Chanderigad, Challenging the invincible

Chanderigad, Challenging the invincible

24^th Dec 2017

It has been quite some months since I had my last trek to Vikatgad on 10^th Sep 2017 (second time visit). I have been searching for the opportunity to have another trekking. Though the health issue preventing me to plan somewhere and not getting the perfect opportunity.

Last week the plan to Siddhagad, Murbad cancelled due to health issue. I thought of going there with groups with night stay at the Sidhhagadwadi village for more enjoyment, so I kept the same reserved for next with group. Max friends are reluctant for trekking; rather they prefer watching movies, hanging around with girls etc... But my passion is something different, like scavenger who looks for new places to explore and to do some adventure. Always thinking about nature and new novelty to explore.

This was long 3 days holiday, I have saved my energy by taking rest on the 1^st day of the holiday from 23^rd Dec 2017 to 25^th Dec 2017. Throughout the Day, I was checking for a suitable place to visit for the trek. At last, shortlisted the Chanderi which is located near to Badlapur/Vangani of Maharashtra. After checking different blogs found that Chanderi is the toughest trekking place than other and very difficult required high level of endurance, brave and patience, some blogs termed the place as “Invincible”, the final part of the trek is too difficult and without safety harness it is like impossible however, if you are the experienced then can think of climbing the final part without any harness.   As I am well experience with numerous trekking and I have been to Kalavantin, Harihar & Gorakhgad, which are too difficult and dangerous place so, why to worry about the risk? Let’s plan. I have collected ample data about the place and planned for the solo trip as I was sure that no one would agree to go to such dangerous place.

Packed the essential things and food items. Had the sleepless night as usual. Whole night thinking about the place how to what to do etc.

Got up at 4:30 am, it was chilled morning as winter was at its pick. Prepared and boarded on the 1^st local at 5:08 am to Thane from Koparkhairne station (Navi Mumbai), it was too chilled outside and I haven’t brought my winter Jacket as I was supposed to reduce the weight of the knapsack and jacket would be burden for me contributing its load. Trying to find the place where less wind and little warmer. Alighted at Thane by 5:26 am and hopped to platform no.3 to catch the Karjat Local which was at 6:28 am, got the train in running condition, now got the seat, as the local was slow so now ample time to reach the Vangani station, closed the windows near to me and listening to the music.

Got down at Vangani at 6:28 am. I was among few person who alighted at the station, there was no single trekker spotted. I was the lonely trekker for the place, which seemed from there. It was too cool outside and the daylight not yet reached the earth’s surface. I could hear the voice of chanting of the Pundit in loudspeaker, may be some Puja was going on. I just came outside the station and headed towards the Badlapur-Neral highway from where probably I could get some lift to The Kasgaon. The climate outside was too chilled which like perfect winter and the temperature here very less compared to Mumbai which may be due the population effect.

Now, after a little walk of around 5-6 Min, I was at the highway. Waited for any lift, meanwhile go an entertainment there, there was a police Jeep standing. The cop inside the vehicle was blowing whistle after looking to any truck or Goods vehicle, they stop the vehicle and give some money to the cop (not straight, by hiding money in palms like they were handshaking, passing the money and then going to their destination. See what is the role of Indian police officer? He was not coming outside the Jeep and checking whether trucks carrying some illegal things or not rather, sitting inside the jeep and collecting the bribe. This is why I hate police officer because they wrongly utilize their power rather than utilising for controlling the crime. Yes, there are some genuine police officers are there but like pearl in the ocean. I watched the scene for 3/4 cases then the Police officer driven his jeep to some other good place to collect the toll. Now I got an auto by which a hawker was going to deliver some goods (morning Pav for Vada pav etc.) to different shops. I asked the Auto driver whether he would take me to Kasgaon, he replied going to Goregaon and maynot carry me. He suggested me to wait there and there is much chance that I wold get similar auto who would take me to the Kasgaon.

The auto stopped after few yards and offered me lift to Kasgaon by paying him Rs 20, I immediately agreed on him and sat near to him. The cool wind was hitting my face like bullet and very intolerable somehow managed.

Once the driver dropped the Hawker at Goregaon, we headed towards Kasgaon. Meanwhile, I asked him whether he would take me to the village Chinchavli or not. He told I pay Rs 150  then he may take me there. Thought of agreeing with him otherwise I would have to walk for a distance of 4.5 Kms and I may be delayed for the trek and waste my energy, so agreed on him. He took me there, once we entered into the village area taking left diversion from highway at Kasgaon, the road was bad and very dusty. Finally we reached at the village Chinchavli at 7.04 am. Very quickly we reached which is good. The driver shawn me by looking to another Auto who dropped few person that they might be for the trekking and  I may join with him. I off boarded from the auto and by saying thanks to the driver I headed for the group, after enquiring with them came to know that they are also going to the Chanderi trek and having 6 person in the group. They welcomed me to their group to start the trek togather. They surprised to see me alone there and going to such difficult trek , I replied them that I had done many such treks alone and that’s new for me.

