Karjat Treks | Best treks in Karjat

Weekend Getaways

Just about 68 kilometres from Mumbai, in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, nestled in the laps of Western Ghats is the quaint settlement of Karjat. Replete with abundant natural beauty in the form of mountains, lush vegetation, rocky terrain and several waterfalls, the city dwellers of Mumbai and Pune often frequent Karjat to break free from the humdrum city life. Owing to its boundless greenery accompanied by hill forts, ancient temples and rock-cut caves that boast of some thought-provoking architecture and history, Karjat has become a hotspot for trekkers. The extensive sweeps of Sahyadris in Karjat tender a prodigious topography to trek which makes it a famous trekking destination in Maharashtra. The trails in Karjat range from easy to moderately difficult to extremely challenging. Therefore, it has everything that a beginner wishes for a first trek as well as the thrill which is desired by hardcore adventure seekers.

Be it any trail in Karjat, after one has walked for several kilometres, the stunning view that greets them is mesmerizing. For the novice hikers who want to step into the world of trekking, like Sondai Fort Trek, Peb Fort Trek, One Tree Hill Trek and Garbett Point Trek are the best recommendations. All of these treks comprise hiking through lush green forests, breath-taking views from the top and are not very enduring. Also, these treks are kids and family-friendly, taking your child on an exciting hike will also strengthen the parent-child relationship and serve as quality family time. Now for the individuals who have been hiking quite a bit and looking for some endurance building, treks like Peth or Kothaligad Fort Trek, Irshalgad and Trek to Kondane Caves are the most scintillating options. These treks will help you get out of your beginner phase and prepare you for more challenging treks. The adventure enthusiasts can embark on treks like Bhimashankar, Chanderi Fort and Nakhind Hill. These treks are bound to leave you breathless, stimulated and satisfy your adrenaline craving.

For the laid back chillers, there are numerous camping options that you can choose from for your weekend getaway. The camps are replete with all facilities with authentic meals being and tent stays. Campers can also try their hands at various activities during camping, like ATV bike rides, zip-lining, swimming, kayaking etc. We recommend our Karjat Secret Camping, Karjat Glamping and Bhivipuri Camping events for the best experience. Pre monsoons, you can especially go for Kothaligad Trek to witness the magical fireflies. During monsoons, when the magnificence of Karjat is ten times more, we also organise rappelling at Diksal Waterfall. Waterfall Rappelling is once in a lifetime experience and shouldn’t be missed out on. Treks and Treks is the go-to place for all the outdoor and adventure related activities as we provide the best rates and recommendations for all our clients. Book your slot in advance to avail discounts. Treks and Trails are waiting to host you.

Kondana Caves Trek:

Kondana Caves situated in Karjat offers the ancient lifestyle of Buddhist followers. Ancient rock-cut
caves, Kondana Caves are very famous Buddhist caves. These caves enclose sculptures, vihara, chaitya, and stupa. Sculptures and stupas are specimens of the ancient period Buddhist architecture. There was
a natural disaster in the form of an earthquake in early 1900 by which many stupas, front entrance and
floor of the caves were damaged. These ancient caves attract lots of tourists and Buddhist devotees all
through the year. Kondana Caves is around 15 KM from Karjat.

Kondane Caves Trek Event Details

Kondana caves trek difficulty level: Easy.
Base village Kondana caves: Kondhane.
Kondana caves height: 60m above Sea Level (Approx.).
The time required climbing Kondana caves: 1 hour (one way).

Irshalgad Trek:

Irshalgad derived its name from Irshal that means the top and 'gad' means the fort. This fort served as a watchtower in previous times due to its pinnacle. It was easy to keep a check over enemy movements around the fort. This trek to Irshalgad fort will test your endurance all through the trek putting forth various inclines and flat trails.

Irashalgad Fort Details

Location - Between Matheran and Panvel
Elevation - 3700 feet above sea level
Difficulty level - high

Bhimashankar Trek:

Established in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra and covering an expanse of around 120 km at an altitude of 3400 feet high up in the mountains. There is a beautiful temple of Lord Shiva amidst the forest of the impenetrable jungle which is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India that draws pilgrims and followers.

Bhimashankar is of prominent religious significance, and one can witness packs of believers touring here during the month of Shravan. It is said that Lord Shiva killed Rakshas Tripurasura after getting angry. The heat created from their battle created the source of river Bhima. That is why it is described as the Bhimashankar. The Bhimashankar temple is a composite of old and the new architecture. It is a modest yet graceful temple, and it dates back to the 18th century.

Matheran Trek:

One Tree Hill Point Trek

Matheran is one of the smallest hill stations in India. Located at an elevation of 2625 feet above sea level. It is well connected by Mumbai and Pune. Matheran's proximity to both cities makes it a popular weekend getaway. Matheran means forest on the forehead of the mountains is an eco-sensitive region. It is Asia’s only automobile-free hill station.

One Tree Hill Point is famous in Matheran as it has one tree growing only on top of the hill. Matheran is famous for Horse Riding, Herping, Bird Watching, Handicrafts it has an old-world charm to it where time has stood still. Matheran jungle trek was discovered by Hugh Malet in 1850.

