photos of trek trip

Lohagad Visapur Fort

2014-08-24T03:17:00.001-07:00

With a 2000 year old history and at 3400 ft high, Lohagad one of the magestic forts in the region. The climb to the fort takes you to panoramic vantage points, huge balconies, doors and reminds you how important this place was which was used to defend freedom. Surrounded by lakes on all side the views from the fort are breathtaking specially from vinchu kata (Scorpion's tail).

Brief Info about Lohagad Fort:
This fort is 10km from Lonavala (100 Kms from Mumbai and 60 Kms from Pune). It belongs to the period of Chattrapati Shivaji's reign and was used for keeping prisoners in the year 1564.

In 1670, Shivaji Maharaj won this fort and in the year 1751, Gaikwad and Dabhade family were incarcerated in this fort. The entrance to this fort is impressive and is aptly called 'Delhi Gate'. There are three gates one after the other.

How To Reach:
Train or Road:
Alight at malavli station which is the next station after lonavala. Lonavala is midway between mumbai and pune. Cross the mumbai pune express highway via overhead bridge and turn walking towards mumbai direction to bhaje village which is approx 2 Kms. From bhaje walk towards lohagad. After a gruelling but scenic trek of about 2 and half hours (7 KMS) you reach the foothills of the fort. The small village there houses couple of small hotels. It can be a pretty hectic trek for 1 day if you don't have your own vehicle. Take plenty of water in summers(Feb to June). Best time to visit is between July and December.

Nearby attractions :
Visapur Fort
Bhaja Caves - 2 km (1.2 mi) from Malavli, once home to Buddhist monks.
Karla Caves
Lonavala - 20 km (12 mi), a famous and scenic hill station.
Aamby Valley City - 22 km (14 mi) from Lonavala.

2014-08-23T23:09:00.000-07:00

ABOUT HARISHCHANDRAGAD

Harishchandragad is one of the best trekking spot in the Sahyadris of Maharashtra. It can be rated 8 in the scale of 1-10 with 10 being the highest. A trek to Harishchandragad is a must for trekking lovers.

HISTORY OF HARISHCHANDRAGAD

Harishchandragad is one of the oldest leading forts in the Sahyadris. The existence of Microlithic man has been discovered here. The fort is estimated to be built during the reign of Kalchuri and references about Harishchandragad can be found in various manuscripts like Skandapurana & Matsyapurana. It is said that the great sage Changdev used to meditate in the caves present here in the 14th century.

Idols of Lord Vishnu which are carved in the 11th century are found in the caves beside the temple of Harishchandreshwar. The carvings in the Harishchandreshwar temple and in Kedareshwar cave denote that the fort belongs to medieval period. The fort has played a major role in guarding the Malshej Ghat region and the surrounding areas. Later, the fort was captured by Moghuls which was then captured by the Marathas in 1747.

General Information

Region: Malshej ghat
District: Ahmednagar
Range: Harishchandragad
Height: 4671 feet
Grade: Moderate/Difficult (depending on the chosen route)

ROUTES TO HARISHCHANDRAGAD

Harishchandragad is accessible from Thane, Pune and Ahmednagar. Harishchandragad Fort can be reached via various routes from different places. Below are the travel routes from different cities.

HARISHCHANDRAGAD FROM MUMBAI

1) Khireshwar (Tolar Khind, Rajmarga)

Mumbai - Kalyan - Khubi phata- Khireshwar

1. Catch a local going towards Kalyan (on Central Line). Get down at Kalyan Station.

2. The ST depot is just besides the station on the west side. Catch any ST going towards Alephata (strictly going via Malshej Ghat)

3. Ask the ST conductor for a ticket of Khubi Phata. Khubi Phata is just 5 mins after the Malshej Ghat ends.

4. Get down at Khubi Phata and start walking on the 6 km long dam that just starts besides the road.

5. Lucky you, if you get a jeep or something, or just keep walking (a good warmup :p ) Once you reach the base village Khireshwar, the actual trek for Harishchandragad starts !!!

2) Belpada (Nalichi vaat, Rajmarga, Sadhleghat)

Mumbai - Kalyan - Savarne- Belpada

Mind it, this is a very tough route and not at all recommended for freshers !
1. Follow the previous (via Khireshwar) instructions till point number 2.
2. Ask the ST conductor for a ticket of Savarne. Savarne comes just before the start of Malshej Ghat.
3. The straight 1 hour walk from Savarne takes you to the base village Belpada (now Walivare)
4. From Belpada, the trek to Harishchandragad via Nalichi vaat or Rajmarga or Sadhleghat begins !!

