Bhatkeadventure

The state of Maharashtra is called the land of forts and mountains. The Sahyadri Range of Mountains in the western region has a plethora of trekking and hiking opportunities. Every year, hundreds of enthusiasts explore the known and unexplored treks in the state. 

One of the famous treks is the Ratangad Fort Trek. Ratangad fort is a part of the Kalsubai range, where you will find some of the highest peaks in the Sahyadri Mountains.  

This fort and Ratangad Fort Trek bring outstanding and breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and the famous Bhanadardara dam.  

As you move upward, you will see and feel the colossal cliffs unfolding in front of your eyes. As you walk on the edge of the fort, the mystic surroundings make you totally speechless. You can actually feel the majesty and robustness of the strong Sahyadris. 

Difficulty Level and Duration of the Trek 

As far as the difficulty level is concerned, the Ratangad Fort trek can be rated as moderate difficulty.  

Even if you are a novice trekker, you will need around 4 to 5 hours to ascend to the fort. Though the trek goes through different types of geographic terrains, the overall difficulty level is normal. 

You will go through dense forests and some rocky areas. As you search for the different routes, you will find that there are two routes. 

One route begins at Ratanwadi. This route is relatively easy and simple because there are ladders available for the final climb. 

Remember, this trek is called beginner-friendly because even beginners and non-experienced people can also go for this trek. The only word of caution is that the beginners should be careful while climbing on ladders.  Also, they need to be careful while trekking through some steep patches. 

It is, however, recommended that one should have high endurance for the trek it is more important if you are going there in the Monsoon season. The trek becomes quite challenging during this time.  

The time needed for the entire trek, including ascent and descent, can be completed in approximately 7 to 8 hours. 

Scenic Views Along the Trek 

Indeed, the entire Ratangad Fort Trek is full of scenic views. You can see the surrounding mountain ranges and forts like Kulang, Alang, and Kalsubai. Like all other famous treks in the state of Maharashtra, you will get mesmerized by the beauty and majesty of nature.  

One beautiful view that will impress you is the backwaters of Bhandardara Lake. And yes, how can you miss the famous “Nedhe” or the Needle Hole in the mountain. It is a natural, large opening through a rock that looks similar to the hole of a needle. This is a natural wonder and a unique point that you should certainly see. 

If you go for Trekking in Ratangad during the Monsoon season, you can see thousands of Karvi flowers blossoming on the slopes. This is a unique and rare sight that makes the landscape unbelievably beautiful. 

As said earlier, this trek passes through beautiful valleys. So, you can see several waterfalls during and after the rainy season. Some of these waterfalls remain active till February. The cascading waterfalls add to the beauty of this phenomenal trek. 

Best Time to Visit Ratangad Fort for Trekking 

If you ask experienced trekkers, then they will suggest that the best time for trekking to Ratangad Fort is after the Monsoon season. You should plan the trek from September to February. 

Why? It is because the weather is extremely good during this time. After the Monsoon, there is lush greenery everywhere. The weather is pleasant and moderate, and the skies are clear.  

The daytime temperature is ideal for trekking. Also, during September and October, the entire area gets covered with Sonki and Karvi flower blooms. The waterfalls are still on, and the backwaters of Bhandardara Lake give a phenomenal view. 

In the state of maharashtra trekking is very popular. Some experienced trekkers go there in the rainy season to feel and experience the thrill of the Mountains. However, it is not at all recommended to go there if you are a novice trekker. The region experiences heavy rainfall, and the trails become very difficult. 

Nearby Attractions and Things to Do 

There are many attractions around the Ratangad Fort Trek that will engage you. The prominent ones are the Amruteshwar Temple, which is an ancient temple.  Located in the Ratanwadi village, this is in fact the base camp or the starting point for the trek.  

Then there is a beautiful lake surrounded by hills that is called Bhandardara Lake. You can have camping and boating around the lake. This place connects you to the calm and tranquil natural beauty around. 

After the rainy season, severe beautiful waterfalls emerge in the region. Some famous falls are Umbrella Falls and Randha Falls. They are really impressive and picturesque. 

Then there is the famous Kalsubai Peak. This great mountain peak is very challenging but equally beautiful. 

Sandhan Valley is a deep valley, which brings several opportunities for adventure activities and rappelling. 

Safety Tips for the Trek 

As mentioned in the blog, the trek to Ratangad is not very difficult. Therefore, you needn’t worry much.  However, it is important to follow the basic safety guidelines. You should avoid the monsoon season because there is heavy rain in the region.  

• Always carry quick-dry clothing that is lightweight and occupies less space. The bag should be waterproof.
• You should keep a power bank, a torch, and a knife.
• It is important to keep an extra pair of socks.
• Keep an offline map for navigation.
• Your family members, friends, or any other person should have a constant update of your route and expected return time.

Ratangad Fort trek is one of the preferred trekking destinations in Maharashtra. If you love trekking and want to explore a trek full of scenic beauty with a challenging yet moderate level of difficulty, then this is just perfect trek for you.  

Every year, it attracts several adventure enthusiasts, especially after the monsoon season. In the winter months, i.e., between September and March, the trek is at its peak of beauty.