Harishchandragad Trek
Where the Cliff Meets the Clouds
Moderate - Difficult
7-8 Hours
12 to 60 Years (Fit Individuals)
12-13 Km
Pachnai
Monsoon
Harishchandragad Trek – Kokankada (Monsoon Special)
Rising to a majestic altitude of 4,670 ft in the Malshej Ghat, Harishchandragad is widely considered one of the most spectacular treks in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. Located in the Ahmednagar district, this ancient hill fort offers a thrilling blend of raw nature, challenging trails, and deep-rooted history, making it a bucket-list destination for trekkers of all experience levels.
A Walk Through History: Harishchandragad is more than just a mountain; it is a monument to Maharashtra’s ancient past. The fort’s origins trace back to the 6th century during the rule of the Kalchuri dynasty. As you explore the plateau, you’ll find stunning caves that were carved out around the 11th century. The scattered ruins and varied architectural styles found across the fort and its surrounding regions serve as a testament to the diverse cultures and dynasties that once thrived here.
Trek Highlights & Must-See Attractions: To make the most of your climb, keep an eye out for these iconic spots at the summit
Konkan Kada: The crown jewel of Harishchandragad. This massive, sweeping cliff face drops almost vertically into the Konkan region below. It is famous for its breathtaking sunsets and the rare circular rainbow phenomenon (Brocken spectre) often seen in the valley mist.
Kedareshwar Cave: A mystical cave holding a giant Shiva Linga completely surrounded by ice-cold water year-round. It is supported by a single remaining pillar out of the original four, steeped in local legends about the end of time.
Harishchandragad Trek – Kokankada (Monsoon Special)
Rising to a majestic altitude of 4,670 ft in the Malshej Ghat, Harishchandragad is widely considered one of the most spectacular treks in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. Located in the Ahmednagar district, this ancient hill fort offers a thrilling blend of raw nature, challenging trails, and deep-rooted history, making it a bucket-list destination for trekkers of all experience levels.
A Walk Through History
Harishchandragad is more than just a mountain; it is a monument to Maharashtra’s ancient past. The fort's origins trace back to the 6th century during the rule of the Kalchuri dynasty. As you explore the plateau, you'll find stunning caves that were carved out around the 11th century. The scattered ruins and varied architectural styles found across the fort and its surrounding regions serve as a testament to the diverse cultures and dynasties that once thrived here.
Trek Highlights & Must-See Attractions
To make the most of your climb, keep an eye out for these iconic spots at the summit:
- Konkan Kada: The crown jewel of Harishchandragad. This massive, sweeping cliff face drops almost vertically into the Konkan region below. It is famous for its breathtaking sunsets and the rare circular rainbow phenomenon (Brocken spectre) often seen in the valley mist.
- Kedareshwar Cave: A mystical cave holding a giant Shiva Linga completely surrounded by ice-cold water year-round. It is supported by a single remaining pillar out of the original four, steeped in local legends about the end of time.
Itinerary
Day 0
- Start Journey from Pune/Mumbai as per pickup timing
Day 1
- Reach the base village (4 AM)
- Freshen up, Have Breakfast
- Start Trek after instructions and warm-up
- Enjoy the trek through Water Streams, Waterfalls and Breathtaking view of valley
- Visit Kokankada
- Visit Kedareshwar Temple and Caves
- Start descending (10 AM)
- Lunch at base village (1-2 PM)
- Return journey starts (3 PM)
- Reach Pune 9 PM (Tentatively).
Includes
- Outdoor Expertise charges
- All meals during the carnival (Breakfast and Lunch)
- Pune to Pune Private transport
- Guide
- Entry Fee
Excludes
- Mineral Water/Cold drinks, day two dinner, etc
- Camera & Coolie charges
- Personal expenditure of any kind
- Medical expenses other than “First aid”
- Any other charges not mentioned i n “Fees Include”.
