Naneghat Trek

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The mountain passage of Naneghat has become one more jewel adorning the garland of the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. It is like a dream for naturalists, historians, and adventure lovers alike. This age-old route for trade carved from steep and rugged cliffs connecting the Konkan coast with the Deccan Plateau gives those who are fortunate to walk along its paths breathtaking views of the valleys and hills around.

Excitement crumbles the experience up along Naneghat, somewhat surreal, through historical remains, lush greenery, and pristine beauty. Atop all that, this geographical location shaped trade and cultural exchanges for years, making it relevant from historical and geological points of view.

Naneghat- An Ancient Trade Route

Naneghat is translated literally as a 'coin pass' (Nane meaning 'coin' and Ghat meaning 'pass'); when translated literally, it means an important link from the Konkan coast to the Deccan plateau. In ancient times, Kalyan was a port city with a lot of movement, which carried the maritime trade with Rome, Arabia, Southeast Asia, and so on, whereas Junnar was the best inland known site with a very thriving economy and power under the various dynasties. Yet, thus, the rugged and steep terrains of the Western Ghats, outland trade being bothersome, were more or less facilitated by Naneghat, making it easy for many trekkers, merchants, and travellers to use this path, carrying on their businesses by spices, textiles, precious stones, and metals.

This all made up for the economic prosperity of the region. Naneghat is significant as a trade route even because of the evidence of the toll-collection spots for which travellers and traders were required to pay a levy in coins to release them from further toll charges. The established systems point out the structured economic policies of the dynasties reigning at that time, which controlled their trade and commerce.

Weather Conditions Through the Seasons

Spring (March-May)

Spring ushers in pleasant weather and colourful sights, some of the best trekking conditions anywhere. The snow from winter starts melting down, making room for the abundance of greenery, flowers, and clear trails. Temperatures are moderate in spring with variations according to altitude probably in the range of 10°C to 25°C. The season perfectly suits Himalayan trekking, trekking in the Western Ghats, or any other altitude region. Spring trekking, in brief, offers stunning views of rhododendron forests and alpine meadows filled with rejuvenated wildlife.

Famous Treks in Spring:

• Everest Base Camp Trek (Nepal)

• Valley of Flowers Trek (Uttarakhand)

• Hampta Pass Trek (Himachal Pradesh)

• Kedarkantha Trek (Uttarakhand)

Summer (June to August)

Summer trekking in the high-altitude belt is often considered ideal as harsh winters prevent the melting of snow for a long time over. Temperature during summers generally ranges from 15°C to 30°C in most places. However, some of the lower-altitude trails could become excessively hot in summer, therefore making the trekking more demanding. The Himalayan summer treks experience a full bloom of landscapes, and snow has fully melted away.

Famous Treks In Summer:

• Rupin Pass Trek (Himachal Pradesh)

• Bhrigu Lake Trek (Himachal Pradesh)

• Stok Kangri Trek (Ladakh)

• Tarsar Marsar Trek (Kashmir)

Monsoons (July-September)

The monsoons usually are termed as the least helpful in trekking in most parts of the world on account of heavy rains, slippery trails, landslides, and an increased probability of leeches and mosquitoes active in the wild. However, chosen treks in the Western Ghats, Ladakh, and Spiti Valley should be done in the monsoon as they remain relatively dry. The monsoon also changes the landscape into a paradise of leaf and foliage, making it a feasting view.

Famous Treks in Monsoon:

• Valley of Flowers Trek (Uttarakhand)

• Hampta Pass Trek (Himachal Pradesh)

• Sinhagad Fort Trek (Maharashtra)

• Mullayanagiri Trek (Karnataka)

Fall (September-November)

Widely considered the best season for trekking, fall offers clear skies, stable weather, and stunning vistas. Temperature ranges from 5°C to 20°C, rendering it a comfortable trekking season. With the dust and pollution cleared by the monsoon rains, the landscape appears almost pristine. It is also the peak season for trekking in the Himalayas, where hundreds of trekkers flock to well-known trails.

Famous Treks in Autumn:

• Annapurna Base Camp Trek (Nepal)

• Goechala Trek (Sikkim)

• Har Ki Dun Trek (Uttarakhand)

• Sandakphu Trek (West Bengal)

Winter (December-February)

Winter trekking is one of those charms for snow lovers and ice adventurists. Winter sees a drop in temperature, a general sub-zero level in the higher altitude regions. Winter trekking is not for the faint-hearted but provides the experience of a lifetime with views of frozen rivers, snow-laden trails, and not many people. Trekkers should be well prepared, carrying proper equipment, warm clothes, and prior experience of trekking in such extremely cold conditions.

