Ratangad Fort Trek
Where every stone tells a story of valour
Moderate - Difficult
6-7 Hours
12 to 60 Years (Fit Individuals)
12-13 Km
Pachad
All Seasons
Ratangad: The Jewel of the Sahyadris
Ratangad Fort: Often referred to as the “Jewel of the Sahyadris,” Ratangad Fort is a breathtaking trekking destination nestled in the Kalsubai range. Rising to an elevation of 4,255 feet, it offers unparalleled, panoramic views of the tranquil Bhandardara backwaters and the highest peaks of Maharashtra.
Trek Highlights & Must-See Attractions:
The ‘Nedhe’ (Eye of the Needle): The most iconic feature of Ratangad is a massive natural rock cavity sculpted by wind erosion at the very top of the fort. Sitting inside this wind-swept opening provides a surreal experience.
Amruteshwar Temple: The trek begins from the picturesque base village of Ratanwadi, home to a 1,000-year-old, intricately carved stone Shiva temple.
Ridge Walk & Colossal Cliffs: Experience the colossal cliffs unfolding in front of your eyes, one behind the other, as you walk along the thrilling fortified edges.
Trimbak Darwaza: The historic main entrance of the fort, safely accessible by climbing a series of iron ladders through dense forest cover.
Ratangad: The Jewel of the Sahyadris
Often referred to as the "Jewel of the Sahyadris," Ratangad Fort is a breathtaking trekking destination nestled in the Kalsubai range. Rising to an elevation of 4,255 feet, it offers unparalleled, panoramic views of the tranquil Bhandardara backwaters and the highest peaks of Maharashtra.
Trek Highlights & Must-See Attractions:
- The 'Nedhe' (Eye of the Needle): The most iconic feature of Ratangad is a massive natural rock cavity sculpted by wind erosion at the very top of the fort. Sitting inside this wind-swept opening provides a surreal experience.
- Amruteshwar Temple: The trek begins from the picturesque base village of Ratanwadi, home to a 1,000-year-old, intricately carved stone Shiva temple.
- Ridge Walk & Colossal Cliffs: Experience the colossal cliffs unfolding in front of your eyes, one behind the other, as you walk along the thrilling fortified edges.
- Trimbak Darwaza: The historic main entrance of the fort, safely accessible by climbing a series of iron ladders through dense forest cover.
Itinerary
Day 0
- Start Journey from Pune (8:30 PM)
Day 1
- Reach the base village (4 AM) and rest for some time
- Freshen up and start trekking after breakfast
- Explore the Fort (The Nedhe, Ridge Walk and Colossal Cliffs, Trimbak Darwaza)
- 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”.
Tour Cost
| Departure Location | Event Fees |
|---|---|
| From Pune - Veg/Non-Veg | ₹1,299/1399 |
| From Base - Veg/Non-Veg | ₹699/799 |
Pickup Points with Map Location
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)
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.
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.
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: Night Trek/Sunrise Trek
Available Dates
- 23 - 24 May 2026
- 30 - 31 May 2026
- 06 - 07 June 2026
- 13 - 14 June 2026