Irshalgad is an iconic boat-shaped hill that is easily distinguishable from afar. Irshalgad is not a fort but a watchtower sort of. It has a pinnacle that was used by the Maratha forces to keep an eye on approaching enemy forces. The climb to the peak can be divided into three phases: The base of the pinnacle, the Needle hole, and the final, technical push to the peak. It is only recommended to go up to the second level, as the final stretch is especially treacherous.
Irshalghad trek is known for its fort, which is located in between Matheran and Panvel in the state of Maharashtra. This fort gives a fantastic sight to watch. This fort is 3700 feet height above sea level and is little moderate graded trek. This fort can be reached from the base village called Irshalwadi, this is where the actual trek begins. This takes around 1-1.5 hrs to reach the top. The Irshalgad fort is too large and ancient. There are many plummets of water flowing from several rocks. You can see many trees, rocks and small creatures while trekking. Trekking to this place before sunrise makes the trek even more glorious and special. As you reach the top of the pinnacle, you can also see other sister forts from that altitude like Prabalgad, Matheran etc. The fort is not exactly a fort, but a pinnacle with distinct shape. The path is little steepy and there is also a water tank on the route.
Chowk is the starting point for the trek. After a 10 min brisk walk, you encounter a steep climb on a well-defined route made up of scree and small loose rocks.
The waterfalls we will visit is about an hour from railway station if we trek. These waterfalls are located in Karjat region of Maharashtra. The cascading falls fills the region with beauty and serenity with a lush green landscape. The waterfall rappelling is one of the most adventurous and interesting fun activity to be done here. This waterfall rappelling is a technique used to control your steps from descending down the rock of slope. This can be done by using thick ropes along with some safety measures and equipments. While rappelling one can feel the gush and rush of the water, which gives you a feeling of refreshment. There are also several view points and sceneries to see in this beautiful town.
Post monsoon and winter are the recommended times to visit Irshalgad. In monsoon, it’ll be too tricky to climb the rock patch and is risky too.
Board the train at Hyderabad (8:40 PM)/ Begumpet (8:49 PM)/ Lingampally (9:12 PM). Reach the station on time. While you pack your bags, make sure you carry snacks, water bottles, quilts etc./ Start your journey with a wide smile.
Your guide will meet you at the station/ at your designated seats.
Wakeup early, fresh up and start your day with full energy and positive vibes. Have a good chat with your fellow passengers. Have your breakfast in the train itself to save time. After a while, we will reach Lonavala Railway Station by 10 AM. From there we would hire a private vehicle or a local transport and head towards the base village of the waterfalls. Then the vehicle will be parked at the parking lot, from there we will start our trek to the falls by walk.
It would take around 1-2 hrs to ascend as it is a steep. The route would be filled with plenty of greenery. The beauty of the gorgeous waterfalls, the lush green landscape, hills and mountains covered green, everything makes the trek a great treat to the eyes. The height of the falls is around 115 ft. On the way, we will stop for lunch. This trek can be graded as an easy one as it is an hourly trek, where one can trek comfortably with full ease.
Upon reaching the falls, one can enjoy the adventurous experience of the Waterfall Rappelling activity, which would be filled with fun and can be thoroughly enjoyed by every trekker. This adventure gives you the feeling of the heavily gushed water drenching you, gushing over your head. This would continue with an immediate waterfall with the same pressure, that gives you immense joy and pleasure.
Note: Proper equipment will be provided for the waterfall rappelling activity.
The rappelling activity takes around 2-3 hrs, depending on the crowd. After spending some quality time, we would trek to another base village, called Irshalwadi village. By the time we descend, it would be the time of the sun dawning in the west. From there, we will go to the homestay/ tent stay (depending on the weather). Everyone cn fresh up and have dinner provided by GoAdventure. The dinner would include Maharashtra Thali with some authentic flavours. Then, we can have a chit chatting session about your treks, where you can also share your travel diaries and experiences and also play games. After all this, end your day with a good sleep.
As the clock strikes around 4:30, wakeup in the morning, as the trek should be done before the sunrise. The, have breakfast provided by GoAdventure. Breakfast will include Poha and Tea with local taste and flavours of Maharashtra. Then, will start our trek to Irshalgad. This trek is suitable and perfect for beginners as it is a steep which is manageable. It is an easy graded trek, which would take around 1.5 hrs to trek and reach the pinnacle. Ascending towards the pinnacle for such time would make all worth after reaching the main point.
The lush green plants and trees, breezy weather, sometimes water droplets touching your face and the feeling that you are on a height makes you feel happy and satisfied. This panoramic view with beautiful surrounding gives you the trek satisfaction. After spending 1-1.5 hrs there by exploring and clicking pictures, we would trek back to the village. It would take around 1.5 hrs to trek back. On the way, take your luggage and trek down.
As we trek down, we can have a sight of a beautiful dam, called the More Dam. It is a huge dam, surrounded by mountains and trees. The reflection of the clouds would add glory to its beauty and gives a peaceful feel. Then, will get into the vehicle and start the return journey. On the way to the railway station, we will stop for lunch, where you can taste the food of your choice. Then, reach the Lonavala Railway Station and board the train to Hyderabad. By this the great trip has come to an end, but also a start for the next.
We will reach Hyderabad around 7 AM. And, we will end our memorable trip here with many new friends.
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