Famous Treks in Winter:

• Chadar Trek (Ladakh)

• Kuari Pass Trek (Uttarakhand)

• Brahmatal Trek (Uttarakhand)

• Triund Trek (Himachal Pradesh)

Best Months for Trekking

• Trekking months differ according to geographic alternatives and the atmosphere you wish to experience:  

• March till May is spring treks, with the flowers in bloom and fair weather.

• June to August is for high-altitude summer trekking when the snow has just melted.

• September to November clear skies with remarkable mountain views.

• December to February trekking with memories of snow-covered landscapes.

Monsoon vs. Winter Trekking Experiences

The Monsoon Trekking Experience

Trekking in the rain is a magical experience when it makes everything green and turns waterfalls to their full glory; rivers become so exuberantly flowing, and all around it's so full of fresh rejuvenated air. The only drawback is the heavy rains, leeches, landslides, and slippery tracks. The atmosphere remains highly humid, and most of the time, the weather is unpredictable during this time. To some extent, it answers the affliction by choosing trekking routes that cradle the monsoons, putting on fall-proof gear, and taking insect repellants.

• Pros of Monsoon Trekking: The lush and beautiful landscapes after the rains, Refreshing waterfalls and mist-covered trails, Even less crowded trails

• Cons of Monsoon Trekking: Slippery trails and risk of landslides, More number of Leeches and insects, More rainy days spoil trekking plans

Winter Trekking Experience

Winter trekking gives a different experience altogether. At almost every point, one can enjoy white landscapes, frozen lakes, and crisp air high in the mountains. But at the same time, there can be high temperatures outside while the daylight lasts this time. The use of special gear or instruments such as crampons, insulated jackets, and thermal layers sometimes becomes mandatory. It demands endurance, with a little increased level of physical fitness and mental strength, and offers the reward of surreal beauty and solitude.

• Pros of Winter Trekking: Snow-laden trails and frozen rivers would likely have fewer trekkers, so a more placid, trekking experience, A chance to witness wonderful winter scenery

• Cons of Winter Trekking: Very low temperatures- very cold, requiring special gear, Very hard, so not good for beginners, Limited time for trekking as there are shorter daylight hours.

How to Reach Naneghat

The Naneghat, a historic mountain pass in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, India, intrigues people with its breathtaking sceneries, ancient trade routes, and rock-cut caves. It is one of the popular trekking destinations today and has access from many cities through multiple transports for tourists.

Nearest Cities

Naneghat is situated in a way that you can reach it with easy access from some of the main cities in Maharashtra for trekkers and visitors interested in hiking:

• Naneghat and Mumbai (120 km): The most important city near Naneghat since it is the financial capital of India. For Mumbaikars, this trek is the perfect weekend getaway- keep it safe for adventure-seekers.

• Pune (120 km): Yet another prominent city within close distance from Naneghat, this serves as an ideal cut-out to nature for trekkers and other adventure enthusiasts.

• Kalyan (90 km): This is a key transport hub for more people from Mumbai and suburbs towards Naneghat.

• Junnar (40 km): The nearest town to Naneghat, Junnar, is also a good base for a traveller en route to the mountain pass.

Transport Options The different possibilities to reach Naneghat from Mumbai, Pune, and other cities of the neighbourhood are the following:

• By Road:  Naneghat is well connected via roads, and you can drive down to the base village through NH61 (Kalyan-Ahmednagar Highway). The following are the main routes:

• From Mumbai: The same Eastern Express Highway, further proceeding into NH61 via Kalyan-Murbad leads to the base village called Vaishakhare.

• From Pune: This will go through the Pune-Nashik Highway towards Narayangaon, then Junnar, and eventually turn in at Vaishakhare.

• From Kalyan: Via NH61 and after passing through Murbad, one would reach Vaishakhare.

• By Train: There are no direct trains to Naneghat, but the nearest railway stations are:

• Kalyan Railway Station (90 km): Once down here, you can take a taxi or bus to Murbad, further taking another point of transport to reach the base village.

• Pune Railway Station (120 km): A bus or cab towards Junnar or Malshej Ghat followed by an onward journey will take you to the base village.

• By Bus: State Transport (MSRTC) and other private buses run from Mumbai, Pune, and Kalyan to Murbad, Junnar, and Vaishakhare. From these thickets, avail local transport (taxi or shared jeeps) to the starting point of your journey.

• By Private Vehicle:  Most use private cars/bikes to travel because the scenic routes leading to the base village are good and nice. Parking is available near the base village of Vaishakhare.

Trekking Route Details

This trek is exciting and moderately challenging, but fun. It has much to offer in terms of natural beauty, history, and of course spectacular views, so here is a detailed breakdown of the trek:

from the Satavahana dynasty. This has been a trading path where ancient traders used to collect tolls: hence, the name Nane, "coin," and Ghat, "pass." The most striking piece of evidence whose significance looms large in the annals of history is a gigantic rock-cut pot believed to have been used for toll collection.1. These inscriptions date back to the rule of the Satavahanas. The inscriptions speak of commerce, toll collecting, and general administration in the region.

