Out of the many routes up Harishchandragad, the Khireshwar route or Pachnai is the safest in the monsoons. Walk across the paddy fields and Pimpalgaon Joga Dam, past the small caves to reach the top of the fort where you can enjoy a nice meal and watch the sun disappear behind two valleys. Visibility could be an issue closer to the top but the metal railings and ladders ensure your safety. Don’t forget to take pictures from the Konkan Kada (cliff), where you can sometimes see a circular rainbow.
Harihar Fort, Nashik
Abhijith / Alamy Stock Photo
Duration: 2 days; Highest point: 3,676ft; Best time to visit: June to February;Â How to organise: With an expert guide
The Harihar Fort is built in an extremely unique location which contributes to its challenge. It’s built on a triangular prism rock with a vertical inclination of about 80°. In order to reach the fort, you are required to ascend 117 stairs, walk below an overhang with a sheer drop and climb up another narrow staircase. At the entrance, you will see the plateau with a small raised level. The plateau includes small idols of Lords Hanuman, Shiva and Nandi and a quaint pond. Getting to the higher level, we come across a two-room palace that can accommodate approximately 12 people. This palace may not be in its best form but the 360° view of the Sahyadri range peaks makes up for it. Don’t forget to also visit the ‘Scottish Kada’, one of the vertical drops, named after Doug Scott, the mountaineer who first climbed it.
Kalavantin Durg, Raigad
Mayur Kakade
Duration: 1 day; Highest point: 2,205ft; Best time to visit: June to September;Â How to organise: A guide is essential
A thrilling but daunting trek up an uneven trail with thick vegetation, winding, near-vertical rock-cut steps with strong gusts of wind adding to the challenge. At the end of the steps is a 15ft high wall that can be climbed freestyle or with the assistance of ropes. Before making your way to the pinnacle, you can camp overnight at Prabalmachi Plateau overlooking Prabalgad Fort (another trek in the vicinity) and explore five caves on the hill, two without marked routes. At the summit, you’ll get views of the Sahyadris, various vistas and Ulhas lakes.
December to February is also a suitable season for trekking in Maharashtra. However, some sites may not be available for camping.
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