Why Jivdhan Fort Trek Should Be on Your Bucket List

Overview

I have often seen reels of the Jivdhan Fort Trek or Vanarlingi Pinnacle, where someone ziplines from one point to another and rappels from top to bottom, which is very thrilling. You might have seen it too. Take a look at the picture below to understand what I'm talking about.

Doesn't this look amazing? Do you also feel like going there? If yes, let's explore how to get there, when to go, and see what people are saying about this trek.

Trek Summary

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

Things to Carry

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

• Comfortable trekking shoes
• Water (at least 2 liters)
• Snacks and energy bars
• Sunscreen and sun hat
• First-aid kit
• Extra clothing (if needed)
• Camera/mobile and charger

How to Reach

From Mumbai to Ghatghar:

• By Train: Take a train from Mumbai's CST or Dadar station to Pune station (approx. 3-4 hours)From Pune, take a local train to Ambale station (approx. 1 hour)From Ambale, take a shared jeep or bus to Ghatghar (approx. 30 minutes)
• By Bus: Take a bus from Mumbai's Borivali or Dadar bus station to Pune (approx. 4-5 hours)From Pune, take a local bus to Junnar (approx. 2 hours)From Junnar, take a shared jeep or bus to Ghatghar (approx. 30 minutes)
• By Road: Drive from Mumbai to Ghatghar via NH4 and NH50 (approx. 5-6 hours)Take a break at Lonavala or Pune for refreshments and sightseeing

From Pune to Ghatghar:

• By Train: Take a local train from Pune station to Ambale station (approx. 1 hour)From Ambale, take a shared jeep or bus to Ghatghar (approx. 30 minutes)
• By Bus: Take a local bus from Pune's Shivaji Nagar bus station to Junnar (approx. 2 hours)From Junnar, take a shared jeep or bus to Ghatghar (approx. 30 minutes)
• By Road: Drive from Pune to Ghatghar via NH50 (approx. 2-3 hours)Take a break at Junnar or Ozar for refreshments and sightseeing

Itinerary

You can change the timing according to your comfort and the time you want to spend.

From Base Village (Ghatghar):

• 7:00 AM: Start trekking from Ghatghar
• 10:00 AM: Reach the fort's entrance
• 12:00 PM: Lunch break
• 12:30 PM: Explore the fort and Vanarlingi Pinnacle
• 3:00 PM: Start descending
• 6:00 PM: Reach Ghatghar

Key Insights from My Research and Reviews

Trekking Experience

• Difficulty Level: Moderate to difficult, suitable for individuals with a reasonable fitness level. The trek involves steep steps and a section requiring rope climbing.
• Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours to reach the top from the base point, Naneghat.
• Scenic Views: The trek provides breathtaking views at every step, with frequent fog creating a magical atmosphere. The plateau at the top offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding hills and valleys, making it perfect for photography enthusiasts.
• Activities: Apart from trekking, visitors can enjoy adventurous activities like rope climbing and zip-lining. The reverse waterfall at the base is a unique natural phenomenon that is particularly popular.

Best Time to Visit

• After Monsoon: The best time to visit Jivdhan Fort is right after the monsoon season when the surroundings are lush green, and the waterfalls are in full flow. However, the monsoon season itself can make the trek risky due to slippery steps and muddy paths.
• Winter: Winter is also an ideal time for trekking, offering clear skies and pleasant weather.

Tips for Trekkers

• Early Start: It is advisable to start the trek early in the morning (around 6 AM) to avoid the crowds that typically arrive after 8-10 AM.
• Preparation: Carry sufficient water and snacks, wear comfortable trekking shoes with good grip, and bring a camera to capture the stunning views.
• Safety: The trek involves some challenging sections, so it is essential to be cautious, especially in the rainy season. Hiring a guide is recommended for those unfamiliar with the route.

Key Attractions

• Reverse Waterfall: Located at the base, this natural wonder is a must-see, where strong winds push the waterfall upwards.
• Historical Sites: The fort features several points of interest including the Jivrai Devi Temple, Samadhi, Dhanya Kothar, and Pani Take.
• Vanarlingi Peak: This is a prominent attraction known for its thrilling views and is often the highlight for many trekkers.

Accessibility

• Private Vehicle: The best way to reach Jivdhan Fort is by private vehicle.
• Public Transport: Given the route above or from Mumbai, take a local train to Kalyan, then an ST bus through Malshej Ghat to Vaishakhare Village, and start the trek from there.

Caution

• Avoid During Rainy Season: The trek can be particularly dangerous immediately post-rainy season due to moss-covered rocks and slippery paths.
• Physical Fitness: The trek is not suitable for people with obesity, children, or elderly individuals due to its physical demands.

Google Map of the Location

Conclusion

In the last, I just want to say the Jivdhan Fort trek is an exciting adventure that offers a mix of history, nature, and thrill. With its moderate difficulty level and stunning views, this trek is perfect for those seeking a lesser-known gem in the Sahyadris.

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

FAQs:

1. Who made the fort of Jivdhan?

Ans: The fort of Jivdhan was built by the Satavahana dynasty in the 2nd century AD.

2. How tall is the Vanarlingi Pinnacle?

Ans: The Vanarlingi Pinnacle, a notable feature of Jivdhan Fort, stands at an impressive height of 3,527 ft (1,075 m) above sea level.