July 31, 2024

Why I Can't Wait to Embark on the Vasota Fort Trek

Overview

Some months ago, I was searching for a Jungle trek and thankfully discovered the Vasota Fort trek. It is a jungle trek leading to the fort. When I saw pictures of the natural beauty and the top view, it was amazing.

Top view of Vasota Fort Trek

In fact:

I’m eagerly waiting for November to go there, but before that, I was researching how to go, what to carry, and reading reviews from other people.

Below are all the things I found suitable for both myself and you, so let's explore.

Vasota Fort Trek Summary

Vasota Fort

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

AttributeDetails
Height/AltitudeApproximately 3814 feet
Base VillageBamnoli/Indavli
Best Time to VisitNovember to January (Winter season)
Difficulty LevelEasy to Moderate
Trek DistanceApproximately 6 km (one way)
Distance from MumbaiApproximately 280.0 km
Distance from PuneApproximately 136.8 km
Distance from MahabaleshwarApproximately 46.0 km
Distance from SataraApproximately 40.8 km
Trek Time4-5 hours
Trek CostVaries (around ₹500 -₹2000 per person)

Read more: 

Things to Carry

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

  • Trekking shoes with good grip
  • Multiple pairs of socks
  • Water bottle (at least 2 to 3 liters)
  • Snacks and energy bars
  • Power bank
  • First aid kit
  • Personal medications
  • Backpack
  • Extra pair of clothes (As per need)
  • Insect repellent
  • Camera or smartphone for capturing memories

How to Reach

From Mumbai:

  1. By Train: Take a train from Mumbai to Satara (like the Mahalaxmi Express or Koyna Express). From Satara, take a bus or taxi to Bamnoli Village, the base village for Vasota Trek.
  2. By Road: Drive from Mumbai to Satara via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and NH48. From Satara, drive to Bamnoli Village.
  3. By Bus: Take an MSRTC bus from Mumbai to Satara. From Satara, take a local bus or taxi to Bamnoli Village.

From Pune:

  1. By Train: Take a train from Pune to Satara (like the Koyna Express or Sahyadri Express). From Satara, take a bus or taxi to Bamnoli Village.
  2. By Road: Drive from Pune to Satara via NH48. From Satara, drive to Bamnoli Village.
  3. By Bus: Take an MSRTC bus from Pune to Satara. From Satara, take a local bus or taxi to Bamnoli Village.

From Satara

  1. By Road: Drive from Satara to Bamnoli Village.
  2. By Bus: Take a local bus or taxi to Bamnoli Village.

Itinerary

You can change the timing according to your comfort and availability. This is my research-based itinerary you can follow if possible:

From Base Village (Bamnoli) to Fort:

  • 7:00 AM: Start trekking from Bamnoli village
  • 12:00 PM: Reach Vasota Fort
  • 12-12:30 PM: Lunch break
  • 12:30 PM: Explore the fort and surrounding areas
  • 3:00 PM: Start descending
  • 6:00 PM: Reach Bamnoli village

From Mumbai:

  • (previous night): Depart from Mumbai by train, bus or private vehicle
  • 5:00 AM: Reach Satara
  • 6:30 AM: Reach Bamnoli village
  • 6:30 AM - 7 AM: rest or have a breakfast
  • 7:00 AM: Start trekking (follow the base village itinerary)

From Pune:

  • Depart from Pune by train, bus or private vehicle
  • 5:00 AM: Reach Satara
  • 6:30 AM: Reach Bamnoli village
  • 6:30 AM - 7 AM: rest or have a breakfast
  • 7:00 AM: Start trekking (follow the base village itinerary)

From Mahabaleshwar:

  • (early morning): Depart from Mahabaleshwar by bus or private vehicle
  • 6:30 AM: Reach Bamnoli village
  • 6:30 AM - 7 AM: rest or have a breakfast
  • 7:00 AM: Start trekking (follow the base village itinerary)

From Satara:

  • (early morning): Depart from Satara by bus or private vehicle
  • 6:30 AM: Reach Bamnoli village
  • 6:30 AM - 7 AM: rest or have a breakfast
  • 7:00 AM: Start trekking (follow the base village itinerary)

Key Insights from My Research and Reviews

1. Scenic Boat Ride

  • The journey starts (morning) or ends (evening) with a picturesque boat ride, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Boats accommodate 10-13 people, making it essential to plan group travel or find partners for shared rides.

2. Jungle Trek

  • The trek passes through lush jungles, providing a captivating natural experience.
  • The jungle trek adds an adventurous element, with diverse terrains and the possibility of encountering wildlife.

3. Stunning Hilltop Views

  • At the summit, trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views, comparable to the scenic beauty of Phi Phi Islands in Thailand.

4. Historical Exploration

  • Vasota Fort offers a glimpse into history, enriching the trekking experience with its ancient architecture and historical significance.

Trek Details

1. Difficulty and Distance

  • The trek is not overly difficult but covers a total of 12 kilometers, including ascent and descent.
  • The trek can start at 7 - 9 AM, and it's crucial to begin early to ensure descent by 5 PM.

2. Cost and Logistics

  • The total cost can be managed under 2k if staying overnight about 20 kilometers from the destination or traveling at night.
  • Boat costs vary by location, demand, and other factors (Bamnoli: ₹4000 for 12 people; Munawale: ₹3000 for 12 people, including a guide).
  • An additional forest permission fee of ₹700 per boat is applicable, as the area is a tiger reserve.
  • Carry cash for payments, as there is no mobile network coverage for online transactions.

3. Best Time to Visit

  • The ideal time is post-October after the monsoon ends.
  • The trek is closed on Wednesdays and during the monsoon season (mid-June to mid-October).

4. Safety and Recommendations

  • It's advisable to trek in groups (at least 5-10 people) to facilitate boat sharing and safety.
  • Carry your own food, as there are no snack centers at the fort.
  • Camping options are available with packages including stay, meals, and guide services for around ₹1100 per person.

5. Important Tips

  • Start the trek before 10 AM as it takes around 6 hours to complete.
  • Plan to stay overnight nearby to ensure an early start or come early in the morning.

Google Map of the Location

Vasota fort trek map

Conclusion

According to many reviews, the Vasota Fort trek was not just memorable but also incredibly impactful and adventurous, trekking through the dense and lush forest. The journey was filled with breathtaking sights and sounds of nature. I will definitely go on this trek to enjoy everything.

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 to plan the Vasota Trek?

Ans - First, check all available options from your location to reach Vasota base village. Then, gather all necessary items to carry and try to form a group of people to go there. Once everything is ready, just go for it.

2. How much is the boating charge for Vasota Fort?

Ans - The boating charge for Vasota Fort typically ranges around INR 300-500 per person, depending on the season and group size. It's advisable to check with local operators in Bamnoli village for the most current rates.

3. What is the history of Vasota Fort?

Ans - Vasota Fort, also known as Vyaghragad, was built by King Bhojraj II of the Shilahara dynasty in the 11th century. It later became an important stronghold for the Marathas, particularly under the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, due to its strategic location and natural defenses.

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