Harishchandragad Trek from Mumbai/Pune: Trek Difficulty, Location, and Best Time to Visit

Looking for challenging and adrenaline-boosting treks this monsoon? Maharashtra is the ultimate destination for some of the most epic and adventurous treks in India. 

Harishchandragad Trek is a popular weekend destination that you should not miss while in Maharashtra if you’re someone who loves to savor the beauty of the Western Ghats and the adrenaline rush that comes with difficult climbs. 

This article is the only guidebook you’ll need to complete this breathtaking fort trek successfully, so keep reading and take notes! 

Harishchandragad: History and Overview 

Harishchandragad Fort is a historical site first built in the 6th century during the Kalchuri dynasty, but the breathtaking caves on the top of the citadel are said to have been carved out during the 11th century AD. 

The fort has seen centuries of rule by Mughals and Marathas and several bloodsheds. 

Harishchandragad Fort is not the only destination that attracts visitors to this trek; places like Saptatheertha Pushkarni, Kedareshwar Cave, Harishchandra Temple, and Pachnai waterfall are some major attractions. 

Overview of Harishchandragad Trek:

Attribute	Details
Harishchandragad Height	4,670 ft (1.42 km)
Fort type	Rock cut hill fort
Harishchandragad Trek Distance	6 km
Trek duration	3 hrs (one way)
Harishchandragad Distance from Pune	164 km (4 hr 31 min)
Harishchandragad Distance from Mumbai	202 km (4 hr 49 min)
Entry Fee	None
Trek difficulty	Moderate — difficult

How to Reach Harishchandragad Fort 

The Harishchandragad Fort Trek is one of the most beautiful and equally dangerous treks in Maharashtra, and reaching the top is not something everyone can do without help. 

There are a total of 3 different ways to reach the fort, here is a detailed overview of these 3 ways ~

Harishchandragad Maharashtra Route Via Khireshwar

This is the most used and modern route among the three. Khireshwar is located about 150 km from both Mumbai and Pune. This route is further divided into two parts — the first is via Rajmarg and the other is via Tolar Khind. 

Rajmarg Trail:

The trail via Rajmarg is not that well maintained and some very dangerous parts might prove to be fatal if you’re not visiting with a guide, so we do not recommend you use this trail. 

Tolar Khind:

• The trail via Tolar Khind is extremely beautiful but challenging. The total time required to reach the top of Harishchandragad Fort from Khireshwar village is about 5 hours, and 3 hours from Tolar Khind — one way — without rest. 

  

• After trekking for about 4 hours from Khireshwar village through the thick patches of forest, rocks, and plateaus, you’ll finally see the Harishchandra temple and the Kedareshwar cave. 

  

• Another 30 minutes will be enough for you to reach the Konkan Kada and enjoy the magnificent view of the Western Ghats. 

  

Harishchadragad Trek via Pachnai 

This route is comparatively easier than others, and the best thing about this trail is that it is marked throughout. That means you don’t need a guide if you go this way. 

The trail starts from Panchnai village and for the ease of the trekker, the whole trail is equipped with railings and metallic ladders. 

The whole trek is of 3 kilometers long and will take you around 2 hours to complete. 

Harishchandragad Trek via Nalichi Vaat 

This route is for adventure seekers who want to make the trek more interesting and challenging. The total trek distance through this trail from Belpada village is about 6 km and will take you about 9 hours to complete.

This trail includes rocky patches of land, which you’ll have to climb very carefully with the help of a rope. 

You can complete the whole trek in a day and come back but the catch is that you’ll have to start the trek early in the morning or you won’t get enough time to enjoy the mighty Konkan cliff. If you want the best of both worlds, the wise decision would be to camp for the night and descend in the morning, which will be an experience of a lifetime! Trust me! 

Here’s an interesting YouTube vlog by Ayush Sakhare Films to give you a better idea about the adventure at the Harishchandragad monsoon trek ~

Harishchandragad Maharashtra: Best Time to Visit 

The best time to visit Harishchandragad depends on your purpose of visit. Here is the best time to visit the fort according to the seasons ~ 

• Post Monsoon — Post Monsoon season is the best time if you want to witness the Western ghats in their full green glory. It is one of the best places to visit in August in Maharashtra. 

• Peak Monsoon — Monsoon is the best time if you want to witness the scary waterfall and the full-flowing rivers. 

• Summers — Summer makes up for the worst season to go for trekking since it’ll be arid, dry, and extremely hot. 

• Winters — The winter months are also good for trekking, but it can be cold. 

  

How to Reach Harishchandragad Trek from Mumbai/Pune

We’ve already talked about different trek routes and their difficulty, now let’s know how to reach Khireshwar base village from both Mumbai and Pune ~

From Mumbai:

You can easily drive from Mumbai to the Khireshwar base village with your own vehicle. You can also follow this route to reach your destination. 

