5 Awesome trekking trails of Nashik

As monsoon progresses, trekkers and enthusiasts start getting active. TOI enlists the five most popular trekking trails in and around Nashik.

Ramshej

At about 14 kilometres from Nashik, Ramshej is situated on Dindori Road. Aashewadi village is the base of the fort. The fort has a long history and hence generates curiosity among the trekking enthusiasts. Sanjay Amritkar, a photographer says, "Lord Ram had rested here during his exile and hence the place is named Ramshej (where Lord Ram rested). Another important history of the fort is that after Shivaji Maharaj's death, Aurangzeb attacked Ramshej fort but couldn't conquer it for five and a half years. Finally he bribed the fort manager to conquer it." Adds Sanjay, "It is a simple trek hence you can go with a big group. The temple in the cave and an old lake at the top of the fort are biggest attractions. It is a little slippery toward the west and north so one must be careful. Also, several people miss out on the chor-darwaja to the west which is worth seeing."

Average travelling cost: Rs 100-150 (per person)

Harihargad

Harihargad is situated in Trimbak area and Nirgupada is the base village. It is considered as one of the most interesting treks because of the variety that it provides to the trekkers. Sumedh Vartak, a student, says, "Harihargad is a very well-built fort but is not very well developed tourist spot. The level of difficulty for climbing the fort is medium. It is a known destination among regular trekkers but is a new spot for college students." One has to climb the 35-40 steps to reach the top. "This is the most dangerous patch. It is very steep and the constant water flow has left a lot of moss gathered there. Carrying a rope is advisable. Besides the monkeys who trouble you a lot, the place also has a thick fog-cover. Hiring a guide is preferable because there is a possibility that you might get the route wrong," adds Sumedh.

Anjaneri

Situated on Trimbak road, Anjaneri is about 18-20 kilometres from Nashik. It is a very popular trek among enthusiasts and a lot of people start trekking from this place. Considered as the birth place of Hanuman, Anjaneri is beautiful and has a number of small waterfalls. Avinash Avhad, an entrepreneur and trekking-enthusiast says, "Anjaneri is one of my favourite trekking spots. It is easy and anyone can undertake this trek as age is not an issue here. We often go in groups of 20-25 people and at times even take kids along. It is an easy climb for even six-year old kids." Being an easy trek, one doesn't need to take any special precautions but Avhad warns, "Never go alone for a trek. Always go in a group. Also, when you go for trekking you are closer to nature and hence it is not your comfort that is important but the nature's comfort that you should think about. Avoid carrying plastics bottles and avoid packing food in silver foils as they do not decompose. It is always better to wear full-length pants during the trek instead of shorts as there is always a strong possibility of getting hurt."

Average travelling cost: Rs 200-250 (per person)

Pandavleni

Pandvaleni is situated on Mumbai Road and is extremely popular among the college students as it falls just outside city limits. An extremely simple climb, the Buddha caves bring a lot of young people here. Phalke Smarak is the base camp of Pandavleni. Urjita Gokhale, a student, shares, "During the monsoon we go to Pandavleni almost every Sunday. It is fun climbing during rains and you get a complete view of the Nashik city from the top." There are steps all the way to the top. "Because it is a safe climb, our parents do not get bothered much when we go there with friends. Do carry some good food with you," she says.

Average travelling cost: Rs 50 (per person)

Brahmagiri

Brahmagiri is situated in Trimbakeshwar village, about 25 kilometres from Nashik. This place gains importance from the belief that it is considered to be the mountain form of Lord Shiva and the fact that River Godavari originates here. Every Monday during the month of Shravan, lakhs of devotees take a circumambulation of Brahmagiri. People often climb the mountain to view the origin of River Godavari and the Ganga Dwar temple. "We visit Brahmagiri to experience the sheer beauty of nature. Besides, it is very peaceful here. One can go to Brahmagiri with a group of 25-30 people. It is a very simple and safe trek and hence we don't need to take any special precautions apart from the regular ones," says Manas Pagare, a student. Another advantage of Brahmagiri trek is that the possibility of getting lost is less due to the simplicity of the route. "My only advice would be to wear proper sports shoes because they will not only offer a good grip but also protection from snakes found in the area," Manas cautions.

Average travelling cost: Rs 200-250 (per person)

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