Camping in Full Moon Night at Konkan Kada, Trekking, Climbing, Traversing, Exploring Ancient Caves, Temples, Un-Believable Landscapes, Camping, Cooking in Wild, Beautiful Place for Star Gazing.. and lots more..
Showing posts with label Trekking Club Mumbai. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Trekking Club Mumbai. Show all posts
Konya Expedition and Vasota Fort
December 08, 2014
This one is from the block of old memories.. Koyna Expedition .. 4 Days in Wilderness. Posing with Indian Gaur Skull found during the trek. — with Nimesh Patel, Mithila Rane, Unny Radhakrishnan, Rubina Kesury, Dnyanesh Golatkar, Bindhu Unny, Rupanjali Ganiga and Yugandhar Madidi.
Harishchandragad
June 11, 2013Night Trek to Harishchandragad via Pachnai and Camping at Konkan Kada.
Experiences
Night Trek to Harishchandragad; Konkan Kada Camping; Exploring Temple and Cave Complex at Harishchandragad
Date: March 26, 2016.
Grade: Easy to Moderate.
There are 7 popular routes to reach Harishchandragad trekking and Pachnai trek route is one of the most approachable routes to Harishchandragad and Konkan Kada.
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Day 1
2:30 pm Arrival at Kasara Railway Station.
3:00 pm to 5:30 pm Jeep Safari from Kasara Station to Pachnai.
6:00 pm Trek from Pachnai to Konkan Kada
8:30 pm Arrival at Campsite; Freshen up
Dinner with Campfire
Explore Night Life at Konkan Kada
Day 2
8:00 am - Breakfast
8:30 am - Explore Konkan Kada
12:00 pm - Lunch
01:00 pm - Return trek to Pachnai; exploring Harishchandragad Temple and Cave Complex on the way.
03:30 pm - Arrival at Village Pachnai; Tea at Village
Start back for Kasara Station
06:30 pm - End of Event at Kasara Station.
Camp Cost:
Rs.2500/- per head.
Trek Capacity: Minimum 8 and Maximum 24 participants.
Payment Terms: 100% Advance.
Includes:
Stay in tents
Meals - 1 Dinner; 1 Lunch; 1 Breakfast; 2 Evening Tea with Snack
Share Jeeps from Kasara to Pachnai and Back
Excludes:
Food during transit
Sleeping Bags or Bed Sheets or Tent Mats
Experiences
Night Trek to Harishchandragad; Konkan Kada Camping; Exploring Temple and Cave Complex at Harishchandragad
Date: March 26, 2016.
Grade: Easy to Moderate.
There are 7 popular routes to reach Harishchandragad trekking and Pachnai trek route is one of the most approachable routes to Harishchandragad and Konkan Kada.
.JPG)
Day 1
2:30 pm Arrival at Kasara Railway Station.
3:00 pm to 5:30 pm Jeep Safari from Kasara Station to Pachnai.
6:00 pm Trek from Pachnai to Konkan Kada
8:30 pm Arrival at Campsite; Freshen up
Dinner with Campfire
Explore Night Life at Konkan Kada
Day 2
8:00 am - Breakfast
8:30 am - Explore Konkan Kada
12:00 pm - Lunch
01:00 pm - Return trek to Pachnai; exploring Harishchandragad Temple and Cave Complex on the way.
03:30 pm - Arrival at Village Pachnai; Tea at Village
Start back for Kasara Station
06:30 pm - End of Event at Kasara Station.
Rs.2500/- per head.
Trek Capacity: Minimum 8 and Maximum 24 participants.
Payment Terms: 100% Advance.
Includes:
Stay in tents
Meals - 1 Dinner; 1 Lunch; 1 Breakfast; 2 Evening Tea with Snack
Share Jeeps from Kasara to Pachnai and Back
Excludes:
Food during transit
Sleeping Bags or Bed Sheets or Tent Mats
Station | Dep Time | Dep Time |
11:22 | ||
11:29 | 12:40 | |
11:35 | 12:46 | |
11:43 | 12:54 | |
11:48 | 12:58 | |
13:08 | ||
12:02 | 13:13 | |
12:07 | 13:18 | |
12:13 | 13:24 | |
12:17 | 13:28 | |
12:22 | 13:33 | |
12:25 | 13:36 | |
12:28 | 13:59 | |
12:34 | 13:45 | |
12:39 | 13:50 | |
12:42 | 13:53 | |
12:49 | 14:00 | |
12:57 | 14:08 | |
13:05 | 14:16 | |
13:11 | 14:22 | |
13:20 | 14:31 | |
13:32 | 14:43 | |
13:49 | 15:00 |
cancellation policy with respect to your date of booking:
25% deduction of total camp fee booking amount for cancellation done before 21 days
50% deduction of total camp fee booking amount for cancellation done before 5 days
No refund for an cancellation done in last 4 days before your event.More about the Place
Harishchandragad is one of the most interesting and popular treks in Maharastra and has several approaches to reach the summit right from Medium Grade to Really Very Tough Approaches. The Largest Kada in Maharashtra is located here having one of the most magnificent and unbelievable views of Konkan. It is said on a windy day if you throw an object into the Kada it would fly right back at you.
