Trekking in the Sahyadri (Konkan) mountains is a perfect blend of adventure and nature. From ancient forts taking us back to the historic adventures and unforgettable events to the sacred temples on high rugged forts telling us the stories of faith and resilience. Let me take you through that one wonderful weekend I had experiencing all this.
About the trek
The trek was organized by the Shri Kumbhaljai Devi Samajik Vikas Sanstha ( श्री कुंभलजाई देवी सामाजिक विकास संस्था ) and this was the eight year they have been organizing such treks. One of the major reason behind such treks is exploring the forgotten, the Sahyadri valley, the forts the temples and more. Sometimes the trails they take are really the least travelled.
For me, this was the first time with them, I was inspired my brothers who have been doing these treks for a few years.
Kangori Trek
About Kangorigad a.k.a Mangalgad: It was build by the Chandrarao More of Jawli at a height of 2456 feet. It can be reached from Pune via Warandha or Mulshi ghat and from Mumbai by Goa highway.
On top of the fort, there is an ancient temple of Kangori Devi.
Honoring Narveer Tanaji Malusare
One of the major spot we had in our mind was the memorial of Narveer Tanaji Malusare and Shelar Mama. Now, if you have grown up hearing the glorious history of Maratha warriors and their heroic battles, then these names will sound familiar to you as well.
Trekking up the Mahabaleshwar
Day 2, the group woke up early and we went to the village temple, which was by the river and it had amazing environment. The area had fresh and clean air, for a person from city, it might feel truly different to walk around such a forest.
We then had a good healthy breakfast and started our climb. The path was by the fields in the beginning and then we were in dense forest. It was a steep ascend and after around 2+ hours of continuous trek, we reached a point that took our breath away, all the exhaustion went away as we looked around. It was like a small plain on top of the mountain and one could see other mountain tops around.
After a short break, we took a turn and went to the Elephants point and when we looked below, we saw the very same village we spent the night at and the temple we visited the same morning.
We then started moving towards the Mahabaleshwar temple.
Shri Kshetra Mahabaleshwar
Shri Kshetra Mahabaleshwar, a revered pilgrimage site in Maharashtra, is home to the ancient Mahabaleshwar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. There is an ancient temple of Panchganga – Five rivers namely: Krishna, Venna, Koyna, Savitri and Gayatri.
To conclude
Simply put, I am joining them next year for sure!
Rest, I had the fun I expected and more. The trails were amazing, the fort and the temples took me back a few years and the company throughout made this all a lot more fun.
Make sure to check out my Goa Series, and Konkan Trip.
