Harishchandragad Fort Trek From Mumbai
Grade: Easy| Endurance: Easy
Base Village - Pachnai
Height - 4000 ft
You ought to visit the Harishchandragad to witness the grandeur of this medieval-era fort. And what better way to explore it than trekking the fort in the monsoon! Yes, the Harishchandra fort trek never fails to amuse trekkers and tourists with its historical and mythological significance. Located in Ahmednagar amidst the scenic Malshej Ghat, the fort stands proudly at an altitude of 4,670 feet.
Considered among the Best Monsoon treks in Maharashtra, the Harishchandra fort finds references in various ancient scriptures including Matsyapurana, Agnipurana and Skanda Purana. Various carvings on Kedareshwar and Harishchandra temples indicate the fort dates back to the medieval era.
The Saptatirtha Pushkarni which means Seven Waters situated along the eastern side of the temple is known for its miraculous healing properties. Kokankada or Konkan cliff and Taramati peak are other major highlights of the Harishchandragad trek.
The fort was captured by Moghuls for a brief period which later came under the control of Marathas in 1747.
If you are exploring Monsoon Treks Near Mumbai, opt for the Harishchandra monsoon trek. The total time to climb this medium-level endurance trek is 3 hours one way. Come explore the most magnificent forts in Maharashtra, set out for the Harishchandragad trek from Mumbai, the experience will be no less than memorable!
Harishchandragad trek never fails to amuse wanderers with its abundance of mythological and historical importance while the most picturesque are it's mountainous ranges.
About Harishchandragad:
Harishchandragad is a hill fort in the Ahmednagar District of Maharashtra. Its history is linked with that of Malshej Ghat kothale village and it has played a major role in guarding and controlling the surrounding region. The fort is quite ancient. Remnants of Microlithic man have been discovered here. The various Puranas (ancient scriptures) like Matsyapurana, Agnipurana and Skandapurana include many references about Harishchandragad. Its origin is said to have been in the 6th century, during the rule of Kalachuri dynasty.
This cliff faces west and looks down upon the Konkan. It provides a scenic view of the surrounding region and the setting sun. The cliff has an overhang, but has been climbed many times. Sometimes a circular rainbow (Brocken Spectre phenomenon) can be seen from this point. It can be seen only when there is a bit of mist in the valley, and the sun is right behind the person facing the valley.
Day 0 – Saturday Night
Catch Fast Local to Kasara
08:44 pm @ CSMT
08:51 pm @ Byculla
08:58 pm @ Dadar
09:07 pm @ Kurla
09:11 pm @ Ghatkopar
09:26 pm @ Thane
09:52 pm @ Kalyan
11:04 pm @ Kasara
11:15 pm: Meet Trikon Team at Kasara station
11:30 pm: Move ahead to Pachnai Base Village by Private Jeep
Day 2 – Sunday
04:30 am: Reach pachnai Village
05:30 am: Freshen up and Breakfast
06.00 am: Start trek to Harischandragad
09.00 am: Reach the Konkankada. Rest and Relax for some time
10.00 am: Start Descending to base Village
12.00 pm : After reaching base, hog on yummy lunch
02.00 pm : Start return journey to Kasara by private Jeep
05.30 pm : Reach Kasara, start travel for Mumbai
09.00 pm: Reach Mumbai
Please Note : Washroom Facilities is not available during the Trek
Trek Essentials
Safety Measures
- Put clothes, money, camera, phone etc in polythenes while packing
- Wear shoes with good grips
- Use repellents to keep bugs away
- Make note of nearest railway station, bus stop, taxi stand etc.
- Do not stray away from your group during the trek
- Keep family & friends informed about your whereabouts
IMPORTANT: Avoid wearing precious Jewelry while trekking, as Trikon won’t be responsible for any losses for the same.
Consuming liquor or any kind of Alcoholic substance is prohibited. Carrying any kind of substance that’s illegal is not allowed. Smoking is strictly not allowed. Anybody found smoking or consuming alcoholic drinks will be expelled from the event without refund.
Fitness & Health – Though trekking is a fun-filled activity, it demands good amount of physical fitness. If you are under medication, please carry your medicines. During the trek, leaders will have over the counter medication for temporary treatment, so do give a heads up to them if you need any medical assistance.
Important Information: Dear Trikoners, always remember SHOES are your best companion on a trek! Please wear a good pair of TREKKING SHOES and not sports or running shoes. Make sure they are durable and firm enough to withstand tough conditions. You can carry floaters to wear only after the trek is completed. Feel free to contact Trikoner buddies prior to the trek in case of any confusion.
What is included in the tour
- Food: Breakfast and Veg Lunch
- Transport from Kasara to Kasara
- Trikon Trekking Expertise Charges for Harishchandragad trek
- 5% GST
What is NOT included in the tour
- Any personal expenses such as soft drinks etc.
- Anything other than above mentioned inclusion
- Trek among clouds and easier Pachnai Route
- Scenic View from Kokankada is absolute divine
- Lake 'Saptatirtha' and Harishchandreshwar Temple
- Medieval era Kedareshwar Cave and interesting predictions of Local Legends
- Identity Card
- 2 ltrs water
- Trekking Shoes
- Enerzyl powder or Glucon D powder
- Snacks & biscuits
- Extra pair of clothes
- Clean napkin or towel
- Raincoat/ Poncho / Windcheater (Avoid umbrella)
- Haversack or backpack (No sling bags)
- Camera (optional)
- Please carry personal medicines if any
- Hand Sanitizer