Harishchandragad Trek

Trek to Harischandragad is known to be one of the best treks in the Sahyadri ranges and is known as 'Trekkers Paradise'. Harischandragad is a hill fort in Malshej Ghat ranges, in the Indian State of Maharashtra.  There are  three routes to reach Harischandragad Temple . The first route is Nali chi vat- very difficult one, the second  ascends via Khireshwar- also a difficult one and the third ascends via Paachnai- the simple one.

DAY 1

ENROUTE TO KHIRESHWAR VILLAGE

Our route was Mumbai-Kalyan-Malshej Ghat-Khubi Phata-Khireshwar.

We started our journey from Kalyan to Khubi phata at around 10.30 PM by public transport .   At around 1 AM, we reached Khubi phata.  Then a 5 km walk through the mud roads beside Pimpalgaon Joge dam. It was a nice walkway with windy breeze. Reached Khireshwar village  at around 2.30 am and slept in an open space.

DAY 2

VILLAGE LIFE

The dam and the surrounding area offers a scenic view of the area. I walked through the village enjoying village life and sun rise. Farming is done  around the houses. The lush green fields and the houses in the village is a sight to behold.

THE TREK

Post breakfast at the village,  we started our walk.

Then the trek towards Tolar Khind began. There are rock patches in between. Soon we reached Tolar Khind. Tolar Khind also offers a great view of the Konkan hills.

The good thing about this trek is that the way to Harischandragad Temple is well-marked .

Next part of the trek is somewhat dangerous. Here you have to cross vertical rock patches and there are broken railing support in few areas. I had to climb this steep and elevated path .  I started my climb. My legs were shivering. But I managed to climb the path with ease.There was a huge valley beside me.  We were walking through a vertical path full of slippery rocks.

Once you cover the rock patch, a vast area will welcome you. Next part of the trek is a simple walk. It is the place worth visiting for all nature lovers. Its beauty enhances in monsoon season.

There are a couple of huts selling lemon water, buttermilk, snacks etc. The plateau is rich in flora and fauna, lots of wildflowers and butterflies can be seen. There are carpets of Sonki flowers all along the route in the month of October. Then the trek goes through a narrow foot path.  Though the trek is a test of your endurance, it is quite worth for the scenic view it offers. The long stretches of greenery is simply mesmerizing to watch.

As 2016 draws to a close, the mass flowering of Karvi (Strobilanthes callosa) that made the forest all the more special is a sight to behold. The next mass bloom is expected only to be in 2024 now. I have made enough memories of this mass blooming.

The forest  path is a paradise for nature lovers as it hosts several exotic species of wildlife.  Trekking with greenery and fresh wind is a remarkable experience. We identified snakes  butterflies, and birds on the way.

We reached the top of Harishchandragad at around 12.30 p.m.

We rested at a small hut specially made for trekkers.  They served local Maharashtrian food - rice, pittali and pickle. After lunch and rest, we started to explore the surroundings.

HARISHCHANDRESHWAR TEMPLE

Situated at a height of 4650 ft above sea level, this temple has been carved out from a single huge rock.

Legand says that Sant Dnyaneshwar had made the stone wall to walk. He rode the wall to meet Yogi Changdev who rode a Tiger. Changdeve, a mystical yogi turned saint who is believed to have stayed at Harischandragad. The inscription 'Changa Wateshwaracha' on the fort is prominent. 

Behind this temple, a huge Nandi is placed. Behind this Nandi, there is a small underground room.

Around this temple there a few caves and ancient water tanks. The river Mangal Ganga is said to originate from one of the tanks located close to the temple.

SAPTATIRTHA PUSHKARNI

To the east of the main temple is a well-built lake called “Saptatirtha Pushkarni” with temple like constructions on its bank.

KEDARESHWAR CAVE

To the right side of the temple is a huge cave called Kedareshwar. You can watch a big Shiv Ling surrounded by water inside the cave. Forests are nature's design of an efficient and time tested water harvesting system.

CAVES ON HARISHCHANDRAGAD

These caves are situated all over the fort. Many of these are situated at the foot of Taramati peak and trekker's using these caves as the place of accommodation. There are small water tanks associated with the caves.

KONKAN KADA (KONKAN CLIFF)

The most interesting point on Harishchandragad is this cliff, which has always fascinated many people for many years. The cliff faces west and looks down upon the Konkan.  It was also here that we enjoyed one of the most beautiful sunset. We sat at the edge of the valley. The climate was so cool, it felt so fresh. I, very conveniently immersed myself in the beauty of the valley. It was a beautiful evening and a memorable one too. And with a view like this, we spent around 2 hours .

