Vishramgad (Pattagad) - पट्टागड ३३३वां शिव पदस्पर्श दिन

Height: 1392m - 4566 ft

Location: Nasik – Ahmednagar border(Kalsubai region).

History: Pattagad was under the Mughal rule till 1672. In the year 1672, under the command of Moropant Pingle, the Marathas captured the fort including other forts in the Nasik and Baglan region.

After winning Jalnapur(current city of Jalna), Shivaji Maharaj reached Sangamner in Ahmednagar. The Mughal army came in large number and trapped him from three sides. Maratha army defeated them in a huge battle. Shivaji Maharaj arrived on Pattagad on 16^th November 1679.  It was because of the mastery of Bahirji Naik (Head of the Detective Department) that Shivaji Maharaj was able to reach Patta safely.

Shivaji Maharaj stayed here for nearly a month to recover from prolonged illness. After his stay here this fort was renamed as Visharamgad. As Pattagad was the only fort other than Raigad and Rajgad where Shivaji Maharaj stayed for such a long period.

Occasion: The local villagers and government authorities came forward to celebrate this auspicious day. 

Bee Attack - Trekker falls to death!!

In a tragic incident a 30-year-old trekker lost his life, when he fell down the 135 feet cliff after been attacked by a swarm of bees. This incident took place on 12^th Nov while climbing Dangya pinnacle in Igatpuri taluka of district Nasik. The deceased trekker, Sandeep Patade hailed from Mulund and was here with a group mountaineers from Mumbai.

All the five climbers began their climbing but nearly at 150 feet height, the honey bees attacked the Mountaineers. The leader of the group, Sandeep was severely injured due to numerous stings. In a state of panic, Sandeep’s hand slipped and he fell in the deep valley and was killed on the spot.

The honey bees also struck other trekkers and injured them. One of the four mountaineers called an acquaintance in Mumbai to get some help, who sent volunteers of Vainateya Giriyarohan Giribhraman, one of the oldest adventure groups in Nashik, to the accident spot.

A Police Patil and other villagers rushed to the police station and informed the Wadivarhe police station about the incident. Police personnel rushed to the spot and recovered the body of Sandeep from the valley. The injured have been admitted in Nashik civil hospital and were discharged in the evening after treatment of minor injuries.

It is a very sad and heartbreaking incident and will leave its mark for a long time. RIP!!

Kelva Beach

 

Location: Palghar, Thane

Kelva Beach is located near Palghar, Dist. Thane. Kelva beach stretches nearly 7 KMS along the coastline of Arabian Sea, surround by thousands of suru trees and a typical rustic courtryside. Also known as Kelwe Beach.

Getting There: 

From Mumbai: 120 KMS.

From Nasik: 170 KMS. 

Route: Nasik >> Trimbakeshwar >> Jawhar >> Palghar>> Kelva Beach

This was our fourth trip to Kelva Beach; first visit was nearly 10 years ago. Kelva Beach is a great weekend destination for family fun. One can enjoy the serene and calm ambience. Kelva was unexplored and untouched but now the beach is overcrowded as the popularity is increasing.

There are few forts near the beach, one is submerged in the sea and another one is located at the northern edge of the beach.

Kelwa Beach is well connected by Rail and Road Transport.

Accommodation:

There are plenty of places to stay at Kelva. Hotels, resorts and household accommodation are available.

Harishchandragad Via Nalichi Vat (हरिश्‍चंद्रगड नळीची वाट)

Harishchandragad has always been my favorite trekking spot. Having seen it so many times before, we wanted to experience something new. So, we decided to plan our trek via Nalichi Vat. Excitement started to rise among us and we were eagerly waiting for this trek to materialize as earlier several plans for this trek were cut short.

After consulting everyone, dates were finalized and the plan was made. All of us were new to this route and with no climbing gears….not even a rope. We collected as much information as possible, as we knew about the difficulty and degree of this route. So, only limited guys were informed about the trek. We were 5 people…..I, Kiran, Rahul, Pravin & Jayesh.

We boarded a late night Pune-Nasik bus from Shivajinagar and alighted Ale Phata at 2.00 AM. Here we were stranded for nearly an hour till we got a private travels bus to Kalyan. As if stranding was not enough, we again had a setback. While boarding the bus we told the driver that we have to get down at Savarne village, to which he agreed and told us that he knew the village and would tell us once we reach there. But nearly for an hour and half we were still traveling but there was no sign of this village. When we asked him about it he insisted that the village is still to come. And then we saw the sign board that indicated a route to Naneghat. Then and there we realized that we had traveled far too ahead of our desired destination. We got down from the bus where it had halted at a hotel for tea & snacks. Again we were stranded for almost an hour when we were lucky to get a ride in a tempo. We reached Savarne at around 5.30 AM.

