What Are the Common Mistakes to Avoid on the Harishchandragad Trek?
The state of Maharashtra is very special. It is because of the Western Ghat or Sahyadri Ghat. It is heaven for trekkers and adventure lovers. This is the reason; trekking is one of the most popular treks in Maharashtra.
The list of various treks and forts is very long. Among them, one of the best and highest forts near Mumbai is Harishchandragad. This historical place brings a glorious history and rich heritage of the Maratha Kingdom.
The fortification of this fort is strong, and it has multiple entry gates. Some of them are Junnar gate, Sadhale Ghat gate, Nalichi waat and Indore vaat.
According to historians, this fort belongs to the medieval period because you can find temples of Shiva, Kali, and Navnath. During the Mughal Era, it was under the control of the Mughal Kingdom till the Maratha rulers captured it in 1747.
Since it is a challenging fort, adventure-seeking people always prefer to conquer it. Expert, mediocre and novice trekkers go there in hundreds of numbers and complete the trek as per their skills and physical endurance.
Trekking experts say that many people cannot complete the trek because they make a few mistakes. Some common Harishchandragad trek mistakes are given in this blog.
Choosing the Wrong Route
Many times, trekkers pick incorrect routes and get into trouble. Some trails have rocky patches, and routes. They are slippery in all seasons and especially during the rainy season, they become furthermore dangerous. Also, the trek to Harishchandragad via Pachnai goes through a forest area. This jungle trek becomes difficult in the rainy season. In some of the forts of Maharashtra, all treks are rocky, and it is not possible to avoid risky trails.
It is extremely important to choose the right route after consulting an expert trekker. When you are going on any trek, including Harishchandragad trek, you should visit a professional trekking club first. Even if you are not a formal member, the team will cooperate with you and give proper guidance.
The most important thing you need to know is about the best and most important trek.
Starting the Trek Too Late
It is a golden rule of trekking that one should start before sunrise. Since you are supposed to climb, it is good to cover long distances before the temperature increases as the sun goes up in the sky.
Especially, in the case of the Harishchandragad trek it is not at all a good thing to start late. When you choose longer routes such as Khireshwar or Nalichi Vaat, it is critically important to start as early in the morning as possible.
When the trek is long and there are steep sections, you need good visibility to trek safely. It is possible only during bright daylight. If you start late, then it is possible that you will get stuck in the dark. The risk of injury increases. It means you need the guidance of an expert guide.
When you start in the morning hours, with every passing minute, brightness increases, and you enjoy trekking. The risk reduces, and you enjoy safe trekking.
Carrying Too Much or Too Little
It is always good to travel light, but it is not always appropriate in the case of trekking. If you ask experts, then they will recommend that a person should not carry more than 20 to 30 kilograms in a backpack. Remember, you must carry all essential things such as trekking shoes, a power bank, essential medicines, and some snacks. Do not leave any of these items at the base station to reduce the weight of your backpack.
It is suggested that the load must be optimal. It means it should be neither more nor less. Carrying too little luggage will increase the risk of leaving some critical items. Carrying too much luggage will make you tired. If the terrain is rough and difficult, then this heavy luggage will make your trek further troublesome.
Ignoring Weather Alerts
The weather in this region is uncertain in the rainy season. It is because this part receives heavy to very heavy rainfall during the months of July to September.
If you either ignore weather alerts or do not have updates about them, then the situation can become risky.
A heavy rain shower will make the trek difficult and cause you inconvenience. This is why beginners or amateur trekkers should always go there with an experienced trekker. When you are in large groups, the risk gets reduced.
This is the reason experienced trekkers suggest that one should go there after September. From the second half of September onward, the weather will be excellent. The trails will be surrounded by lush greenery. The skies are clear, and sunsets are beautiful.
However, it is important to check the weather forecast for that day before embarking on a trek. Thus, you will be prepared for the weather. This is one of the most important Harishchandragad trek safety tips.
Trekking Without a Guide (For Challenging Routes)
Remember, it is always risky to take a trek without a guide. It will be very risky because the terrain is unknown. It is because the treks have steep climbs and slopes, there are rocky sections, and you always have a risk of getting lost.
Therefore, never think about trekking without any proper guidance. The best thing is to get a membership in a good and reputable trekking club. It will give two benefits to you. First, there will be proper guidance. Secondly, you will not have any risk of getting lost.
Guides will help with navigation. You will be taken by trials and have less traffic. They possess knowledge of trekking and emergency rope skills. They are experienced trekkers who will ensure the total safety of trekkers.
In maharashtra trekking is a popular event. Hence, it is not difficult to get a guide.
Harishchandragad is one of the most popular and picturesque treks in the Sahyadri range of mountains. It is a little difficult trek, but worth going there because of the varied difficulty. As you reach the top, you will be amazed by the stunning beauty of the surroundings.
