all types of trekkers. Beginners can choose from two routes, Pachnai Village and Khireshwar, while pro-takers may prefer a more challenging route. Either way, both routes are scenic. While the journey is challenging, it is also an unforgettable experience for those who enjoy the outdoors. In fact, you’ll be awed by the beauty of this place on the map.

The Harishchandragad fort is located in the state of Maharashtra. This fort is a popular tourist destination, as it has multiple routes to choose from. The hike is easy for beginners, but there are also moderate and challenging treks. A beautiful, lush landscape makes the trek worth the effort. Several waterfalls along the way add to the beauty. You will enjoy fresh air and the sounds of chirping birds.

The fort is a historic site, and the ruins of ancient forts, ramparts, and temples are a highlight of this trek. You can also learn about the history of the fort as you walk through it. As you walk through the fort, you’ll also encounter some fascinating landscapes that are largely unexplored by most people. You’ll be surrounded by stunning views and awe-inspiring vistas as you climb uphill.

The Harishchandragad trek is a scenic and rewarding experience. The trek is steep and has loose rocks. You’ll need sturdy hiking shoes with a good grip. You’ll also need trekking poles. It’s a medium-level hike. The views are spectacular, and you’ll never regret going on this hike. It’s worth the effort. The 240-km journey from Pune to Khireshwar is about five hours.

The fourth highest peak in Maharashtra is Taramati / Taramanchi. It can be found at the Harishchandragad plateau. From here you have a great view of the Naneghat area and Murband.

Best Time for Harishchandragad Trekking

When is the best time to visit Harishchandragad? Winter is the best time to visit Harishchandragad, which has the highest mountain in the world. This season offers beautiful views and pleasant weather. This trek is great all year. If you plan to hike in winter, however, it is best that you visit during the dry season.

Harishchandragad’s best season is the post-monsoon. This is the best time to go trekking. The fort is beautiful in the rainy season. However, the path can be slippery so experienced trekkers are advised to avoid it. The fort has a variety of accommodation and food options. You will also find many caves. You are asked to not litter while you’re in these caves as it could endanger other visitors.

Harishchandragade’s best season is the post-monsoon, which makes it easier and safer to trek. The terrain is still wet and slippery in the rainy season, so you can visit the fort even though it’s not as easy. You can also visit the nearby caves to take beautiful photographs. The fort offers both accommodation and food. Even though you can stay in a cave while hiking, it is important to observe safety regulations.

Highlights of Harishchandragad Trek

Konkan region

The Konkan region of India is a beautiful coastal area that stretches from Thane in the north to Karwar in the south. The area is bordered by the Western Ghats to the east and the Arabian Sea to the west. The coastline is also a popular vacation destination. The region is home to some of the world’s best beaches. It is a great place to visit if you’re visiting the country.

The Kokan coastline is known for its natural beauty. The coast is home to age-old forts and dense forests. The region is also home to the Karnala Bird Sanctuary, which has a unique wildlife population. The beaches are beautiful and there are many places to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. 

A visit to Devgad is a must for the Konkanis, who have a rich history and a thriving economy. In addition to its fort and beaches, Devgad is famous for its Alphonso mangoes. You can also catch the sunrise at Tara Mumbri Beach, which is between Devgad and Kunkeshwar. You can also visit Kunkeshwar, an important pilgrimage center. The town’s silver-sand beach is a great place for sunset watching and sunbathing.

Harishchandreshwar Temple:

The small lake of Harishchandreshwar is a popular tourist spot. Once, a source of potable water, the water is now polluted due to trekkers and garbage. Today, the lake is not potable, but locals swim in it during monsoons and winters. The lake is also home to idols, including one carved into the rock. The temple used to have lakeside idols, but the locals have moved these to caves near the mountain.

The temple is surrounded by a waterfall and a cave. Inside the cave is a massive Shivling. It is surrounded by ice-cold water, and visitors can only enter the cave during the monsoon season. There is a small stream inside the cave that flows out of the waterfall during the rainy season. If you want to get closer to the heavenly body, you can also swim in the icy, bloodless stream.

A small river is located in the nearby town of Aravalli. The water from the spring is believed to have healing properties and is known as the Mangal Ganga. The shrines are situated on a hillside, and the water flows through a stream and a gorge that stretch into the temple. The river is also the source of the city’s drinking water. Its name, Saptathirtha, derives from its seven waters, or sapta (seven), is the name of the awe-inspiring mountainside.