HARISHCHANDRAGAD FROM PUNE

1) Catch an ST from Pune towards Alephata.
2) Get down at Alephata & catch another ST moving for Kalyan (strictly going via Malshej Ghat).
3) To trek Harishchandragad via Tolar Khind (Khireshwar), get down at Khubi Phata. Khubi Phata comes just before the Malshej Ghat.
4) To thek Harishchandragad via Nalchi Vaat, Rajmarga or Sadhleghat, get down at Savarne. Savarne arrives just after the end of Malshej Ghat

Below is the brief description, easy to understand
Pune - Ale phata - Khubi phata - Khireshwar
Pune - Ale phata - Savarne - Belpada

HARISHCHANDRAGAD FROM PACHNAI

One has to board the bus for Nasik or Mumbai & alight at Ghoti village. From Ghoti, we have to board another bus to Sangamner via Malegaon & alight at Rajur village. From here, 2 ways diverge to the fort.
1) From Rajur, one has to board the bus or a private vehicle to the village of Pachanai. From here, the way is straight to the topmost point.
2) Recently, the way from Rajur to Tolar Khind has been made available. From Tolar Khind (Tolar valley), the temple is about 2-3 hours by walking.

Reaching Pachnai from Mumbai is fairly difficult as one has to change several buses and loses a lot of time in transit. If one is approaching from Pune/ Nashik, one can reach Pachnai from either Rajur, Kotul, Akole or Sangamner.

Following are the five trek routes to Harishchandragad

Route 1: Tolar Khind

After getting down at Khubi phata, one has to take a 4-5 km walk on the wall of the dam called Khireshwar dam. The dam ends at Khireshwar village, and from here onwards a straight route trail goes towards Tolar khind.Around 2-2.5 hours are required to reach till Tolar khind from Khireshwar village. The end of the khind has a stone carving of a lion, symbolising that it is protecting the pass. After the khind, is a 100 feet rock patch, which has iron railings for the safety of trekkers. There is no need for any kind of special trekking gear at all like ropes, etc to climb it. The climb on the rock patch then leads a straight way to Harishchandreshwar temple, with small hills & streams in between.

Route 2: Nalichi Vaat

Nalichi vaat is the most difficult route to Harishchandragad. One has to start from the Belpada village and begin the climb parallel to the huge Konkan Kada. To the left of Konkan Kada are 3-4 channels that come down from the top. The channel to the extreme right is the Nalichi vaat.

Nalichi vaat is a tricky route having a 80 degree ascents at some points and the toughest rock patches. Here, trekking gear is required to ascend the rock patches as sometimes there is no slit available for having a grip. Hence, route is recommended strictly for the experienced trekkers.

Route 3 : Rajmarga

Rajmarga, which is currently in bad condition, was the main route to ascend Harishchandragad a long back. This route follows the same path till Khireshwar village. From here, instead of following the way to Tolar Khind,one must go along the straight path and start ascending on the slopes of Kalshya dongar (ask any villager for the route to Kalshya dongar). The cliff that comes after the Kalshya dongar has to be ascended. The climb has rock crumbling and lot of scree with dangerous patches in between. After this tricky ascent, one joins the Tolar khind route after the rock patch.

Route 4: Sadle Ghat

Sadhle ghat is a steep descent from the fort down to the base. To approach Harishchandragad via this route, one has to walk straight to Kelewadi from Belpada instead of going towards Konkan Kada. From Kelewadi village onwards, an ascend via the steep slope of Sadhle Ghat brings you on the top. It is best to descend from Harishchandragad via Sadhle Ghat instead of ascending it.

Route 5: Pachnai

Pachnai is the simplest route to Harishchandragad and absolutely recommended for anyone of any age. From the Pachnai village, it takes around 2.5-3 hours to reach Harishchandragad. A guide is available at the Pachnai village if required.

FASCINATING SPOTS

Saptatirtha Pushkarni

A pond named Saptatirtha Pushkarni is present on the eastern side of the temple. On its bank are 14 temple-like constructions in which there are idols of Lord Vishnu. However, these idols are now shifted in the caves besides Harishchandreshwar temple. Some stupid and irresponsible trekkers are making this pond untidy by throwing plastic waste and other stuff. A few years back the water was potable, and now you can't even think of swimming in it.

Kedareshwar Cave

Moving parallely along the temple, just a few steps after it lies a huge cave known as the Kedareshwar cave. Inside the cave is a big Shivlinga, of about 5 feet tall, which is completely surrounded by water. A huge stream of water flows outside the cave during monsoons, which hardly makes it possible to enter the cave. Moreover, the water in the cave is ice cold !

Harishchandreshwar Temple

The temple is an excellent structure made out of sculpture carving and depicts the medieval period temples of ancient India. The temple is arount 16 meters high from its base. This temple has got a few caves and water tanks surrounding it. A river called Mangal Ganga is said to originate from one of these water tanks. There are three main caves near the temple. The cisterns near the temple provide drinking water. A short distance away, another temple called Kashitirtha is located. The fascinating thing about this temple is that it has been carved out from a single huge rock. There are entrances from all the four sides. These are faces of guards of the temple. On the left side of the entrance is a Devnagri inscription, which is about saint Changdev.