• The Massive Stone Pot - Arguably one of the most famed Naneghat tourist destinations, this fabulous rock-carved edifice has been traditionally regarded as the toll collector for traders in earlier times one could incidentally understand the local trade significance of the pass during these early centuries.

•  Valley View - At the top of the trek, a sight to behold and breathe in the vistas of the valleys and mountains around. The view naturally becomes magical with the red glow of sunrise and sunset.

• Naneghat Plateau - The vast expanse of the newly opened plateau makes it a super beautiful location for divinity and photography. The cool winds blowing and the peaceful atmosphere work wonders for one to rest before starting the descent.

•  Jivdhan Fort (Optional Extension) - An interesting trip for the pure adventurers, Jivdhan Fort nearby can be added, providing a little more history and scenic beauty.

Important Information for Trekkers

Best Time to Visit - The best time for undertaking this trek is June to February. The monsoon rains (June-September) are likely to only harbour beautiful green landscapes with waterfalls, but also make the trails very slippery for trekkers. Post-monsoon, the months from October - February provide the best trekking conditions with clear skies and pleasant temperatures.

What to Carry:

• Strong and tough trekking shoes. Must have an excellent grip.

• Drinking water is just enough (2-3 litres per person) together with energy bars, dry fruits, and snacks.

• Raincoat / Poncho during monsoons.

• A torch or headlamp while trekking in the early morning hours or late evening.

• A first-aid kit stocked with necessary medications.

• A camera or phone to capture the beautiful sights.

Fitness Level: It is an easy trek but requires a minimal fitness level. Regular walkers and novices should find it easy whereas anybody having breathing/knee disorders should exercise caution to rocky terrains and steep ascents.

Local Knowledge and Signage: The trails are well marked but a local guide is recommended for the first-time trekker, who can relay a lot of information about the area. They may also share interesting snippets of history and help the trek through some of the tougher areas.

Safety Precautions: Avoid trekking alone, especially in the monsoon season. Exercise caution while walking on loose rocks and slippery patches.  Inform someone about your trekking plan before you set off. Respect nature and do not litter along the trail.

Accommodation and Food- In the base village of Vaishakhare, there are basic homestays and small local eateries. However, it's better to carry your food, as there isn't much easily available at the top.

Trekking Experience at Naneghat

The Naneghat trek is a bit difficult; the distance of travel from the base village Vaishakhare is approximately 4-5 km. The trek is a medley of rocky paths, dense forests, and old remnants of an ancient trade route. The uphill climb takes around 2-3 hours at different speeds, as well as conditions in the weather.

The Best Time to Visit

• Monsoon (June - September) – The most suitable time to enjoy the Reverse Waterfall and get lost in the lush green landscapes.

• Winter (November - February) – Best to get clarity of views and have pleasant trekking temperatures.

• Avoid Summer (March-May) – Because this region's hot and dry.

Things to Do

•          Raincoat/poncho during monsoons.

•          Trekking shoes that fit perfectly.

•          Enough drinking water and food.

•          Flashlight and basic first-aid kit.

Nearby Places to Explore

Like in the case of exploring history, nature, and wildlife in some measure, there are hardly many other places like this around Jivdhan Fort, Shivneri Fort, Malshej Ghat, and Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary. Each of these special locations has its charm for Maharashtra's cultural and natural heritage, which tempts history enthusiasts, trekking lovers, and nature lovers alike: adventure seekers, too, can find ample thrills or a peaceful getaway in these sites- history, mythology, and nature blend to provide an unforgettable experience.

Jivdhan Fort: Jivdhan Fort is one of the most brilliant hill forts belonging to history among hill forts in Maharashtra. This monument is situated near the Western Ghats at an elevation of approximately 3,757 feet. It was a vital part of the Maratha Empire. Controlled by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, it had an important role in securing the trade routes between Kalyan and Junnar. The foremost known aspect of the fort is that it boasts a Naneghat Pass, which is an ancient trade route linking the Deccan Plateau to the coast area.

This pass was used by traders to carry goods like gold, diamonds, and spices. But now trekkers and people with an eye for history come to Jivdhan to witness its mass of bastions, majestic entrance gates, and the eye-striking views it promises at the summit. An iconic symbol of Jivdhan Fort is the Kalyan Darwaza, which is a rock door that stands as an example of the engineering greatness of ancient architects. It would be a cause of motivation behind such extreme hopelessness in trekkers about the struggle to get here by climbing up steep rock patches and narrow pathways. The trekking level makes it most suited for experienced hikers, but the superb views at its pinnacle are enough of a reward. The scenery will make it an ideal place for nature lovers, other than its historical significance. The best time to visit is during the monsoon season because the landscape is covered in bright green carpet with some pretty waterfalls, thus adding even more beauty to the area.