The fort is quite ancient. Remnants of Microlithic man have been discovered here. The various Puranas (ancient scriptures) like Matsyapurana, Agnipurana and Skandapurana include many references about Harishchandragad. Its origin is said to have been in 6th century, during the rule of Kalchuri dynasty. The citadel was built during this era. The various caves probably have been carved out in the 11th century. In these caves are idols of Lord Vishnu. Though the cliffs are named Taramati and Rohidas, they are not related to Ayodhya. Great sage Changdev (one who created the epic “Tatvasaar”), used to meditate here in 14th century. The caves are from the same period. The various constructions on the fort and those existing the surrounding region point to the existence of diverse cultures here. The carvings on the temples of Nageshwar (in Khireshwar village), in the Harishchandreshwar temple and in the cave of Kedareshwar indicate that the fort belongs to the medieval period, since it is related to Shaiva, Shakta or Naath. Later the fort was under the control of Moguls. The Marathas captured it in 1747.
Places of Interest
Konkan Kada
The most interesting point on this fort is this cliff, which has always fascinated many people from many years. From here, one can have a breathtaking view of the surrounding region and; the setting sun. This cliff is not straight, but concave in its topmost approach. This feature renders it distinct. It has been accessed by rock-climbers only twice till now.
Kedareshwar
Going rightwards of Harishchandreshwar temple, we come across a huge cave. This is the cave of Kedareshwar, in which there is a big Shivlinga, which is totally surrounded by water. The total height from its base is five feet, and the water is waist-deep. It is quite difficult to reach the Shivlinga, as the water is ice-cold. There are sculptures carved out here. In monsoon it is not possible to reach this cave, as a huge stream flows across the way.
Saptatirtha
To the east of the temple is a well-built lake called “Saptatirtha”. On its bank are temple-like constructions in which there are idols of Lord Vishnu. Recently these idols have been shifted in the caves near the temple of Harishchandreshwar. These days many trekkers have been responsible for the sad plight of this beautiful place, as they throw plastic wastes and other things in the pond. 7 years back the water was potable, and now it isn’t suitable even to swim.
Taramati peak
This is the topmost point on the fort. Leopards are seen in the forests beyond this peak. From here we can have a glimpse of the whole range of Naneghat and the forts near Murbad
Caves on Harishchandragad
Caves are situated all over the fort and most them concentrated near foot of Taramati peak. The caves near foot of Taramati are used as accommodation by most trekkers. A few are near the temple, whereas some are near the citadel and some far away in the forests. A natural cave is on the northwestern side of the fort, to the right of Kokan Kada. It is about 30 feet deep. The folks must know many such caves. Many of these may be remaining undiscovered.
Nageshwar temple near Khireshwar
This is a great antique construction, and diverse artistic works are seen on this. On the ceiling of the temple are beautiful carvings. There are caves near the temple.
Temple of Harishchandreshwar
This temple is marvelous example of the fine art of carving sculptures out of stones that prevailed in ancient India. It is about 16m high from its base. Around this temple there a few caves & ancient water tanks. Near the temple, the river Mangal Ganga originates. The top of the temple resembles construction with the north-Indian temples. A similar temple is situated in Buddha-Gaya. Here we can see many tombs, in which a typical construction is seen. These are built by arranging stones one over the other. The stones are well finished. There are three caves near the temple. The cisterns near the temple provide drinking water. Here another temple called Kashitirtha is located.
The fascinating thing about this temple is that it has been carved out from a single huge rock. There are entrances from all four sides. On the main entrance there are sculptures of faces. These are faces of guards of the temple. On the left side of the entrance is a Devnagri inscription, which is about saint Changdev.
How to Reach there?
Harishchandragad lies where the boundaries of Thane, Pune & Ahmednagar districts converge. There are 4 - 5 known ways to this fort, the most usual being the following ones:
From Thane District
One has to board the bus for Nagar from Kalyan & alight at ‘Khubi Phata’. From there we reach the village of Khireshwar by bus or private vehicle. This village is at 4km from the foothills of the fort.
Way from Khireshwar
The way beside the caves, where water tanks are seen, proceeds further to Junnar Darwaaja (Entrance From Junnar). From here, the route goes straight to Tolar Khind. Walking a few minutes from Tolar Khind, we come across a rock-patch on which railings are fixed. After ascending the railings, we come to the plateau region on which less dense forests are seen. From here, we have to cross 7 hills & after a walk of 2-3 hours, we reach the temple of Harishchandreshwar, the temple of Lord Shiva.