Konkan Kada (Konkan cliff)

Well, this is an interesting spot for which most of the trekkers come here. This cliff faces towards west and looks down on Konkan. The Konkan Kada is approximately 4000 m in height. It is an overhang, like a cobra's hood. When there is little fog in the valley, and the sun is behind the person facing the valley, a circular rainbow can be seen. One phenomenon that can be observed at this place is the vertical cloud burst, in which the clouds nearing the cliff get sucked into the pit fall area below are thrown vertically into the sky reaching more than 50 feet (15 m). It creates a magical wall that is rising straight from the edge of the cliff without entering the landmass area.

Taramati Peak

Rohidas & Taramati peak as seen from Malshej Ghat

Being the second highest peak in Maharashtra,Ttis is the topest point on the fort (1429 m), and is also known as Taramanchi. From this peak, many of the surrounding forts like Naneghat, Siddhagad, Ajoba, Kulang fort can be seen. Many people have seen leapords in the jungle beyond this peak.

FOOD AND STAY

A few villagers at the top of the fort make the food arrangements. The meal includes bhakri, bhaaji, daal, bhat, etc. along with snacks such as kanda bhaji, pohe, tea, etc. They stay in a couple of caves near Harishchandreswar temple.

Bhaskar Badad: 8308081939 / 8605986514 (get in touch with him if you are looking for a guide to trek via Nalichi vaat, he has got all the required trekking gear, also makes food and tent arrangements at the top)

Kalsubai - Highest peak in the Sahyadris in Maharashtra

2014-08-20T01:56:00.003-07:00

Kalsubai Peak (Marathi: कळसूबाई शिखर) is the highest peak (1646 meters / 5400 feet) of the Sahyadris in Akole Taluka, of Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, an Indian state. It is situated on Kalsubai mountain range which is an offshoot range from main sahyadri range and rung from west to east.

This entire range is amazing from the trekking point of view. Though small in length, this range has some of the tallest peaks and toughest forts. Starting from west to east this range contains Kulang, Madan, Alang forts. Top of Kalsubai peak gives and excellent view of all these forts.

Kalsubai, though a highest peak, from trekking point of view its easy. the peak has a temple and to visit this temple many people trek to the top. So for sake of such pilgrim trekkers government and local villagers has made the route easy and safe by putting ladders and staircase wherever necessary. So reaching to the top is just a test of your stamina and not mountaineering skill. But once you reach the top then you get absolutely uninterrupted view of surrounding. No other peak pokes its nose between you and the spectacular view.

The month of October, little bit hotter than monsoon or winter is excellent for this trek. Since monsoon is over you can enjoy the clear skies and hence get excellent view and on other hand soil is still moist and so you get to see receding but excellent flowering all over the route. November onwards this treks becomes dry and in monsoon its too much rainy.

The main route to the temple is at small climbing slope. It usually takes three to four hours to reach the top from Bari. Soon after leaving Bari, There are three iron ladders along this route. There is a well near the last iron ladder as one approaches the top but the water is not potable during the summer. The rest of the route is without water, so it is best to fill water bottles in Bari. It is an easy hike, but parts of it are quite steep in places.

The vastly spread out backwaters of Bhandardara attracts ones attention from the top. To the north of the mountain range forts such as Ramsej, Harihargad, Brahmagiri, Anjaneri, Ghargad, Bahula, Tringalwadi, Kavnai can be seen. To the east one can spot Aundha, Vishramgad, Bitangad, to the west Alang, Madangad, Kulang, Ratangad (south west) and to the south Pabhargad, Ghanchakkar, Harishchandragad can be seen. Randha waterfall can be visited during this trek .

Location :- Akole Taluka, of Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra

Base village:- Bari Village ( 40 kms from Igatpuri Railway station by State Transport (ST) )

Difficulty level:- Easy

How To Reach

To start point: from Igatpuri to Bari Village, it is 40 km/2 hours by the Bhandardara State Transport (ST) by bus.

All ST buses stop at Bari Village (about 12 km before Bhandardara); you can get off here.

A better option is to catch a bus/jeep to Ghoti, which is 7km away and get a jeep from there to Bari.

To Hub: from Mumbai, take NH3 to Igatpuri over the Kasara Ghat, via Senapati Bapat Marg (Tulsi Pipe Road) Bus stand in Mumbai to Nasik via Igatpuri.

Gorakhgad

2014-04-02T23:12:00.001-07:00

Gorakhgad is a small fort at Dehri village near Murbad.