Pune Pickup Details
- 09.00 PM: Swarget (Shwetambar Jain Temple)
- 09.15 PM: FC Road (Opposite of Wadeshwar Hotel)
- 09.30 PM: Shree Shivajinagar (Mhasoba Gate Bus Stop)
- 09.45 PM: Aundh (Bremhan Chowk)
- 10.00 PM: Pimple Saudagar (Jagatap Dairy/Shivar Chowk/Kokane Chowk)
- 10.15 PM: Nashik Phata (MSRTC Bus Stop)
- 10.30 PM: Bhosari (PMT stop)
Mumbai Pickup Details
Train Type: Central Railway – Kasara Fast Local
Departure:
8:44 PM – CSMT
8:58 PM – Dadar
9:07 PM – Kurla
9:11 PM – Ghatkopar
9:26 PM – Thane
9:42 PM – Dombivli
9:52 PM – Kalyan
Arrival: Kasara by approx. 11:15 PM
| Departure Location | Event Fees |
|---|---|
| From Pune - Veg/Non-Veg | ₹1,199/1299 |
| From Mumbai - Veg/Non-Veg | ₹1,299/1399 |
| From Base - Veg/Non-Veg | ₹699/799 |
| Group Size / Category | Special Offer |
|---|---|
| Group of 3 or more Trekkers | ₹100 Off per person |
Things to Carry
- Aadhar card (Soft Copy/Mobile Copy)
- Single backpack (avoid trolley bags)
- Personal medicines (if any)
- 2 litres of water per person
- Good Trekking shoes
- Extra pair of clothes as well as footwear
- Toiletries
- Wind cheater/Jacket (If required)
- Torch/Head Torch
- Dry Snacks (Dry Fruits, Fruits, Nuts)
Things to Carry
- Aadhar card (Soft Copy/Mobile Copy)
- Single backpack (avoid trolley bags)
- Personal medicines (if any)
- 2 litres of water per person
- Good Trekking shoes
- Extra pair of clothes as well as footwear
- Toiletries
- Wind cheater/Jacket (If required)
- Torch/Head Torch
- Dry Snacks (Dry Fruits, Fruits, Nuts)
Image Gallery and Reels
Confirmation Policy
- Upon booking, you will receive a confirmation via call or WhatsApp message..
- In the special cases of slots not being available, feasible alternatives will be provided to the customer, in regards to the customer’s preference. In such cases, a new voucher would be sent via email, consisting of the new travel details.
Refund Policy
- Any refund applicable will be processed within 3 business days.
Cancellation Policy
- Any cancellation made 3 days prior to the date of departure, would be eligible for 100% refund.
- Any cancellation made within 1-3 days prior to the date of departure, would be eligible for carry forward payment for upcoming trek.
- Any cancellation made within 0-1 days prior to the date of departure, would levy a 100% of total tour cost as cancellation charges.
- Due to any restrictions such as sudden government policies or regulations, health hazards, medical emergencies, or unprecedented weather conditions, activities and tours may be nonoperational and be cancelled. In cases such as these, operators will attempt to cater to the traveller an alternate, which is feasible in nature. However, any refund would not be catered.
Harischandragad Trek From Pune FAQs
How many days are required to complete this trek?
For Harishchandragad Trek, we have to travel 5-6 hours from Pune which we cover over night and early morning we start the trek. Trek is completed by afternoon post which we have lunch and leave for Pune.
Are there any hotels near Harishchandragad?
Pachnai, is a remote town with very low connectivity to modern services and also mobile network. Nearest villages are Rajur and Kotul
What is the height of the trek?
- Harishchandragad is 4670ft ASL.
- Highest point of Harishchandragad is Taramati Peak.
Terms and conditions
- Smoking or spraying deodorants or use of any scented lotion is strictly prohibited as it my attract insects.
- Drinking alcohol is strictly prohibited. If found will be expelled from the group, participant will be responsible for their travel arrangements beyond that point.
- The leader's decision will be final and binding.
- Banjara Outdoors team reserves the right to change/deviate/cancel the plans without prior notice.
- Telephonic confirmation for booking is mandatory; if unable to contact us, then send a text/WhatsApp message and we will call you back.
- Please do not carry handbags, jholas, or sling bags on treks.
- Please do not carry or wear any valuables, ornaments, jewelry, etc. If carried, then we do not take any liability for the same.
- We serve locally made food to give you a homely experience, so please do not expect luxurious arrangements.
- Limited washrooms are available as we are travelling to Village area
- We Need at Least 12 Travellers to Manage our Trip, Banjara Outdoors Reserves The Rights to Cancel the Trip if the Minimum Batch size does not suffice!
- Starts: 699
- Duration: 1N/1D
- Type: Waterfall Trek