It was getting dark and we headed back to the temple area.  It was a long day, indeed. After having dinner, we had fun time with  camp fire, guitar, and songs.

DAY 3

Woke up at 7 AM and our agenda was trek to Taramati peak. Harischandragad is an irregular tabletop with  two peaks, namely Taramati and the Balekilla. There is one more peak called Rohidas peak.

TARAMATI PEAK

This is the topmost point on the fort and is the second highest peak in Maharashtra. Walk uphill to the right of the point and one gets a fascinating view of the Naneghat, Malshej Ghat and the forts near Murbad. One can also see the highest peak Kalsubai, Ratangad, Bhairavgad and Nanacha Angatha from here. It took one hour for ascending and half hour for descending.

After having break fast, we started descending towards the base village. Upon reaching the base village, we had snacks and took a private vehicle to reach the bus stop on the highway.

Enroute passed through the beautiful Malshej ghat. Am sure that one can surely enjoy this adventurous trek.

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Unexplored Devkund Waterfalls, Maharashtra

Devkund waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located near Tamhini Ghat, part of Western Ghat mountain ranges in Maharashtra.

ENROUTE TO BHIRA

Started our journey from Dadar, Mumbai at around 6 am in a private bus. En route we had a pit stop at Pali for breakfast. Just half an hour travel from Pali, we reached Bhira Dam which is also the source of the Kundalika river. Kundalika river is famous for its White Water Rafting and I still remember that day, when I went rafting two years back !.  And a walkable distance to the Bhira Village -  the starting point of trek.

STARTING POINT OF THE TREK

Started the trek at around 10.30 AM. The route was small and full of greenery.

We have to cross a river  full of rock patches. As the monsoon season was over,  water was flowing in a narrow lane.

A major portion of the trek route involves walking through the dense forest beside the river.

Spotted an old abandoned house on the route. It is a sight to behold for the wholesome greenery around.

A PIT STOP

Rolling hills and water body lend a surreal  feel to the breathtaking scenery and we had a pit stop here.

The trek path is also scenic and is worth visiting for all nature lovers. Spotted worms, wild flowers and beautiful structure of trees .

Then we reached a vast area . The trail is a treat for the eyes as you soak in the views of lush green vistas and the majestic peaks of Thamani Ghat.

It’s a fascinating and rewarding trek as it takes you along the river.

We had a pit stop near a rivulet for photo session. And the trek continued after crossing the stream.

The rest of the trek was through the dense forest.

We were almost near  the waterfall.  Refreshed myself with water. Then a five minute trek through the rock patches  to reach the waterfalls. Spotted a man fishing.

UNVEILING THE HIDDEN SECRET

At round 1 PM, we reached in front of the water fall. The first sight of the fall was very thrilling. The water fall of  Devkund is amazing and is located inside the forest. The greenery coupled with the water fall makes it a picnic spot.  It was mesmerizing to see water plunging from atop the mountain.

It was an absolute treat playing in the cool natural pond with crystal clear water.  Diving in the pond and getting under the gigantic waterfall provided much relief from the October heat. We spent around one hour for a bath and photography.  A bath below the water fall  was a rejuvenating experience.

LUNCH TIME

After taking some photos,  we bid goodbye to this secret waterfall and started descending at around 2 pm.  Soon we reached  the base village. Had a delicious Maharashtrian lunch - Rice, Dal, pickle, pappad, bhaji etc.

BEAUTIFUL BHIRA DAM AND SUNSET

It was around 5.30 PM and we had decided to visit Bhira dam to enjoy the sunset. Andharben trek also finishes here. Beautiful Thamani Ghat surrounded by lush green vistas in the background and the dam make this area  one of the most beautiful landscapes.

Soon we started our return journey . It was a day very well spent and will be cherished for a long time.

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Bandra Fair, Mumbai

This year the Annual Bandra Fair, which follows the birthday celebration of Mother Mary, started on September 11 (Sunday) at Mt. Mary Basilica, Bandra, Mumbai.  The festival also known as the  'Feast of Mount Mary' is a week-long festivity,  held annually every September.

Sunday, being a holiday, I went to the Mount Mary Fair on the first day itself.  For the next one week, the city becomes one of the most crowded places in Mumbai.  The steps leading to  Mount Mary Church get an artistic makeover on the occasion of the festival.

There are numerous stalls on the way.  Free Bibles were on offer while people made way from queues. It is an absolute celebration with food stalls, street events and shopping pleasures. Stalls on both sides of the road that lead to the church sells candles shaped like hands, feet etc etc.

There is something very special to be enjoyed  here and people across communities come to the church to pray and celebrate.

