7 Thrilling Highlights of Gadgada Fort Trek Adventure
Locally known as Gad Gad Sanvi, this fort is surrounded by numerous temples—about 8 to 10 near its base. To reach the fort’s base, we took a concrete path where a helpful local dropped us off on a bike since the road ahead was in bad condition. If you’re bringing your vehicle, you can comfortably reach the temples at the fort’s base, but only two-wheelers can manage beyond a point, as the terrain becomes rugged. From there, it’s a 1-kilometer hike to the temple, where the actual trek begins.
History of Gadgada Fort
Gadgada Fort, located in the Amboli Hill Range near Nashik, Maharashtra, holds significant historical importance as a watchtower.
- Strategic Location: The fort was built to keep a vigil over the surrounding region, especially the routes connecting other forts and valleys.
- Cultural Significance: The fort’s base has ancient temples, including the Sangavi Devi Temple, which is of religious importance to the locals.
- Construction: The fort features steep rock-cut steps, indicative of its defensive design and challenging accessibility. This highlights its role as a defensive outpost.
- Current State: Now mostly in ruins, the fort offers a peek into the military architecture of its era. Its historical value is complemented by its panoramic views of nearby peaks like Dangya Pinnacle, Anjneri Parvat, and Brahmagiri Parvat.
Gadgada Fort remains relatively lesser-known, making it a hidden gem for trekkers and history enthusiasts. However, its rugged terrain and dangerous patches make it suitable for experienced trekkers.
Best Time to Visit Gadgada Fort
The ideal time to visit Gadgada Fort is post-monsoon season (October to February). During this time:
- The weather is pleasant, making trekking easier.
- The surroundings are lush green, enhancing the scenic beauty.
- Avoid visiting during the monsoon (June to September) as the trail becomes slippery and dangerous.
- Summer months (March to May) can be extremely hot and challenging for trekking.
How to Reach Gadgada Fort
The base village for Gadgada Fort is Sangvi Village, located approximately:
- 150 km from Mumbai
- 240 km from Pune
- 25 km from Nashik
First, reach Wadi Vare Phata on the Mumbai-Agra Highway. From there, the base of Gadgada Fort is about 7 km away. Public transport options might be limited, but locals often offer assistance. The road conditions are rough due to landslides, so proceed with caution. A short hike of 15 minutes will lead you to the temple at the base of the fort, where your trek officially begins.
Trekking Experience
The trek to Gadgada Fort is both thrilling and challenging:
- Steps Section: The steps leading up are steep, carved into solid rock at angles of 75-80 degrees. While visually impressive, the steps become slippery during the monsoon. Take your time and avoid looking down if you’re afraid of heights.
- Khunti Chi Wat Patch: This is the most difficult and risky section of the trek. It requires climbing steep metal rods embedded in rock. These rods are loose in some places, adding to the danger. Without proper gear like ropes and harnesses, climbing this patch is not recommended for beginners.
- Final Stretch: After the Khunti Chi Wat section, a small shrine appears, marking the final point before reaching the summit.
Highlights at the Top
From the top of Gadgada Fort, you can see breathtaking views of surrounding peaks like Dangya Pinnacle, Anjaneri, and Brahmagiri. There are a few water tanks and ruins, but the main purpose of the fort was as a watchtower to monitor nearby forts and trade routes.
Safety Tips
- Wear proper trekking shoes.
- Carry minimal baggage; leave heavier items at the temple base.
- Beginners should avoid this trek as the difficulty level is high.
- Use ropes and harnesses for added safety, especially during the monsoon.
Read also: 10 Must-Visit Powerful Places in Nashik for an Unforgettable Journey
Read also: 15 Best Places to Visit in Lonavala for an Amazing Trip
Conclusion
Despite its challenges, Gadgada Fort is a rewarding trek for experienced adventurers. However, it’s underexplored due to its high difficulty level and lack of awareness. Be cautious while trekking, as loose rods and steep climbs make it risky. If you’re planning to visit, ensure you’re well-prepared and informed about the trail. Enjoy the adventure and the stunning views this fort offers!