Mobile Icon Talk to an Expert

+91 9920250519
Chat Icon Need help?

Live Chat

Search
×
    • Maharashtra
    • Trekking
    • 2
    • ₹ 1100 - ₹ 2190

    Ratangad Fort Trek TripsDone

    Ratangad-Sonki Trek
    days 2
    Ratangad-Sonki Trek Mumbai ,Maharashtra
    Book
    Ratangad Trek (ex-Pune)
    days 2
    Ratangad Trek (ex-Pune) Pune ,Maharashtra
    Book
    Ratangad Trek (ex-Pune)
    days 2
    Ratangad Trek (ex-Pune) Pune ,Maharashtra
    Book
    Trek to Ratangad
    days 2
    Trek to Ratangad Mumbai ,Maharashtra
    Book
    Ratangad Trek
    days 2
    Ratangad Trek Mumbai ,Maharashtra
    Book
    Ratangad Fort Trek
    days 2
    Ratangad Fort Trek Mumbai ,Maharashtra
    Book
    Monsoon trek to Ratangad
    days 2
    Monsoon trek to Ratangad Pune ,Maharashtra
    Book

    Ratangad Fort Trek

    About Ratangad Fort Trek

    The Ratangad Fort trek is a moderately easy trek that lets you take a break from the city life and escape into the midst of nature. The trail begins from Ratanwadi, the base village and takes you through grassy meadows, lush forests, various streams and hidden waterfalls. As you trek uphill to the top of the fort, there are iron ladders constructed to assist you.

    When you reach the top, you'll get to explore the ruins of the ancient fort and the rock-cut water cisterns. You’ll also explore the number of caves that line the fort, which adds to the mystery and fascination of Ratangad Fort. From atop, you'll catch stunning views of Sahyadris, including Konkan Kada, Kalsubai and surrounding forts like Alang, Kulang, Kokankada.

    About Ratangad fort

    The Ratangad fort is steeped in history and culture. Located at a height of 4255 feet, this 400-year-old fort was conquered by the Maratha warrior Shivaji Maharaj from under the Mughal rule. The Ratangad fort, meaning 'the jewel fort' overlooks the expanse of Lake Arthur and the Bhandardara dam and its campsites. The fort has a natural rock peak with a cavity at the top, called 'Eye of the Needle' or Nedhe in the local language. It also has a set of four gates known as Ganesh, Hanuman, Konkan and Trimbak.

    What you will see

    Before embarking on the trek, you will pay a visit to the Amruteshwar Temple in the base village of Ratanwadi and take a look at the famous carvings, dating back to the eighth century. You will gape at the imposing Tryambak Darwaja which is the main entrance of the fort and walk over the fort’s bastion. You'll be treated to breathtaking views of the majestic Sahyadri ranges.

    Be sure to watch out for attacking monkeys that sometimes charge in groups on the bastion. The Ratangad Fort Trek is truly an all-round experience that should not be missed.

    Ratangad Trek Summary

    • State: Maharashtra
    • Nearest city: Igatpuri
    • Total days: 2 days
    • Grade: Moderately Easy
    • Max altitude: 4255 feet.
    • Total trekking distance: 12 km.
    • Season: September–February
    • Avg temperature: 27 to 37 degrees Celsius

    Ratangad Fort Trek Photos

    Sketch itinerary:

    Day 1: Depart from Mumbai

    • Overnight in bus
    • Reach base village

    Day 2: Trek to Ratangad, and Return to Mumbai

    • Total Trekking distance:12 km
    • Total Trekking time: 6 hrs
    • Head back to Mumbai
    Detailed itinerary:

    Day 1: Depart from Mumbai

    Reach Pritam Dhaba in Dadar (East) by 23:00 hrs and you will be picked up from here in a non-AC, shared, private bus or similar vehicle. Meet your fellow trekkers and gear up to spend the night in the bus. You will be driven to Ratanwadi, the base village of the Ratangad trek. After a 4-5 hour drive, you'll arrive at the base village.

