Harihar Fort Trek

Harihar fort is an important one in the history of the region as it is on the route connecting the states of Maharashtra and Gujarat. But what you'll really remember Harihar for is the shiver that goes through you when you look down at the 500 foot drops below you while your feet slide on mossy rocks, or when roaring winds tug at your clothes on the Harihar fort trek!

Harihar fort lies in the Trimbakeshwar mountain range, close to Igatpuri in Maharashtra. It is situated at an elevation of over 3500 feet and offers spectacular views of the landscape around. The fort lies on a triangular rock, with a tapering top and the Harihar fort trek takes you up a steeply sloping staircase.

The three faces of the triangular prism and two ridges are at a jaw-dropping, 90 degrees vertical angle and is virtually impregnable. The third ridge is at a vertical of 75 degrees. This is the only way to get into Harihar fort and it’s a thrilling climb up a one meter rock staircase of over 117 steps. There are niches for your fingers; to hold onto the rock at most places to help you climb.

For the final 200 feet on the Harihar fort trek, just before the summit, you'll be negotiating rough rock-hewn steps that are very steep. At some places the stairs are so narrow, only one person can cross at a time. The ground under your feet may be covered with moss, and there is likely, a constant trickle of water over them. In addition, the winds are fairly strong here, and you'll be battling to stay upright and maintain your balance.

Harihar fort is on the list of every ambitious trekker in Maharashtra, and it gives you real bragging rights once done. The climb to the plateau winds through rain-soaked greenery and offers great views. The highlight, however, is the pinnacle at the top. Once at the top, Harihar fort has a clear pond and a beautifully decorated Hanuman temple.

In any season, this is a hard trek, but in the monsoon, the draining water, the forceful winds, and the moss-covered steps make this a thrilling trek for even experienced trekkers. You'll also enjoy the experience of travelling during the night and reaching your start point in the early morning hours.

Harihar fort trek summary

• State: Maharashtra
• Nearest city: Nashik
• Total days: 1-2 days
• Grade:Moderate to difficult
• Max altitude: 3673 ft
• Total trekking distance:13 km
• Season: Monsoon and winter

Best time to go/Weather

This is a year-round trek and is visited by many trekkers from all over the state of Maharashtra throughout the year. However, the best time to visit this trek is when there is favourable climate and temperature conditions, i.e., from October until the end of February.

It gets very hot during the summers so might be difficult to trek then. You can though trek during the monsoon season, as the draining water, the forceful winds, and the moss-covered steps make this a thrilling adventure for even experienced trekkers. But you need to be careful as the trail can become very slippery and you must check the weather before going for this trek.