Harishchandragad Trek | Pune
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Join Plan The Unplanned for an unforgettable adventure to the second highest peak in Maharashtra - Harishchandragad! This trek promises not only the thrill of conquering a mighty fortress but also the chance to witness the most breathtaking sunrise. Situated in the Sahyadris, Harishchandragad is renowned as one of the finest treks in the region, boasting its charm with Kokankada and the serene views from Taramati. The fort's history is as fascinating as its beauty, with strong fortifications and multiple entry routes like Junnar gate, Sadhale ghat, Nalichi wat, and Indore waat. Carvings on the temples, such as Nageshwar in Khireshwar village, Harishchandreshwar temple, and the cave of Kedareshwar, date back to the medieval era, reflecting its significance in Shaiva, Shakta, or Naath traditions. The fort later came under the control of the Moguls and was eventually captured by the Marathas in 1747. Some of the main attractions on the fort include Sapta Tirta Pushkarini, Kedareshwar Cave, Konkan Kada (Konkan cliff), Taramati peak, and the Temple of Harishchandreshwar. Embark on this journey with us and create lasting memories as we delve into the rich history and natural wonders of Harishchandragad.
Highlights
Day 0
- Depart from Pune at around 9 PM
Day 1
- 5:00 AM: Arrive at Pachnai and commence the trek after breakfast.
- 6:00 AM: Begin the trek after refreshments, heading towards the majestic Harishchandragad.
- 9:00 AM: Reach the summit and delight in the captivating cloudscape and fort's natural splendor.
- 2:00 PM: Descend to the base and partake in lunch.
- 4:00 PM: Depart for Pune.
- 11:00 PM: Arrive in Pune, cherishing cherished memories of the trip.
Who should attend?
Day 0 - Depart from Pune
Private Vehicle
Stay Not Applicable
Meals Not Included
Day 1 - Reach Pachnai & Start the trek
Trek
Stay Not Included
Breakfast, Lunch
Starting early in the morning from Pachnai, we begin our ascent after a hearty breakfast. As we make our way up, we are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and the picturesque Sahyadri mountains. The trail is adorned with lush greenery and offers occasional glimpses of wildlife, adding to the thrill of the experience. After a few hours of trekking, we reach the majestic Harishchandragad summit, where the stunning cloudscape and the fort's historical charm await us. Witnessing the awe-inspiring sunrise from this vantage point is an unforgettable experience. The trek continues to delight as we explore the ancient temples, caves, and fortifications that hold tales of the past. As the day draws to a close, we descend back to the base and relish a well-deserved lunch before bidding farewell to this enchanting place. The Harishchandragad Trek via Pachnai route promises not only an unforgettable adventure but also a chance to connect with nature and delve into the history of this magical fortress.
Meet your host
Plan The Unplanned
- Verified Host
- Logout's Trusted
- Traveler's Choice
What’s life without adventure? Isn’t the real purpose of life to travel, to experience new places, and witness the sunrise from new mountaintops? This thought is what united Jatin and Tarun over a cup of chai, in spite of being from two unrelated backgrounds (CA and IT). They knew each other since the time Jatin was helping Tarun learn the ways of the wilderness through weekend treks and outings with another traveling group. Their love for traveling and trekking together motivated them to start something of their own. Thus was born “Plan The Unplanned”, where travel goals come true. Under the Companies Act, Plan The Unplanned is incorporated as Unplanned Journeys Private Limited They started their journey on unsteady ground, much like any other company, but they shared an infatuation for travel and adventure with their customers, which amplified their determination, and thus, Plan the Unplanned family keeps getting bigger every day! Just about any travel idea can come alive with Plan The Unplanned…treks, adventure activities like rock climbing, kayaking, rafting, backpacking trips across the country, cultural outings, photo walks; everything that fellow travelers need, to explore the great outdoors together. Well now that the wanderlust has kicked in and you can already see a vacation in your nearest future, here’s what we have to offer!
See Plan The Unplanned's other listings
Inclusions
- To & fro transport from Pune
- Breakfast & Lunch
- Forest permits
- Outdoor Leader
Exclusions
- Any kind of personal expenses
- Any kind of insurance
- Any expenses arising out of unforeseen contingencies
Things to carry
- 2 litres of water
- 20 litre backpack to carry your essentials for the trek
- Trekking shoes
- Raincoat
- Soft Copy of any ID Proof
- Energy Bars
- Glucose
- Basic First Aid
- Bag cover
- Phone cover if needed ( during monsoons )
- Power bank ( optional )
PICKUP LOCATIONS
BMCC College
New Shivaji Nagar Bus Stand
Nashik Phata
HOW TO REACH
Policy and more
For Departures from Bangalore: In the event that YOU cancel your trek, this is the cancellation policy we follow
- If you cancel before 7 days – 90% of the amount will be refunded
- If you cancel between 3 – 6 days – 50 % of the amount will be refunded
- If you cancel between 0-3 days – No Refund
Note: For All The Above Refund Cases Transaction Fees/Internet Handling Charges will be deducted from the overall amount and the balance amount shall be refunded. You can transfer your ticket to anyone so that you could save your hard-earned money
“Transfer to a future date is only possible only if you cancel between 3-6 days before the trek date and not on the day of departure or a day before”
For other trips and travels with us, and detailed terms and conditions check the following link : https://www.plantheunplanned.com/refund-cancellation-policy
Terms and Conditions
Frequently Asked Questionss
Q: I have booked the trek when will I get further updates regarding the trek?