Gorakhgad trek is a thrilling weekend trail that winds through enchanted forests, hidden waterfalls (rainy season ) and caves to the pinnacle of the Gorakhgad peak .
Named after Saint Goraknath, the fort is at a height of 2150 ft above sea level. From Mumbai, Two spectacular pinnacles can be seen from Dehri – the smaller one is Machchindragad and the bigger one Gorakhgad.

Brief Introduction about Gorakhgad : -

Height: ~2150 feet
Grade: Medium
Time: ~ Maximum 5 hrs from Dehri , Base Village
Location: Murbad region.

How to get there:
People travelling from Mumbai and Pune can reach Murbad via Kalyan. Kalyan station lies on the central line of Mumbai Local system. One can get an ST bus from outside the Kalyan station that takes about 45 mins to reach Murbad. On reaching Murbad, one has an option of taking another bus to Dehri village or one can hire a “tum-tum” (local transport) or jeeps. The journey to Dehri village takes another 35-40 mins.
Dehri to Gorakhghad and back to Dehri – 4 to 5 hours

Kohoj Fort

2013-08-10T01:47:00.000-07:00

Kohoj is located about 104 km from Mumbai off the Mumbai - Ahmedabad Highway. Upon reaching Manor you have to take a right turn under a newly built flyover and take the Manor - Wada road

Brief Introduction about Kohoj Fort: -

Height: ~ 3200 feet
Grade: Medium
Time: ~ Maximum 2.5 hrs from Waghote, Base Village
Location: Palghar region

History:-

Very few of the historical evidences are coherent to this fort. Looking at its well-dug cisterns, the fort can be said to be belonging to Bhoj-period. But no such evidences are available. In 16th century, Portuguese captured this fort from the King of Gujarat. They constructed fortifications and bastions on this fort. Later, in 18th century, Peshwe conquered this fort in their campaign of 1737. Afterwards the fort remained under the British rule.

Anandwadi Waterfall Near Neral

2013-07-01T02:32:00.002-07:00

Anandwadi Waterfall

AnandWadi and Tapalwadi are two waterfall which are situated at the base matheran hill station and peb fort.There are numerous waterfall but these two are famous and non crowded. Most of the people don't know about this waterfall.

How To go ?

Reach Neral Station and ask any one about these waterfall.

When to go?

Monsoon, it’s the best time of the year.

Pics

Peth fort ( Karjat )

2012-06-17T09:28:00.000-07:00

Trek to Peth fort

Peth fort (also called Kotligad or Kothligad) is a small Fort (1500ft.) is situated to the east of Karjat in the Indian state of Maharashtra. It is one of the famous treks in the Karjat area, because of its small height and easy climbing. It is also known as the Fort of Peth because of its vicinity to Peth village at its base.

Peth Fort is around 21 kms north-east of Karjat.Peth fort contain bhairoba caves and around 15 water tanks.

Its a small fort used more as a defense station during Sambhaji's era, and is surrounded by other forts like Bhimashankar, Padargad, Rajmachi and Siddhagad.

Location :- Ambivali,Karjat

Base village:- Peth

Difficulty level:- Easy

How To Reach

To reach Peth, you can take a bus or tumtums (six-seater rickshaw, but of course they can accommodate many more people) from Karjat station to Ambivli village via Kashele, the journey will take around 1 and 1/2 hours. From Ambivli the trek starts to Peth village, which is a scenic one as you pass through dense forests.

Bus time table

From Karjat to ambivali

8.15 am (firt bus)

From ambivali to karjat

10.00 am, 2 pm, 5 pm

In about two hours, you reach Peth village, an easier path on the left and the steeper path on the right which will get you faster to the top.

On reaching the fort, a common sight in many forts in Maharashtra, is this cave called Bhairoba, as it holds the idol of Lord Bhairoba.

This cave has well-sculpted pillars and is clean to accommodate many people at a time (around 40). The floor is very flat which makes it good for camping too. There are also water cisterns near the entrance of the cave. Inside are small rooms which were used by the Marathas to store ammunition. To get a panoramic view of the surroundings, you can take the vertical tunnel to reach the pinnacle. An excellent view awaits you, as you see the majestic Sahyadri range and the Konkan plains.

It will take you 1 and 1/2 hour to see the entire fort, so if you have a place to stay in Karjat, then this can be a one-day outing or you can spend the night in one of the caves.