    Day 2: Trek to Ratangad, and Return to Mumbai

    You can rest on the bus for a while as you'll arrive at the base village really early in the morning. You can choose to take a nap or get to know your fellow trekkers. Freshen up and relax. After sunrise, you'll have a quick breakfast and begin your trekking adventure to Ratangad. After trekking for 3 hours uphill, you'll arrive at the caves of Ratangad.

    You may also visit the Amruteshwar Temple on the way to the top. Once you reach Ratangad, you can spend time exploring the fort and the surrounding area and have lunch atop the fort. Post lunch, you'll begin making your way back down to Ratanwadi, the base village. From here, you will board your vehicles back to Dadar.

    Inclusions:

    Your trip includes travel arrangements from Dadar to the starting point of the trek and back in non-AC, shared, private bus or similar vehicle. You’ll enjoy vegetarian meals from breakfast to evening snacks and the services of an experienced trek leader to guide you. Basic first aid kit will be made available. Your trip is all inclusive of applicable taxes.

    Exclusions:

    Travel between base city to Dadar and any personal expenses such as tips to staff, additional meals or beverages etc. has to be looked after by you. Any costs arising out of unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather, road blocks etc. as well as any adventure travel or medical insurance is not included in your trip. Anything not mentioned in inclusions is also excluded from your package.

    Best time to go/Weather

    The best time to embark on the Ratangad trek is the winter season but the monsoon has its own enjoyment. The temperature is cool during both seasons and the surroundings are lush.

    Your operator will arrange your transport from the pickup point to the starting point of the trek. Mumbai is well connected to most cities of India you can first reach Mumbai and start your journey to Ratangad by rail or road.

    For Mumbaikars, board a local train from any of the railway stations in Mumbai or get on local transportation like buses or taxis to travel to Dadar. Be picked up from Pritam Dhaba or Chitra Cinemas, both popular landmarks in Dadar East.

    For Pune Travellers, you’ll be picked up from Paud road in Kothrud or Wakad, below Hinjewadi Bridge.

    While trekking, wear comfortable apparel such as track pants and t-shirts and a pair of good, sturdy shoes. Layer up with a warm jacket and windcheater to protect yourself from the cold, rain and fog.

    All necessary trekking and camping equipment will be provided by your operator. Other than that, you will have to carry your personal toiletries, rainwear, extra dry clothes, sunglasses and sunscreen.

    No sort of preparation is really required before undertaking the Ratangad trek but observing an active regime prior to the trek will certainly make your climb easier.

    Ratangad Fort Trek - Frequently Asked Questions

    Ratangad trek is moderately easy and can be taken on by beginners. However, the terrain is pretty steep while climbing uphill and the route can be rather jagged. It is recommended that you maintain a fitness schedule so you don’t tire easily.

    Invest in a sturdy pair of trekking shoes that are comfortable. Pack a raincoat and a warm jacket to ward off the rain and cold. Make sure your clothes are full-sleeved, to protect yourself from nipping branches, as you walk through forests. Always carry sunscreen, sunglasses, cap and insect repellent. You’ll find a complete packing list in our blog, What to Pack for Trekking in the Sahyadris.

    The best time to visit the Ratangad trek is during the season of monsoon and winters. The temperature is cool, the vegetation is lush during the rains and the winter fog casts an ethereal feel to the place. It’s a marvelously scenic trek in Maharashtra.

    This trek is not recommended for children under the age of 15 as some of the routes can get really steep and tricky. The place is also home to many aggressive monkeys. Hence, this trek would be dangerous and unsafe for kids.

    Ratangad trek is moderately easy. However, the trek involves some steep climbs that will test your endurance. The trails may be slippery due to the rain and the route can get jagged at places. The fog season may make you lose your way easily. It’s best to trek with an expert guide that will ensure a safe and fast climb.