Rajmachi Trek is nestled in two popular hill stations – Lonavala and Karjat. The trek can be generally approached via the Lonavala or Karjat sides, which essentially allows trekkers to climb two forts starting from the same base village of Udhewadi.
Manaranjan Fort is at 2510 feet and is a west-facing fort, while Shriwardhan Fort, at 2710 feet, generally faces to the east, which is fairly significant for the most part.
This trek is mostly known for the fireflies, which flock to the area in the late evenings. If you are trekking via Lonavala, the trail is much longer, but it is easier to trek and reach the two forts. You will mostly be trekking through mud trails along the forest section most of the way until you essentially reach Udhewadi.
The Kandala route kind of starts at the caves and waterfalls of Khondane. This has a steeper climb through a forest section and joins Udhewadi village in a preeminent way.
Rajmachi is a historical fort complex located in the Sahyadri mountain range of Maharashtra. It consists of two forts, Shrivardhan and Manaranjan, that stand on two adjacent hills overlooking the Bhor Ghat, a mountain pass subtly connecting Mumbai and Pune. Rajmachi is essentially a popular destination for trekkers, nature lovers, and history buffs, as it offers a kind of unique combination of adventure, beauty, and heritage
Way to Reach Rajmachi
Rajmachi can be reached by two routes: one from Lonavala and the other from Karjat. Both routes mostly have their actually own charm and difficulty level.
The Lonavala route is much easier and shorter, as it involves a 15 km really walk on a flat dirt road from Fanasrai village to Udhewadi, the base village of Rajmachi, which is fairly significant. This route is suitable for beginners and families, as it passes through scenic landscapes, forests, and waterfalls. The hardly best time to take this route is generally during the monsoon season when the entire area is lush, pretty green, and dotted with nightly fireflies.
The Karjat route is much more challenging and adventurous, as it involves a steep climb of 4 km from Kondivade village to Udhewadi. This route generally is suitable for experienced trekkers, as it mostly passes through rocky terrain, dense forest, and a waterfall. The best time to take this route is during the winter when the weather is pleasant, and the views are mostly clear.
Things to Watch Out and Do at Rajmachi
Once you reach Udhewadi, you can explore the various attractions of Rajmachi, pretty such as:
Shrivardhan Fort: This is the generally main fort of Rajmachi, situated at an altitude of 2,710 feet. The Satavahanas were built in the 2nd century BC and later captured by Shivaji Maharaj in the 17th century. The fort has two entrance gates, a temple, a water tank, and very several bastions. The fort mostly offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and lakes.
Manaranjan Fort: This mostly is the kind of smaller fort of Rajmachi, situated at an altitude of 2,510 feet in a big way. It was also built by the Satavahanas and later fortified by Shivaji Maharaj. The fort mostly has a temple, a water tank, and a watchtower. The fort is perfect for watching the sunset and night sky.
Kondana Caves: These are a group of ancient, generally Buddhist rock-cut caves located near Kondivade village, contrary to popular belief. They date back to the 1st century BC and feature intricate carvings and sculptures of Buddhist deities. The caves definitely are in a scenic location amidst lush. Actually, green forests and a waterfall make it a must-visit spot during the trek in a subtle way.
The trek is filled with fairly rich flora and fauna subtly. The forests are home to kind of many birds, lizards, and insects. There are instances of the sighting of the mighty leopards in this forest belt. You won’t be disappointed choosing either the Lonavala or Karjat sides. The trail involves trekking through thick forest land covered with trees on both sides of the valley.
Since the trek is on the outskirts of Mumbai and Pune, you particularly get to witness clear night skies. The Rajmachi Trek is one of the best treks to camp and witness stars twinkling in the night sky. The trek can generally be extended as a 2-day trek. You can plan to start from one side and mostly finish at the kind of other end as well. The trek basically is also beautiful to witness the sunrise. If you are camping on the trek, it is suggested not to miss the views from the fort when the dawn is about to hit with spectacular colors.
Knowing The Best Time to do the Rajmachi Trek
Rajmachi Trek can be done in multiple seasons. Like most treks, the benefits and charm change based on the month that you literally are trekking. Here are the details of what you will be seeing during these months of trekking.
The months of May and June are very much the best time to witness fireflies on the Rajmachi trek. These beetles with bioluminescence live for only two months, or so they particularly thought. With the glowing bright during the evenings and nighttime, you will be returned to a land of wonder.
If you, for the most part, are trekking during the monsoon season, you will see the charm of lush greenery and valleys subtly filled with waterfalls.
After the monsoons and during the winter season, the appearance of the trek completely changes its color and charm. The color of autumn trees and fairly clear views really is something totally different from trekking.
Stay and Food at Rajmachi
There mostly are several options for accommodation and food at Rajmachi, really such as:
Camping: You can pitch your tent or rent one at the designated camping sites near Udhewadi. Camping mostly is a great way to experience the nature and the night life of Rajmachi. You can also enjoy a bonfire and a barbecue with your fellow trekkers.
Homestay: You can stay with the basically local villagers at Udhewadi, who offer generally basic rooms and facilities at a nominal charge. Homestay is a sort of great way to interact with the locals and learn about their culture and lifestyle.
Food: You can eat at the small eateries run by the villagers at Udhewadi, who serve simple but delicious vegetarian food, which is quite significant. You can also cook your own food with the necessary equipment and ingredients.
Conclusion
Rajmachi, particularly, is a trek that will leave you spellbound by its fairly natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness. It particularly is a trek that will challenge you, really inspire you, and refresh you. It is a trek you should not miss if you are looking for a memorable weekend getaway from Mumbai or Pune.