‍Introduction 

Sahyadri range is also known as the Western Ghats, as it is spread from north to south ( Gujarat to Kanyakumari). It is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site. Its scenic beauty is a treat to the Sahyadri trekkers' eyes. There are about 30 explored places and several unknown areas. It is one of the best choices for a jungle trek.

Why should we go trekking in Sahyadri hills?

Sahyadri range is very rich in biodiversity. It consists of 39 reserve forests, a national park, wildlife sanctuaries, and a beautiful scenic place for a jungle trek. With a rugged topography, the Sahyadri trek is considered heaven for trekkers. Along with nature and crystal clear lakes, they offer numerous destinations such as majestic hills, popular forts include Rajmachi Fort, Harishchandragad Fort, Sinhagad Fort, Torna Fort, Purandar Fort, etc., located in Maharashtra, and Kavaledurga Fort, Manjarabad fort, Sada fort, etc. situated in Karnataka, which gives a wide scope for adventurous activities. 

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The geography of the Sahyadri range makes it easily accessible for over 200 hill forts and 50 ancient caves. Its combination of history and nature makes it enthusiastic for Sahyadri trekkers. Sahyadri range is not a flat earth, but the trekkers would find it rugged, challenging, yet beautiful. Sahyadri mountain trekking is not just about the trek but also hiking, exploring caves, and medieval forts, climbing the untouched rocks, fishing, and much more. 

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With the urge to experience distinct geography and the untouched territories of man. Sahyadri mountain trekking teaches you how to live with nature alone. 

Top places to trek in Sahyadri ranges

Here is the list of the top 10 places to trek in the Sahyadri ranges, along with the details of each place. It would also be rated based on its difficulty levels.

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1/ Kalsubai Peak Trek

  • Altitude: 5400 ft approx.
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Type: Beginner

Kalsubai Peak Trek is famous for its highest peak. To make the trek more accessible, steel railings, chains, and ladders are provided at places difficult to climb. The top attractions during the trek are the lush grassland, Kalsubai temple, and the view of Alang-Madan-kulang. As you reach the summit, soak in the lap of nature until sunrise. 

How to get there?

The base village is Bari village. It is approximately 150 km from Mumbai and takes about 2-3 hours to reach the base village from Mumbai. From Pune, it is located at a distance of 180 km and takes about 4-5 hours to get to the base village. 


2/ Rajmachi

  • Altitude: 2710 from sea level
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Type: Beginners

Rajmachi is situated in the Kajrat region near Kondivade. It begins with the beauty of the waterfall. The usual trek is up to the waterfall only, about 80 ft. It is quite a decent trek, but the pathway gets slippery during the monsoons, making it quite challenging. There are two fortresses, namely Shrivardhan and Manaranjan, and reaching the base would take about 45 minutes.

How to get there?

There is another route from Lonavala, about 16 km from Lonavala to Rajmachi, but the Kajrat route is recommended for trekkers.


3/ Padargad/ Chimney trek of Sahyadris

  • Altitude: 2202 ft from sea level
  • Difficulty Level: Fairly difficult
  • Type: Intermediate to advanced

The route to trek is a bit difficult, as the rope is used to climb through the chimney of rocks, a narrow pathway formed between 2 rocks. You can witness a plateau at the top with a large cave facing toward the valley. Since this is a difficult trek, it requires technical trekkers. Even moderate-level trekkers can climb, along with experienced ones. 

‍How to get there?

Padargad is situated between Bhimashankar and Nagpani. Khandas is the base village which is 25 km from Kajrat.


4/ Bhairavgarh Trek

  • Altitude: 3756 ft from sea level
  • Difficulty Level: Difficult
  • Type: Advanced

Bhairavgarh would give a thrilling experience for the Sahyadri trekkers. It is a difficult trek that would require technical trekkers. The pathway is taken through ropes at several points, giving an adventurous experience. There is a small plateau at the top of the fort. It is advised to trek after the monsoon so that the path won't be slippery. 

How to get there?

Bhairavgarh is located near Moroshi, at the hillfort of Maharashtra. Moroshi is located very close to Malshej Ghat.


‍5/ Range Trek from Ratangad to Harishchandragad

  • Altitude: approximately 4300 ft from sea level
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Type: Intermediate

The range trek is from Ratangad to Harishchandragad, it is a place to be spent on a long weekend. The circular rainbow is seen here, which is known as Indravajra. You also get to see the vertical cloud burst. This trek is a journey rather than an experience. Water cisterns are filled throughout the year and remain a great water source for the trekkers.  

How to get there?

The two forts are located on the main range of Sahyadri and Katrabai Pass. Ratangad, conventionally has 2 routes. The first route is from Ratanwadi village via Ganesh Darwaja, and the second is from Samrad village via Trimbak Darwaja. Ratangad Fort is located at a distance of 6 km from Ratanwadi village, 197 km from Mumbai, and 183 Km from Pune. 


