Harihar Fort Trek
Harihar Fort Trek
| Region: | Maharashtra – Harshewadi, Igatpuri |
| Duration: | 1 Day |
| Trek grade: | Easy – Moderate |
| Maximum altitude: | 3,676 ft |
| Best Time for Treks: | June to February |
A Harihar Fort Trek is a great way to explore the ancient fortress of the town. The fort is located on a 90-degree vertical incline and is virtually impregnable. Getting inside it is not easy; you must climb a steep rock staircase, which has 117 steps. The staircase also features niches to hold onto, allowing you to take your time and not trip.
There are two bases for this Harihar Fort Trek. The first base village is Nirug Pada, which is 40 km from Nashik city. This fort was built in the 12th century and looked over the Gonda Ghat trade route. The 60-meter-high pinnacle is a popular spot, and the rock-cut steps to make the fort easy to access and perfect for adventurers. There is plenty of fun to be had on this trespass.
On the first base, you’ll see a small shop and a dhaba. Along the way to the fort, you’ll see small streams and a few dhabas. It’s a challenging trek, so be prepared for it. During the monsoon season, it’s especially difficult to see the arrow marks. You’ll need a GPS device to help navigate the route. There are no camping restrictions, but you must have a good sense of balance.
You’ll be greeted by small villages, shops, and dhabas along the way. There are several streams on the way to the fort. Water is easy to find at the dhabas. You’ll need to bring enough water to stay hydrated. Luckily, the Harihar fort is not the only fort in the region, and you’ll need to pack plenty of water.
If you’re a novice, this is a great place to trek! There’s a lot to see and do on the way up. And if you’re lucky, you’ll even spot a leopard or two! A few other attractions of the fort include a waterfall, a museum, and statues of Lord Shiva, Hanuman, and Nandi. The fort is a great place for a picnic, and you can even catch a glimpse of the nearby forts along the way.
The Harihar fort is a rocky triangular peak that’s about 48km from Igatpuri in Maharashtra. A small mountain, it’s easy to climb, but if you don’t want to face the steep and rocky ridge, you can take the shorter route, known as Trimbak Fata, on the way to Igatpuri. From there, the route joins the ridge and passes under Scottish Kada. However, the trail is longer than the shorter routes and is not as steep.
The fort’s location is in Maharashtra’s Nashik district. It’s 40km from Nashik City and 48km from Igatpuri. It’s also 13km from Trimbakeshwar and 40 kms from Ghoti. The fort was originally constructed to watch the Gonda Ghat commerce route. It has a rock-cut staircase and a secret door.
The Harihar fort is a picturesque fort, also known as Harshagad. It is located approximately 40km from Ghoti and Igatpuri, in the district of Nashik. It was built to watch over the Gonda Ghat trade route. The fort has rock-cut steps and attracts many tourists each year. The locals call it the “Harihar gad” for its sandstone walls.
The Harihar fort is a triangular rock formation. From the base village, it looks like a rectangular shape. Its three faces are actually three angled, with two sides vertical and two horizontal. The fort is accessible via a one-meter-wide rocky staircase and has niches. While it’s not the easiest place to climb, it is definitely worth the experience! If you’re looking for an adventurous way to explore the fort, you’ve come to the right place.
The fort is located at the top of a mountain and is accessible by a steep climb. From here, you can enjoy the stunning views of the valley and the river below. You can also take a gondola to reach the fort. The fort’s ruins are on the top of a hill. It is possible to reach the fort by foot or on a bicycle.
The fort is the highest point of the Sahyadri range. This fort has a secret door that allows you to enter through it. From here, you can enjoy the magnificent view of the surrounding valley and the Sahyadri mountain range. A section of the fort’s cavern has a small temple where you can worship Lord Hanuman and Shiva. There are also two rooms inside the fort that can accommodate around 10 people. It also contains five cisterns, one of which has a drinking pond.
If you’d like to experience the fort in the winter, you can hike up its steep and incline steps. On the other hand, the Sahyadri range offers a 360-degree view, which is ideal for nature lovers. The trek can last for about an hour, so plan your time accordingly. It’s best to avoid the fort on weekends, because it’s very crowded on weekends. Be aware that rain can cover the entire Sahyadri range.
Best Time to do the Harihar Fort Trek
The best time to do the Harihar fort trek is from June to February. However, if you plan to visit during the weekends, you may find the place very crowded. In addition, the steps are steep and you may have to bend down for safety. Also, you may not get a clear view of the Sahyadri range if it is raining. Hence, it is important to make the best decision regarding the time to visit the fort.
If you plan to visit Harihar fort in the winter, you should be well prepared for the cold and the humidity. In addition, you should avoid trekking during the month of February because the climate during this time is very hot. In addition, the best time to visit the fort is from June to February. It is important to note that you should start your trip before the sun comes up. If you have enough experience in trekking, you can start early in the morning and return to your hotel in the afternoon.