Shivneri Fort (Birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj): Shivneri Fort is located just 5 km away from Junnar, in Pune district, and is highly regarded as Shivneri, the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire, who built it in the 16th century. The fort, well preserved, deserves a visit by any person interested in Maharashtra's rich history. The fort is seated at 3,500 feet, which should be considered appropriate lemonade with a quite good spread of the surrounding region. This fort, dating back to the 15th century, was subsequently strengthened by Shahaji Raje, the father of Shivaji Maharaj, into a safe place for raising his son. It was here that Jijabai, the mother of Shivaji, defended healthy norms as well as ninja skills, resulting in what he grew to become.

Visitors can visit many museums situated inside the fort, including a museum with the Shivai Devi Temple, coexisting with Goddess Shivai, named after Shivaji Maharaj. Badami Talav, a water source that was quite important for the inhabitants of the fort, is another highlight. Seven fortified gates are built as protection against enemy advances.  One popular activity within Shivneri Fort is trekking. Though not challenging, the stone steps are in excellent condition for facilitating the hobbies of both amateur and expert trekkers. Along with the pleasant temperature and the view of the scenery clad with a carpet of greenery, this is the ideal time to visit. Besides being a historical landmark, Shivneri Fort is known for its scenic views of the Sahyadri range, making it a great place for click-happy photographers and nature enthusiasts. It brings a visit to glory from the past and the measures taken by nature to surround this historically significant place.

Malshej Ghat: Malshej Ghat is one such marvellous mountain pass in the Western Ghats filled with spectacular waterfalls, misty hills, and a wide range of fauna. It offers a view to someone with nature within, trekking within, and bird watching. It certainly includes some of the best-known scenic landscapes of Maharashtra. The seasonal monsoons are the reason this place gains that special character; the washed-away rains fill a myriad of waterfalls cascading from these cliffs dappled in a makeshift wonderland. The ideal holiday place to escape from the chaos of city life, where the rich soft aroma of the greenery is mingled with the cool summer breezes with misty hills. The most important among the attractions at Malshej Ghat is Harishchandragad Fort. It is a really old fort that some adventurous people do reach into.

Many trekking routes lead to the fort, but the best view is standing right on the very edge of the cliff known as Konkan Kada (Konkan Cliff)! Peering over the edge down into deep valleys and hills stretched far into the distance is a view which truly deserves cherishing for every visitor. Malshej Ghat is an absolute haven for the birds, as it turns out to be a temporary paradise for flamboyant flamingos flown in from Siberia. The bright emerald necklace on the long spindly legs of the flamingos adds a perfect frame for some cracking photos of the bird alongside the photographers and the nature lovers. The waterfalls at Malshej Ghat are equally gorgeous, with the Pimpalgaon Joga Dam among them underlining the maximum beauty of the region. The dam is constructed over the Pushpavati River and is perfect for a serene unmarred space for a quiet game of picnicking.  During monsoons, July-September is the ideal period to visit because the region becomes most beautiful. Winter, from October to February, is the best for fine weather that is great for trekking or travelling to other sites.

Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary: If you are the type who likes watching wildlife with some spirituality interspersed, then this is exactly where you should be Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is deep in the bosom of the Western Ghats and hosts the holy Bhimashankar Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Within this deep and awe-inspiring sanctuary, capturing some of that beauty entails dense forests, diverse flora and fauna, and, for the lucky, a little dab of spirituality.  Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, with an area of more than 132.5 sq. km. is a living example of rich biodiversity prevailing in this region. The sanctuary happens to be the home of many rare and endangered fauna, especially Maharashtra's state animal, the Indian Giant Squirrel or Shekru. Other fauna here include leopards, barking deer, langurs, and a variety of birds and butterflies. Numerous trails for trekkers weave through dense forests, scenic waterfalls, and enthralling viewpoints.

Everything becomes more beautiful during monsoon with misty hills and green freshness making trekking an experience to live by. Another major pilgrimage site Bhimashankar Temple is located inside the sanctuary. The temple built in Nagara style attracts a huge number of devotees every year. According to the legend, Lord Shiva took the form of Bhimashankar to kill the demon Tripurasura. Apart from temples and trekking trails, Bhimashankar also has Gupt Bhimashankar, an almost unknown watercourse from which it is said that the Bhima River was born. A quiet and serene place, dense forests would generously provide their mental space for intense meditation.  The best time to visit Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary would be between October and March since the pleasant weather is cool. The monsoon will make it even more beautiful, but the trekking will be easier but rather challenging due to the slippery trails.