Harihar Fort Trek

Introduction

Harihar fort, at an altitude of 3,676 ft from sea level, is located in the Nashik district of Maharashtra.

The seemingly rectangular-shaped hill acts as the residence of the Harihar Fort. However, unlike how it looks, it is actually built on the triangular prism of rock which traces its origin to the Yadava dynasty. This also makes the edges of the Harihar fort almost vertical. 

The almost 80 degrees vertically inclined steps to the top of the fort are the famous attraction of Harihar fort.

The idols (Murti) of Lord Hanuman, Shiva, and Nandi rest in a small pond at the fort. 

The view from the fort is beautiful. You can see many forts and peaks such as Bhaskargad or Basgad, Anjameri fort, Brahmagiri, and Utwad fort.

What to watch out for

The almost 80 degrees vertically inclined iconic steps that lead to the top of the fort.

This staircase is the most exciting part of the Harihar fort trek.

These narrow steps are carved on the rocks. And also, to ease your climb to the top, notches are cut in that help keep your fingers. 

Those who have Acrophobia do not look back while climbing. It is so frightening to see the steps you have just climbed up that you might faint and even fall to death. However, the view behind you is just out of the world for those unafraid of heights!

Astonishing views of the Sahyadri range from the top

You can get a 360-degree view of the Sahyadri range from the Harihar fort. If you happen to be trekking in the monsoon, you can feast your eyes on the lush green forts and peaks. 

Bhaskargad/Basgad, Utwad fort, Anjaneri fort, Brahma Parvat, Navra-Navri peak, Brahmagiri, and many more forts can be seen there. 

Trail Information

Harihar fort trek can be divided into two sections based on the difficulty level. 

1. From the Nirgudpada village (Kotamwadi) to the plateau: 1 hour 15 minutes
2. From the plateau to the top through steep iconic steps: 1 hour 30 minutes

Best Season to go on the Harihar Fort Trek

The best time to embark on the Harihar Fort Trek ranges from June to February. During this period, you can see spectacular views from Harihar Fort.

The best season to enjoy the lush green Sahyadris is Monsoon. At this time, the fields are all full of green grass.

Post monsoon, this place offers a crystal-clear view of all the famous forts and peaks from the Top; You can expect pleasant weather during this time.

During the summer, trekking to the Harihar fort is not recommended, given the scorching weather.

Difficult sections on the Harihar Fort Trek

The challenging section of the Harihar Fort is the Iconic steps that lead to the top. It is because both the staircases before Mahadarvaja and after can be slippery during monsoon season; this can make climbing them highly risky for inexperienced people and might end up being fatal.

There has been moss forming on the steps, which makes it even more challenging to climb. It would be best if you were very careful while keeping your foot.

There is a tricky and narrow path that can make things difficult for novices.

Question: What is the ideal time to start the Harihar fort trek?

To ensure you can reach the top before noon and descend for your late lunch, it is best to set the time to do the Harihar fort trek from the base before the sun starts beating down. 

You need two and a half hours to reach the top and one and a half hours to descend. So make sure you return to the starting point before 3 pm. 

If you intend to rely on public transport for your return journey, then after 3 pm, you have only a few buses that go to Nashik or Trimbak. 

Emergency contact for Harihar Fort Trek

Hospital:  Sub District hospital Trimbakeshwar is the nearest hospital to the Harihar fort trek.

Police Station: The police station closest to Nirgudpada or Harshewadi is the Harsul Police station, Trimbakeshwar.

ERSS: The number of Pan-India Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) is 112. You can contact this number in case of any emergency.

What To Pack for Harihar Fort Trek?

• Basic First Aid kit*
• Identity Card
• Cap/ Scarf/ Bandana & Sunglasses
• Water (Minimum two liters)
• Salt & Lemon or Electrolyte Powder/Drink (Gatorade/Glucon D, or similar products)
• High-calorie snacks (Nuts & dry fruits, or a home-baked cake, etc.)
• Safety Pins, Rubber bands & Whistle (Might come in handy during emergencies.)

·       T-shirts that Dry Quick are preferable over cotton tees.

• Poncho, only during monsoons
• Plastic sheet enough to wrap your electronic devices that might get wet (during monsoons)
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
• Optional: Trekking poles

First aid kit:

• Scissor
• Band-aids (Regular & Waterproof)
• Analgesic spray (Relispray, Volini, etc.)
• Antiseptic Liquid (Savlon, Dettol etc.)
• Antiseptic powder (Povidone-Iodine-based powders)
• Cotton roll & Bandage
• Crepe Bandage
• 1-inch-wide medical tape (either paper or cloth.)
• Paper Tape/Micropore tape
• Tablet for kinetosis (Avomine), Acidity (Gelusil, Digene, etc.).
• Mild pain relief tablet (Crocin)

Note: Always consult a medical practitioner before taking any medication.