In the Ahmednagar region, at the crest line of the mighty Western Ghats lies a series of hill forts and peaks which look upon the coast on the west and the plateau on the east. Walking from one fort to another through the beaten mountain paths is an enriching journey.
The thrilling range trek from Ratangad to Harishchandragad via Katrabai Pass is a test you should take to check your endurance. Staying in the mountains and in the tiny village along the path gives you a refreshing thrill and a taste of humanity. This route passes through a basin of the Mula River, and dense forest. Further, it leads to Harishchandragad via Pachnai.
Various parts of the Sahyadri Mountains can be seen from Ratangad, Katrabai and Harishchandragad. We can see high mountains, peaks, deep valleys, also, the Sahyadri which spread far and wide on the horizon with its numerous forts and other hills. The distance from Ratangad to Harishchandragad is about 40+ km; those who want to know their physical strength and those who like to wander in Sahyadri should definitely do this trek once in a lifetime.
This tough 2-days trek is always on every trekker’s wish list.
As the name suggests, Ratangad Fort is truly a ‘jewel’ amidst the forests in the region. It lives fully up to its name as some regard it as a little paradise. It has so much to offer to visitors. Right from the historical links where it was the most cherished possession of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to its association with the Amruteshwar temple; Ratangad Fort became a place of reverence and respect.
Ratangad Fort is a part of the Kalsubai range, which consists of some of the highest peaks in the Sahyadri. It commands an excellent view of all surrounding areas, overlooking the Konkan plains, Bhandardara Lake, Alang, Madan, Kulang, and the huge Katrabai cliff & Ajoba hills wall. Experience the colossal cliffs unfolding in front of your eyes, one behind the other as you walk on the edge of the fort.
Besides this, Ratangad Fort has something to delight the trekkers and the photographers who are mesmerized by its scintillating beauty.
Harishchandragad is a hill fort situated on the border of three districts of Pune, Ahmednagar and Thane in Maharashtra, India. It is a popular trekking destination and a historic site known for its natural beauty and ancient temples.
Harishchandragad is situated in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, approximately 90 kilometres from the city of Pune and 170 kilometres from Mumbai. The fort stands at an elevation of about 4,671 feet (1,423 meters) above sea level, making it one of the highest forts in the Western Ghats.
The best time to visit Harishchandragad is during the monsoon (June to September) and post-monsoon (October to November) seasons when the landscape is at its most beautiful. However, trekking during the winter months (December to March) is also possible, but it can be quite cold.
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Once you reach your pick-up point, mark your presence with the SG-Trekkers representative. Then we will travel by private bus to the starting point of the trek.
Early morning, start our trek from the Ratangad base village towards Ratangad Fort via Trimbak Darwaja. It’s a moderately challenging trek that takes around 2-3 hours to reach the summit. Explore Ratangad Fort, which has a stunning natural rock-cut cave, an ancient temple, and a beautiful view of the surrounding landscapes.
After exploring Ratangad, start our trek towards Harishchandragad via Katrabai Pass. This trek can take 5-6 hours, depending on your pace and the specific route you take. On the way, we’ll pass through lush green forests. Late in the evening, we reached the base village of Harishchandragad. Stay overnight with local delicious food and great memories.
Day 1 Stumps.
Day 1: Highlights
• Altitude: ⇑ 1,850 ft. / ⇓ 1,550 ft.
• Walk (approx.): 9 hrs., 20 km.
• Accommodation: Local Homestay
• Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Start our today’s trek early in the morning by ascending Bail-Ghat & reaching the Harishchandragad. (2-3 hrs.) Spend some time exploring the Harishchandragad. The fort is known for its Kokankada (a vertical overhang that offers panoramic views) and the beautiful Kedareshwar cave.
Have a warm lunch on the fort and start descending to Khireshwar village by Junnar Darwaja aka Rajmarg route. (3-4 hrs.) Our trek ends here.
Start the journey back to Pune with very pleasant memories.
Reach Pune and it’s time to say goodbye to your travel companion. Let’s stay in touch via phone/social media and meet again for another memorable trip.
SEE YOU SOON! 🙂
Day 2: Highlights
• Altitude: ⇑ 1,350 ft. / ⇓ 1,600 ft.
• Walk (approx.): 9 hrs., 20 km.
• Accommodation: N/A
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Dear SG-Trekkers,
Ratangad to Harischandragad arranged by you on 21/22 October 2023 was a well-planned, well-organised, and well-executed trek, it shows your efforts and interest, knowledge and your study towards the work you are in. The transport facility, food facility, and staying facility provided by you during the two days were excellent and well managed.
All the co-leaders and other members were very helpful and of good nature. I would like to thank you for giving me an opportunity to be a part of your family. I would like to do some more treks with you in future.
Thank you everyone! 🙏
Very nice and beautiful lifetime memoriable Trek with SG TREKKERS; Thanks Vishal for the management!🥰🤗