Unveiling the rich history and natural wonders of Ratangad stronghold

About:

Exploration of the amazing Ratangad stronghold, a mute witness to 400 years of stories and victories, will take you on a journey through time and history. The renowned Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj once took this majestic fortress, leaving an everlasting imprint on the annals of time. The stronghold stands majestically in the midst of Ratanwadi, its birthplace, affording stunning views that reach all the way to the picturesque Bhandardara.

Nature's ingenuity takes center stage with the awe-inspiring granite formation, culminating in the daring pinnacle known as Nedhe, called 'the eye of the needle'. Discover a hidden mystery at each of the fort's four gates—Ganesh, Hanuman, Konkan, and Trimbak—where wells stand watch, protecting untold legends.

Reach the top of the hill to find the stronghold, which attracts both explorers and photographers. Observe the Sahyadri range in all its beauty; it is a picture-perfect representation of the magnificence of nature that catches the attention of every camera. The excursion, though, is more than just an expedition; it's a fascinating tango that keeps you interested the entire way.

It's a dance with the past. Allow the scenery around you to work its spell of enchantment to completely fascinate you. Ratangad is more than simply a place to go; it's an opportunity waiting to be taken for an extraordinary experience. Be prepared to build memories.

Trek Routes :

Upon arriving in Ratanwadi, your first essential step before embarking on the trek is to pay a visit to the Amruteshwar temple. Skipping this visit would leave your trip incomplete. The trek route begins with a fairly steep uphill climb that will put your endurance to the test.

However, the reward lies in the unique and exotic wildlife that you won't encounter elsewhere. The path is rugged, and if you choose to trek during foggy seasons, it's quite easy to lose your way. Therefore, it's advisable to hire a guide for a secure and efficient ascent to the fort.

Accompanying you from the outset of the route is the Pravara River, which accompanies you for most of the journey. The trek through the dense jungle can be strenuous, but respite awaits in the form of two plateaus that offer a chance to catch your breath and revitalize. The ladders encountered in the final stretch of the trek pose little difficulty to climb, leading you to the Tryambak Darwaja – the official entrance to the fort.

The fort itself boasts numerous caves that add to the intrigue and mystique of the location, enhancing the appeal of the fort's structure. It's crucial to be cautious of the groups of monkeys, as they can be aggressive. This comprehensive experience is an opportunity you shouldn't miss for anything in the world.

How to reach:

Rail: The railway stations in Kasara or Igatpuri are well connected to all major cities by the network of trains. As soon as you arrive in one of these towns, DT buses will drive you to Shendi, which is 20 kilometers from the base camp. The route from Shendi can't be anticipated to support a huge vehicle like a bus, so you will need to rent a private car to drive you to Ratanwadi.

Road: Ratanwadi is around 150 kilometers (km) from Mumbai and 220 kilometers (km) from Pune. From these important cities, a road trip is a reasonably viable alternative that many people have already considered. Due to the village's reputation as a hiking destination, it is straightforward to rent a car and get there from any significant Maharashtra city.