This season is ideal for sightseeing as the hills and valleys are covered with lush green grass and the rainstorms are not as intense. Besides, the fort is best visited during these months. You can break the trek into two stages, one for the day and another for the night. The first day of the trek will take you around 3 hours and you can expect to return by evening.
The best time to visit the fort is during the month of June to February. This is also the best time to visit the fort during the monsoon season. You may have to climb up the iconic steps, and be prepared to spend a day or two climbing up these steep slopes. But bear in mind that it can be a bit challenging if you are not used to it.
During this time, you can see the fort from the top. It is located near the Brahmagiri hills and the famous Harihar temple. The fort is surrounded by a forest.
Highlights of Harihar Fort Trek
1. Lord Hanuman Shiva and Nandi idols and a small pond at the fort
The fort is located at 3,676 feet above sea level and is a great place to take in the sights of the surrounding area. You can walk around the fort and see Lord Hanuman, Shiva, and Nandi idols. You can also visit the nearby small pond.
The Harihar fort is an impressive sight. You can walk up these steps to visit the fort’s three sacred idols. There is a small pond in front of the fort. The fort has been a sacred place since the Yadava dynasty, and it is well worth a visit.
2. River Vaitarna falls
The beautiful and scenic surroundings of the River Vaitarna fall make it an ideal destination for nature lovers. The first step in visiting the river is to get to Kasara. Local trains to Kasara depart every 15 minutes.
From there, take a taxi to Khodala, which is about 30 km away. From there, take a bus or a taxi to the village of Nirgudpada, which is about 30 km from Kasara. It will cost about Rs 100-120 for a taxi to the waterfalls. Alternatively, you can reach Igatpuri by taking a train from Mumbai to Kasara. Just inform the conductor to stop at Nirgudpada.
3. Trimbakeshwar Shiva Jyotirlinga Temple
The Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple is an ancient Hindu temple in Trimbak, Maharashtra. The town is situated just 28 km from Nashik. You can reach Trimbak by road from Nashik. The closest station is Maharashtra-Panvel. The distance from Mumbai to Trimbak is 40 km. The trip to Trimbak is not a difficult one.
The Trimbakeshwar Shiva Jyirlinga Temple is an important Hindu shrine located in Maharashtra. This temple was built in the Nagar style of architecture in black stone by Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao, also known as Nana Saheb. The main shrine has a Shivlinga, idols of Lord Rama and Goddess Ganga. There are also two small monasteries in the area. A well, known as Amritavarshini, is located in the area.
The temple was inaugurated on 16th February 1756. It was open to the public on Mahashivratri. The monument is situated in the foothills of Brahmagiri mountain, where three of the four sources of the Godavari originate. The stone’s hollowness is said to have cured many ailments, including bad periods and Naga dosha. It is also a popular pilgrimage for childless couples.
Located in Nashik, Trimbakeshwar is a sacred place for Hindus. The three-faced Jyotirlinga represents the holy triad: Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Rudra. The crown on the idol is made of jewels and is on display Monday and Thursday. In the evening, the ashram is full of chanting and dancing.
4. Sahyadri range from the top harihar fort
The Sahyadri mountain range is a natural wonderland. A visit to the fort is not only scenic but also educational, so you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view. The fort is located on a hill in the Sahyadri mountain range and can be reached in about an hour. This fort is ideal for families and a day trip to the area.
The best time to visit the fort is between November and February, although weekends can be busy. The Sahyadri mountain range is beautiful, but you’ll need to be careful on slippery steps. If it rains, the view may be clouded. In case of rain, you might want to head down and enjoy the view from the top. There are plenty of things to see in the fort and its surroundings.
The Sahyadri mountain range is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The mountains are home to a wealth of fauna and flora. Its diverse wildlife and biological diversity have made it a destination for tourists. Currently, there are 39 national parks and reserve forests located within the region. You can visit the fort on a weekend or a weekday, depending on the time of year and the weather.
The views from the top are stunning and the terrain is suitable for almost any fitness level.
5. Steps of harihar fort
If you’re looking for a challenging climb, the steps of Harihar fort in Nashik, Maharashtra, may be just the thing. Despite its imposing appearance, the fort is quite easy to conquer, thanks to its 80-degree incline and narrow stone steps.
There’s a one-metre-wide rocky staircase that leads up to the fort’s top floor, a total of 117 steps. It’s no wonder people are enamored with Asha Ambade’s willpower and determination. ( A 68 years old women who went viral after climbing these stairs to reach the fort. )
The steep, rock-cut steps of the fort are an attraction in themselves, and you can experience the feeling of achievement and accomplishment firsthand. The steps are a great workout and provide an outstanding view of the area’s breathtaking panorama. The fort is an ideal location for outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a meditative retreat or a challenge, Harihar fort will provide an unforgettable experience.
