Harihar Fort is a Nashik-born historical site in Maharashtra. It makes for an excellent attraction for those seeking a short but splendid vacation in the lap of nature. As a result, it is widely known as one of the best places to visit in Maharashtra. From the peak of Harihar fort, you will for sure get an astonishing view of the beautiful elongated hilltop of Mother Nature. Many other forts can be viewed near Nashik. Despite being known for its narrowness, the Harihar fort trek is quite tricky.
History
Harihar fort or Harihar Kila is located in the Trimbakeshwar Mountain Range. This fort was born between the 9th and 14th centuries and constructed by The Yadava Dynasty. This fort situated in Maharashtra has held great importance in preventing trade routes that pass through the Gonda Ghat.
Before the British Army took control of it, the Harihar Fort suffered repeated invasions and was seized by many invaders for many reasons. This Harihar fort was one among the several forts that the Ahmadnagar Sultanate owned.
Today, the fort that was mentioned earlier is used exclusively as a trekking site. To reach the fort, you need to climb a flight of rock-cut steps. The trek initiates from two villages, Harshewadi and Nirgudpada.
Trekking
The remarkable thing about Harihar Fort Trek is that it appears rectangular from the base village. However, it rests on a rock in the shape of a triangular prism. Also, the vertical rock edges allow this ancient fort to stand apart. Because of these steep steps, the trek is the most popular in the Sahyadri Range.
Despite being relatively short, the trek to Harihar Fort or Harihar Killa is definitely not easy. Your guide will be there to help you throughout your trek. These rock-cut stairs make up the last 200 feet of the trip and make for a nerve-wracking climb with 200 steps and an 80-degree elevation. The descent is exceptionally thrilling because of the steep climb down and 500-foot drop at one point. The stair’s architecture appears to be both diverse and impressive. The valley underneath can sometimes be seen spectacularly and frighteningly.
Things to Remember
- No permission is needed from the tourism or the forest departments to embark on the Harihar Fort Trek.
- Timings – Harihar fort trek is between 12:30 PM to 2:00 AM.
- Minimum two liters of water, first-aid kit, glucose, and other personal care medicines must be carried.
- If your trek is during the monsoon period, avoid wearing cotton shirts; instead, wear quick-dry t-shirts.
- Carry a valid photo ID card.
- It is best to carry several simple ready-to-eat high-calorie dry food products. Only a tiny shop is located for water and snacks on the plateau after leaving the base villages.
- For trekking during monsoon, it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and take an extra pair of socks, a poncho, and a windcheater.
- Carry a whistle that will be beneficial for emergencies.
- It is better to Use a haversack instead of a sling bag or slide bag as it will make climbing more convenient for you.
- The public transportation routes are limited after 3:00 p.m. for the return journey to Nashik and Trimbak, respectively.
- It is suggested to avoid this trek for beginners and anyone with medical conditions. The second part, which involves a strenuous climb at a high altitude, is quite tricky.
Why You Should visit Harihar Fort
Harihar Fort in Nashik
is a wonderful place for anyone to explore history, nature, and adventure. Here you can learn about the Yadava dynasty and other rulers of Maharashtra by visiting the ruins of the fort; at the same time, you can also enjoy nature’s beauty by trekking up the hill. This trek is full of thrill and excitement when compared to the other treks.
Best Season for the Harihar Fort trek
The best time to go trekking on Harihar for a trek is from July to February. During this season, you can enjoy a beautiful town view from the Harihar fort. It is during the monsoon season when Sahyadris are most attractive. At this time, the trail in the villages will be covered by grass. The hilltop here also offers an exceptionally clear view of the prominent forts and peaks during the monsoon season’s rains.
The spectacular Harihar Fort surrounds striking natural beauty that once again continues to draw hundreds of new daring trekkers and thrill-seekers. Harihar Fort should be on your bucket list if you love history or want a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Make sure to add it as an activity to your Maharashtra tour package.