People gather at the Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount 

After offering prayers at the church, I headed towards the fair. The venue is the Mount Mary Church complex and all the lanes surrounding the church. The entry and exit had been well-marked and it was easy to pass through the gates.

Shops and kiosks  on either sides of the fair sold  clothes, accessories, roasted grams, Rajasthani pickles to Goan sweets. The festival also hosts a lot of fun activities such as joyrides and various slides for children and youngsters.

This is also one of the Street Food Festival, which brings together the best of cheap, all types of Indian street food. What drew my attention the most were the pickles with different flavors. The vibrant colors and taste of the pickles basket made it look more alluring and unavoidable.

Of course, the fair was a great opportunity to know new things about the city and its culture. Hope I find you somewhere in the crowd next time.

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Visapur Trek

Visapur Fort is larger and at a higher elevation than its twin fort- Lohagad.  This place is located near Lonavala which is near Pune in Maharashtra.

ENROUTE TO BHAJA, LONAVALA

In the dripping wet Mumbai monsoon, it was hard to travel between places. After around 140 kms travel from Mumbai, we reached Malavli. Just 3 kms from the Malavli station, you can reach the base village of  Bhaja,  where ample parking is available. There is a waterfall at the base, which is used for bathing as well as washing clothes. The greenery coupled with the waterfall makes it a picnic spot.

THE TREK

The trek begins from  Bhaja village.  Climbing to the top of the fort, from the base village takes around 2 to 2.5 hours. The walk towards Bhaja Caves is a short climb on a properly laid stairs.

The stairs and the path to the top of the fort get slippery during the monsoons, so one needs to be careful  while climbing. Before reaching the cave area, turn to the left . The route is a little adventurous with a steep walk.

The journey from the base village to the top of the fort is also scenic and is worth visiting for all nature lovers. Its beauty enhances during the monsoon season.

Enroute we rested at a village house. They prepared tea for us.

It was slightly raining and waterfalls were flowing all over. The path was very slippery and we managed to walk through the rocks and the waterfalls.

There are enough sign boards to guide you.

Enroute we spotted small caves curtaining waterfalls.

Heavy rain welcomed us when we reached close to the final lap of the trek.  Walking through the rocky patches during heavy rain is a lifetime experience. Water flowing on the rocks make it more soapy and unsafe.

Rolling hills covered by fog and a series of waterfalls lend a surreal feel to the breathtaking scenery. It was mesmerizing to see water plunging from atop the mountain to the forests.

We were almost near to the top area. Rest part of the trek goes through well laid stairs. You will also find waterfalls enroute to the fort.

We passed by Lord Hanuman’s temple known as Chapetdan Maruti. It takes its name  because of Lord Hanuman's pose to slap the devil that is at his feet. There are small caves and sources for drinking water.

Then we explored fortification on the fort. You can admire ruined stone-built house known as Peshwa’s palace, old grinder, water tanks (known as Taake in Marathi), fort’s wall, secret entrance and carving of Hunuman (Lord Maruti) idol, which is considered as the deity of Visapur fort.

Set at an altitude of 3556 ft Feet above MSL, the fort area is too vast and it takes around two hours to see the places on the top of the fort. Majority of the walls is still intact. From this fort, you can see other forts such as Lohagad, Tikona and Tung.

Escape route or secret route, Visapur Fort

The ruins of a large stone-built house are known as the Peshwa’s palace . We were walking in clouds and unable to see any natural beauty around the fort.  Walking with greenery and fresh wind makes life easier here.

Then we started descending.  It was a beautiful walk and a memorable one too. During monsoons the trail to the top is an amazing experience with heavy fog, rain and wind all around.

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Ambling Through Coastal Karnataka

Going to Coastal Karnataka,India, had always been 'on my list' . A pretty temple - known for its size, the incredible Jog Falls, Mirjan fort, famous Om beach ( as its name suggests a sea shore in the shape of Om)  and great Konkan food - a perfect choice, all in three days.

The journey started from Mumbai CST by Mangalore Express at around 10.00 pm. The train journey from Mumbai to Murudeshwar was amazing with greenery everywhere and awesome views.  Reached Murudeshwar station at around 12.00 noon. We had decided to stay in a beach facing hotel near to the temple.  After  lunch, we decided to visit Murudeshwara temple.

MURUDESHWARA TEMPLE

Surrounded on three sides by the waters of the Arabian Sea, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The 20 storied Raja Gopura is a sight to behold and is considered as the tallest Gopura in the world. Two life-size elephants in concrete stand guard at the steps that lead to the temple.

