Ratangad to Harishchandragad Range Trek
A trek from one legend to another.
Duration
2Day / 2Night
Difficulty
Moderate-Difficult
Age Group
8 - 60 years
Altitude
4,700 feet
About
The Ratangad to Harishchandragad Range Trek is an epic journey that traverses a breathtaking and challenging section of the Sahyadri mountains. Connecting two of Maharashtra’s most iconic hill forts, this multi-day expedition is a true test of endurance and spirit. The trek begins at Ratangad, known for its unique “Eye of the Needle” rock formation, and winds its way through diverse landscapes of dense forests, rocky plateaus, and stunning valleys. The trail culminates at Harishchandragad, a fort famous for its awe-inspiring Konkan Kada, a sheer cliff that offers a panoramic view of the Konkan region. This formidable trek is a pilgrimage for seasoned mountaineers, offering not just a physical challenge but an unforgettable experience of the Sahyadris’ rugged beauty and historical grandeur.
Itinenrary
Friday Night (Departure)
- 10:00 PM – Assemble at Borivali.
- Pick-ups en route: Andheri – Dadar – Sion – Chembur – Thane – Kalyan.
- Overnight travel to Ratanwadi Base Village by private vehicle.
Saturday (Ratangad Fort Exploration & Trek Towards Katrabai)
- 04:30 AM – Reach Ratanwadi village, freshen up.
- 05:00 AM – Breakfast & trek briefing.
- 05:30 AM – Begin ascent towards Ratangad Fort (via Ganesh Darwaja route).
- 08:30 AM – Reach Ratangad top. Explore:
- Nedhe (natural rock cavity / Eye of the Needle)
- Ancient caves & water cisterns
- Historic fortifications with panoramic views of Bhandardara Lake & surrounding ranges
- 11:00 AM – Start trek towards Katrabai Pass – the connecting range.
- 01:00 PM – Halt for packed lunch en route.
- 04:30 PM – Reach Katrabai campsite. Evening tea/snacks.
- 07:30 PM – Dinner & overnight stay in tents / caves (group stay, carry sleeping mats/bags).
Sunday (Katrabai to Harishchandragad via Tolar Khind)
- 05:30 AM – Wake-up call & morning tea.
- 06:00 AM – Start trek towards Harishchandragad via rugged Sahyadri ridges.
- 10:30 AM – Reach Harishchandragad top. Explore highlights:
- Konkan Kada (breathtaking cliff drop with cloud formations)
- Kedareshwar Cave with the mighty Shivling surrounded by water
- Ancient temples & fort ruins
- 12:30 PM – Lunch on fort.
- 01:30 PM – Begin descent via Khireshwar / Pachnai route (depending on weather & group pace).
- 04:30 PM – Reach base village, freshen up, tea/snacks.
- 05:00 PM – Depart for Mumbai by private vehicle.
- 11:00 PM – Tentative arrival in Mumbai (subject to traffic & group pace).