Best Time

During rainy season

Where to Stay

Bhairoba Caves or peth villege

Where to eat

Peth village

Rajmachi fort

Closer view of rajmachi fort

Bhimashankar hills

Rajamachi Fort view

sceneries

Peth fort from half way

way to peth village

view of peth fort from base peth village

MNS

sahyadri range from peth fort

Entrance of Peth fort

Side view from Peth fort

MP info

Side view

Cannon (Tof)

Bhairoba cave temple

Bhairoba cave

Bhairoba cave piller

Bhairoba cave

way to reach at the top of fort

sceneries

way to reach top

gate at the top

one of the 15 water tank at top

sceneries of sahyadri range

don't forget to walk around fort

water tank

at last karjat railway station

Srivardhan - Harihareshwar - Diveagar

2012-02-18T05:08:00.000-08:00

Srivardhan is a typical Konkani town with a beautiful beach and small wadi's, Srivardhan is the place from where the prime ministers of the Maratha kingdom the 'Peshwas' originally came from.

Harihareshwar located at only 18 kms. from Srivardhan is also a beautiful place with with an ancient Shiv Temple and Kalbhairav Temple situated on the beach. Harihareshwar beach is also a very clean and excellent beach. MTDC has very a good resort at Harihareshwar with Tents to stay.

Diveagar, a nearby town shot to fame when an ancient half statue of Ganpati made of gold and some ornaments were found in a farm. The Shekhadi Road leading to Diveagar is a very pleasant drive as the road is parallel to the coastline and you can see many breathtaking views along the entire stretch of the road.

Map

Shrivardhan beach

sunset at srivardhan

beach after sunset

Harihareshwar

crabs

harihareshwar beach

Dakshin kashi

Matheran Hill station

2011-12-17T09:02:00.000-08:00

Matheran Hill station

Matheran was discovered by Hugh Malet in 1850. The British developed Matheran as a popular tourist resort.
At an elevation of around 800m (2,625 ft) above sea level Matheran is a hill station located about 100 km from Mumbai. Matheran literally means jungle on top. All vehicles (Except emergency vehicles) are banned here.
The only modes of transport are on Horseback, by man-pulled rickshaw, or on foot. Every one living in cities needs this sort of change once in a while.
Old British-style architecture has been preserved in Matheran and most structures are now heritage structures.
Matheran has been declared an eco sensitive region by the Union Environment Ministry (GoI).
If any want to come to matheran from mumbai (CST)
Catch the train Karjat it take near about 2 hr from CST to neral
neral come after kalyan in pune side
train fair is 30 rs from CST to neral
then catch mini train otherwise best way is go to high way and catch any vechile which gose to matheran
Mini train take 25 rs per person
About Surfing
Every one have to walk through matheran or horse riding....
There is map of matheran hill station you can use it
and can see the points according to that....
Best Time to GO
there is as such best time but
oct to april is the nice time...

Before leaving the caves ,fort ,Temples or jungle don't leave anything except your footprints...

Keep INDIA Clean and Incredible

Sun Rise Point

Important note About Sun Raise

Pali Ashtavinayak Temple

2011-11-20T00:03:00.000-08:00

Pali Ashtavinayak Temple (Ballaleshwar)

Ashtavinayaka or eight Ganeshas is located in Maharashtra state of India, The Ashtavinayaka yatra or pilgrimage tour covers the eight holy temples of Ganesha which are situated around Pune.
Among the Ashtavinayakas, Ballaleshvara at Pali is the only Ganesha who is famous by the name of his devotee and who is dressed up as a brahmin.

Village Pali is situated between fort Sarasgad & river Amba flowing on the other side. On being pleased by devotion of Ballal, Shri Ganesh remained in the stone worshipped by Ballaleshwar, hence is called as Ballaleshwar of Pali.

Village Pali is situated in the Sudhagad taluka in the district of Raigad. This place is nestled between the fort Sarasgad and River Amba. The nearest railway station is Karjat, which is 30Kms away.

When to go?

Any time

Before leaving the caves ,fort ,Temples or jungle don't leave anything except your footprints...

Keep INDIA Clean and Incredible

Lake outside

Mahad Ashtavinayak Ganapati

2011-11-19T23:52:00.000-08:00

Mahad Ashtavinayak Ganapati (Varada Vinayak)

Ashtavinayaka or eight Ganeshas is located in Maharashtra state of India, The Ashtavinayaka yatra or pilgrimage tour covers the eight holy temples of Ganesha which are situated around Pune.

Varada Vinayak Temple is the fourth Ganesha Temple to be visited during the Ashta Vinayaka Temples Pilgrimage according to Shastras.This temple is at Mahad.It is 85 kms away from Mumbai.Mahad in Maharashtra enshrines Varadvinayak associated with the
legend of Rukmangada,Indra and the Bhadravana forest.The Murty is facing east direction and the trunk is turned on the left side.

Other Places to see Near Khopavali
Zenith Waterfall During Rainy Season (Khopovali)
gagangiri maharaj In Khopovali

When to go?

