Naneghat was part of an ancient trading route and is famous for a major cave with Sanskrit inscriptions in Brahmi script and the Middle Indo-Aryan dialect. These inscriptions have been dated between the 2nd and the 1st century BCE and are attributed to the Satvaahan dynasty era.

The inscriptions are notable for linking the Vedic and Hindu deities, mentioning some Vedic Srauta rituals and names that provide historical information about the ancient Satvaahan. The inscriptions present the world’s oldest numeration symbols for “2, 4, 6, 7, and 9” which resemble modern-era numerals, more closely those found in modern Nagari and Hindu-Arabic script.

This sheer cliff is a well-known landmark, very clearly visible from the Konkan. The wall of this pass juts out of the main range and hence offers a magnificent view of the great bend in the Sahyadri.

To the north, one can view Mt. Kalsubai, to the south Bhimashankar, to the northeast Harishchandragad and the northwest Mahuli. To the southwest; behind Siddhagad, the level tops of Matheran can be seen. The great comb-like rock of Chanderi and the pinnacles of Malang are also visible when there is no haze.

Kukadeshwar Mandir or Temple is located in the Pur village on the bank of the Kukdi River at a distance of 15 Km from Junnar on its western side in the Pune district of Maharashtra. It has been built as per Hemadpanti architecture. The site of the temple looks amazingly beautiful and the Kukdi River on its northern side adds to its beauty.

It is a popular temple of Lord Shiva which is noted for its splendid carvings and sculptures on the inner and outer walls of the temple. It lies near Chavand Fort, also known as Fort of Prasannagad at a distance of a mere 3 Km. The roof of this temple is currently in a dilapidated state but renovation is being carried out.

History: It is believed that the Kukadeshwar temple is about approximately 800 years old and the original idol of Lord Parshvanatha in the temple could not endure over time and got destroyed over this long period. As per a legend, in the depth of a grand future, a Brahmin saw Parshvanatha as the architect of eternal happiness and the future Tirthankara. Thus, he is the memory of his last two lives installed a splendid idol of Lord Parshvanatha.

Festivities in the Kukadeshwar Temple: Regular morning and evening prayers are conducted in the temple. Apart from those, every year on the tenth day of the Bhadrapada month’s bright half, a fair is held in this temple.

Depart from Pune by 23:00 hrs.
Meet our representative at your pick-up point. We will then proceed by private vehicle to the starting point of our trek.

Day 0: Highlights
• Drive (approx.): 160 km, 3-4 hrs.

At midnight, we arrive at the starting point of our trek. Start the ascend. We start walking on the old trading route of Naneghat which connects the Konkan & Deccan plateau. We need to ascend approximately 1,250 ft. It takes about three hours to reach the top from the base. The trail is well-defined but can be slippery in some sections. (Be sure to wear proper shoes and use a headlamp.)

Naneghat is an easy way to climb up. Once we reach the end; explore the ancient caves of Naneghat, which are believed to date back to the 2nd century BC. These caves have ‘Brahmi’ inscriptions and sculptures that provide a glimpse into the history of the region.

The Jeevdhan Fort and the ape-like cones attract attention. Also around this fort, you can see many forts and hills.

Reach Ghatghar village & Refresh yourself. (Toilets are available) Let’s have breakfast together. Start the journey back to Pune. We are going to have a short break to visit the Kukadeshwar temple. Resume the rest of the journey.

Arrive back in Pune by 16:00 hrs. (approx.)

Day 1: Highlights
• Altitude: ⇑ 1,250 ft. / ⇓ 0 ft.
• Walk (approx.): 7 km, 4-5 hrs.
• Accommodation: N/A
• Meals: Breakfast only