We started at 7:10 am, the daylight slightly reached Earth’s surface, we enjoyed the great view of sunrise. After some walks, hike started and again flat surface, there were many places where villagers burnt the grasses so , ashes making the land looks like black though big plans not effected due to fire which may be low intensity fire and due unknown reason they might have put fire. We were wasting some time by taking selfies, photos etc. One person named Sushant Veer from the group have been to this trek earlier and today second time for him, that’s good we may not require the guide. But later we realized that he came to this place 5/6 years back ad lot of things might be changed. Now we reached at the grass field where grasses dries and few patches ashes of the grass visible. Now searched for the route to enter into the deep jungle. After lot of search we were unable to find and guessed a route and walked, there was no proper road nor any direction seen. After walking some distance, we realized that we were on the wrong track as there was no single direction/arrow mark found after walking of around 30 min. After having some checks, we guessed the route and came back to a place from where we spotted the small board written as “Om Nama Shivay”, so were on the right track now. After walking further, we couldn’t find any direction. Again we had to gues the route as per Sushant, we had to follow a waterfall route which would take us straight to the hill top. We got the a water stream (dried now) and walked further and noticed that again we missed in the jungle. I suggested them to wait and came forward to check the route, no sign was there nor any chocolate/biscuit wrapper there in the patch. Walked around 15 min deep in the jungle and couldn’t find any such route.   As there was no other way than going back, I suggested them to go deep in the jungle where we may find the route. So we started entering into the jungle, there was no proper path, place was covered with dried leafs, sticks etc. The shrubs were thorny, I wounded my hand in the wild thorny fruit, didn’t know whether that’s poisonous or not but hurting very much. Thanks to my shoes as they provided my support in the deep jungle otherwise it would be very difficult to walk.

After walking around 20 min in the jungle by guessing the path, we reached at one of the dried water stream. Once we looked to the hills, it seemed we supposed to take the left route, but there was no other way than climbing down the waterstream and which might lead us to another water stream about which Sushant was talking about. But we were pondering if the water stream would led us to a straight fall, still we wanted to have a chance and I leaded the same. After few yards of walk in the dried water stream, we reached at the place where there was small arrow mark visible in the trunk of the tree which pointing towards another water stream, and we got our path and our guess too worked this time. We were at the main waterstream, where big rocks are there. The place was cool and we decided to take a halt there for some drinks and snacks. Before that we had small photo session and started having the drinks session. We have passed almost 3 hours this way since the clock was ticking 9:50 am. After having the quick snacks session, we started again and we set our target to reach at the top by 12:00 pm. None of them planned to go to the top due risk so my plan to go to the top was fading out, still I was thinking to go there myself if none is agreeing. Now, were following the arrow and not going any other way than the arrow pointed route. There are lot of big rocks and boulders there making the climb difficult, due to big size rock, more pressure on thigh was applied.

Now there were no arrow sign and we moved to another route which was too much difficult climb as the big rocks were not there rather the small rocks there and making the way too slippery. The bushes at both side having poor root and coming out if we were taking thee support, some bushes were thorny, some rocks were loose, coming out while holding the grip.  It was too scary as were at much height and it may lead to straight fall if slipping. We reached at a place from where further climb was not possible, so again we were lost due to wrong path taken, this very bad as we have been wasting time by following wrong route. There we two came forward, me followed the left path another guy followed the straight path. The guy stopped after concluding there is no way top. SO, I have to scavenge for the path. Though initially it looks impossible, still I tried to find the path because all declared that there is no other path and suggested me to find the path around my way, I climbed on the very risky way though the slippery small rock, thorny shrubs and climber far and concluded that there no path and it was too much dangerous to go further as many loose rocks waiting for me. So, I informed them to find way as there no way here. Now it was more tricky to climb down as it slippery and no herb/plant to rely for grip, some plans dried with roots intact, but the roots also less anchorage, very carefully I climber down.

Later one more guy discovered another path to top, where one point was risky, we helped each other by a strong stick holding both side while crossing. Now, we could hear the sound of other trekkers coming towards the top, but they were coming from the another route, probably they were following the right route.

Any way we also got the path now from where the cave was straight climb on narrow path in shrubs. There is another path snaked towards Panvel.

This time got sever cramps in my both thighs and couldnot walk a single step. I lied down holding the thighs, I was pondering how to cover remaining distance and return as I was not in a position to walk a single step. This may be due strenuous climb and more pressure on thighs due to the big rocks. Sushant helped by massaging the thighs. After 10-15 min I felt little well and we started climbing further. Now the path was straight and there was no chance of getting lost. After some climb, we reached at the place from where right part of the hill was visible, the cave was little far from there. The temple is at the right side and small rocks are below, as said by somebody there rocks are worshiped during the Mahashivaratri.

When we looked to left side of the place, the big hill was visible and there was flag seen at the top, probably that is the place where Shivaji statue placed. But climb to that place was more than impossible as the hill was straight and no inclined slope seen.

