Ratangad Trek In India’s Maharashtra state’s Sahyadri mountain range, Ratangad is a well-known trekking location. The fort, which has stunning views of the valleys and hills surrounding it, is located at an elevation of 4,255 feet above sea level.
The climb up to Ratangad is a moderately challenging hike that takes 3–4 hours to complete. The trail is beautiful and travels by few waterfalls, rugged terrain, and thick forests. To get to the top of the fort, there is a difficult hike up several stairs carved out of rock.
You can visit the remains of the old fortification and the Lord Shiva shrine at the top of the fort. The fort also provides expansive views of the surrounding valleys, the Bhandardara dam, and the Sahyadri mountain range.
You can travel from Bombay to Igatpuri, the closest town, via bus or rail, and then take it from there to Ratangad. To get to Ratanwadi’s base village from Igatpuri, you can either rent a car or use a local bus. From Ratanwadi village, the journey to Ratangad begins.
It is advised to take this walk during the monsoon season (June to September), when the surrounding area is lush and green and the waterfalls are in full flow. But, be sure to check the weather before starting the hike since it can become slick and hazardous when it rains heavily.
How to Reach Ratangad
In India’s Maharashtra state Sahyadri mountain range is where you’ll find Ratangad. Igatpuri, a town that is around 40 kilometers from Ratangad, is the closest one.
Here are the several routes to Ratangad:
Via Road: Major cities like Mumbai and Nashik have direct road access to Igatpuri. You can hire a shared jeep or take a private taxi from Igatpuri to the base village of Ratanwadi, which is where the journey to Ratangad begins.
By Train: To get to Igatpuri railway station, take a train from Mumbai or Nashik. To get to Ratanwadi village from the railway station, you can either rent a taxi or take a local bus.
Via air: Mumbai International Airport, which is 150 kilometers away, is the closest airport to Ratangad. To get to Igatpuri from the airport, take a bus or a private cab. You may go to Ratanwadi village from Igatpuri by cab or local bus.
As there are no streetlights and the trail to Ratangad can be difficult after dark, it is advised to arrive in Ratanwadi village before nightfall.
the ideal season to travel to Ratangad Trek
The monsoon season, which lasts from June to September, is the ideal time to go on the Ratangad Trek. The area sees significant rainfall during this time, turning the scenery a beautiful green color with several waterfalls tumbling down the hills. Trekking is best done when the weather is nice and the temperature is between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius.
However, it is crucial to remember that during periods of severe rain, the routes can become treacherous and difficult. Consequently, it’s crucial to check the weather before starting the hike and to have the necessary equipment, such as raincoats, waterproof shoes, and trekking poles.
The winter months from October to February are also a fantastic time to visit Ratangad if you enjoy a dry and temperate temperature. During this season, the weather is pleasant and cool, and the skies are clear, providing breathtaking views of the mountains in the area. The waterfalls might not, however, be as numerous as they are during the rainy season.
a list of things to do
Visitors can engage in a number of activities in Ratangad, such as:
Trekking: Tourists love to go on the Ratangad trek. A 3–4 hour hike through dense forests, rugged terrain, and waterfalls leads to the summit of the fort.
Camping: Guests may set up camp in Ratanwadi, the fort’s base hamlet, or atop it. A one-of-a-kind experience and a chance to see breathtaking sunrise and sunset may be had by camping atop the fort.
Rock climbing: Rock climbers interested in putting their abilities to the test can do so in the rocky terrain near Ratangad.
Bird watching: A number of bird species, including the Indian cuckoo, brown-headed barbet, and Indian pitta, can be found in the area surrounding Ratangad. Guests can enjoy bird watching and learn about the variety of avian species.
Photography: For those who enjoy taking photos, Ratangad and the hills and valleys that surround it are the perfect setting.
Tourist attractions: You can tour the historic fort and the Lord Shiva temple atop the fort. The fort also provides expansive views of the surrounding valleys, the Bhandardara dam, and the Sahyadri mountain range.
Visitors can participate in waterfall rappelling, which entails descending a cascade using ropes and harnesses, during the monsoon season.
what kind of budget for Ratangad Trek
The cost of going on the Ratangad Trek varies on a number of things, including the means of transportation, where you stay, what you eat, and what you do. The budget is roughly estimated as follows:
Transportation: Depending on the mode of transportation you select, the cost will vary. The price of a bus ticket to Igatpuri, if you’re coming from Mumbai, goes from INR 400 to INR 600. From Igatpuri to Ratanwadi village, a cab or shared jeep would set you back between INR 800 and INR 1500.
Accommodations: Homestays, tents, and guesthouses are available in Ratanwadi village. Depending on the sort of lodging you select, the price per night might range from INR 500 to INR 2000.
Food: Local cuisine is available at many of the restaurants and food stands in Ratanwadi hamlet. A lunch can cost between INR 100 and INR 300 per person.
Activities: The price of excursions like rock climbing, camping, and trekking varies depending on the operator and the length of the excursion. Camping costs between INR 500 and INR 2000 per person, while trekking costs between INR 500 and INR 1500 per person.
Ultimately, depending on the kind of lodging, meals, and activities you select, the cost of going on the Ratangad Trek can range from INR 2000 to INR 5000 per person.
essential advice for the Ratangad trek
When preparing for the Ratangad trip, keep the following advice in mind:
Inspect the weather: Prior to starting the journey, especially during the monsoon season, it is imperative to verify the weather forecast. The trails may become slick and hazardous after a heavy downpour.
Dress appropriately and use supportive footwear. Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing. To avoid slipping, put on a pair of strong, waterproof shoes or hiking boots with good traction.
Carry the necessities: Pack a backpack with a water bottle, first aid kit, sunscreen, bug repellent, a flashlight, and a raincoat, among other things.
Start early: To escape the heat and finish before dusk, begin the walk early in the morning. It is preferable to do the walk in the daytime because the trail can be difficult.
Bring enough water with you so you can keep hydrated throughout the trip. Avoid ingesting water from streams and waterfalls and drink water at regular intervals.
Respect the environment: Many plant and animal species have natural habitats in the area surrounding Ratangad. It’s critical to protect the environment and refrain from littering.
Observe the safety rules and recommendations given by the trekking company or the local guides. Don’t attempt anything you aren’t capable of or take unneeded risks.
You may guarantee a risk-free and pleasurable trekking experience in Ratangad by adhering to these recommendations.