Naneghat region from Taramati peak

The trek starts from Kalyan and passes through Nalasopara, Kalyan, and Junnar. The Naneghat pass was built in the pre-Christian era and is signposted all the way. From Taramati peak, it takes two to three hours to climb the mountain. There is a historical fort in the region, and a ruined monastery at the top.

The Naneghat pass is the 4th highest peak in Maharashtra. The route to Taramati peak is about two kilometers long, two kilometers wide, and 0.5 km long. On the way to the peak, you’ll pass several caves, some of which are used as accommodations. A beautiful view awaits you when you reach the top. The journey is quite challenging, and can be dangerous, but the reward is worth it!

You’ll be rewarded with views of the Naneghat plateau from the top of Taramati peak. The trek ends at Konkan Kada, a pristine lake where you can enjoy beautiful sunsets. While in the area, make sure to visit Kedareshwar cave, which features a huge Shiva Linga surrounded by water. You can also visit the nearby village of Banaskankar, which is home to the famous ruins of an ancient Hindu temple.

The Naneghat peak was once the fort of the local dynasty. In the 18th century, it was captured by Britishers, but its ruins still stand today. Visitors to the peak can see the Kothi pillars, which are huge masses carved out of rock. The largest one is carved in Brahmni script and is decorated with the Devnagri script. On the summit of Naneghat, you can visit the Taramati point, which is 1429 meters high and the highest in the area.

Saptatirtha Pushkarni

A beautiful little lake is located east of Harishchandreshwar Temple. It was once a potable water source. This once-potable source of water is now unusable due to trekkers throwing their trash in it. Also, plastic can’t be destroyed by sunlight so this water has lost its potability. It is unsuitable for drinking as locals swim there during monsoon season. Many lakeside idols were dedicated to Vishnu a few years back at Saptatirtha Pushkarni. These deities are now protected from the elements and tourists by being moved to nearby caves.

Mithology:

Lord Shiva installed a Linga at Saptatirtha Pushkarni after he completed the Archana there. It is the oldest temple in India and the most important one. The temple also contains the idol of Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy, who is said to be the ‘Kshetra Palaka’. In the vicinity, there is a well in the shape of a stringed bow, called Rudra Tirtha.

Many caves can be found throughout the fort. Some caves are used as accommodation, while others are well maintained.

Kedareshwar Cave

The sanctity of the Kedareshwar Cave temple is unique and can’t be missed on a trip to Maharashtra. The temple is located inside a gigantic rock, and it is surrounded by four pillars. Each day, water seeps into the temple from its two entrances. The water is cold and continues to rise to waist level during the rainy season. Visitors can also stay in tents rented by local villagers.

The Kedareshwar Cave is a popular Hindu pilgrimage site in Maharashtra. It is located right next to the Kedareshwar temple, and the big Shivlinga is located inside. The water inside the cave is waist-deep, ice-cold, and contains several sculptures. Though the cave is accessible to tourists at all times, it’s best to avoid visiting it during monsoon season.

During the monsoon season, the water inside the cave turns fresh and luke-cold, making it ideal for bathing. The five-foot-tall Shiva linga is located in the center of the cave, and the surrounding water seeps in at the end of each Yuga. The chilly water inside the cave is a perfect setting for a relaxing visit to the temple. The temple is open from 6 AM to 8 PM, and is best visited between January and March. It is best not to visit the cave during monsoon season because the cave is very slippery during this time.

Caves on Harishchandragad

Harishchandragad fort has nine caves surrounding a Shiva Linga, one of which is knee-deep cold water. The river Mangal Ganga is believed to have originated from this cave. There are four pillars surrounding the Shiva Linga, three of which are broken. They are said to represent the four ‘Yugas’ and each pillar represents a different ‘Yuga’.

The most popular attraction of the Harishchandragad fort is the huge Shiva Linga, which is believed to be around 40 meters high. This sacred shrine is surrounded by four pillars that are said to represent the four ‘Yugas’ of life. The cliffs are approximately a mile long and a half, so it is a challenging trek. However, it is worth it for the spectacular views and lush greenery that you will enjoy while you’re there.

The Caves on Harishchandragaad is an excellent location to watch a sunset. The surrounding area is also home to many temples, and Pushkarni, as well as caves and other natural attractions.

