Chanderi Fort Trek: A Perfect Blend of History and Adventure

Overview

The Chanderi Trek is a hidden gem in the Sahyadri range of Maharashtra, offering a thrilling adventure for trek enthusiasts.

Located near the town of Badlapur, this trek is a perfect blend of history, nature, and excitement.

In this blog post, we will delve into the details of the Chanderi Trek, providing you with all the necessary information to plan your next adventure.

Chanderi Trek Summary

Here's a quick overview of the Chanderi Fort Trek to assist you in your planning:

Things to Carry

To ensure a safe and enjoyable trek to Chanderi Trek, here are some essential items to pack:

• Comfortable trekking shoes
• Water bottle/hydration pack
• Snacks (energy bars, nuts, fruits)
• Lunch (if not available at the base village)
• First-aid kit
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
• Extra clothes, socks
• Headlamp, torch
• Personal medication

Food:

• Carry snacks and water
• Lunch is available at the base village (optional)
• No food is available during the trek

Animal Presence:

• Yes, wild animals like snakes, monkeys, and birds
• Be cautious and make noise while trekking
• Keep a safe distance from animals

How to Reach

From Mumbai to Chincholi Village:

By Train:

• Take a local train from Mumbai's CST or Dadar station to Karjat
• Get down at Karjat Railway Station
• Take a local taxi or rickshaw to Chincholi Village

By Bus:

• Take a bus from Mumbai's Shivaji Nagar Bus Stand to Badlapur
• Get down at Badlapur Bus Stand
• Take a local taxi or rickshaw to Chincholi Village

By Road:

• Take the Mumbai-Pune Highway
• Continue on the NH4 towards Badlapur
• Take a right turn at the Badlapur signboard
• Follow the village road to reach Chincholi

From Pune to Chincholi Village:

By Train:

• Take a train from Pune's Railway Station to Karjat
• Get down at Karjat Railway Station
• Take a local taxi or rickshaw to Chincholi Village

By Bus:

• Take a bus from Pune's Shivaji Nagar Bus Stand to Badlapur
• Get down at Badlapur Bus Stand
• Take a local taxi or rickshaw to Chincholi Village

By Road:

• Take the Pune-Mumbai Highway
• Continue on the NH4 towards Badlapur
• Take a right turn at the Badlapur signboard
• Follow the village road to reach Chincholi

From Nashik to Chincholi Village:

By Train:

• Take a train from Nashik's Railway Station to Karjat
• Get down at Karjat Railway Station
• Take a local taxi or rickshaw to Chincholi Village

By Bus:

• Take a bus from Nashik's Central Bus Stand to Badlapur
• Get down at Badlapur Bus Stand
• Take a local taxi or rickshaw to Chincholi Village

By Road:

• Take the Nashik-Mumbai Highway
• Continue on the NH3 towards Badlapur
• Take a right turn at the Badlapur signboard
• Follow the village road to reach Chincholi

Itinerary

• 7:00 am - Depart from Mumbai/Pune
• 10:00 am - Arrive at Chincholi
• 11:00 am - Start trek
• 12:30 pm - Lunch break
• 1:00 pm - Reach summit
• 5:00 pm - Descend
• 8:00 pm - Arrive at Chincholi

Key Insights from My Research and Reviews

Historical & Cultural Insight:

1. Historical Significance: Although Chanderi Fort lacks extensive fortifications, it was likely a Maratha military base during Shivaji Maharaj's rule.
2. Architectural Features: The fort includes caves, water cisterns, and rock-cut steps but lacks traditional fortification.

Difficulty & Trekking Experience:

1. Trek Difficulty: This trek is challenging and recommended for experienced trekkers due to its steep inclines, narrow paths, and risk factors.
2. Climbing Gear: Ropes and harnesses are suggested for the final climb beyond the caves due to the steep gradient (80-degree incline).
3. Exhausting Terrain: The trek is medium to difficult, with a tough final stretch after the caves. Rocks are loose, making the climb risky.
4. Not for Beginners: This trek is not suited for novices or occasional trekkers due to its strenuous and confusing routes.

Duration & Route:

1. Trek Duration: It takes approximately 4 hours to reach the top, and the ascent varies by route (from Tamsai 2.5-3 hours, from Chinchavli around 4 hours).
2. Confusing Trails: The trek involves dense forests with confusing and sometimes poorly marked paths, making it easy to lose your way. Local guides are recommended.

Scenic & Seasonal Insights:

1. Scenic Beauty: The trek offers stunning views of waterfalls, forests, and peaks like Mhaismal, Prabalgad, and Kalavantin. Monsoons enhance the scenery but also make the trek more dangerous.
2. Best Time to Trek: Winter is the most favorable season. Monsoon brings beauty but also increases the risk of slips and accidents. Carry ample water regardless of the season.

Precautionary Measures:

1. Water & Food: There are no water or food sources on the route. Trekkers should carry at least 2.5 liters of water and food.
2. Safety: Trek in daylight and always stay on marked trails. Avoid venturing into unknown areas and consider taking a guide for safety.
3. Footwear: Good quality trekking shoes are essential for the slippery and steep terrain.

Access & Logistics:

1. Transport: The nearest railway stations are Panvel (16 km from Tamsai) and Badlapur (10 km from Chinchavli). Rickshaws and vans are available but may involve bargaining for a reasonable fare.
2. Local Support: Villagers are kind and offer guide and porter services. It's recommended to take their help, especially if it's your first time trekking at Chanderi.

Environmental Concern:

1. Environmental Responsibility: The trail and surrounding areas suffer from littering. Trekkers should act responsibly and keep the trail clean.

Google Map of the Location

Conclusion

These insights highlight the challenging yet rewarding nature of the Chanderi Fort trek, emphasizing preparation, safety, and respect for the environment.

If you have any doubts, need any guidance, or have any questions, feel free to ask me in the comment section below.

FAQs:

1. What is the history of Chanderi fort?

Ans: Chanderi Fort has a rich history dating back to the 12th century, with various dynasties ruling over it.

2. Is Chanderi fort the longest fort trek in Maharashtra?

Ans: Yes, Chanderi Fort is considered one of the longest fort treks in Maharashtra, stretching over 12 km.