The fort of Ratangad is situated in Maharashtra, India’s Western Ghats. Adventure seekers frequently go to the fort because of its favorable location 4,255 feet above sea level.
The village of Ratanwadi, located about 170 kilometers from Mumbai, is where the trek to Ratangad typically begins. The fairly challenging hike takes around 3–4 hours to complete. The Sahyadri mountain range can be seen in breathtaking detail from the route, which is surrounded by lush vegetation.
A few historic temples and the “Nedhe,” or “Eye of the Needle,” a naturally occurring needle-shaped rock feature, are located on the summit of Ratangad. Moreover, the fort features a rainwater collection system that is built naturally into the rock and serves as a primary water supply for hikers.
Overall, the Ratangad walk is a wonderful opportunity to see the Western Ghats’ natural beauty and Maharashtra’s fascinating past.
how to reach ratangad trek
The closest large city to Ratangad Trek is Mumbai, which is well connected to other regions of India by road, train, and air. The various ways to get to Ratangad Trek are listed below:
By Air: The closest airport to the Ratangad trek is Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport. You may take a bus or a cab from the airport to go to Ratanwadi, which is where the walk begins.
Via train: lgatpuri, which is about 60 km from the trek’s starting point, is the closest railroad station to the Ratangad trek. Igatpuri is easily accessible from Mumbai and other significant Indian cities. You may take a bus or a cab to go to Ratanwadi from Igatpuri.
Via Road: Ratanwadi has good road access to Mumbai and other significant Maharashtrian cities. To go to Ratanwadi from Bombay, you may take a bus or a cab. The travel time by road from Bombay to Ratanwadi is around 5 to 6 hours, covering a distance of about 170 kilometres.
You may begin the walk to Ratangad after you are at Ratanwadi. The three to four-hour hike passes through lovely hills and woodlands.
history of ratangad trek
Ratangad, a town in Maharashtra’s Sahyadri mountain range, has a lengthy history that dates back to the 16th century. The Bahmani Sultanate constructed the fort, which the Maratha Empire eventually took over. It was a crucial strategic fort in the area and an integral part of numerous wars.
Later, in the 19th century, the British took control of the fort and briefly utilized it as a jail. The fort was abandoned when India earned its freedom and fell into decay.
The fort was recently renovated by the local authorities and is now a well-liked hiking location. As you make your way to Ratangad, you’ll pass through verdant forests and enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains around. The fort’s ruins and antiquated temples are evidence of its lengthy history and the important role it once played in the area.
Overall, the Ratangad walk is a fantastic opportunity to discover Maharashtra’s history and natural beauty. It is a must-visit location for both adventure seekers and history fans.
lingana fort hidden place of mh
best time to trek ratangad
The winter months of November to February are ideal for trekking in Ratangad because of the mild, pleasant weather. Trekking is a great activity during this season because the temperatures range from 10 to 25 degrees.
A nice time to travel to Ratangad is during the monsoon season, which lasts from June to September. The region has substantial rainfall during this time, which turns the surroundings lush and lovely. It’s crucial to remember that the hiking paths might become treacherous and difficult at this season.
Trekking is typically avoided from March through May because of the heat, muggy weather that may make the journey uncomfortable and challenging.
The winter months are often the greatest time to hike Ratangad since the weather is mild and the scenery is at its finest. For a safe and pleasurable walk, it’s crucial to check the weather prediction and plan appropriately.
nearest places to visit
Around Ratangad Trek, there are a number of destinations to explore that provide a variety of activities, including sightseeing and adventure sports. Some of the well-known neighboring attractions are listed below:
Bhandardara: Around 20 kilometers from Ratangad Trek lies the charming hill town of Bhandardara. It is renowned for its beautiful lakes, waterfalls, and hiking paths. The Arthur Lake, Randha Waterfall, and Kalsubai Mountain are a few of the well-known tourist attractions in Bhandardara.
The tallest mountain in Maharashtra is Kalsubai Peak, which is around 25 kilometers from Ratangad Trek. It is a well-liked trekking location and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Sandhan Valley: Around 40 kilometers from Ratangad Trek comes Sandhan Valley, a beautiful canyon. It’s a well-liked vacation spot for thrill-seekers and has activities like rappelling, rock climbing, and hiking.
Wilson Dam: Around 45 kilometers from Ratangad Trek lies the well-known tourist destination Wilson Dam. It’s a beautiful location for a picnic or a leisurely stroll and is well renowned for its picturesque vistas.
An historic fort called Harishchandragad Fort is situated roughly 50 kilometers from Ratangad Trek. It is well-known for its caverns, hiking paths, and historic temples. The Konkan Kada, a cliff that provides breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys, is another reason the fort is well-known.
These are only a handful of the several destinations nearby Ratangad Trek that provide a variety of adventurous and tourist-oriented activities.
Option for accommodation
There are many different lodging choices close to the Ratangad Trek, from affordable guesthouses to opulent resorts. Here are a few well-liked choices:
Homestays: The trek’s beginning point is the village of Ratanwadi, which is home to a number of homestays. These homestays provide straightforward, pleasant lodging with minimal frills.
Tented camps: A number of tented camps are available close to the Ratangad Trek and provide a distinctive camping adventure. Tents, sleeping bags, and other necessities like food and restrooms are offered at these campgrounds.
Resorts: Around 20 kilometers from Ratangad Trek, at Bhandardara, there are a number of resorts. These resorts provide cozy lodging with a variety of facilities including restaurants, spas, and swimming pools.
Guesthouses: In the adjacent towns and villages, there are a number of guesthouses that provide affordable lodging. Basic necessities including tidy lodgings, lavatories, and meals are offered by these guesthouses.
It’s crucial to reserve your lodging in advance, especially during the busiest trekking season. To ensure a relaxing and secure stay, it’s also critical to review and rate the available lodging options before making a reservation.
FAQ on the Ratangad Trek
Indeed, these are some Ratangad Trek often asked questions:
What degree of difficulty does the Ratangad hike have?
The Ratangad trek is regarded as being of a moderate difficulty. The trail has a high approach and descent, and at times the ground is rough and uneven. The track is clearly defined, though, and beginners with some amount of athleticism may finish it.
How long does the Ratangad trek last?
While it is possible to accomplish the Ratangad walk in a single day, many hikers prefer to camp out overnight and explore the fort’s remains and the region around them.
Is there a cost to participate in the Ratangad trek?
The base village collects the nominal entrance fee for the Ratangad trek. The charge pays for the upkeep of the fort and the route for hiking.
Is Ratangad a safe place to hike during the monsoon?
The walk can be treacherous and difficult during the monsoon season, even if it can provide a beautiful perspective of the surroundings. It’s crucial to use caution and put on the proper gear, including clothes and footwear. Avoid hiking in areas that are heavily raining and, if necessary, seek shelter.
What time of year is ideal for a trip to Ratangad Trek?
The winter months of November to February are the ideal time to travel to Ratangad Trek since the weather is lovely and mild. Although the hiking trails can be treacherous and slippery, the monsoon season, which lasts from June to September, is also an excellent time to visit.