A true-blooded traveller would never miss Karjat on a vacation to Maharashtra. With the best trekking tours in Karjat, hike up to the conical hills of Kothaligad and visit the Peth Fort situated here. Peth is a great place to trek near Mumbai there is a small temple and large cave at the base and a chimney like tunnel to the top of the fort. This pinnacle is carved from inside forming a staircase reaching the top. There is a tank of water at some distance from the cave and another one at the top of the fort. This tunnel is the high point of the trek, with its funnel like structure and steps along the inside in a steep ascent to the very top. Peth is visited by many trekkers for a night trek around Mumbai in summer. The cave on the fort is the best place to spend a night. Go trekking on the Matheran trail and Chanderi Fort Trek.
Trekking to Peth Fort is popular among tourists as the hills here are easy to climb. Climbing up the rocky peaks of Navra Navri, which also offer fantastic viewpoints, is a tiring but thrilling experience. Make a trip to the Bahiri Cave in Ulhas Valley, which is believed to be Lord Buhari's home. Explore the Kondana Caves, which contain the various Buddhist structures. Climb the stone-embellished and vibrantly patterned staircase of Jain Temple. If you are in Karjat around Shivratri, do not miss the festive celebrations at Kondeshwar Temple, which is an example of the old Hemadpanthi construction. Watch the grand Sanpada waterfall and visit the dam, which are major tourist attractions during monsoon. Ulhas River in the valley, offers rappelling and river-rafting adventure sports. Embark on the best trekking tours in Karjat for an adventurous and fun filled experience here.
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People Also Ask About Trekking in Karjat
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Which are the best trekking trails in and near Karjat?
Here are some of the best Karjat trekking trails that you can enjoy during your trip.
1. Chanderi Fort Trek: This is a hill fortress located in the Matheran district, around 30 kilometers from Karjat. A popular trekking site, the trail is of moderate difficulty, with stone-cut stairs in parts for comfortable trudging.
The overall activity can take anywhere between 2-3 hours from the base in Chinchavali Village. At the top are rock formations, caves and impeccable views of the valley and far-sightseeing forts.
2. Sondai Fort Trek: This is one of the easiest treks in Karjat that even beginners would enjoy. The Fort is located around 12 km from Karjat railway-station and the base for the trek is in a lush village and the overall activity can take around 2 hours (one way) and it is one of the best Karjat treks.
The entire trail is a mix of lush greenery and picturesque views of the hill, and waterfalls. From the top, you get a glimpse of the valley, and far-off attractions.
3. Peth Fort Trek: This is an easy to moderate difficulty level trek that takes a day to complete. Starting at the base in Ambivli, you get at a maximum elevation of 2033 feet.
Moreover, the Peth, also known as Kothaligad Fort is located amidst Bhimashankar wildlife sanctuary and is a popular trek near Karjat. Upon reaching the summit, you can enjoy arresting views of Padargad, Malanggad, Siddhagad, Chanderi fort, Bhimashankar and the Matheran plateau.
4. Bahiri Caves Trek: This Karjat trek is one very popular among adventurers and pilgrims for the value that the caves hold. Situated along the Bhor Ghat on a rocky terrain at 600 meters above sea level, one will have to trek to reach the caves.
From the top, you get views of the Ulhas Valley, Sahyadri, Rajmachi, Shrivardhan and Manaranjan. There is also a temple here that can be visited.
5. Ulhas Valley Trek: This is a one day trip that begins at Khandala, taking you through the Kondivade Village in Karjat region to finally reach Ulhas Valley. The trail for this trek has many brooks, streams, tunnels and opulent flora and fauna and it is one of the best Karjat trekking places.
With a medium difficulty level, you get at an elevation of about 2065 feet. At the valley, you can visit the enchanting waterfall, nearby Ulhas River and the Kondana Caves near Karjat. -
What is the best time to go for trekking in Karjat?
The best time to plan a trekking trip to Karjat would be in the winter months from October till March. This is when the temperatures in the hill-station remain nice and cool with dry weather that can be ideal to climb rocky terrains. Besides this, the summer season is also a good time for treks, though the weather may be a bit warmer.
Also, if you are visiting Karjat for a trek during monsoons, it is advisable to carry adequate clothing and proper shoes. -
Are treks in and around Karjat difficult?
There are quite a few different trekking trails in and around Karjat, some are of easy difficulty level, while others are relatively more rough. Depending on your experience with treks, you can attempt any of the trails. Some of the most popular are - Ulhas Valley, Peth Fort, Chanderi Fort treks.
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What is Karjat famous for?
Karjat is a naturally opulent hill-station in the Sahyadri Hills of Maharashtra. The place is famous as a weekend adventure getaway and has many beautiful points of interest like - forts, caves, waterfalls, etc. that are great for treks, rappelling, camping and more.
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What to carry while trekking in Karjat?
Here are some of the things that you should have during the Karjat trekking:
- Cottonwood clothes
- Sturdy shoes
- A trekking pole (optional)
- Backpack
- Water-bottle
- Flashlight (for night treks)
- Emergency First-aid
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- A towel
- Eatables/energy-drink
- Raincover/coat (during monsoon)
- Plastic zip lock bags to keep valuables. -
Is Karjat worthy enough to have a trekking trip?
Yes. Karjat which is a small hill-station near Mumbai is a loved holiday destination, especially for its range of trek trails and adventure activities. Therefore, if you are looking for some thrill and excitement, you should plan a trek trip to the hills, forts, waterfalls and caves in Karjat.