Every one of us was tired after the sleepless journey. We found as small temple to rest for a while. But none of us got up before 7.00 AM. Till we were ready to leave for Bail Pada it was almost 8.00 AM. Nothing was going according to our plan. We were 3 hours behind our schedule.

We reach Bail Pada at 10.00 AM; here we had some breakfast and tea to refresh ourselves. Finding a local guide was a bit time consuming then we thought. No one was ready to come with us to Harishchandragad. After a lot of requests, we hired a guide who agreed to take us till the last end of this route. It was more than enough for us.

At 11.00 AM we started our much craved trek of our lives. The view of the mighty Kokankada from this side was astonishing. This route took us through the stream bed surrounded by forest. After few water breaks, we reached the steep rocky climb. Here we took a small snacks break, after nearly 15 mins with resumed our trek. Keeping Konkankada on our right, slowly but steadily we kept on climbing the ascent. Initially the rocks were normal but as we kept going higher and higher the rocks were crumbling and tumbling which made it difficult for us to hold on to. Once we reached here we were surrounded by tall stone formations on both sides, here one can realize how tiny we are as compared to nature.

We climbed all the rock patches with no difficulty. One needs more confidence and determination then ropes to climb these rock patches. The last rock patch was a challenge as the rocks were soft sedimentary rocks. The surface we were standing was so delicate that it was tumbling down heavily, making it difficult to even stand at one place. But, soon we found few safer holds to climb. Overall it was freaky but lovely experience. 

The view from the top was breathtaking. Once we reached the top of this rock patch. We took a moment to admire what we have achieved, giving us a sense of content. This was the moment to cherish. It was almost 4.00 PM when we reached Kokankada.

Once we reached at the top, we enjoyed some buttermilk which rejuvenated us. We rested for next 30 mins and started walking towards the temple to find some shelter. Finally at 5.00 PM we reached the Harishchandreshwar Temple. We found a shelter on the right side of the temple. After resting for some time we stared preparation for the dinner. We prepared dal and rice khichadi with mango pickles. At that moment of time nothing in the world would have tasted better than this menu. It was nearly 9.00 PM when we called it a day.

It was just a routine in the morning. We woke up at 8.00 AM, freshened up and got ready by 9.00 AM. We had our breakfast at the stall nearby and bought some snacks for our return journey. After few refreshing breaks, on the way back, we reached Khireshwar at 1.00 PM. Here we ate our lunch and boarded a ST bus for Otur. From Otur we took another ST bus for Pune.

To sum up the trekking experience I would say that this trek is totally a test of endurance; you will need a lot of self motivation and stamina to complete this trek. Try not to visit with a large group of people as it will be time consuming and will increase the risk of injury. All in all it was a unique and learning experience for each of us. Hope to visit Nalichi Vat once again.

Revival of my blog

It's been almost 4 years since my last post. As they say "time just flies by". I also don't know why I didn't post anything for such a long time. But from now onward I am going to post regularly. It's a revival of my blog!!  

Durg Bhandar

Location: Trimbakeshawar, Nasik.

Getting There: Nasik >> Trimbakeshwar (30KMs).
Get atop Brahmagiri reach Shivjata Mandir. From here, traverse towards the end of the mountain from the back of the Shivjata Mandir.


Best Time To Visit: Around the year.

History: In the year 1752, the warrior from Peshwa’s camp, Trimbak Suryaji Prabhu wrested the fort and established the Peshwa’s regime there. It was in the year 1818 that British forces led by Mc Dowell wrested the fort and gained upper hand in the region as the forces won a set of 16 other forts in the vicinity.

Naldurg Fort : The Biggest Fort In Maharashtra.

Naldurg which was formerly a district headquarter is situated about 50 Kms. south-east of Osmanabad. The fort which is an interesting place has enclosed a surface of a knoll or plantain of basalt rock which is jutted out into the valley or raving of the small river Bori. Along the rest of the cliff on three sides ran fortifications. bastion firmly built out have deseed basalt and are large enough to carry heavy guns. The entire circumference is about a mile and a half. The interior portion is covered with ruined walls and a half, the interior portion is covered with ruined walls and a vide road running up to the centre. The fort has many bastions amongst which are upli Buruj(150 mts), which is the height point in the fort Paranda Buruj , Nagar Buruj, Sangam Burug, Sangram Buruj, Bands Buruj, Poone Buruj, etc. This fort is spread in the area of 126 acres and have 114 bastions (Buruj).

Inside the fort there are remains of the walls and some of the building such a Barood kotha, Baradari, Ambarkhana, Rangaan mahal, Jali etc. Though the buildings are in ruins the remains give a impression that there night have been at one time the specious buildings, There are two tanks in the fort known as machali guns amongst which important are the “hathi toph” and magar Toph”, The hathi Darwaza and the hurmukh and the hurmukh darwaza are the main gates of the fort.

