Ratangad Trek
Ratan means Jewel in Hindi. This hill fort is the jewel in all the hill forts here in Sahyadri. It is located in the Ahmednagar district, about 4255 feet above sea level.
It lies in the Ajoba mountain range, surrounded by the great mountains of Kulang, Alang, Kalsubai, Katarabai, Ajoba, and Ghanchakkar. Geographically Ratangad is at the banks of Bhandardara lake of Ahmednagar district.
With views of the lake and the highest mountains, Sahyadris looks lost in time. At the base of this fort is the ancient Lord Shiva Amruteshwar temple. About 1000 years old temple of Lord Shiva, the Amruteshwar Temple at Ratanwadi, is an absolute pinnacle of the high-class architecture of our ancestors.
Ratangad Trek - Sonaki Special
Ratan means Jewel in Hindi. This hill fort is indeed a jewel in all the hill forts here in Sahyadri. It is located in the district of Ahmednagar and is located about 4255 feet above sea level. It lies in the Ajoba mountain range surrounded by great mountains of Kulang, Alang, Kalsubai, Katarabai, Ajoba and Ghanchakkar. Geographically Ratangad is at the banks of Bhandardara lake of Ahmednagar district. With views of lake and highest mountains in Sahyadris looks very much lost in time. At the base of this fort is ancient Lord Shiva (Amruteshwar) temple. About 1000 years old temple of Lord Shiva, the Amruteshwar Temple at Ratanwadi, is an absolute paragon of high class architecture of our ancestors.
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Ratangad Trek Event Details
- Ratangad trek difficulty level Medium
- Ratangad trek endurance level Medium
- Ratangad height 4255 feet
- Ratangad trek base village Ratanwadi / Samrad
Ratangad Flower Special Trek Cost
- From Mumbai: Rs. 1599/- per person
- From Pune: Rs. 1499/- per person
Ratangad Flowers Special Trek Event Itinerary
From Mumbai
Day Zero
- 09:15 pm - Meet at Borivali National Park main gate. (https://goo.gl/maps/65qVB7H4swdFjjWs6)
- 09:30 pm - Leave for the trek.
- 09:40 pm – Pick up at Virwani Bus Stop, Goregaon. (https://goo.gl/maps/youofNYahBSwqsms8)
- 10:00 pm - Pick up at Gundavali Bus Stop, Andheri East. (https://goo.gl/maps/gorbeX9fencdiqfh8)
- 10:15 pm - Pick up at Kalanagar bus stop, Bandra. (https://goo.gl/maps/CAsqYFeK8aTRBk9B7)
- 10:30 pm - Pick up at Everard Nagar bus stop, Sion. (https://maps.app.goo.gl/nLw5e7K6QTbwywa99)
- 10:40 pm - Pick up at Amar Mahal, Ghatkopar. (https://goo.gl/maps/WMNcKa6s1oGqXH3M9)
- 11:00 pm - Pick up at Teen Hath Naka, Thane. (https://goo.gl/maps/roD3hTiZMLgvFJSH9)
- 11:45 pm - Pick up at Kalyan Bypass. (https://goo.gl/maps/QNV2eeJYNKEXGi9Z6)
Day One
05:00 am - Reach base village and freshen up.
05:30 am - Breakfast at the base village.
06:00 am - Start ascending.
09:00 am - Reach at the top and explore.
10:00 am - Start descending.
01:00 pm - Reach at base village.
01:30 pm - Have lunch.
02:30 pm - Start the return journey.
11:00 pm - Approx. arrival at Mumbai. (Depend upon traffic)
From Pune
Day Zero
- 09:45 pm - Meet at McDonald's, Deccan.
- 10:00 pm - Move towards base village.
- 10:20 pm - Pick up at New Shivaji Nagar bus stop. (Mari Aai Gate / Wakadewadi)
- 10:40 pm - Pick up at Nashik Phata. (Opp. Kasarwadi police station)
Day One
05:00 am - Reach at base.
05:30 am - Have breakfast.
06:00 am - Start ascending.
09:00 am - Reach on top and explore the fort.
11:00 am - Start descending.
02:00 pm - Reach base village and have lunch. Simple veg thali.
03:00 pm - Start return journey towards Pune.