The temple has a typical South Indian architecture. After a photo session in front of the Raja Gopura, we entered the temple premises. We bought tickets and waited in the queue to get into one of the  two elevators to go upstairs. Once you reach the top,  you can see four windows. One of them looks at the Shiva Statue. The other two gives a clear view of the beach on either sides of the temple, while the fourth one shows you Murudeshwara town.  This is a perfect spot, from where I got a bird's-eye view of the world's second tallest Shiv Statue.

An Birds Eye View from Gopura, Murudeshwar Temple

 Through one window, you can admire the beauty of Murudeshwara Beach.

Through the 3rd window, you will get a view of the other side of  the Murudeshwara beach, which is calm and lonely.

You have to come out of the temple premises to reach the Shiva Statue. This 123-feet Shiva idol is the second highest statue of Lord Shiva in the world. Under the statue, there is a cave which tells us the story of Murudeshwara and Gokarna with statues of Ravana.

It was time for some enjoyment and shopping. And there was quite a bit to explore in this temple town. Had a cup of tea and headed to the beach.

You can stroll around the Murudeshwara Beach which is quite pristine and clean, for the Sunset view. It was also here that we enjoyed one of the most beautiful sunsets,  with the temple and the sun sinking into the sea in background.

During night, it was great to watch the temple premises - Raj Gopura, Shiv Statue - all shine with lights. We spent a few hours at the beach, having fun and clicking photos.

It was getting dark, we headed back to the hotel. We had a yummy dinner at the hotel's restaurant.

Day 2
We had our breakfast and we were all set to visit Kumta for Mirjan Fort.

MIRJAN FORT

Built in the 16th century by Queen Chennabhaira Devi or Gerasoppa, the fort is located on the banks of Aganashini  River.  Mirjan port was used for trading with ports of Gujarat.  After crossing the gate, you have to walk through wide steps to reach the entrance of the fort. And I climbed to the top of the fort to witness the glory.

The Mirjan Fort Entrance

You can watch many secret passages inside the fort. The fort has many wells linked with each other, watch tower cum flag hoisting tower, Darbar hall, market place and entry doors.

Mirjan Fort inside view

The fort bastion and watch tower still stand alive. The circular moat surrounding the fort, which was used as a defense measure to protect the fort, is almost in a ruined state now. A witness to the Vijayanagara Empire and  the British colonialism, the fort still stands alive in every sense of the word.

From Mirjan Fort, we made our way to Jog falls. In between a small halt for lunch. This time we headed to a small village restaurant, which reminded me so much of  Kerala.  Around 1.30 PM,  we reached Jog falls and started exploring.

JOG WATERFALLS

Jog Waterfalls proudly owns the title of India’s second tallest Water Plunge. The river Sharavathi makes a descent here from a height of about 830 feet, providing a spellbinding sight. The water comes down in four distinct falls - Raja, Rani, Roarer and Rocker.

Jog Waterfalls

To reach the base of Jog Falls, I had to take a 1400 steps walk downhill from the viewpoint. We enjoyed the breathtaking view of the falls as we covered almost 1400 steps to reach the bottom. Jog Falls are exceptional as the water does not flow down the rocks in a tiered fashion; it gushes down the slope right from the great height making it the tallest un-tiered waterfall in India. 

The falls are a perfect picnic spot with unexplored walking trails around the area. The splendor of the waterfalls is enhanced by the lush green surroundings, which provide a scenic backdrop.

After our trek , it was time to warm up a little bit, so we headed to a nearby restaurant for a tea. Our dinner was on our way back to the hotel, a typical Non Veg Thali which offers locally sourced cuisine in a very relaxed atmosphere. Fish and seafood are highly featured in the menu. And then, it was time to finally check-in  at our hotel.

Day 3

We had a great breakfast at a stunning beach side hotel which is projected to the sea. It was nice to enjoy a hot cup of tea watching the sea waves hitting the pillars of the hotel. It was time to go out of the city. We headed towards Om beach.

OM BEACH

Om beach is one of  the most famous among four beaches in Gokarna. Shaped like the Om symbol, this place will offer you peace and serenity. This area has only one restaurant facing the sea.  Sitting on the open area and sipping your favorite drink is a wonderful experience.  The sea waves come to you literally and this view is surely a bonus. The beach as its name suggests is a sight to behold.

Om beach

We could not resist a lazy walk around. It was worth noting an iron ore rock similar to a Shiv Ling. After a little walk along the sea shore, we headed back towards the parking area.

A long weekend simply was not enough to explore this beautiful coastal place. We had a lovely weekend in Coastal Karnataka and I can't wait to be back.

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