Ratnagiri Fort Trek
Ratnagiri Fort Trek
The Ratnagiri Fort trek is a relatively unknown hiking trail located on the border of Karnataka and Andhra. This unique adventure is perfect for those seeking privacy, situated in the village of Ratnagiri, just 25 km from Madhugiri town in the Tumakuru district.
The fort spans multiple hillocks, with the primary structure on twin hillocks. While some structures are in ruins, others are still intact. History lovers will be especially captivated by this location, as it attests to the guidelines of the Cholas and Nayaks.
The ponds, temple, fort walls, watchtowers, armories, and ruins all have stories to tell about its remarkable past. Despite being a brief 2 km trek, the experience and breathtaking views are gratifying. It is a blend of knowledge, exploration, and endurance tests.
The trek is appropriate for both healthy novices and knowledgeable trekkers. However, caution should be worked out at one section where a 70-degree slope presents a challenge.
Best Time To Do Ratnagiri Fort Trek
The Ratnagiri Fort Trek can be undertaken without any limitations from October to February, through the optimum season for the journey.
During the post-monsoon season, the Anantapur forest range changes into a dynamic oasis blanketed with rich green foliage. Nevertheless, the views might be blocked, lessening the landscape’s visual appeal.
Before summer, the scenery appears more distinct. Nevertheless, it is vital to begin your hike as early as possible and reach the peak in time for breakfast. This is because as the sun ascends, the rock becomes too warm to rise.
Highlights of Ratnagiri Fort Trek
- The Ratnagiri Fort trek is a relatively unknown hiking trail located on the border of Karnataka and Andhra. This unique adventure is perfect for those seeking privacy, situated in the village of Ratnagiri, just 25 km from Madhugiri town in the Tumakuru district.
- The fort spans multiple hillocks, with the primary structure on twin hillocks. While some structures are in ruins, others are still intact. History lovers will be especially captivated by this location, as it attests to the guidelines of the Cholas and Nayaks.
- The ponds, temple, fort walls, watchtowers, armories, and ruins all have stories to tell about its remarkable past. Despite being a brief 2 km trek, the experience and breathtaking views are gratifying. It is a blend of knowledge, exploration, and endurance tests.
- The trek is appropriate for both healthy novices and knowledgeable trekkers. However, caution should be worked out at one section where a 70-degree slope presents a challenge.
Ratnagiri Fort Trek Detailed Trail Information
Starting from Ratnagiri village, a route enables cars to reach the Prashwanath Temple through the main entrance gate. Nevertheless, due to the narrowness of this roadway, it is recommended to park your car and proceed on foot. As you stroll along the course, seize the day to converse with the residents and participate in casual conversations. They get along and are receptive.
This will allow you to immerse yourself in their culture and lifestyle, enhancing your experience. If you choose to drive to the temple, you will lose out on this valuable chance.
Expect a historical well on your right-hand side as you go through the winding village path. You’ll come across the grand entrance gateway simply a brief range beyond the well. From there, continue forward for around 230 meters before turning left onto a side road. Proceed for another 170 meters, and you’ll come across the ancient Bhagwan Prashwanath Temple on your left.
This stunning structure boasts a distinct architectural style and is worth going to. After checking out the temple, take the straight road next to it, which causes a tranquil temple pond. You’ll find two routes there: one to the left and another that continues directly. Select the straight course to continue your journey.
Remember the small stone pond on your left as you venture onto the yard path. These fascinating developments add charm to your stroll through the village and yard. As you continue strolling, make sure to take in the breathtaking hillside views that surround you.
After approximately 200 meters, you’ll see a divergence on your left. While this alternate entry to the fort may seem inviting, it’s not recommended as there is no defined trail, and it’s impossible to trek from this point. If you have some extra time, do not hesitate to explore the ancient temple ruins and other structures at the base of the deviation.
Once you’ve finished exploring, return to the primary path and continue straight for 75 meters before turning left onto a narrow trail. This course results in Gateway Two and the start of the Stage I climb.
The path ahead is short but features a more pronounced incline than the preceding sections. As you approach the end of this section, you’ll observe a check dam on your right-hand side.
This dam was constructed as part of the stronghold process to guarantee a reputable water supply within the fort throughout the year. Following the check dam, right away is Gateway Three, the entryway to Stage II Climb.
From Gateway Three, trek through the rugged landscape for around 160 meters to reach the entryway of a smaller-sized hillock. Continue along the same path for an additional 200 meters to rise to the summit of the small hill, where a watchtower is located. The watchtower offers a breathtaking view of the village and the winding yard trail leading up to it.
From this viewpoint, a series of rock-carved stairs, nearly 70 degrees in incline, cause the summit—to work with utmost care when traversing this section. Designate one to 2 hours at the peak, depending upon your available time. Enjoy a meal at the summit and check out the watchtower.
The hilltop provides expansive views and a glance into the past, with ruins of armories, stone ponds, and various other structures. Please take note of the fort walls extending along the hills in numerous layers, a testimony to its rich history. Backtrack your actions through the same route, taking roughly an hour to come down. Bear in mind your footing, especially when browsing high sections.
How to Reach For Ratnagiri Fort Trek
To get to the Ratnagiri Fort Trek, you must take a trip approximately 127 km from Bengaluru to reach Ratnagiri village. This village is situated on the border of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, a part of Andhra Pradesh.
If you consider driving from Bengaluru to Ratnagiri, reaching the preliminary destination will take around 3 hours.
