Rajmachi Fort
Rajmachi Fort is one such place where you will get beautiful pictures because its located in between the dense and rugged mountain ranges of the Sahyadri in Maharashtra. Rajmachi has also become a popular destination for trekking. The beautiful Rajmachi Fort is also remembered because it was home to the twin forts Shivardhan and Manaranjan.Shriwardhan is a taller peak to the right side of the hill. While Manaranjan is the shorter peak on another side.The height of Shriwardhan peak is 910 metres. There is a fort situated on this peak known as Bale Killa. Manaranjan is about 2700 feet high consisting of 3 doors. It has very massive ramparts. There are few water tanks present here.
The construction of this fort was amazing.One can get spectacular views of the Shirota dam backwaters & Sahyadri mountain range from top of the fort. There are ancient Buddhist and Hindu caves at the bottom of the fort. Caves are situated exactly beneath the mountain so rain water streams falling from the mountain has eroded cave surface. Some old temples and building structures are also there around the forest. Rajmachi Fort is now officially a protected fort which is now being promoted as a tourist destination as well as commercializing it with its trekking activities. It is almost equal in distance from Lonavala & Khandala.
Rajmachi trek:
Rajmachi trek is one of the popular trekking destinations among hikers & adventure lovers. It is a perfect spot for people who are preparing for their first trek. Walk to the Rajmachi is about 15 kms from Lonavala. The complete Rajmachi fort trek route is beautiful and ideal for all age groups.
Rajmachi trek routes :
Rajmachi Trek From Karjat: Hikers can start their trek from Kondivade village near Karjat. Kondivade is located at 18 kms from Karjat station. Auto-rickshaws are available from the station up to Kondivade village. This Rajmachi fort trek route is difficult and for experienced trekkers only. It has about 2000 feet climb.
Rajmachi Trek From Lonavala: Easy Rajmachi trek route starts from Lonavala. It is about 15 kms walk route from Lonavala town. This route displays splendid natural beauty in the rainy season. Hikers can enjoy lush green surroundings, splashing waterfalls & find themselves amidst the clouds.
Going from Pune towards Lonavala, take a diversion just before Khandala Ghat. This diversion will lead you to the Kune village. Now from Kune, you will find a rough road to reach up to base village Udhewadi (or Rajmachi). All different rajmachi fort trek routes eventually meet at the Udhewadi village. You can start climbing fort from this beautiful village.
Accomodation :Caves at the top of the fort or Kalbhairav temple at Udhewadi village. Local people provide home accommodation on request.
Location: Udhewadi (Rajmachi) Village, Near Khandala Ghat, On the Mumbai-Pune highway, Maharashtra.
Best Time to Visit: June to March is the best time to visit Rajmachi fort.
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