11:00 pm - Approx. arrival at Pune. (Depend upon traffic)
Ratangad trek best time to visit?
Ratangad trek is popular during the rainy season from July to October. Ratangad flower season is from September to October. Pre-monsoon, the forest area is filled with fireflies.
During the winter season, it is ideal for camping in the cave. The are many range treks available during the winter season. Summer night trek is possible for astrophotography and cloud formations.
How to Reach Ratangad trek from Mumbai?
By Train: Take a train from Mumbai to Igatpuri Railway Station, which is the closest station to the fort. Many trains connect Mumbai to Igatpuri, and the journey takes around 2-3 hours.
By Road: From Igatpuri, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the base village of Ratangad Fort. It's about 35 kilometers away, and the journey takes around 1-2 hours.
How to Reach Ratangad trek from Pune?
By Road: The easiest way is by driving or taking a taxi from Pune to the base village of Ratangad Fort. The distance is approximately 200 kilometers, and it takes around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic and the route you choose.
By Bus: You can also take a state transport bus from Pune to Igatpuri or Bhandardara, both of which are nearby locations to Ratangad. From there, you can take a local taxi or another bus to reach the base village.
By Train: If you prefer the train, you can take one from Pune to Igatpuri Railway Station. From there, follow the same steps as mentioned before to reach the base village.
Why choose Treks and Trails for Ratangad Fort Trek?
- We were preferred by over 20000 trekkers last year with a 4.7 review rating of 5.
- We equip one trek leader for every ten trekkers.
- Female trek leader on each trek
- Provide an E-certificate on successful completion of the trek. Valid for a lifetime with 99.9 percent availability online.
- E-certificate is tamper-proof and shareable on social media and leading networking websites.
- The roadmap includes adventure insurance for every trekker and trek leader for all our treks.
- We self-operate our treks
- Group discounts available
Please Note
- People may board same train from their respective stations of convenience.
- Missing the train is missing Trek to Ratangad, no refund will be provided.
- If you wrongly booked for different date or batch. And you want to change date within 3 days of departure, then transfer charges will be applied which will be Rs. 200/- per person.
- Difficulty Ratangad fort is medium grade and requires good endurance levels; carry enough water, wear full sleeves, and wear good hiking shoes.
For Pune Ratangad Trek Participants - Click here
What is included in the tour
- 1 veg Breakfast and 1 veg Lunch
- Travel by private non-Ac bus
- Trek Leader expertise charges
- E-certificate
What is NOT included in the tour
- Mineral water/lime water/ purchased for personal consumption
- All kinds of Extra Meals / soft drinks ordered.
- Any kind of personal expenses.
- Any kind of cost which is not mentioned in the cost includes above.
- All expenses incurred due to unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances like roadblocks, bad weather.
- Any medical / Emergency evacuations if required.
- 2/3 liters of water
- Trekking Shoes provide more grip and comfort on trek
- Good Torch must with extra battery
- Jacket
- Some Dry fruits / Dry Snacks / Energy Bars
- Glucon D / ORS / Tang / Gatorade sachets
- One Day Backpack 20 to 30 liters
- Sun Cap and Sunscreen
- Personal First aid and Personal Medicine
- Identity Proof
- Please wear Full sleeves and Full Track Pant this will protect from Summer Sun / Thorns / Insects / Prickles
- Rains are expected, so pack your bags accordingly to save them from getting wet
- Double pack your valuables/phones in plastic bags
- Rainwear / Poncho / Waterproof jacket etc. if you don’t want to get wet
Cancellation Policy and Charges
- 75% refund if notified via phone conversation 8 or more days prior to the event date.
- 50 % refund if notified via phone conversation 4 to 7 days prior to the event date.
- No refund if the cancellation requested is less than 3 days prior to the event date
- No show No Refund.
- Event Tickets cannot be transferred to another date against cancellation.
- Event Tickets cannot be transferred to another person against cancellation.
- If the event gets canceled we will refund "Trek Amount" only.
- If the event is canceled due to any natural calamity, political unrest or other such reasons beyond our control the same cancellation policy will apply.
- Refunds won't be issued if you cannot attend the event due to heavy rains, floods, traffic jams, car breakdowns or a personal medical emergency.
