Harihar Fort Trek: History, Tips, and Best Times to Visit

Start on a beautiful journey to understand the rich culture and history of Maharashtra by going on the Harihar Fort Trek. The fort is known for its intricate architecture and panoramic views, while the trail is best known for its rock-cut steps. The moderately difficult trek takes you through dense vegetation and rocky patches towards the dense staircase to heaven’, a challenging route, but the views are beautiful. 

Once you reach the trek, you will get to see amazing views from the top, like the Sahyadri mountain range and Trimbakeshwar temple.
All trekking enthusiasts and history buffs love this fort and trekking to Harihar fort. Are you planning the same? If yes, this guide will help you gain all the knowledge necessary for trekking the fort, like the best time, tips, and more. 

Quick Facts About The Harihar Fort Trek

• Distance of the trek: 4–5 km
• Altitude: 3,676 ft.
• Difficulty level: moderate to difficult
• Best season: July to September and November to February

History of the Harihar Fort Trek

The rich history of Harihar fort is impressive. It was constructed between the 9th and 14th centuries by the Yadava dynasty. It is situated on the stunning Trimbakeshwar mountain range. The fort was used to prevent the trading routes of Maharashtra. After many years of getting attacked, finally the British government took it over. Now, it is a known trekking fort with breathtaking views. 

What Is The Best Time To Go For The Harihar Trek?

The best time for Harihar fort trek is from June to February. During this time, you have the best and clear views of the fort. Also, during monsoons, the Sahyadris have luscious greenery with villages and trails blooming with greenery. Therefore, planning a trekking expedition during this time is ideal. 

The Trekking Experience: Explained In Five Stages

Let's explore the experience of trekking the Harihar Fort in five stages as it unfolds. 

The Trek Starts From Nirgudpada Basecamp

Your beautiful trek to harihar fort will start from the base village of Nirgupada. The trail from the village is beautiful allowing you to immerse yourself in vibrant culture, letting you interact with the locals as you enjoy the nearby landscapes and all the beauty it is offering.

It Is Time To Start Ascending The Fort

As you trail forward, you come towards the rock-cut steps and from here, you start ascending. This trail is challenging with beautiful views as there is lush greenery, which makes your entire journey exhilarating.

Time To Start Climbing The Rails

Climbing the rails is the hardest hike in the entire trek. The staircase is a steep or rock-cut which requires the trekkers to be careful with their steps and have a firmer grip. After you reach the top, the views will be impressive. 

It Is Time To Travel Across The Ladder

Traveling across the railing is an exciting challenge as it is a vertical rock patch. You trek it using an iron ladder, and a moment of doubt or imbalance here can be deadly. 

Reach The Summit

The final stage is reaching the summit of the fort. From here, the view of the Trimbakeshwar range, fresh mountains, and serene landscape is simply amazing.

Trek Route For Harihar Fort

The trek route is divided into two parts:

Part 1: Base Village-Plateau

The trail will start from the base village of Kotamwadi and embark on your beautiful journey towards Trimbak. The trail has beautiful paddy fields. As you cover a short distance, the trail starts its slow, uphill climb. Passing through the dense forest, you will find an open ridge connecting to the Harihar fort. If you trek here during the monsoon, you will see multiple streams too. Continue trekking for a short time and reach the plateau.

Part 2: Plateau-Peak

Reaching the plateau, you will come across many iconic vertical steps, which are mesmerizing. The plateau also has a small snack. Drink and eat here to continue towards the summit. 

Now, it is time to ascend 60-meter-wide rock-cut stairs with notches, allowing you to have a firm hold on them. There are 90 steps in total, making the climb a bit challenging. Keep continuing on towards your left. On your left, you will see Harshewadi village. 

Next, try climbing 100 steps to reach the mountain's top. To reach here, you have to go through a cave-like chamber through a crawling tap door, and you can reach the cave using a passage. Here, you will come across a small temple honoring Lord Shiva and Hanuman. From here, you can also see Balekilla, the highest peak of the fort. Trek here for 10–15 minutes, and then you will reach the highest point.

Tips To Remember While Going On The Harihar Fort Trek

• It is not necessary to get permission from the tourism or forest department to go on the Harihar Fort Trek.
• The ideal time to go on the trek is between 12:30 p.m. and 2:00 a.m..
• Ensure you are carrying ample water, medications, glucose, a first-aid kit, and other necessary items. The backpack should be light too.
• Go on the trekking expedition with a certified guide, even if you have ample experience.
• You should take rest and breaks in between to re-energize yourself.
• Anyone trekking the Harihar Fort in the monsoon should not wear cotton shirts. The best option is a quick-dry t-shirt.
• You need to carry a valid ID card with you.
• Ensure you always respect the people, their culture, and their traditions. 

Takeaway

Hopefully, these details about the Harihar Fort Trek will make your trip here even better and more exciting. The fort has historical significance for the Maharashtrian community and is now one of the most famous trekking grounds. The views of the temple and Sahyadri ranges here will stun you. If you are looking to challenge yourself as a trekker, you need to hike up this fort because the 90-stair ascend is challenging, but the sense of accomplishment is worth the trouble. Here’s hoping this guide will help you have the best trekking experience ever.