The most interesting building which connects the fort and the Ranmandala is the dam constructed across the bori river, the dam and the pani mahal, which is built underneath and in the middle of the dam were, constructed. During the reign of Ibrahim Adil shah II. The fort is said to have been originally built by a Hindu Raja who was a vassal of the Chalukya kings of kalyani. It was latter included in the dominions of the Bahamanis and was subsequently taken over by the Adil shahi kings of bijapur, from whom it passed in the hands of mughalain the year 1686.A.D.

Master Makes History

Finally the most awaited event in the history of Cricket took place (October 17, 2008). The world record for the highest number of runs in Test cricket, the feat of being the first person to surpass 12,000 runs was achieved by Sachin Tendulkar. The Master Blaster surpassed the record of Brain Lara(11,953 runs).

Sachin's Test Match Records

Long time no scribble......

Damn, it’s been a long time I haven’t written anything in my Blog…..Life is so busy now a days that I hardly get some extra time for me. I have to write about many things that happened in these 2 months........So from here after, I will try to write as often as possible.

My Upcoming Treks

1. Kalsubai.
2. Alang.
3. Madan.
4. Kulang.
5. Dhak Bahiri.
6. Ratangad.
7. Rajgad-Torna.
8. Bhimashankar via Khandas.
9. Dhodap.

Hope everything goes as per the plan.

Monsoon Getaway: Dabhosa Waterfall

Location: Jawhar

This erstwhile Tribal Capital is 830 ft above sea level in the green hills of Central Thane District, on the border of Nasik District and Gujarat State.

Getting There: 

From Nasik: 98 km. Nasik >> Trimbakeshwar >> Jawhar >> Dabhosa Waterfall.
From Mumbai: 184 km. Mumbai via Western Express Highway (NH 8) >> Charoti Naka (Kasa) >> Jawhar >> Dabhosa Waterfall.

Best Time To Visit: July to February

Dadar-Kopra / Dabhosa Waterfall (300 ft): It’s an ideal monsoon getaway. A lush green forest, serpentine roads, misty valleys and milky waterfalls, this place has it all. The site of Dabhosa Waterfall is quite stunning.

On reaching Jawhar, follow the Selvas Road. Making your way through the dense jungle, lakes, streams and several small villages you reach the site of this fall. Beyond the fencing one gets a majestic view of the Dabhosa Waterfall / Dadar-Kopra Fall.

Around Jawhar:

1. Jai Vilas Palace: This huge palace is famous for its structure and size. Also called as Raj Bari. It is owned by the tribal king of Jawhar. Being a private property one hardly gets the permission to see it from inside.

2. Sunset Point: As the name suggests, this point really give you a magnificent view of the settling sun. The view of the valley below from here is also picturesque.

3. Shirpamal: It is a place where Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj camped on his way to Surat. The surrounding view is quite breathtaking.

Keep Rocking!!!

Prashant
prashant.kulthe@gmail.com

Rajmachi

19th July’ 08 (Day 1)
Since I have started cherishing trekking as a passion, Rajmachi has been amongst the most awaited treks every year. Rajmachi has got some sort of X-factor which tends to attract every single person who has visited it. I have got a habit; I trek to Rajmachi twice a year. First one is always in the monsoons (mostly mid-July) and the other one is at the end of the monsoons (September-October) which is a night trek. One thing I hate about any trek is the size of group accompanying you. This time the size of group was 25-26, which is a big number is indeed. The problem of controlling such a huge group is really bothering.
On Saturday, 19th July’08, we boarded a local train to Lonavala at Akurdi Station. This train was scheduled at 8.30 am. We divided our group into two parts. Group 1 comprising of 13 guys including me boarded this local, where as Group 2 were suppose to catch the 10.30 am local, as few guys were having some issues.

We reached Lonavala at 9.30 am. Here we were supposed to purchase the stuffs we need for this 2 days trek. We took another hour or so for the shopping and finally at 10.30am we started off for our most beloved trek. On reaching Tungarli village, everyone decided to have our breakfast. With 2 wadapavs and a cup of tea, we were rejuvenated.
Following the track towards the Upper Deck Hotel, we reached Tungarli Dam. Here we came to know about the real climatic condition of the surrounding region. Every year Tungarli Dam is a sort of measuring unit. If the dam is 80% full then one can consider that the rainfall in this region is ample and the scenery will be charismatic. But here the scene was different. Water level was almost negligible. Making us realize the fact that being rainy season, most parts of the Maharashtra state was yet to receive the rains.
Almost drained by the realization and wondering what would be the picture ahead, we dragged our feet towards Rajmachi via Thakarwadi. I follow certain rules during the treks. 1. Take a break every 1 hour. 2. When you are amidst of nature enjoy, appreciate and respect the nature. 3. Care about fellow trekkers. 4. Respect the native people, their faiths and beliefs, try not to destroy their property i.e. farms, trees etc.