Note: On this way, many arrows help in indicating the way.
Way from Belpada
The third way is specially meant for hikers, which is via Sadhleghat. One should board the bus for Malshej Ghat and go to the village of Belpada. From here, the route goes through Sadhleghat. Here one has to climb a straight rock patch on which grips are provided. The temple is situated at a height of about 1km from Belpada. The total distance is about 19km.
From Ahmednagar District
One has to board the bus for Nasik or Mumbai & alight at Ghoti village. From Ghoti, we have to board another bus to Sangamner via Malegaon & alight at Rajur village. From here, 2 ways diverge to the fort.
1) From Rajur, one has to board the bus or a private vehicle to the village of Pachanai. From here, the way is straight to the topmost point.
2) Recently, the way from Rajur to Tolar Khind has been made available. From Tolar Khind (Tolar valley), the temple is about 2-3 hours by walking.
Accommodation Facility
Ganesh caves & caves near the temple of Harishchandreshwar or Carry your own tents.
Accommodation in Khireshwar
In Khireshwar, local school is the best for a night’s stay. In this village, we can see the beautiful temple of Nageshwar as well as ancient caves of the Yadav era.
Driving Map from Kasara to Pachnai
Bhimashankar Sidi-ghat Trek
April 06, 2013
Date: August 4th, 2013.
Adventure Trek and Rock Climbing for Amateurs in company of experienced trekkers; Don't forget your swimming trunks and towel.
You and Your Friends Welcome to Join Nature Knights on a Great Eco-Adventure...
You and Your Friends Welcome to Join Nature Knights on a Great Eco-Adventure...
Trek Route
Khandas Village to Base of Sidi Ghat - [30 to 40 Minutes] (Grade Easy)
Sidi Ghat Climb - Climb [30 to 40 Minutes] (Grade Challenging, Steep slope)
Lunch and Chill Out on Sidi Ghat Plateau [Time Spend 2 Hours] (Grade - Chill Out)
Traverse Across Plateau [Over Sidi Ghat] - 40 Minutes (Grade Easy)
Down Hill Climb via Ganesh Ghat - [Approx 60 Minutes] (Grade Easy)
Swim in Stream on the way back - [60 Minutes] (Grade - Chill Out)
Bhimashankar Altitude: 1034 mtrs
Event: Trek Bhimashankar Sidi Ghat (While Going Up, Return from the Plateau via Ganesh Ghat)..
Event: Trek Bhimashankar Sidi Ghat (While Going Up, Return from the Plateau via Ganesh Ghat)..
Location: 128 km from Pune (via Manchar) or by trek via Khandas (Near Karjat / Neral)
Best Season: Monsoon and Winter
For inquiries on custom packages for Bhimashankar kindly get in touch with
Camp Fee: Rs.950/-.
Includes: Travel By Bus; Packed Breakfast, Evening Tea/Biscuit, Guide and Tech Support.
Includes: Travel By Bus; Packed Breakfast, Evening Tea/Biscuit, Guide and Tech Support.
Carry your own packed lunch.
Link to Photo Album
More about Bhimashankar
There are three route to Bhimashankar starting from Khandas; one is from Ganeshghat the easiest at the same time the longest; 2nd going via waterfall and the third the shortest but the most adventurous (sidi ghat) route; we will be taking thist shortest but also the most adventurous trail to Bhimashankar.
The trek to Bhimashankar via Sidi Ghat is adventurous and involves a bit of elementary rock climbing. We will be carrying safety equipment like Carnamental Rope (Mountaineering Ropes); Carabineers; Descender; Mechanical Ascender; Tape Slings etc. The group will be a mix of experienced trekkers and also new explorers into trekking (but ready to rough it out in the psychological thriller walk).
Tentative Schedule
6:00am Start from Andheri West, S. V. Road, Near Merwans Bakery, Outside Bus Depot
6:15am Santruz (East), Western Express Highway
6:20 am Bandra Kalanagar Junction (At end of Sky Walk).
6:25 am Sion Station
6:35 am Chembur (Opp. Akbar Allis Departmental Store)
6:50 am Vashi (Station Road and Highway Junction)
8:00 am Breakfast
Option (Idli; Medu Wada; Dosa; Bata Wada (With Tea or Coffee).
10:00 am Trek Starts at Khandas
12:00 pm Reach at First Plateau
Lunch at First Plateau
2:00 pm Start our trek back from Ganesh Ghat to Khandas
4:00 pm to 5:00 pm Swim in the River/Stream
5:00 pm Start from Mumbai
9:00 pm Expected Arrival back at Mumbai
6:15am Santruz (East), Western Express Highway
6:20 am Bandra Kalanagar Junction (At end of Sky Walk).