Harihar Fort Trek Detailed Trail Information
This trek takes you to the highest point in the Harihar fort. It is located in Maharashtra – Harshewadi and takes about 2 hours to complete. The base village is Nirgudpada, which is about 5 KM away from Kasara. Both villages have accommodations and food stalls. The first half of the steps are curved on the outside of the pinnacle, while the other half is curved inside. The steepness of the steps increases as you go up. The hike starts from the village of Nirgudpada, which is on the Trimbak-Igatpuri road. Once you reach the village, you should be ready to begin the ascent.
The trek to the top of the fort is not a difficult one and you will need a good pair of shoes and sturdy boots. The fort is surrounded by thick woods, which make the route quite difficult. You should be physically fit to climb up the famous steps. The trek is not suitable for those with a fear of heights. However, it is recommended for those who enjoy hiking.
The route from Nirgudpada village to the top of the fort takes about two and a half hours. You can spend the night at a local dhaba and rest the next morning on the summit. There are two ways to reach the fort, one to reach it in the afternoon and the other to get back. The trail begins in Nirgudpada and ends at Harihar fort.
To reach the top of the fort, you need to take a bus from the village to the fort. The buses from the fort stop in Nirgudpada go to the fort. There are several dhabas along the way. It is important to take note of the directions and the trail map so you don’t miss a single step.
The fort is accessible throughout the year, but the best time to visit it is during the monsoon, when the climate is pleasant and the area is green. The best months to visit the fort are October and February, when temperatures are around 10 degrees and the temperature is at its lowest. Avoid visiting the fort during the summer, as the temperatures can become very hot. If you decide to stay overnight, you can also camp in the village.
The Harihar fort is accessible throughout the year. The best times to visit the fort are the monsoon, when temperatures are at their lowest and greenery is plentiful. The fort is most popular during the winter season, when the weather is dry and comfortable. It is also accessible during the summer. Camping is available in Nirgudpada village. It is possible to bring along your own tent and cook local food.
If you’re looking for a place to stay, the village of Nirgudpada is a great place to stay. You can walk from the base village to the top of the fort in about two hours. The distance from the village to the fort is approximately 20 kilometers, but the walk can be extended to two hours if you are fit. The trek can be completed in a day.
The distance from the fort to Nirgudpada is about 3km, and there are two separate sections. The first one starts at the base of the fort, while the second one starts near the temple and extends to the top of the fort. It is the most difficult section of the trek and the most scenic. There are also 2 huts at the top, which can be accessed from the nearby towns of Trambak and Nirgudpada.
How to Reach For Harihar Fort Trek
From Kasara, take the local train that leaves every half hour. This will take you to Igatpuri. From there, you can take a taxi that will take you about an hour and a half. Once you’ve reached the fort, you can continue on your trek and visit the Harihar fort, located on the hilltop. Then, take the bus back to Igatpuri. The trip back to Igatpuri should take approximately the same amount of time, and the cab will leave the town at 4.30 PM. You can have enough time to complete the trek, see the fort, and get down safely.
The town of Nirgudpada is located about 10 km south of Igatpuri. It can be reached via the railway station from the city center of Igatpuri. You can also reach the fort through the city from the nearby towns and villages. The fort is surrounded by forest and mountains. During the monsoon, it is best to visit in October or February.
There are two main routes to reach the fort. The first is the most challenging and requires a steep 80-degree incline. It takes about two and a half hours to reach the summit and one hour to reach the village. You can find a hotel in the village, or you can stay in the village. The walk is a great way to get the best view of the fort and the surrounding area.
Essentials for the Kunagalu Betta Trek
- A well-stocked First Aid kit, including:
- Scissors
- Band-aids (regular and waterproof)
- Analgesic spray (Relispray, Volini, etc.)
- Antiseptic Liquid (Savlon, Dettol, etc.)
- Antiseptic powder (Povidone-Iodine-based powders like Cipladine, Savlon, etc.)
- Cotton roll and bandage
- Crepe Bandage
- 1-inch wide medical tape (paper or cloth)
- Micropore tape
- Tablets for motion sickness (Avomine) and acidity (Gelusil, Digene, etc.)
- Mild pain relief tablet (Crocin)
- Identity Card
- Cap, scarf, bandana, and sunglasses
- At least two litres of water
- Lemon, salt, or an electrolyte drink (Electoral/Gatorade/Glucon D, etc.)
- High-calorie snacks (nuts, dry fruits, home-baked cake, etc.)
- Safety pins, rubber bands, and a whistle (useful in emergencies)
- Quick-drying T-shirts (preferable over cotton tees)
- Poncho (only during monsoons)
- Plastic sheet to wrap electronic devices (only during monsoons)
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Trekking poles (optional)
Remember to always seek advice from a physician before consuming any medication.
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