Treks In Matheran Event Details

One Tree Hill Matheran Point Trek Grade: Easy

Matheran One Tree Hill Point Trek Endurance Level: Medium

Height of Mountain: 2600 feet approx.

Location: Matheran, one tree hill Karjat

One Tree Hill Point Matheran Trek time required for climbing: 3 hours

One Tree Hill Point Trek Distance: 8 kms

Peb Fort Trek:

Trekking near Mumbai to Peb Fort or Vikatgad around four km from Neral Railway Station. Peb Fort is a delightful trek in the Monsoon season. Also known as the Vikatgad Trek, the hike passes through a local village and many waterfalls. The Trek near the Foothills of Matheran's offers all that a trekker can ask for climbing ladders, navigating rock patches, ancient caves, dense forest, ridge walking, pleasant weather. Peb Fort Trek can be combined with a Matheran visit, or you can trek till Panorama point Matheran. Excellent for new trekkers, a village guide or guided tour will make the Trek more enjoyable.

Peb Fort History

It is assumed that this fort derived its name Peb from the 'Goddess Pebi' at the base of the fort. Historical references indicate that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj used the caves on the fort as silos for grain storage.

The cave on the fort is occupied by disciples of Swami Samarth, a great saint. They have contributed a lot to the development of this fort for the last ten years. They have managed successfully to keep the cave and the fort clean and maintained the dignity of the Peb fort. Near to this cave are meditation caverns, which are underground. These caverns are still in good condition. One has to crawl into these, and only one man can enter at one time.

In monsoon, two of these are filled with water. On the top, we can go by climbing the fort's wall; On the top, we can see some remnants. The main attraction here is the bastion on the topmost part. Bastion faces the mountain of Matheran. Here we can see the ridge connecting the mountains of Matheran and Peb. When we stand here, we feel like to be at the top of the world.

On the other side of the fort is a temple of a deity. Here is a big cistern. The disciples are constructing a good temple here. We can reside here for some time. The beautiful waterfall on the way is the main attraction here. The surrounding scenery looks marvellous from the cave in the monsoon. We also see the pinnacles of Navara-Navari, Bhatoba and Irshalgad Fort, and Chanderi Fort, Prabalgad Fort, Kalavantin Durg and Malanggad and also Nakhind Ridge. This trekking is pleasant in all seasons.

Peb Fort Trek Event Details

Peb Fort Height is 2100 feet above sea level
Peb Fort Type is Hill Fort
District Raigad
Peb Fort Trek Difficulty is Medium and Risky
Peb Trek nearest railway station is Neral

Why should you trek during monsoon?

During monsoon weather is more relaxing, trekking will help you connect with nature you can connect with more friends offline. If you want to move away from the traffic and noisy bars head towards the mountains and waterfalls for the thrill of adventure.

How do you get ready to go trekking?

Trekking or hiking is more enjoyable with a fit body. You can get ready for the upcoming trekking season by following these essential tips to get healthy and build stamina and endurance.

Start working on quick walks, and after you develop sufficient power, proceed with jogging.
Stretching helps you recover faster pre-hike, and post-hike stretches are a must for all trekking expeditions.
Regular gym enthusiasts can include cardio to improve stamina.
Eat healthy fruits and vegetables. A choice of protein will help you recover quicker after the trek. Carry some snacks during the day to help maintain your energy levels.
Hydration: Please drink a lot of water during the monsoon and carry some water filters like Lifestraw to avoid water-borne diseases if you want to try out mountain streams.
Work on your posterior muscles and leg muscles and make them fit.

Things to avoid on your first trekking trip

Avoid drinking alcohol or smoking a few days before or during your trek; this will help you build stamina and avoid dehydration. You will also feel healthier.
Avoid carrying a large backpack; carry essentials; prefer a backpack with a rain cover; a wet backpack will get heavier by five times.
Don't wear sports shoes, gym shoes, or sandals; wear proper trekking shoes and invest in good ones.
Carry your trash home; we are all educated individuals. Littering slopes harms the environment and ruins the beautiful views.
Keep your family and friends informed about your trekking adventure; in case of an emergency, they will arrange for help.
Avoid solo trekking if you are a confident trekker. Please keep locals, families, and friends informed before you begin your trek and after you complete it.

Which trekking shoes to buy for monsoon hikes?

1. Campus Trekking Shoes - Learn more You can contact Chirag Karia - 8080802244

2. CTR Trekking shoes by Coaster - Learn more

Where to buy trekking clothes and backpack for monsoon outdoor adventures?

1. Outdoor Travel Gear - https://www.outdoortravelgear.com/ - Whatsapp 8080290520

2. MSA - Mountain Sport Academy

www.msagears.com

B/22, Shubham, Plot No.151, Part II, Gorai, Near Suvidhya High School

Nandu Chavan - 98920 42704

3. Add-Venture India

https://shop.addventureindia.com/

Shop # 11, Sai Sahara CHS, Kamladevi Birajdar Marg, Sector 21, Nerul, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra 400706

022 2771 8845

4. Decathlon India - https://www.decathlon.in/