6:25 am Sion Station
6:35 am Chembur (Opp. Akbar Allis Departmental Store)
6:50 am Vashi (Station Road and Highway Junction)
8:00 am Breakfast
Option (Idli; Medu Wada; Dosa; Bata Wada (With Tea or Coffee).
10:00 am Trek Starts at Khandas
12:00 pm Reach at First Plateau
Lunch at First Plateau
2:00 pm Start our trek back from Ganesh Ghat to Khandas
4:00 pm to 5:00 pm Swim in the River/Stream
5:00 pm Start from Mumbai
9:00 pm Expected Arrival back at Mumbai
Check List for trek
Suggestions for packed lunch: (Sandwiches); Thepla; Potato Vegetable; Roti; Boiled Eggs; Ready to eat canned food; home cooked roti / dry vegetable; Puran Poli; Bread / Cheese slice / spread; Potato Vada; Bread; etc..you can get creative; We will have multi-cultural buffet. Carry tetra packed buttermilk.)
Also carry some chocolates; biscuits; salad items; 3 liters water per head for on-the-way in-between meals and water.
Attire:
Track pants or tights or any comfortable clothes (avoid heavy jeans)
Full sleeves T-shirt, (you may carry spare change clothes)
Carry Spare Swimming trunks, light towel
Rain wear (Poncho, or Short light Raincoat), Rain Cap or Hat
Regular Sun Cap or Hat
Hand Towel
Other mandatory items
Flash light with spare batteries
Water (2 liters per head)
Packed Lunch for day 2 (For those coming only for one day camp).
Pack all items in plastic bags before packing it in your backpack or ruck sack
Pack everything in your backpack properly. Light items on top and bottom side of bag, heavy item towards center and towards your shoulder and body. Use compression straps to tighten the bag from all sides so that items inside the bag do not keep shifting.
Optional items
Comb and pocket mirror
personal medical kit
Mosquito repellent
Camera
Eco-Adventure Code
We strongly believe in traveling in small groups, and follow the principle leave only footprints and take only memories.
How to prepare your self for any treks?
Go through the “What to carry?” matrix while packing your backpack.
Carry personal medical kit, even though general first aid kit is available with the group.
Rehearse packing and un-packing of your bags with proposed items to be packed (Remember - every item has a place, every item in its place); check the weight of your bag. You have to carry this weight for 4 to 5 hours of trek; do not carry items not required
More about Bhimashankar
The adventure
Bhimashankar is a dream destination for any trekker, a paradise for a Naturalist, a spiritual journey for a religious person; a perfect setting for an exciting eco-adventure.
The excitement begins right at Neral station as you have your breakfast and sip of tea anticipating what’s to come. You start your travel from Neral / Karjat in dugdugies for a bumpy ride along countryside till you reach the village Khandas. We are ready for the trek once we finish our induction and introduction. The trail leading from Khandas village to Bhimashankar goes through all kinds of terrain; the trail start as a flat cross country walk to a semi-deciduous scrubland and as you progress the climber gets steeper and finally ending in a ever-green forest. Few patches also involves a bit of armature rock climbing. You pass through a glimpse of history as you cross two forts Tung and Paddar Killa;
Once on top of Bhimashankar you can’t resist visiting Ancient Jyotir ling temple or explore the mysterious Gupt (Secret) Bhimashankar Ling hidden the cool forest Bhimashankar; We also have the rare temple of Goddess Anjana.
There is a beautiful temple of Lord Shiva which is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. Lord Shankara after getting angry, killed Rakshas Tripurasura. The heat generated from their war caused the origin of river Bhima. That is why it is called Bhimashankar.
Play a nature detective trying to site the secretive Shekru (Giant Squirrel of Bhimashankar); for anxious bird watchers there is plenty of Bird life, Keep your binoculars; camera and field guide handy. A walk through the old jungle of Bhimashankar is magical experience liven your spirit green and clean. Bhimashankar is conserve red forest area and wildlife sanctuary where a variety of birds, animals, flowers, plants can be seen.
There are Buddha style carvings of Amba-Ambika, Bhootling and Bhimashankar in the hills of Manmod near Bhimashankar. A big size bell in Hemadpanthi structure built by Nana Phadanavis is also a feature of Bhimashankar.
Various places that could be visited in Bhimashankar are Hanuman Lake, Gupt Bhimashankar, Origin of River Bhima, Nag Phani, Bombay Point, Sakshi Vinayak and lot more.
Get cozy in pleasant Climate; put your feet up at end of the day in any vintage Ashrams; If in mood for sweet tooth try the local Khoya Sweets served by warm people; there is lots more to discover for those inquisitive and adventurous.