- Your booking cannot be shifted to another date if you cannot attend the event due to heavy rains, floods, traffic jams, car breakdowns, or a personal medical emergency.
- If your area is prone to flooding, traveling from a flooded area, heavy traffic, heavy rains, missing the train, or any other reason, if you cannot attend the event, we won't issue a refund or shift you to another date.
- Management won't be held responsible if you are stuck due to heavy rains, traffic jams, personal emergencies or floods during the event.
- If you are bringing kids, please understand the possibility of getting stuck or delayed. You might have to stay back due to heavy rains, floods, bus breakdowns, and rush at the trekking destination. We won't be able to refund or shift you to another date. You will have to wait it out till the weather clears.
Treks and Trails Event Rules
- Kindly carry one Identity proof, at least for the trek with your address.
- We all are going for an adventurous and exciting trekking expedition; please Do Not misinterpret it as a PICNIC or LEISURE TOUR.
- The leader's decision will be final, and all the members should abide by it.
- We do not destroy or dirty the archaeological, historical monuments, natural habitat on the trek.
- Swimming is not allowed in the lake or water tank on the forts. Locals use that water for drinking.
- Putting your feet in water tanks or on the canon is not allowed on our treks.
- Any addiction is strictly prohibited, e.g. drinking, smoking, chewing tobacco anyone caught doing it will have to exit the trek without a refund and travel back on own expense.
- People caught smoking or drinking alcohol will be asked to exit the event on an immediate basis.
- Please do not carry or wear any valuables, ornaments, jewellery, etc. If carried, then we Do Not take any liability for the same.
- Rock Climbing, Rappelling, Trekking, or any adventure activity is potentially risky. For all these events, you are at your own risk. Organizers are not responsible for any accident or compensation in whatsoever manner.
- We should strictly follow the code of conduct to avoid troubling our fellow trekkers or other people from our group or outside.
- Listening to music on earphones or Bluetooth speakers is not allowed while trekking.
- Bluetooth speaker not allowed inside the homestay or camping tents.
- Drinking/smoking,/eating is not allowed inside the tents.
- If you damage the tent, break the tent poles, you will have to pay us for the whole new tent on MRP.
- If you are late for the bus pickup and are not reachable on the phone during your bus pickup, the trek leader will leave without you, and we will provide no refund.
- Please check things to carry and wear trekking shoes on our treks.
Are you an adventurer who loves trekking? Completing a trek can be a life-changing experience that leaves you with unforgettable memories. To commemorate your achievement, TreksandTrails provides e-certificates to all participants who successfully complete their trek. These e-certificates include your name, the name of the trek you completed, the date of completion, and a digital signature from TreksandTrails. They are a perfect way to showcase your accomplishment to the world and share your trekking journey with your loved ones. By receiving an e-certificate from TreksandTrails, you can proudly display your achievement on your social media platforms and inspire others to embark on their own adventures.
Here are some FAQs about our e-certificates:
Q: What is an e-certificate for trekkers and hikers?
A: An e-certificate is a digital certificate awarded to participants upon completion of a trek or hike. It serves as proof of participation and achievement.
Q: How do I receive an e-certificate from TreksandTrails?
A: Upon completion of your trek or hike with TreksandTrails, you will be sent an email with a link to your e-certificate. You can download it from the link and save it on your device or share it on social media platforms.
Q: Can I share my e-certificate on social media platforms?
A: Yes, you can share your e-certificate on all social media platforms. The e-certificate is designed to be easily shareable, so you can show off your achievement to your friends and family.
Eligibility Criteria for a Trekking Certificate:
To be eligible for a trekking certificate, individuals must demonstrate adherence to safety rules, teamwork, and cooperation.
Participants must achieve the following requirements for earning a trekking certificate: completion of the trek; physical fitness; teamwork and cooperation; knowledge of safety rules; environmental awareness; a positive attitude; great attendance; and punctuality. We appreciate their commitment to the sport of trekking and acknowledge their achievements.
Pune Ratangad Trek Participants - Click here
Ratangad Fort Trek 2024
The trek to Ratangad Fort is unforgettable. The height of Ratangad Fort from sea level is 1297 meters to 4255 feet high. Go on a monsoon trek to Ratangad Fort and enjoy picturesque views from the top.