Pachnai Village

Harishchandragad can be reached by following the route from Pachnai Village. The town is about one to two hours drive away. You should remember that there will be multiple bus stops along the way. Public transport is not as reliable so it is best to travel by car. This article will show you how to get to Pachnai Village.

Take a bus from Mumbai to Rajur. Then, take a taxi to Pachnai. You can then take a bus to Khireshwar Village. From here, you can take a bus to Pachnai Village via Kalyan Malhej Ghata. It ends at Alephata. You can take a bus from Pune to Alephata, then continue to the same village.

It is very easy to get to Pachnai Village by bus from Mumbai. Many buses run between Mumbai and Nasik. To get to Pachnai, you can rent a private car. Take the Pune-Khube Phata road, and then get on a bus from Alephata or Khubi Phata. Each city is about two- to three hours away. You will need to travel to Rajur to reach Pachnai Village.

You can also trek from Kothale to Harishchandragad. Although this route is difficult, the view is well worth it. The beautiful Harishchandragad plains can be seen from the fort. You can also camp in the village, and spend the night in a tent. Even if the trip takes longer than expected, it is worth it. Plan your trip to Pachnai Village.

Harishchandgad Trek Detailed Trail Information

There are mainly three trek routes from where you can do trek.

You have many options to reach the top with the versatile Harishchandragad Trek. For beginners, the easiest and fastest trail starts from Pachnai. The picturesque Khireshwar route will suit experienced trekkers.

Walhivale/Belpada Village is the most difficult of all. Three separate routes lead to the Belpada, through Makad Naal and Nalichi Vaat. You can also choose to go through Sadhle Ghat or Bhailghat. These routes should only be chosen by experienced trekkers who are skilled in using equipment such as a rope and a carabiner.

We have mentioned all three trek routes details below.

1: Trek Route through Pachnai easier route to do Harishchandragad Fort Trek

If you have the time, you can trek to Harishchandragad Fort from the Pachnai route. This route is easy and is the most popular among hikers. You can use the Paachnaichi vaat path to reach the fort. This route will take you 2.5 to 3 hours to reach the fort. The route is accessible to people of all ages and physical condition. It is also recommended to hire a guide to accompany you.The trail starts at the Pachnai Village.

It has well-laid metal ladders and railings that will help you get through the tough patches.After an hour, you will reach a large rock wall which can be walked beside with complete ease.

After crossing this patch, take another 15 minutes to reach the plateau that leads you to Harishchandra temple in 20-25 minutes.

From Pune, you need to take the Pune-Alephata road. It will bring you to Sangamner and Alephata, and then take a bus to Pachnai village. From here, you can trek to the foothills of the fort.

To reach the fort from Pune, you can take a bus to Khireshwar Village via the Nalichi Vaat road. The bus from Pune leaves at 4:30 am, and you can take a taxi to Pachnai village in the evening. If you’re traveling by bus, you’ll need to pay a small fee.You can also hike to the Taramati peak.

If you are looking for a beautiful mountain view, you can take the Harishchandragad fort trek from Pachnai.

2: Trek Route through Nalichi Vaat:

The Nalichi Vaat is the challenging route to the fort, but it’s still technically demanding. A seasoned trekker can set up climbing gear for the entire group, setting it up in the base villages. During the climb, the team will encounter several challenging patches. The rocky terrain is steep in places, so you’ll need to take caution. But the views and the adventure are worth the effort. And gets slippery during monsoon season. Because of this, the hike should not be attempted during peak monsoon. 

This is one of the most difficult treks in the Western Ghats. If you’re looking for a tougher adventure, consider the Nalichi Vaat route. This path is characterized by steep, rocky sections. The Pachnai and Khireshwar trails are easy, but both routes will require technical support. If you’re not up for a lengthy trek, you can opt for the Nalichi Vaat route.

The Nalichi Vaat route is the most popular route. It’s an enduring and technical mountaineering journey that offers spectacular views. The mighty Karoli ghat is the most spectacular and dramatic section of the trip. The last 20 feet of the Nalichi Vaat are particularly challenging, so you’ll need to use climbing gear to get there. This stretch of the hike is steep, so you can’t expect a smooth ride.

If you’re looking for a more challenging trek, the Nalichi vaat route is the best choice. This route is considered to be the most challenging of all the routes in the Sahyadri Ranges. This gorge has rocky patches and technical climbing. The river is a bit of a challenge, but it’s not a hard walk.