Thursday 19 January 2017

Tourism - Hitting the Trekking Trails around Pune

Tourism - Hitting the Trekking Trails around Pune

Pune is strategically placed on the western side of the Deccan Plateau and lies on the foothills of the magnificent Sahyadri ranges. These ranges, form the northern part of the Western Ghats. 
Well known for its rich wealth of flora,fauna and mountain tops, these ranges double up as awesome trekking locations and are known to be one among the eight best hotspots for biological diversity in the world. 
Trekking in the Sahyadris is both mesmerising and delightful. The mighty mountains, historic forts and pinnacles make the trek even more endearing for trekkers of all levels. These treks are not just a walk up the mountain, but a close encounter with Mother Nature and a glimpse through the history and culture of the region.

Trekking trails near Pune

Kalsubai Peak


Kalsubai
Kalsubai peak is the highest peak of Sahyadris and located in Ahmednagar. At the peak, there is a flat land which houses the temple of the local deity, Kalsubai. Kalsubai Temple is grandly decorated with lights during Navratri with fairs being held in the adjacent ground. 
The deity attracts a lot of devotees as well as trekkers. There are many routes to reach the summit, however the main route begins from Bari village. The easiest way to get there is to reach Igatpuri, which is located on the Mumbai- Nashik route.

  • Trekking Level: Easy to Moderate
  • Tip: First time trekkers might experience difficulty since it is an uphill trek.
How to reach?
Nearest Railhead: Kasara
TRAINS TO KASARA
  • Take a local taxi from the railway station to Bari vilage, which is the base
  • Local guides will be available at Bari

Sinhagad


Sinhagad
This trail is commonly known as the Katraj-Sinhagad trek. Most trekkers start ascent from one side of the hillock and descent from the other side. 
The Potato (Chilimkhada) Point is the most visited point in this trail. The point stands on a small rock at the top of a ridge. However, a visit to this point is not recommended during the monsoons, owing to the loose soil which makes the path slippery. 
While trekkers frequent this place, it is still not very well known and hence you have to make sure to carry all your supplies.

  • Trekking Level: Easy
  • Tip: This trail is best avoided during monsoons
How to reach?
Nearest Railhead: Pune
TRAINS TO PUNE
  • Take a bus to Sinhagad from Swargate depot, bus will stop at the foothills of Sinhagad

Tikona Fort


Tikona Fort
The Tikona Fort (or Vitandgad Fort) is a favourite route for new and old trekkers alike. The fort is located at Tikona Peth, Kamshet, which is about 60 KM away from Pune, towards Lonavala. 
The fort stands majestically at a height of 3500 ft and offers breathtaking landscape views all around, including the forts of Tung, Lohagad and Visapur. The trek up this fort is a treat for newbie trekkers.
 There are two routes to reach the fort – one is shorter and slightly difficult to climb. The other track is easier, but time consuming.
  • Trekking Level: Easy
  • Tip: Choose among the two trekking routes, based on your level of fitness.
How to reach?
Nearest Railhead: Lonavala
TRAINS TO LONAVALA
  • Hire cabs from Lonavala to reach Kamshet.
  • Ask some locals about the route to Tikona Peth, which is at the base of the fort.

Raireshwar


Raireshwar Fort
Raireshwar Fort is a hill fort of great historical importance, as this was the place where Shivaji took his oath of Swarajya. Located at near Korel village, in Bhor taluka, it is situated 1340 M above sea level. 
During monsoons the entire pathway blooms up with a variety of flowers, reminding trekkers about the bounties of nature. Follow the electric poles and one cannot get lost, as these run parallel to the pathway. 
Food, water and accommodation are available here. Another major attraction here during the monsoons is the reverse waterfalls which should not be missed.
  • Trekking Level: Easy
  • Tip: Monsoon season is the best time to trek on this trail.
How to reach?
Nearest Railhead: Wathar
TRAINS TO WATHAR
  • Trekkers from Mumbai can take the Pune- Bhor- Raireshwar route.
  • State Transport buses are available from Mumbai to Pune and Pune to Bhor

Sandhan Valley


Sandhan Valley
Located in Ahmednagar district, Sandhan valley is an interesting place to explore. This is a combination of a canyon and valley. Popularly known as the ‘Valley of Suspense’, this trek is definitely not for first timers and the faint hearted.
 Walking past the narrow valley with 300 ft walls on either side is definitely an experience of a lifetime. The descent and an overnight stay under the open sky with twinkling stars for company will make you speechless. 
The best time to visit the valley is during the winters and the early summers.
  • Trekking Level: Moderate to difficult
  • Tip: This trail is not suitable for first timers
How to reach?
Nearest Railhead: Kasara
TRAINS TO KASARA
  • Take a bus or private jeep from Kasara railway station to Samrad village.

Gorakhgad


Gorakhgad
Trek to the Gorakhgad Peak is not just a trek, but an experience and all the fun and magic doubles up during the monsoons. 
The myriad shades of green, hidden caves and spouting waterfalls are pure bliss. The trail takes you towards the twin peaks of Gorakhgad and Macchindragad.
 The route resembles a spiral staircase and also has caves that will take you on a journey through the history of the area, among natural beauties.

  • Trekking Level: Moderate
  • Tip: Monsoon season is the best time to trek on this trail.
How to reach?
Nearest Railhead: Kalyan
TRAINS TO KALYAN
  • Many transport means are available from Kalyan railway station to Murbad.
  • From Murbad one can take a bus or opt for the tum-tums which will take you to Dehri village.
Irrespective of weather the trek is an easy or a difficult one, it is important that trekkers work on their fitness, endurance and flexibility.
 Treks can be better enjoyed when fitness and the joy of indulging in the goodness of nature coincide.


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