Ratangad Trek – The Jewel Fort | Monsoon Special

Ratangad Trek – Monsoon Special

Ratangad, known as the Jewel Fort, is one of the most surreal treks during the pre-monsoon period. Located near the small remote village of Ratanwadi in the Bhandardara region, this fort offers a captivating view that is especially enchanting during the monsoon season.

Historical Significance: Ratangad is a fort with a rich history dating back approximately 2000 years. It was once captured by the legendary Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji Raje Bhosle. The fort’s strategic location and natural defenses made it a significant stronghold in its time.

Unique Features:

• Natural Rock Peak: Ratangad boasts a unique natural rock peak with a cavity at the top known as ‘Nedhe’ or the ‘Eye of the Needle’.

• Gates: The fort has four main gates named Ganesh, Hanuman, Konkan, and Trimbak.

• Wells: Numerous wells are scattered across the top of the fort, providing water sources for those who once inhabited it.

Scenic Beauty and Surroundings: Overlooking the picturesque locale of Bhandardara, Ratangad provides stunning panoramic views. The fort is also the origin of the Pravara/Amrutvahini River, which plays a crucial role in the region’s water supply. The Bhandardara Dam, also known as the Arthur Dam, is constructed on this river.

Ratanwadi and the Amruteshwar Temple: The base village, Ratanwadi, is home to the ancient Amruteshwar Temple, renowned for its intricate carvings. This temple dates back to the Hemadpant Era, around the eighth century, and is one of the oldest artificial catchment areas in the region. The temple’s historical and architectural significance makes it a must-visit site for trekkers and history enthusiasts alike.

Trekking Experience: The trek to Ratangad is not only a journey through history but also a breathtaking experience amidst nature. The monsoon season enhances the lush greenery, with waterfalls cascading down the hillsides and mist enveloping the fort, creating a mystical atmosphere.

Ratangad Trek Cost:

• Cost: 1600/- From Mumbai

The itinerary for the Ratangad trek:

Day:0 –  Sat: 29 June 2024 (Batch:1) | 

• 21:50pm – Mumbai Participant
• The first meeting point is at Borivali National Park gate.
• Further pickup Malad Oberai Mall, Andheri Flyover end, Bandra Kalanagar Signal, Sion lunch home, Amar Mahal Junction, Nalanda Ghatkopar, Vikroli, Bhandup Pumping / Airoli Signal EEH, Thane Teen hat naka, Kalyan-Bhiwani Bypass below the bridge.
• The coordinator number and vehicle details will be shared post-confirmation.
• Overnight travel to base. Rest in the vehicle. En route halt for tea and washroom.

Day:1 Sunday 30 June 2024 (Batch:1) | 

• 05:30 am – Reach base village, have a cup of tea, and refresh yourself. For breakfast and morning chores, carry essentials like drinking water, some ready-eat food, personal medicine, etc, rest things can kept in the vehicle (except valuable items.)
• 07:15 am – Small intro and will start heading toward jungle trail. Cross the first stream and head further toward the mountain ridge.
• 09:30 am –  Reach Plateau and rest for a while have a quick snack.
• 10:30 am – Proceed further ladder route and Trimbak Darwaja entrance. Explore Needle Hole, caves, and Rani cha Huda. 
• 12:30 pm Start descending back to the village. 
• 2:30 pm – Tentative reach back village. Change clothes and have a delicious lunch.
• 4:30 pm – Starts travel back to Mumbai.
• 10:00 pm – Depending upon traffic conditions reach back and trek concludes with memories.

Include:

• Traveling from-to Mumbai
• 1 bf/Tea, 1 Lunch 
• Forest and village entry fees.
• Guide and Expertise Charges
• Equipment & Safety gears

Exclude:

• Personal Expenses
• Medical/Insurance
• Anything that is not mentioned in the inclusion

Things to carry:

• Rucksack or bag to carry all things (Compulsory)
• ID Card (Compulsory)
• Extra pair of clothes if required by you.
• Some ready-eat food like plum cake, biscuits, fruits Paratha/Thepala/Boiled Eggs/Dates Etc. (Compulsory)
• Glucon-D or Electrolytes (Compulsory)
• Drinking water min 2ltr
• Personal medicine if any
• Headlamp or Torch (Compulsory)
• Good grip shoes (Compulsory)
• Full Sleeves Shirt & Full Pants.