Ghangad Fort Trek: A Journey Through History

Overview

Ghangad Fort Trek is a hidden gem in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, offering a thrilling adventure for trek enthusiasts.

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

In this blog post, we will explore each detail of the Ghangad Fort Trek, providing you with all the necessary information to plan your next adventure.

Ghangad Fort Trek Summary

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

Things to Carry

To ensure a safe and enjoyable trek to Ghangad Fort 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 Ekole Village:

By Train:

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

By Bus:

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

By Road:

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

From Pune to Ekole Village:

By Train:

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

By Bus:

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

By Road:

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

Itinerary

• 7:00 am - Depart from Mumbai/Pune
• 10:00 am - Arrive at Ekole
• 11:00 am - Start trek
• 1:00 pm - Reach summit
• 1:30 pm - Lunch
• 4:00 pm - Descend
• 5:30 pm - Arrive at Ekole

Key Insights from My Research and Reviews

Here are the key insights from the review of Ghangad Fort Trek:

Trek Difficulty and Route Breakdown:

The trek is relatively easy and can be broken into four parts:

• Part 1: Plateau walk from Ekole village to the Shiv temple.
• Part 2: Walk through trees and broken staircases from Shiv temple to the goddess temple (easy and safe).
• Part 3: Steep ascent till the entrance gate of the fort (easy and safe).
• Part 4: Climbing the iron ladder and rope, which can be challenging for kids or beginners, leading to the flag post at the top.

Trek Duration:

• It takes about 1 hour to 2 hour reach the top during the end of summer, and trekkers generally spend 1 hour exploring the fort.

Parking and Transportation:

• Parking is available at Ekole village, likely free. There is no public transport, so it's essential to come by your own vehicle.
• Road conditions vary depending on the route from Pune, with some paths being scenic but difficult, especially in the rainy season.

Scenic Views and Terrain:

• The trek offers stunning views of the Sahyadri ranges, Tailbaila, and surrounding valleys.
• The trail includes rocky paths, dense forests, and open plateaus, with the most challenging part being the iron ladder and cable climb.

Weather Impact:

• The trek can become more challenging during the monsoon season, with slippery rocks making the ladder climb risky. However, the monsoon enhances the scenic beauty, with waterfalls and streams along the route.

Amenities and Facilities:

• There are no shops or water sources on the fort, so trekkers must carry their supplies. Local villagers can provide simple meals (e.g., Pithla-Bhakri) and accommodation.

Fort Exploration:

• At the top, visitors can explore historical ruins, water cisterns, caves, and old fortifications. The fort also served as a watchtower and prison during Maratha and British rule.

Special Features:

• A unique rock formation has become an attraction. The ‘Mar Khind’ point is a popular photo spot but requires caution.
• Camping is possible at the fort, with some basic facilities like a cave for shelter and a toilet, but these are in poor condition.

Best Time to Visit:

• The fort is best visited after the monsoon season (mid-August to September) for clear views and less slippery paths. However, each season offers unique beauty.

Safety Considerations:

• The ladder climb can be daunting, especially in wet conditions or for those with a fear of heights.
• Trekkers should be cautious of windy conditions at the top and ensure belongings are secured.

Accessibility:

• The fort is located between Lonavala and Tamhini Ghat, with the road from Tamhini being rough. The trek is easy to moderate, making it suitable for beginners and families.

Google Map of the Location

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Ghangad Fort Trek offers a rewarding mix of adventure, history, and natural beauty, making it an ideal trek for both beginners and seasoned trekkers. 

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

FAQs:

1. How far is the trek to Ghangad?

Ans: The trek to Ghangad is approximately 6 km long.

2. What is the history of Ghangad fort Trek?

Ans: Ghangad fort has a rich history dating back to the 16th century, with various dynasties ruling over it.