To get to Ratnagiri via public transit, you can take a KSRTC bus from Bengaluru to Pavagada. When you reach the Pavgada APSRTC Bus Station, you can change to a regional transport mode to continue your journey to Ratnagiri. The best method to find the most hassle-free alternative is to ask the locals for guidance, as they will supply you with the most updated details on reaching your destination.
Want To Trek Like Pro?
Check out the following videos if you want to trek like a pro trekker and improve your skills. These videos contain helpful tips, tricks, and techniques to help you trek like a pro. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, these videos can provide valuable insights to enhance your trekking experience. So, watch the videos below by Trekup India experts to take your trekking skills to the next level.
Know Everything About Acute Mountain Sickness
Acute Mountain Sickness is a medical condition that can occur when individuals travel to high altitudes, typically above 8,000 feet. It is caused by the decrease in air pressure and oxygen levels in the air as altitude increases. Symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness may include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping. To avoid Acute Mountain Sickness, it is important to gradually adjust to high altitudes and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen. To learn more about this condition, check out the videos by Trekup India.
Important
Guidelines
Special Casual Leave (SCL) for Government Employees
Government employees joining our trekking expeditions can avail of Special Casual Leave (SCL) under the following conditions:
- Eligibility Criteria:
- SCL is available exclusively to Indian government employees.
- Applicable only for treks conducted within India.
- Leave Details:
- As per Pay Commission rules, government employees are entitled to up to 30 days of SCL in a calendar year for trekking or mountaineering expeditions.
- Treks must be organized by a registered organization, such as Trekup India, recognized by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF).
- Application Process:
- You need to apply for leave at least 20 days before the trek departure date.
- How to Apply: The following details are required to apply for IMF certification through the IMF.
- Email info@trekupindia.com with the following details:
- Your booked trek date.
- The trek name.
- Aadhar Card
- Designation
- Office Address
- Additional Fee of Rs. 250/ per person will be applicable.
- Note: It might take 20-25 days to receive a certificate from the IMF, subject to their approval.
- Email info@trekupindia.com with the following details:
- Documentation Support:
- Trekup India will provide the necessary documents to facilitate your SCL application.
Age-Based Requirements for Junior Trekkers
- A parent or guardian must accompany trekkers below 15 years of age.
- Trekkers Aged 15 to 18 or above Years: Can trek solo but require a Disclaimer Form signed by a parent or guardian. And Medical Form that Provides health details and confirms fitness for trekking by MBBS Doctor
- Trekkers Aged above 18 Years: Require a Disclaimer Form self-signed. And Medical Form that Provides health details and confirms fitness for trekking, Signed with an MBBS Doctor stamp.
Medical Fitness Required for Trek
If you’re planning a trek, you must ensure that your health parameters meet the fitness requirements for physical exertion at high altitudes or rugged terrains. Below are guidelines for each of the parameters mentioned:
1. Pulse Rate (Heart Rate at Rest):
- Normal: 60 to 100 (bpm) beats per minute.
- Required Fitness: Physically fit person may have a resting heart rate closer to 50 bpm, which shows that he have good cardiovascular efficiency.
2. Blood Pressure (BP):
- Required BP: 120/80 mmHg. A Bolood Pressure within this Range ensures adequate oxygen delivery to muscles and organs during physical exertion, especially at high altitudes.
- Your specified blood pressure (BP) Range—Systolic: 100–140 mmHg and Diastolic: 70–90 mmHg—is appropriate and generally considered safe for trekking activities.
- Acceptable Range: <140/90 mmHg for trekking. Elevated BP could increase risks during strenuous activity or at high altitudes.
Recommendations:
- Pre-Trek Checkup: Monitor your BP multiple times & ensure that it should be normal.
- Stay Hydrated: Dehydration affect BP, so maintain proper fluid intake during your trek.
- Avoid Alcohol & Excess Salt: These can destabilize BP, especially at altitude.
- BP Monitor: If you have a history of BP issues, regularly check your BP during the trek. Our Trek Leaders are equipped with a BP machine.
3. Respiratory Rate at Rest:
- Required Rate: 12–20 breaths per minute.
4. Diabetes Mellitus:
- Acceptable: Well-controlled blood sugar levels (HbA1c <7% or fasting blood glucose <126 mg/dL).
- Fitness Requirement: Carry quick glucose sources and monitor regularly during the trek.
5. Bronchial Asthma:
- Acceptable: Only when your doctors allow it & you have to submit an MBBS doctor NOC that you can undergo this trek.
- Fitness Requirement: Bring prescribed inhalers/medications and consult your doctor about high-altitude risks.
6. Heart Problems:
- Acceptable: Individuals without recent cardiac events (e.g., heart attack within the past 2 years).
- Fitness Requirement: Clearance from an MBBS Doctor (cardiologist) is required.
7. Hypertension:
- Acceptable: Controlled hypertension (BP <140/90 mmHg) with no recent complications like hypertensive crisis.
8. Pacemaker Implant:
- Generally not recommended for high-altitude treks.
9. Body Mass Index (BMI):
- Required BMI: 18 – 26 kg/m² for a good trekking fitness.
- Overweight or underweight individuals may face additional strain on joints or fatigue.
Additional Recommendations:
- High Altitude Acclimatization: For treks above 10,000 feet, ensure have some acclimatization Trekup India have designed Itinary of this trek accordingly to it but its not granted that this itinary works fine with acclimatization. For more information, click here.
- Fitness Level: Regular aerobic and strength training exercises before the trek are essential. For more information, click here.
- Medical Clearance: Consult a healthcare professional (MBBS Doctor) to assess your suitability before coming on this trek.
Would you like assistance preparing for your trek or calculating specific health metrics? Call Your Trek Co-Ordinator