Ratangad is the most scenic fort in Maharashtra. It is located near Bhandardara dam. So en route, you can visit the dam too. "Ratan" means "jewel" in Hindi.
This hill fort is indeed the jewel among all the hill forts in Sahyadri. Ratangad is on the banks of Bhandardara lake in the Ahmednagar district at 4255 feet.
Ratangad valley of flowers
The Ratangad Fort Flower trek is a magnificent trek that passes through one of the most beautiful regions in the Sahyadris. Join us for a unique flower trek to Ratangad from Mumbai.
Every year the Sonki flower blooms from August to October, covering the fort in fields of yellow. Once in seven years, the Karvi flower blooms, which covers the Ratangad Killa in hues of Purple and Pink.
The best season for the Ratangad Flower Trek is August to October. Once the rainy season ends, the flowers die quickly due to the poor quality of topsoil and water scarcity.
Location of Ratangad Fort
Ratangad is a fort in Ratanwadi village, Maharashtra, India, overlooking the locale of Bhandardara Lake, one of the oldest artificial catchment areas. This fort is located in the Ahmadnagar district of Maharashtra. It is on the boundary between Ahmadnagar and Thane districts. The defense is about 400 years old.
Depending on your vehicle location, you can climb the Ratangad fort from Samrad village and descend either to Ratanwadi near Amruteshwar temple or Samrad village.
The hilltop fort is a medium climb of three hours one way and will take two hours to explore thoroughly. You will also need three to descend the Ratangad Killa. The descent will be tough on your knees as the path is slippery in most places.
Ratangad Trek distance from Ratanwadi village
Part of the Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary, Ratangad fort, which consists of some of the highest peaks in the Sahyadris. The trek from Ratanwadi village is six kilometers long. It will take around three to reach the caves.
Trek statistic from Ratanvadi village one way trail
- Ratanwadi village's height is 2400 feet above sea level.
- Total elevation gain will be 1,475 feet.
- Ratangad Fort Trek's technical difficulty is moderate.
- Max elevation during the trek 3,950 feet
- The total trek distance is six kilometers
- It will take three hours to complete the Ratangad Hike till the caves.
- Most popular Ratangad trek location.
RatangadTrek distance from Samrad village
Ratangad Fort Flowers trek starts from Samrad village via the Trimbak Darwaja. Full flowers come towards this mountainside, giving a carpet effect. Famous mainly for the Sonki and Karvi flowers that bloom once in several years.
This route is famous for the thrilling rock-cut steps and amazing views of Ghatghar Dam, Ajoba Parvat, Bhandardara Dam, Alang Madan Kulang Fort, and Kalsubai Shikhar. You can either end the trek at Ratanwadi village or Samrad village.
In the Samrad village of Maharashtra lies the ancient Ratangad Fort that overlooks the Sahyadri range of mountains. At a distance of 6 km from Samrad, 23 km from Shendi village, Bhandardara, 183 km from Pune, and 197 km from Mumbai.
Trek statistic from Samrad village one-way trail.
- Samrad village's height is 2140 feet above sea level.
- The total Ratangad trek elevation gain will be 2140 feet.
- Ratangad Fort Trek's technical difficulty is moderate.
- The endurance required high for this route
- Max elevation during the trek 3,930 feet
- Max elevation loss during the Ratangad hike 2,340 feet
- The total trek distance is six kilometer one way.
- It will take three hours to complete the one way trek.
- Best Ratangad Trek location for flowers
Ratangad Trek distance from Samrad village to Ratanwadi village
Ratangad Flower trek starts from Samrad village via the Trimbak Darwaja. Full flowers come towards this mountainside, giving a carpet effect. Famous mainly for the Sonki and Karvi flowers that bloom once in several years.
This route is famous for the thrilling rock-cut steps and amazing views of Ghatghar Dam, Ajoba Parvat, Bhandardara Dam, Alang Madan Kulang Fort, and Kalsubai Shikhar. You can either end the trek at Ratanwadi village or Samrad village.
In the Samrad village of Maharashtra lies the ancient Ratangad Fort that overlooks the Sahyadri range of mountains. At a distance of 6 km from Samrad, 23 km from Shendi village, Bhandardara, 183 km from Pune, and 197 km from Mumbai.
Trek statistic from Samrad village one-way trail.