A: Well, most of our treks are usually confirmed by Thursday and you would receive a BON VOYAGE mail that would contain details as regards Pickup Points ( Location and Timings ), Outdoor Leader ( Point of Contact ), Do’s and Don’ts. You’ll be added to Whatsapp Group for all further updates.
Q: Would I be added to a WhatsApp Group once the trek is confirmed?
A: Yes, the Bon Voyage mail would contain a link for Whatsapp Group through which one can join and interact with fellow travellers and outdoor leaders.
Q: I'm a solo traveller, Can I join?
A: The interesting thing about travelling alone is that you get to meet new people from diverse backgrounds, and towards the end, you are no longer strangers. Hence solo travellers are always welcome to join us on our trips.
Read more about solo travelling here and get inspired! https://www.plantheunplanned.com/solo-yet-accompanied/
Q: Is it safe for Women/Girls?
A: Safety and security are our priority at all times. Hence it is safe for women/girls to join us on our treks and travels. Our trek leaders accompany the team at all times, and our campsites are secured and safe for accommodation. We also have female trek leaders who accompany us on most of our treks.
Q: Do I have to carry luggage during trekking?
A: Not at all. You could keep all the extra luggage back at the campsite/homestay and carry only the necessary stuff for the trek (Raincoats, Torchlight, Waterbottle, lunchbox, and your valuable)
Q: Do you have Washrooms during the trek?
A: Well, you are in the mountains and none of our trails has a washroom facility during the trek.
Q: Do I have any other boarding points apart from the ones mentioned?
A: Yes, we do have options for picking a traveller on board with a few locations provided they are on the route to our destination. The following are the same:
- Croma Store, Sony World Signal
- Trinity Circle Metro Station
- Yeshwanthpur Metro Station
- Goraguntepalya Metro Station
- Nayanadahalli Metro Station
Q: How do I avail discounts?
A: Details for availing discounts are mentioned in the following link, https://www.plantheunplanned.com/membership/
Q: What is the "Without Travel" option during my booking process?
A: Well, if you select this option, all the travel arrangements for your entire itinerary must be managed by yourself, and Plan the Unplanned crew will not be managing anything related to your travel. We recommend you come via car for a smooth travel experience to, from and within the destination.
Q: Would I be able to postpone to the future in case I do not attend the trek/trip on the day of departure?
A: We are extremely sorry, you cannot postpone to any future date in case you fail to attend the trek on the mentioned date for any reasons whatsoever (family/health/work emergencies). You can write to us at [email protected] as regards and our team will get in touch with you on the same
Q: Is the Harishchandragad Trek suitable for beginners?
A: Since this is the simplest route, even inexperienced hikers shouldn't encounter any difficulties. If this is your first time, you should also hire a guide from the community. The level of difficulty is Moderate.
Q: What city is Harishchandragad in?
A: Harishchandragad is a mediaeval hill fort located in Maharashtra's Ahmednagar district, 8 kilometres from Khireshwar, 50 kilometres from Bhandardara, 166 kilometres from Pune, and 218 kilometres from Mumbai.
Q: Does the Harishchandragad Trek permit camping?
A: The Fort does not have any limitations on camping. You can set your camp close to the temple or remain inside the caves atop Harishchandragad's peak. However, because many of them like to camp there, it will be extremely congested in the fort.
Q: Is it possible to camp anywhere along the trail?
A: No, you cannot camp anywhere along the trail. But you can always camp on top of the peak.
Q: What time of year is best to begin the Harishchandragad trek?
A: August- September are considered the best time to visit Harishchandragad fort. Start the hike early in the morning if you intend to camp there on top. The breathtaking sunset on the Harishchandragad hike is one of its outstanding features. Before sundown, make sure you ascend to the summit and tour the entire area.
If you want to finish the hike in one day, depart from Mumbai or Pune the night before from your home. Start the hike from the bottom before dusk and finish it before lunch.
Q: What about Harishchandragad ’s cellphone network and connectivity?
A: Only on the highway do you get the signal. Only a few network providers in the area can get the signal, and those that do are exceedingly unstable.
You get an excellent network at the summit of the Harishchandragad and Taramati mountains. Nearly all network providers can get the signal there.
Q: How to reach Harishchandragad?
A: By Air:
The closest airport to Harishchandragad is Chattrapati Shivaji Airport in Mumbai. The two locations are separated by 154 kilometres. You can take a road to get to your trekking location after leaving the airport.
By Rail:
Igatpuri Train Station, located 41 kilometres from Harishchandragad Fort, is the closest railway station to the fort. But you need to board a train from Kalyan to get here (Mumbai). Trains from all around India, including Howrah, Nagpur, Allahabad, and Chennai, connect at Kalyan for this hill fort.
By Road:
On a typical traffic day, you may travel 201 kilometres from Mumbai to get here in 4 hours and 30 minutes. The Ghoti-Shukl Tirth Road and the Nagpur-Aurangabad-Mumbai Highway are both accessible via the NH3 after Khambale. Now keep travelling along this route to your destination.
A lot of people travel to Harishchandragad by using both public and private buses. The most efficient route is to travel from Mumbai to Khireshwar via Kalyan, Khubi Phata. You can also get to Khireswar village daily by bus from Pune's Shivajinagar ST bus stop. As an alternative, you can take a bus from Kalyan to Alephata and travel via Malshej Ghat.
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