Any Time

Where to stay?
There are food and Stay Facility at Mahad

Before leaving the caves,Temple,fort or jungle don't leave anything except your footprints...
Keep INDIA Clean and Incredible

Lake Outside Of Varada Vinayak

Map for Ashtavinayak

Haji Malang Gad (Kalyan)

2011-11-17T10:27:00.000-08:00

Haji Malang Gad (Kalyan) Previously known as Malang Gad

Malangad is built on three levels. The lowest level is a plateau which is 1000 feet broad and 2500 feet long on which stands the Dargah of a Sufi saint - Haji Malang. At the other end of the plateau is the Panchi Pir which lies almost at the edge of the rock and is named after the five pirs who accompanied Haji Malang. This plateaus is called Pir Machi.

The next higher level is called the Sone Machi as it is the lower part of the fort. This is a projection of rock with is 70 feet broad and 100 feet long. It is shaped like an elephant trunk. It has a parapet wall with bastions on two sides but there are no machicolations to fire at the an invading army.

The highest level is the Citadel which is 200 yards long and 70 yards broad. This is the summit of the hill and has no fortifications. The water supply is from five cisterns at the top of the hill with a copper pipe to carry water to the lower levels.

Malanggad is different from other forts in Maharashtra. Whereas other forts have several gates and multiple watchtowers, Malanggad has only one small gate and one watchtower which is not independent but a part of the main gate itself. With a wall with no machicolations to fire at the enemy and no fortifications, Malanggad is one of the few forts to depend completely on natural aspects of the hill to defend itself

How to reach
From Chatrapati shivaji terminals (CST )
Reach Kalyan
From kalyan there will be Direct bus to Haji malag Gad

There are two ways to reach haji malag
1st one is shortest and other one by steps.

View From Base

view from base

we took shortest way from base to pachpira point (as shown in above pic)

can reach at the top also but because of time we won't.

Main gate

Old pic of Darga

--Daraga--

there are some point above but if you can make it

Navara Navari dongar

you can reach at the top from left hand side(Keep walking)

Shivneri Fort

2011-08-17T02:17:00.000-07:00

Shivneri Fort

A landmark of Maratha history is the birth place of 'Chatrapati' Shivaji Maharaj. Shivneri fort was a difficult fort to climb in those times and Shahaji, father of Shivaji, worried about the safety of his pregnant wife Jijabai, chose Shivneri as the place where she could safely give birth to her son. Shivneri fort is a well maintained fort and all the important landmarks in Shivneri fort has been well marked.

When you plan a visit to Shivneri, we also recommend exploring the surrounding scenic spots like “Konkan Plateau”, “Nane Ghat”, “Jivdhan”, “Malshej Ghat” and the famous fort of “Harishchandragad”.

How to get in?

The best option is to go to Junnar and take the Sakhali Vaat or Rajmarg to go to the top of the fort.

When to go?

Monsoon, it’s the best time of the year.

Where to stay?

There are a number of hotels in Junnar which provide decent accommodation facilities. On special request, one can also stay on the fort but it requires prior intimation.

Where to eat?

A number of eatables are sold inside the fort but it’s advisable to carry the food from Junnar.

Dhangar Fall (July 31, 2011 ) Near Kondeshwar

2011-08-10T22:04:00.000-07:00

Dhangar Fall

This Fall is before kondeshwar Temple but most of the people don't know about this fall . this fall is one of the best picnic spot in rainy season

How To go ?

Reach badlapur station (E) hire auto reach bhoj resort and ask any one about Dhangar Fall.

When to go?

Monsoon, it’s the best time of the year.

Where to stay?

There is a Bhoj Resort near to konndeshwar Temple .‎

Kondane Caves (NeaR KarJat)

2011-07-06T22:38:00.000-07:00

Kondana Caves

Kondana Caves situated in Karjat offers the ancient lifestyle of Buddhist followers. Ancient rock-cut caves, Kondana Caves are very famous Buddhist caves. These caves enclose sculptures, vihara, cahitya and stupa. Sculptures and stupas are specimens of the ancient period Buddhist architecture. There was a natural disaster in the form of an earth quake in early 1900 by which many stupas, front entrance and floor of the caves were damaged.

From Kondana Caves there is a way to reach Rajmachi Fort. From kondane caves to rajmachi fort takes 2 hr

How To go ?

Reach Karjat Bus station catch sanshi bus and get down at khandpe stop (bus ticket 8 rs per head)

from khandape reach Kondivade around 30 min walk

and from Kondivade to Konadana caves 1 hr

reach karjat sation and hire auto till Kondivade. (approximate 200 rs 8 to 10 seat)

When to go?

After Rainy season.

Where to stay?

There are food and staying facility at Kndivade villege.

but at kondana caves you don't get any food.