Our next stop was at the next big Odha which forms the famous waterfall of Rajmachi. Here we had to wait for our second group. They reached at this spot nearly after an hour. We ate our snacks and resumed our trek in next 30 mins.
Leaving Dhak Phata behind us, we followed the mud track. In the next hour we were near the next Odha. Here most of the group members were interested in bathing, which took another hour. Remaining group was relaxing by the side of the Odha. As we chatted and captured scenes in the cameras, time was passing pretty fast. Suddenly we realize the extra time we wasted. Forcing everyone to resume our trek, we started our walk again.
For the next one and half hour we walked non stop till the spot where one can see the mighty waterfall in the front and Shrivardhan Fort in the back. From this spot one gets a breathtaking view of the surrounding area. With such a view around, you only need a cup of hot tea to rejuvenate yourself. We enjoyed every moment of it. At the tea stall owned by Rajaram Umbre(every year we stay at his place), we confirmed his house to stay.
We reached Rajmachi at 4.30 pm but it felt as if it was almost dark. The simple and pleasant atmosphere of the village will really fascinate you. Villagers are also simple and helpful people. One can literally live their laid-back lifestyle during the stay. No lights, no vehicles, no cell phones and you simply get used to it. Everything else in life gets pointless and nothing else matters. Away from worries and tensions of life, a life one can only dream about. Dinner was due till 8.00 pm, so few of us decided to visit the lake and the temple of Lord Shiva near the village. The lake is a sort of water reservoir of the village.

Food at Rajmachi is always great to eat. On finishing our dinner, most of the guys were almost in their beds. But with such a refreshing atmosphere around, many of us were not interested in sleeping. So we took a long walk, watching the clear starlit sky and admiring the fireflies.



 
20th July’ 08 (Day 2)  We got up early in the morning. After having our morning tea, we were ready for the climb to Shrivardhan Fort. The route to the top of the fort is quite simple and easy to ascend. We were atop the fort in just half an hour. The surrounding scenery takes your breath away and the pure and fresh air energizes you. We spent next hour sitting on the bastion and watching the waterfall in front of us. You are always short of word when it comes of explaining beauty of nature.

At 10.30 am we descended the fort and reached the village. Now, each one of us was hungry. We ate Kanda Pohe for our breakfast. The Kanda Pohe you get in this village is simply delicious. In Pune, you will never get to eat such tasty Kanda Pohe. I have experienced this as I was in Pune for last 3-4 years. We knew it very well that sooner or later we would be hungry again, so we ordered our lunch. Till then many of us took a quick nap as we had to kill our time.

Suddenly I saw someone whom I knew very well but due to lack of contact we were not in touch with each other. Dude!!! This was my friend Amit Patil. He was my classmate in school till 10th Std. and we were meeting each other after 10 years. It was great to see him.

It was almost 12.00 pm when we finished our lunch. We had plenty of time in hand. So, we decided to leave Rajmachi at 1.00 pm giving sufficient time for everyone to rest. Return journey is always tough (mostly) but in my case it’s always ultta. Nothing much happened on our way back to Lonavala. Taking regular breaks and halting where ever necessary, we reached Lonavala at 5.30 pm.

Rajmachi trek is always a memorable one. You always have a hangover till you plan another trek. Every moment, every incident is flashed in your memory for days to come.

Keep Rocking!!!!

Prashant
prashant.kulthe@gmail.com

Monsoon Trek To Rajmachi

Monsoon Trek To Rajmachi   Duration: 2 Days.  Date: 19th - 20th of July' 08.  Group: 15-20 People.  Route: Pune >> Lonavala >> Tungarli >> Rajmachi.  Distance: 24 km from Lonavala.

This is one hell of a trek !!!

Rajmachi (826 m - 2710 ft): In the monsoons, the Lonavala region has it's share of glory. The rains bring greenery all around the area. The scenery becomes exciting with mountains appearing to play hide and seek in the clouds. For trekkers and hikers, this is the perfect time to explore 'n' enjoy the pleasurable walk through the jungle.This is the most awaited trek every year.
One more thing.....I am an amateur trekker and not a professional. But, if anyone is really interested in joining us for this trek, you are always welcome. Please contact me till 17th of July.

Keep Rocking.....
Prashant

Welcome, My First Blog....

Well, this is my first blog as I have never tried my hands on it. Here, I would like to get involve in certain issues and try to write my point of view and approach towards those issues. As time will pass, I will feel free to open up myself......