If you’re traveling by public vehicle, reach Kalyan by local train. Then board a bus to AlePhata via Malshej Ghat. Buy a ticket to Khubhi Phata if you want to start the trek from Khireshwar; this bus can also take you to Belpada. 

From Pune:

The way to Khireshwar village with a private vehicle is quite simple and straight. It’s around 120 km and will take you about 3 hours to reach. If you’re still confused, you can also follow this route to reach your destination.

To reach Khireshwar base village by public transport, you need to take a bus to AlePhata and then to Kalyan. To start your trek from Khireshwar you need to get Khubi Phata. 

Harishchandragad Trek Difficulty 

The trek difficulty depends on the trekker’s fitness, but overall Harishchandragad trek is not counted among the extremely difficult treks until you select the right route. 

The forest trail can be hard to navigate and trek through, especially in the monsoon season when the land is slippery and muddy.

As for the rocky patches, you’ll need proper equipment to climb the rocky land. 

Main Attractions at Harishchandragad Trek — Try Not to Miss These!

Harishchandragad Fort has several attractions that are a must to cover, here is what all you can cover on your trek to Harishchandragad ~

You’ll discover several temples on your way to the top, each one is adorned with a different god and culture worshiped there. These temples are as old as the 6th century. 

One of the most popular temple on the trek is Harishchandreshwar temple. The temple is carved out of a single rock and is a huge example of the rock cut architecture.

Stop here on your way up and observe the fine architecture of the place. 

Kedareshwar cave, is located right next to the Kedareshwar temple. The cave is a hidden natural gem in the depths of the Western Ghats. On your visit you’ll see a huge majestic Shivling in the middle perched on an elevated surface with water all around in the cave. 

The most surprising thing is that the whole cave is balancing on a single withering pillar while the other three have already fallen. Some believe that the 4 pillars represent the 4 yugs of Indian historical epic and when the final pillar falls, the world will finally come to an end. 

Kada in Marathi means cliff; thus, Konkan Kada is a cliff overlooking the Konkan region. It is a natural concave structure that is quite popular among the locals. Konkan Kada is one of the best spots in the Malshej Ghat region.

If you’re lucky, you can also witness circular rainbows and vertical cloudbursts here. It is also one of the most popular places to witness the most beautiful sunsets. 

Harishchandragad Photos

Here are some Harishchandragad photos to give you an idea about the beauty of this trek ~

Important Information About Harishchandragad Trek — Do Not Miss! 

The trek might not be difficult, but it’s lengthy and confusing, so important to remember some significant information that might help you a big time on this trek. 

1. Take the route that goes via Panchani and Khireshwar which will be comparatively easier for the trekkers and less confusing. 
2. If you decide to trek via Nalchi Vaat, make sure to take along a guide with you. 
3. Make sure you have lots of water with you. 
4. Be careful while trekking especially in the monsoon since the trek will be incredibly slippery. 
5. Make sure you carry all the necessary equipment for trekking, like a mountain stick, ropes, hooks, etc. 
6. Check the weather forecast before starting the trek and avoid days of heavy rainfall which might make your trek a bit risky. 
7. Bring all your garbage back with you, do not litter the surroundings. 
8. Download Google Maps beforehand as you might not get the network once you start ascending. 
9. Follow the designated trail, do not wander off on your own, or you might get lost. 

Last year, The Times of India reported a man who died while on the trek from hypothermia, so it’s important to keep all these points in mind. Do not skip a single thing and ensure you’re completely healthy before starting the trek. 

Things to Carry While on Trek

Here are some essentials to carry with you on your trip but make sure to keep your baggage as light as possible ~

1. Make sure to carry raincoats and jackets with you if you’re visiting during Monsoon. 
2. Wear trekking pants and proper jungle shoes to make your trip more comfortable. 
3. Wear full sleeves clothes breathable clothes. 
4. Carry your water bottle and snacks to keep you company on the trek.
5. Make sure to carry a power bank and emergency supplies. 
6. Light snacks are extremely important on treks to maintain energy in the body. 
7. If you can, keep a fully charged extra phone with you.

Famous Places to Visit Near Harishchandragad Fort

Here are some famous places to visit near the Harishchandragad fort ~

1. Bhairavgad Fort, Kothale (16.9 km)
2. Kalbhirav Top (5.3 km)
3. Kombda Dongr (4 km)
4. Harishchandragad – Ghatghar Natural Reserve (6.9 km)
5. Shendi Pinnacle (4.8 km)

If you have energy for another trek, we would suggest you to check out our guide on Kalsubai Trek. 

Conclusion 

Harishchandragad Trek is a perfect blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a novice, the trek offers a rewarding experience with its scenic landscapes and historical significance.

If you are a newbie at trekking, make sure to trek in a group, have a guide with you at all times, and carry essentials. The Harishchandragad fort, along with the Kedareshwar caves and the temple, is a must-visit if you’re traveling to Maharashtra.