- Samrad village's height is 2140 feet above sea level.
- Ratanwadi village's altitude is 2400 feet above sea level.
- The total Ratangad trek elevation gain will be 2140 feet.
- Ratangad Fort Trek's technical difficulty is moderate.
- The endurance required high for this route
- Max elevation during the trek 3,930 feet
- Max elevation loss during the Ratangad hike 2,340 feet
- The total Trek distance is 12 kilometers.
- It will take Eight hours to complete this trek.
How to book the Ratangad trek from Pune?
The best valley of flowers trek in Maharashtra is located in the Sahyadri mountain ranges and is a must-visit for anyone who loves to explore nature.
Ratangad Trek from Pune is available with Treks and Trails. We arrange a private bus for transportation. Our trek leaders and local guides will help you explore the fort in detail. Food will be served at our local guide's home. Food is simple and delicious.
This trek will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes filled with wildflowers, waterfalls, ancient temples, wildlife, lakes, deep valleys, and more. You can chat with our team for more details about Ratangad from Pune.
When is the Ratangad trek best time to visit?
Ratangad trek is popular during the rainy season from July to October. Ratangad flower season is from September to October. Pre-monsoon, the forest area is filled with fireflies.
During the winter season, it is ideal for camping in the cave. The are many range treks available during the winter season. Summer night trek is possible for astrophotography and cloud formations.
How to book the Ratangad trek from Mumbai?
The Best flowers trek in Maharashtra is one of the most popular treks in Mumbai. It is located in the Western Ghats inside the Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary, a mountain range that stretches from Ahmednagar to Thane to Pune. The trek offers a beautiful view of wildflowers, birds, reptiles, shepherd trails, waterfalls, caves, ancient temples, ancient carvings, and amazing landscapes. Ratangad fort trek from Mumbai best season is during the rainy season and post monsoon flower season.
The trek starts in Mumbai and takes about one day to complete. It is a moderate trek with an altitude gain of about 1,200 feet and an altitude loss of about 900 feet, making it suitable for beginners.
Ratangad fort base village is located 190 kilometers away from Mumbai. It will take six to seven hours to cover this distance.
Ratangad Karvi flower trek
Ratangad Killa in Maharashtra is famous for its Karvi flowers bloom. The flowers bloom in September once in seven years. Ratangad fort flowers trek is a perfect place to go trekking and enjoy the beautiful landscape.
The Ratangad karvi flower trek is around 6 hours from Mumbai and 6 hours from Pune. For those interested, booking a guided trek before you head out on your hike is best.
Ratangad Camping and Trekking Bhandardara
Ratangad Bhandardara is a hill fort in Ahmednagar, located about 20 km from Shendi MTDC. It is a trendy trekking spot for locals and travellers. The trek to Ratangad starts from the village of Ratanwadi or Samrad, about 6 km from the cave.
It takes about three hours to reach Bhandardara Ratangad fort, and one can return the same way or take a different route for the return hike.
The trail has been marked with red flags tied to trees along the path.
There are many wildflowers on this trail, which makes it quite scenic. This trek is relatively medium grade as there are only 2-3 steep ascents on this route with rock-cut steps and ladders along the way. The Forest department has installed railing, making the trail safer.
There are also some caves that one can explore in Ratangad. One of them has a waterfall inside it! The best time to visit this place would be during monsoon season, when there are plenty of waterfalls. Ratangad Camping is possible inside the cave there is enough room for twenty people. Make sure to sleep inside the tent to avoid reptiles, rats and insects inside the Ratangad caves.
Details about the Ratangad Harishchandragad trek?
Advance-level trekkers can attempt this trek. It would be best if you had high endurance and good trekking equipment to complete the multi-day trek. You can start the trek either from Samrad village. You will first ascend Ratangad Akole via the Trimbak Darwaja, head towards the Nedhe, explore the water tanks and caves, and descend towards Ratanwadi and Samrad Junction or Phata.
Here, a small board will point you towards the Katrabai Mandir. You will come across two huge clean water tanks. You can cook lunch here. The walk till Katrabai will take you through the very thick foliage. Mostly Bush walking the overgrown Karvi plants almost hide the hiking path.