Before leaving the caves ,fort or jungle don't leave anything except your footprints...
Keep INDIA Clean and Incredible

Karla Caves (Near Lonavala)

2011-04-16T07:55:00.000-07:00

Karla Caves
Karla Caves is a complex of ancient Buddhist Indian rock-cut architecture cave shrines developed over two periods - from 2nd century B.C to 2nd century C.E. and in 5th - 10th century. Even though the caves were constructed over a period of time and the oldest one is believed to date back to 160 BC.Located in Karli near Lonavala ,Maharashatra.

How To go ?

Karla is 114 kms. from Mumbai and 56 Kms from pune on Mumbai - Pune road.
State Transport buses ply from Mumbai, Pune to Lonavala and Lonavala to Karla.

When to go?

Any time (this place also famous for Ekveera Devi so that many families visits this place)

Where to stay?
There are food and stay facility in lonavala

Before leaving the caves ,fort or jungle don't leave anything except your footprints...
Keep INDIA Clean and Incredible

From Base

Karla (Ekveera Devi )

i am able to take one pic

Shani Shinganapur

2009-09-23T20:22:00.001-07:00

Shani Shinganapur:

Shignapur is situated at a distance of 6 kms from Ghodegaon on Aurangabad-Ahmednagar highway. The distance from Aurangabad is 84 kms and from Ahmednagar it is 35 kms. From Ghodegaon, there is a motorable tar road up to the idol of Shri Shaneshwar and is open in all the seasons. The population of this village is about 3000. There are no regular buses but on pilgrimage days there are special transport buses plying to Shignapur.

The presiding deity of Shinganapur, Sri Shaneshwara or Shanidev- the personification of the planet Saturn is worshipped with utmost reverence and devotion by multitudes of people from all over the world. The spectacle of the deity in black stone is overwhelming. A unique aspect of this place is, that no temple structure houses the Shanidev. There is only a simple platform on which stands the swayambhu idol, in black stone.

After Visiting Shirdi you can visit Shani Shinganapur, Shree Saptshrungi Devi, Vani,Kalaram Mandir etc.
All facilities are available in these places.
Before leaving the caves ,fort or jungle don't leave anything except your footprints...

Keep INDIA Clean and Incredible

Kalaram Mandir Near Panchavati ( Nasik )

2009-09-23T20:07:00.000-07:00

Kalaram Mandir, one of the major attractions of the Nashik, is situated in the Panchavati area of the city. It is the biggest as well as the simplest amongst all the temples situated here and dates back to the year 1790, when it was constructed by Sardar Odhekar of Peshwa. The temple is dedicated to Lord Rama, who has been enshrined inside the sanctum sanctorum in the form of a decked black stone idol. Since the image of the Lord is in black color, the temple came to be known as Kala Ram Temple (meaning the temple of the black Rama)

Triambakeshwar One of the 12 Jyotirling

2009-09-22T21:24:00.000-07:00

Triyambakeshwar or Triambhakeshwar is a religious center having one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. The extraordinary feature of the Jyotirlinga located here is that it has three faces embodying Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Rudra (Shiva). All other Jyotirlingas have Shiva as the main deity. The entire black stone temple is known for its appealing architecture and sculpture and is at the foothills of a mountain called Brahmagiri.

Shri Trimbakeshwar Temple is located at a distance of about 30-km from Nasik in Maharashtra near the mountain named Brahmagiri from which the river Godavari flows. Trimbakeshwar Temple is revered as one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines of Shiva and as the source of the river Godavari.

The Godavari River, which is considered sacred within Hinduism, originates from Bramhagiri mountains and meets the sea near Rajahmudry. Kusavarta, a kund is considered the symbolic origin of the river Godavari, and revered by Hindus as a sacred bathing place.

Kusavarta Kund
Kusavarta Kund
Kusavarta Kund
Kusavarta Kund
Kusavarta Kund
Kusavarta Kund
Kusavarta Kund
Kusavarta Kund
Kusavarta Kund
Kusavarta Kund
Top Of the Temple
Top Of the Temple
Main gate Of temple
Side view of temple

Ganpati Pule By Bike

2008-08-07T21:15:00.000-07:00

Ganpati Pule By Bike

The Ganpati temple at Ganpatipule is a 'Swayambhu' Ganpati temple and the whole hill is considered as a ganpati. A lot of people visit Ganpatipule and it is becoming a hot tourist destination.
The temple here is very beautiful and recently it was renovated. Every year in the months of February and November the sunrays fall directly on the ganpati idol.
The beach at Ganpatipule stretches for 12 kms. and is a very beautiful white sand beach. However caution should be taken before entering the sea as lot of people die every year because of drowning. The MTDC has a very good resort near the beach.

