Discover Harishchandragad Trek Paachnai village Starting Point Route

Harishchandragad Trek is one of the most popular treks with multiple routes, Harishchandragad Trek Paachnai village Start Point offering something for everyone.  Kokankada, the highlight of the trek, is one of the best places to witness the sunset. The ancient temple and caves add a historical touch to this scenic trek.

Our Experince

There are three routes to trek up the fort. We chose the easiest one through Paachnai village starting point. It took us three hours to ascend and one and a half hours to descend, and we spent about one and a half hours at the top. The trek is moderately difficult and passes through beautiful waterfalls.

You will be rewarded with spectacular valley views from the top. At the top, you can visit Harishchandragad temple, Sapttirtha Pushkarni lake, Kedareshwar cave Temple, Taramati peak, and Konkan Kada cliff. You can even camp for a night at the top.

Harishchandragad can be climbed from three sides: Khireshwar, Paachnai, or Nali (meaning narrow). Here’s a breakdown of each route:

• Nali ( Nalichi Vat ) Route: This is the toughest of the three.
• Khireshwar Route: Moderately tough with a mix of climbs, forest trails, rock patches, and flat land.
• Paachnai Route: The shortest and easiest route. It’s about 1.5 times the Sinhagadh trek and can be steep in places. It’s scenic and doable in a day, but coming down can be hard on the knees.

Suggested Read: Jejuri Temple Pune: Khandoba Temple History | Significance

How to Reach Paachnai Village

Harishchandragad Trek Start Point Paachnai Route: Mumbai – Kasara – Rajur – Pachnai

1. Take a local train from Mumbai CST to Kasara.
2. From Kasara Railway Station, take a jeep to Rajur (costs around Rs. 100-120, about 1 hour 45 minutes).
3. From Rajur, take an ST bus or a private vehicle to Pachnai village.

If you’re coming from Pune or Nashik, you can reach Pachnai from Rajur, Kotul, Akole, or Sangamner.

Harishchandragad Trek Start Point Paachnai Route

• Harishchandragad Trek Start Point Paachnai Route is suitable for people of all ages. It takes about 1-2 hours to reach Harishchandragad from Pachnai village, depending on your speed.
• Harishchandragad Trek is indeed a remarkable destination for trekking enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Here’s a detailed guide to help you plan your trek:

Harishchandragad Trek Routes:

1. Junnar Gate Route: This is the easiest and most commonly used route, suitable for beginners, known as Harishchandragad Trek Start Point Paachnai Route
2. Sadhale Ghat: A bit challenging, offering scenic views along the way.
3. Nalichi Vat: This is the most difficult route, recommended for experienced trekkers. It involves rock climbing and navigating steep cliffs.
4. Indore Vaat: Another challenging route, known for its steep and rocky terrain.

Historical Significance:

• Medieval Period: The fort’s carvings in the Nageshwar temple, Harishchandreshwar temple, and Kedareshwar cave suggest its association with Shiva, Shakti, or Naath traditions.
• Mughal Era: The fort came under Mughal control before being captured by the Marathas in 1747.

Harishchandragad Fort

Harishchandragad is one of the best high forts near Mumbai, Maharashtra. It features strong fortifications with multiple entry routes such as the Junnar gate route, Sadhale ghat, Nalichi wat, and Indore Vaat.

The fort’s medieval origins are evident from the carvings on the temples of Nageshwar in Khireshwar village, the Harishchandreshwar temple, and the Kedareshwar cave, indicating connections to Shaiva, Shakta, or Naath traditions. The fort later came under Mughal control and was captured by the Marathas in 1747.

Main Attractions:

• • Sapta Tirta Pushkarini Harishchandragad Trek Paachnai village Start Point 
  • Kedareshwar Cave Harishchandragad Trek Paachnai village Start Point 
  • Konkan Kada (Konkan cliff) Harishchandragad Trek Paachnai village Start Point 
  • Taramati peak Harishchandragad Trek Paachnai village Start Point 
  • Temple of Harishchandreshwar Harishchandragad Trek Paachnai village Start Point 

Main Attractions: Harishchandragad Trek Start Point Paachnai

• • 1. Sapta Tirta Pushkarini: A holy water tank near the Harishchandreshwar temple, used for ritualistic purposes.
    2. Kedareshwar Cave: Contains a huge Shivalinga surrounded by water, accessible by wading through knee-deep water.
    3. Konkan Kada (Konkan Cliff): Offers breathtaking views of the Konkan region, famous for its vertical drop and stunning sunsets.
    4. Taramati Peak: The highest point on the fort, providing panoramic views of the surrounding area. It’s an excellent spot for sunrise and sunset.
    5. Temple of Harishchandreshwar: A significant religious site with beautiful ancient carvings and architecture.

Trekking Tips: Harishchandragad Trek Start Point Paachnai

• • • Best Time to Visit: Post-monsoon (September to November) and winter (December to February) for the best weather conditions.
    • Preparation: Carry sufficient water, snacks, and basic medical supplies. Wear sturdy trekking shoes and appropriate clothing.
    • Guides and Maps: If you are new to trekking or the region, consider hiring a local guide or joining a trekking group.

Khireshwar Route Details:

• The route is long and moderately difficult.
• It involves climbs through forest, exposed rock patches, and steep sections.
• Tolarkhind, a steep section on this route, is like a scaled-down version of Everest’s Hillary Step.
• There are a few shops near the mandir that offer food and water, so you don’t need to carry much.
• The walk from the mandir to Konkankada takes about 30-45 minutes on uneven terrain.
• At Konkankada, there are two shops that provide food, drinks, and tents for overnight stays.
• Other sleeping options include the mandir and nearby caves.
• On busy weekends, if no other sleeping spots are available, shopkeepers may let you use their porches.

Tips: Harishchandragad Trek Start Point Paachnai

• Sleeping bags and thermals are essential due to the chilly and windy conditions, especially at Konkankada.
• Start from Khireshwar village around 10 am and climb at a comfortable pace to reach the mandir by 3-5 pm (about a 5-hour hike).
• Stay overnight at Konkankada in tents.
• Contact the local host before leaving for arrangements. The simple jhunka-bhakri-varan-bhaat meal they provide is delicious and satisfying.

Additional Info:

• Taramati, the highest point on Harishchandragad, is about a 1-hour climb up and 30 minutes down from the mandir.
• A recommended route is to ascend via Khireshwar and descend via Pachnai to experience both routes.

Conclusion

Harishchandragad Trek Start Point Paachnai Route offers a mix of adventure, history, and spirituality, making it a memorable trekking destination. Enjoy your trek and stay safe!

FAQ

• Harishchandragad Trek Start Point Paachnai: It is the easiest route to reach Kedareshwar Cave Temple,
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