Please take precautions on this trail is famous for leopards, honey bees and reptiles. It will be best to have a couple of guides as they will clear the route and make it safe for your to complete the trek.
It is uphill from here to the Katrabai Mandir through a slippery rock path. Wearing good ankle-supported trekking shoes is a must on the Ratangad Harishchandragad Trek.
Once you reach the Mandir, you can continue to the Katrabai Parvat. Most trekkers avoid this as it is challenging and adds more days to the trek. You can descend towards the Kumshet village, which is visible now.
Kumshet to Pachnai is a 16 kilometer hike. You can either hire a local jeep or walk it with your guide. The Pachnai village to Harischandrgad trek is three kilometres. It is the shortest route to reach Killa.
After exploring the fort, Taramati peak, and Kokankada, you can descend towards the Khireshwar village. This hike will take 4 hours to complete. It will be best to divide this trek into three to four days. With few guides and porters so you can enjoy exploring the route well.
Ratangad to Harishchandragad Trek Details in Brief
Day One - Samrad village to Ratangad to Katrabai to Kumshet village
- The trekking distance is 11 kilometres.
- Elevation gain is 1,180 feet
- Technical difficulty medium grade
- High endurance level required
- Elevation loss 2,073 feet
- Max elevation 4,030 feet above the sea level
- Samrad village's elevation is 2,786 feet
- Hiking Trail type one way
Day Two - Kumshet to Pachnai village to Harishchandragad Fort
- You can either hire a vehicle and cover this distance to Pachnai village
- The trekking distance is 16 kilometres
- Elevation gain will be 2250 feet.
- Technical difficulty medium grade
- Elevation loss 1,100 feet
- Max elevation will be 4000 feet.
- Trail type is one way
- You can camp at Harischandragad Fort
Day Three - Harishchandragad Killa to Khireshwar village Malshej Ghat
- After exploring the fort, Taramati peak, and Kokankada, you can begin the descend
- The trekking distance will be 9.5 kilometres today, mostly descending.
- Elevation gain will be 510 feet
- Trek Technical difficulty medium grade with rock-cut steps
- Elevation loss will be 2,234 feet
- Max elevation will be 4,060 feet
- Khireshwar village min elevation 2,060 feet
- Trail type one way
Ratangad trek in the monsoon
Monsoon Ratangad Trek is unique. The mist, waterfalls, and lush vegetation create a surreal atmosphere. However, heavy rain can make trails slippery and difficult. It is recommended to trek with experienced guides and to take adequate precautions to protect oneself. Enjoy Ratangad Fort's beauty while staying safe.
What is the Ratangad fort's height?
Ratangad, Maharashtra, is a well-known Bhandardara hiking destination and a prevalent location for trekking in Maharashtra. At 4250 feet in elevation, the Ratangad fort is situated inside the Kalsubai Harishchnadrgad Wildlife Sanctuary, famous for Leopards. The 400-year-old fort Ratangad trek difficulty level is medium grade.
What is the total Ratangad trek time required?
You will need eight hours to complete the trek and explore the fort. It also depends on the group walking speed and fitness levels; the Ratangad trek time also varies on weather conditions.
What is the Ratangad fort trek distance?
You can start the trek from either Ratanwadi village or Samrad village. Below are some starts about the Ratangad Fort trek distance.
Trek route - Ratanvadi Amruteshwar Temple to Ratangad Fort
- The trekking distance is six kilometres
- Elevation gain is 1480 feet
- Ratangad fort trek's difficulty level is medium grade
- You reach a max elevation of 3,920 feet
- Ratanvadi village elevation is 2,398 feet
- Ratangad Trail type One Way
Trek route - Samrad village via Trimbak Darwaja to Ratangad Fort
- The trekking distance is six kilometres
- Elevation gain is 1600 feet
- Ratangad fort trek's difficulty level is medium grade
- You reach a max elevation of 3,940 feet
- Samrad village's elevation is 2,275 feet
- Ratangad Trail types One Way.
Please note: You can either return to your starting point or finish your trek at either Samrad village or Ratanvadi village. The guided trek is a must. They will help you with route knowledge, food arrangements and water access.
In case your question is not listed above, you can email us at highfive@treksandtrails.org
Whatsapp 8828004949 ( Monday to Saturday, 11.30 am to 7.00 pm only )