Things to carry before trekking to Sahyadri 

Add one product image along with the product link of each item listed below. (For example, backpack, trekking shoes, raincoat, etc.)

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From beginner to experienced trekker, Sahyadri mountain trekking is a challenging adventure for the weekend. Since trekking takes place in remote locations, there are certain essential things to be carried out for the trek. Here is the list of necessary items for the trekkers in the Sahyadri range:

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  1. Backpack : A strong backpack that can contain all the essentials and endure all the weather conditions is the first crucial essential item.

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  1. Trekking/Hiking shoes : Comfortable trekking shoes are one of the essential things to carry, ensuring they are lightweight and waterproof. Sturdy shoes are a must for trekking in the Sahyadri hills. Hiking sandals are the new trend and are recommended for trekking, it avoids blisters, easy adjustment and lets you enjoy the cool breeze while trekking.

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  1. First Aid Kit: It is a basic item containing cotton, a band-aid, a bandage, a spray or gel-based pain reliever, and essential tablets for fever, headache, cold, stomach upset/ache, vomiting, and acidity. 

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  1. Insect Repellants: It is a jungle trek, insect spray or cream is very much necessary.
  2. Sunscreen: The weather keeps typically varying, application of sunscreen protects your skin from harsh exposure and needs re-application frequently.
  3. Camera and Power bank: While we all carry phones in hand to capture those beautiful moments, along with camera equipment, it is important to carry a power bank for charging this equipment.
  4. Spare clothes: Be it summer, rainy, or winter, spare clothes are a must to carry.
  5. Multi-tool knife : This has to be handy with you while trekking. It has many purposes for its usage.
  1. Water Bottle : Carry two water bottles, regardless of the weather, you will need water while trekking. Ensure to take small sips and not gulp down the bottle. 

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  1.  Fruits and snacks: Fruits and snacks are necessary for short breaks and to raise energy levels. Carry something that gives you instant energy. 
  2. Torch : If you are planning for a night stay, this has to be in your backpack. Day or night trek, this is mandatory to be carried. 

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‍All treks

If you are a first-time trekker, then you need to know other essentials required for all treks, go through the list for further details:

  1. Sanitizers: While it is not possible to have a water facility in every place, sanitizers would help you keep your hands clean before you eat.  
  2. Cap : A cap prevents you from sunburn and exhaustion caused due to heat. They become very important when the trek does not have shady places to shelter or rest.

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  1. Waterproof bag (Add product image): Never throw garbage around trekking spots, it is important to not expose these places to plastics and garbage. Carry these wet-proof bags to collect all the garbage or even wet clothes.
  2. Plate, spoons, and necessary utensils: Though this is completely optional, for those who prefer using personal utensils and prefer to be environment friendly to prevent thrashing garbage, this becomes a savior. 
  3. Bandana/ handkerchief: Bandanas are large handkerchiefs commonly worn on the head or neck to absorb sweat. They become saviours during the summer season, wet the piece of cloth and wrap it around your neck to beat the heat.
  4. Cash: Carry minimal cash for additional expenses such as snacks, tea, or any emergency.

 

‍Basic checklist for trekking in the Sahyadri region 

The basic checklist for the Sahyadri trek is as follows:

  1. Difficulty level: Check the difficulty level of the trek. Would you be able to complete it, considering the difficulties in the pathway?
  2. Information about the place: Gather all the necessary information about the place you are about to trek, know the experience of people who have trekked, safety precautions for that place, etc.
  3. Trek Organizers: First go through the website, which should give you the complete information about the trek, check the batch and the leader guiding you.
  4. Detailed itinerary: Get the schedule from the organizers and enquire about any doubts.
  5. Things to carry: This is the most important checklist for stepping ahead, the above-listed items are mandatory and not optional unless mentioned. You need these things to start with trekking for beginners or experts. 

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Safety tips for trekking in Sahyadri trek

As much as the place is a scenic beauty, if precautionary measures are neglected, it is life-threatening. Here are the safety tips for the Sahyadri trek:

  1. Never trek alone: It is never advisable to trek alone, at least one person should tag along because jungle treks are highly vulnerable.
  2. Keep yourself covered: Be on monsoon, winter, or summer treks, and keep yourself covered to protect yourself from insects, scratches, sunburns, etc.
  3. Navigation: Research the route beforehand, being lame could make you go directionless. Approach the local villagers or guide.
  4. Be early: It is recommended to start early for any treks, starting mid-day can kill the excitement, trekking must be started by at least 8:00 am from the base village.
  5. Never go with the flow: Knowledge is power, it applies for trekking as well. Research about the place before and enquire the necessary precautions from the locals to be well aware of during the trek.
  6. Instructions: Never ignore the instructions given to you. Be very conscious enough to follow the instructions given by the expert.

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