Manikgad Monsoon Trek

Manikgad Monsoon Trek

Grade: Medium |  Endurance: Medium 

‘Manik’ means precious beads. Located near Panvel, Manikgad is a precious ornament itself! It decks up during monsoon and decorates itself for a stunning view for trekkers.

Manikgad is a green escape for all the trek lovers in the monsoon season. This fort is not only known for its greenery and scenic view but also a long time back the trade route from Mayal (Panvel) to the coastal ports was inspected from this fort.

It is located among the rolling hills and is a very popular trekking spot. Located in Raigad district, this hill fort was built in the 18th century. It was built by a chief of the Maratha Navy to oversee and protect the trade route. It was later captured by other forces and then the rulers took it under their control. Even if the fort is in ruins, this fort is a perfect example of how nature has blessed it with lavish green carpets and chilling winds.

If a trekker is looking for a challenging adventure then this trek is all that they are looking for as this easy looking trek does need high endurance and capacity for the long walk. It is one of the many beautiful places where you can explore history, witness the natural beauty, take a breath of fresh air away from the city near the forests and hills and enjoy yourself in a pleasant environment.

About the Place

The Manikgad fort is located near Vashivali (Rasayani MIDC), this location is 27 km away from Panvel. One can find two routes from the main toad to reach this destination for Washivali. One can proceed from the first route which is via Katarwadi. Whereas the second route will take you to Manikgad fort is the second right which goes via Dhangarwadi. After walking for some time the two different routes will meet about after an hour.

From the second route, starting your journey towards Vadgaon village, a big temple greets you on the way. The route from Katarwadi will surprise you with its greenery as you continue your journey towards Manikgad fort. After reaching Dhangarwadi, the main route to Manikgad is just a few steps away. The fort has a first door which is known as “Maha Darwaja” What makes the second door interesting is the sculpture of Lord Ganesha inscribed on it. 

Within the fortifications there are crumbled remains of a large stone gate and a flour grinder that is made of made of stone. One can also find more than four water tanks on the way while the tank on the top is the biggest from the rest of the tanks. On the top of the Manikgad fort one can also find a small temple and a ‘Chunyacha Ghana’. The top of the fort gives a bird’s eye view of the lush green valley and a scenic view from all sides.