Kothaligadh Trek – Reaching The Arsenal of Shivaji

Kothaligadh trek or Peth trek is one of the easiest treks that can be done by any beginner. Located in the Peth region of Maharashtra, Kothaligadh was used as an arsenal during the rule of Shivaji Maharaj. Kothaligadh also worked best as a watchtower in the valley surrounded by popular peaks of the Sahayadri mountain range. It can best be done during monsoon as the greenery around looks picturesque and the surrounding mountain ranges wrapped in the cloud look totally dramatic.

Before giving all the other details in this Kothaligadh Trek Blog, let me answer some…

Frequently asked questions

What is the height of the Kothaligadh?

872 meter

Is Kothaligadh Trek difficult?

No, not at all. Kothaligadh trek would be rated the easiest on the difficulty level. The initial trek route is on the flat land passing through its base village, The last few minutes of climb id a bit steep that can be done by taking rest in between.

How long is the Kothaligadh Trek?

The to and fro trek duration is just 3-4 hours even if you take enough breaks. If you have a really good speed you can reach the top just in 1.5 -2 hours of time.

Which is the Base Village for Kothaligadh Trek?

The Base village for Kothaligadh Trek is Ambivali village which is accessible from Neral station on the central line of Mumbai Local Trains.

Which is the Best Season to do Kothaligadh Trek?

The best season to do this trek is winter and monsoon. If you want to avoid the slippery rocks then winter is a perfect time. It also provides you a clear view of the valley with a bright blue sky. However, I personally feel monsoon is a better time to do Kothaligadh Trek as the beauty of the valley is in its full bloom.

 

Kothaligadh Trek Budget and Guide’s Contact

  • Estimated Cost: Rs. 350 – 400 (including Public Transport)
  • Contact No: (For breakfast/lunch/dinner/guide)
  • Hotel Kothligad: 8446869377, 8983096763, 8446880454

Kothaligadh trek

 

 

How to Reach Kothaligadh from Mumbai by Train

Board any local from a central line in Mumbai going towards Karjat and get down at Neral station. Walk for just a few minutes in the west exit of the station and you will see the rickshaw stand. The autos ply till Ambivali and it is shared by 8 people.

The village does not have any place to explore. So, after having breakfast you can start moving on your route.

 

 

How to Do Kothaligadh Trek From Mumbai

The straight road from hotel Kothaligadh at the base village of Ambivali leads to a diversion (Phata) where you need to choose the route to your left and move up. The route is a motorable route and private jeeps and bikes regularly ply through the route till Peth village. But walking till Peth would hardly take an hour even if you are too slow.

Peth village looks adorable with the backdrop of Kothaligadh Fort as if it’s a huge giant lording over the village. One needs to enter the village from the left trail going through the field.

Once you reach the main lane of the village you need to continue towards your left. The climb starts once you take right on the rocky path.

The way is well marked to guide you till the top. Apart from the arrows, the children selling berries and nimbu paani on the way can also guide you well. The route is quite easy to track.

 

 

The Kothaligadh Fort

The literal meaning of the name ‘Kothligad’ is a storehouse for the weapons. Shivaji Maharaj had conquered the fort considering its strategic location. Apparently, the fort stands like a watch house in the valley surrounded by important forts all around. The location of the fort with a steep climb from all its side makes it invincible. However, during the rule of Sambhaji Maharaj, one of the attendants Manakoji Pandhya let the Abdul Kadar and his soldiers in, declaring them to be their own men. Abdul Kadar killed all the soldiers of Sambhaji and was the end of Maratha rule over the fort.

At the base of the fort is the Goddess Temple and the storehouse. One needs to climb the steep stairs in order to reach the top. There are many water tanks all the way till the top of the fort. IT gives you a mesmerizing 360-degree view of the region.

Enjoy the trek to the fort and try behaving like an educated person. 😉 Do not throw your stinking waste in the fort premise or on the way. And don’t forget to share your experience with us.

 

Also read these detailed guides prepared by me

Trek to Kohoj Fort

Bhandardara: Camping by the Lake

Rajmachi: Trekking through the clouds

Sandhan Valley – The Valley of Mighty Rocks

Kalsubai -The highest peak of Maharashtra State

Harishchandragadh: Trekking to the edge of the cliff

 

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