You will get all facilities in Ganpati pule but if you are visiting this place then you must visit

Bhandarpule
Located at 3 Kms. from ganpatipule, Bhandarpule also has a very beautiful beach
Malgund
Birthplace of Kavi 'Keshavsut' the famous Marathi poet
Jaygad Fort
The fort of jaygad is located at 25 Kms. from Ganpatipule
Jaygad Bunder (port)
The Jaygad Bunder or port is an old and safe port situated at the mouth of Shastri river.
Sangameshwar
Sangameshwar is located near the Mumbai - Goa highway and approximately 50 Kms. from ganpatipule. There is an ancient Shiv temple at Sangameshwar on the confluence of Shastri and Alaknanda rivers.

Before leaving the caves ,fort,beach,historical places or jungle don't leave anything except your footprints...
Keep INDIA Clean and Incredible

Home of KAVI Keshavsut

Bhimashankar

2008-08-04T22:38:00.000-07:00

Bhimashankar, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, can certainly be termed as a Pilgrim Paradise. The dense forests surrounding the high ranges also play an abode to the rare species of flora and fauna. Situated at the extreme end of the Sahayadri Ranges, this place gives a wonderful view of the world around you.

Bhimashankaris located in the village of Bhorgiri 50 km north west of Khed, near Pune. It is located 110 km away from Pune in the Ghat region of the Sahyadri hills. Bhimashankar is also the source of the Bhima river, which flows south east and merges with the Krishna river near Raichur. The other Jyotirlinga shrines in Maharashtra are Tryambakeshwar and Grishneshwar. Regular pilgrims near Mumbai visit Bhimashankar from Karjat via Khandas.

How To Reach

Reach Neral (CST -->kalyan--->Karjat Side) by trains and then use tumtum (6 sitter rickshaw) to reach Khandas Villege and then walk 4 to 5 hr then you will reach bhimaShankar

Points to See
Nagfani Point
Hanuman Point

Kamalja Devi lake
Vanaspti Point
Gupta Bhimashankar (Bhima River)

New Pics

view From Base

This is the other way to reach...but risky (Known as shidi cha dongar)

Shidi cha dongar (look closely u can see those steps as mentioned above.)

white line in above pic is the way .

Kund Near Bhimashankar Temple

old Pics

Kondeshwar Temple ( Badlapur )

2008-07-12T03:40:00.000-07:00

Kondeshwar Temple

Kondeshwar temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is an ancient elephant temple located in the middle of a dense forest. This temple represents ancient Hemadpanthi style of architecture and is constructed using black stones. The main sanctum sanctorum is surrounded by several shrines. Mahashivratri is one of the main festivals celebrated in this temple. As the temple is located on a rocky terrain, it is advisable not to visit the shrine during the monsoon season. Shri Khateshwar Maharaj Samadhi, a pond and a waterfall are located in the vicinity of this temple.

How To go ?

Reach badlapur station (E) hire auto.

When to go?

Monsoon, it’s the best time of the year.

Where to stay?

There is a Bhoj Resort near to konndeshwar Temple .‎

Revisited Kondeshwar Temple on 5 th july 2010 ( New Pics)

Old Pics

Mahuli fort

2008-07-11T21:48:00.001-07:00

Mahuli Fort

Mahuli fort is at 2815 ft., this is a sought after trekking destination.

It is the highest point in the Thane district. The forest surrounding Mahuli has been declared as a sanctuary. Once Shahaji Raje, father of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, had this fortress under his belt.
This fort comes in Tanasa wildlife sanctuary.This sanctuary houses rare species like panther, Cheeta, Sambar and common languor.

Other Things to explore are Manas Mandir and tanasa lake

How To go ?

There are 3-4 ways by which we can reach Mahuli fort, but the way we decided was

Asangaon Railway Station (CST-->Thane-->kalyan-->kasara Side).

Then from Asangaon Reach Mahuli gaon (5 Km from station) auto take 200-300 rs for 8 ppl

or by walk from asaongaon station to mahuli gaon takes 2 hrs.

There is shortcut,first reach nasik highway by walk on railway track (takes 20 min) and from there ask any one about mahuli gaon this will take 2 hr. depending on speed of walking..

We decided to walk from Asangaon station.

When to go?

After rainy season. because in rainy season any one can't able to see any nature scenes so that it is better to go after rainy season

Where to stay?
at mahuli gaon or at base you will see some huts and food availability but don't rely on that better to take ur food, water and try to make this trip in one day.

Before leaving the caves ,fort or jungle don't leave anything except your footprints...
Keep INDIA Clean and Incredible

1 st base of Mahuli fort

Way to Mahuli fort

Manas Mandir

Flowers seen on the way

One Small Lake

a Small Dam b4 Starting Actual Mahuli Track

Mahadev Mandir at the base Of Mahuli fort and b4 track

This one of the hut where we can stay

view of mahuli fort from half way

Fort