After little careful climb, we reached at the base of the hill. The place was too cool, felt relaxed as we covered much distance under the sun. Then we moved to the Cave. We found a small water cistern available at the entrance of the cave, some fishes also there. Now we entered into the cave and it was 12:16 pm which took almost 5 hours to reach there. However, almost 2 hours wasted as we lost the path.

Now we relaxed there, it was not that much cool there but manageable. There was lord Shiva lingam available and getting worshiped by trekkers and villagers. There are some other statues also available like Lord Ganesh, Shivaji Maharaj etc. The area near the Shiva Lingam floored with the granites but dusty we, cleaned and sat. Now time to relax, we had the snacks shared; I took the fruit juice, cakes that I shared among ourselves. Once we relaxed our tummy, tried to sleep for around one hour by setting the target to return by 12:30 pm. Looking around, I also decided not to try for the top as there was no clear route seen.

After some time one more group came, they were planning to go to the top. SO, I thought of going with them, few from our group also agreed to go. When I asked one person about the difficulty to the top, he replied it’s easy. This boosted me and I confirmed myself to go to the top.  

Once they have done with their lunch, we started at 13:20 hrs. we total 10 with one local guide started towards the top. Once I enquired with the local guide it was the route we had follow which looked impossible before few times. Don’t know how we would be able to make it.

We crossed  the thorny shrubs, the climbed down on a slippery rock. Right portion fully straight and slipping will make you to reach at the bottom having lot of fatal injuries. The place was scary and rope support was more essential there but none was having the rope. We managed to cross the risky path.

Now reached at a place from where there was no route visible and thining how to go up? The guide told the left portion is the path leads to the top. OMG! What he was talking about!, no its not possible, there is no way to go up, straight rock is there too much risky to go up without any rope support.

After looking to the path, many of us quitted including me as it nothing but putting the life in very risky situation. Some of us planned to go to the top, one person from our group already left during the initial risky point and now two denied having climb to the top. One person told, I haven’t married yet & don’t want to risk my life to go up. Some of them filled the water from the water cistern available near (little descend requires towards right).

After thinking many times, I decided to go up as I never quitted before and didn’t want to break the record and why I was worrying about the life. The life without any risk is not worthy. Finally we 6 agreed to climb.  Few of us collected some water from the cistern available, the water is cool and without any odour.

Now, we 7 person started climbing towards the top, came to know that there is tree with a saffron flag at the middle of the climb up to which most risky climb is there and later there is no such risk comparing to the initial climb. One more person quitted so, we 6 remained for the climb.

We were helping each other by guiding for proper steps as each step of the climb with risk and little mistake would lead to straight fall. We were checking the grip for hand then moving further step, completed first part successfully, we had climb further where rock wall was at right side and left side straight down. There was no chance to take the support of the wall as it would push you outside and chance to slip down was more, rather climb freely by bowing down position and applying pressure on both the hand and legs. When there was no climb was possible, we had to climb in hanged position by holding grip on small hole carved in the rock. Again slippery climb came to reach at the tree, small piece rocks are the on the way and careful climb was required. Now we reached safely at the tree, this time again got the second and severe cramps on thighs and unable to move further steps.  Just took there rest for some time and  worrying whether I would able to climb further or not and whether I would be able to return both way hard route is there. After some time felt good and started climbing further.

Here point to note, the one tree is a saviour as it helps you to take rest under its shade after the critical tricky climb also the path we covered fully on sun light of the late noon. To gather further courage we must take rest and the tree provides you full support that great.

Now we were climbing on the scree of around 75⁰ in the alley but loose rocks and thorny herbs, till the third water cistern we climbed by helping each other then took rest there. Had the cool water of the water cistern. Taking some time rest we again started further climb on the alley and scree and reach at the point from where few yards straight walk and again climb. One by another we were climbing, now the risk part was at the right side as the fall will be at right side but not that much dangerous than previously covered path. Few tricky climb led us at the extreme top from where there was no further climb required, the Shivaji statue was visible from there which was around 250 mtr distance and straight walk was required to reach there.

Just we had the view of surroundings and how top we reached; really it’s scary as we were at the top covered pretty height. We spotted few eagle flying around the top. Far Surrounding are with the hills covered, like the Haji Malang, Irshalgad, etc.

  Now without any further delay, we started completing the reaming part of the hike to make the trek successful and memorable one. The walk is straight, only at the end, there single rock to cross which is little risky but we crossed that easily and carefully. Now we were at the feet of Shivaji statue at 2:30 pm and with double happiness as we made the trek success and we were the luckiest person to reach at the top out of all the trekkers. The happiness can’t be compared with any other success, a trekker can explain the level of happiness by reaching at the top of mountain. With full satisfaction and gratitude we shouted with joy.

The surroundings looking more beautiful than visible from the bottom of the mountain.  Because the view added with success and satisfaction of great achievement. So, this proved that “Dar ke age Jeet Hai”, we were getting scared to climb, now see we won the challenge to the invincible climb.

We took rest there, had chit chat, photo session. Still there was little worriedness in everybody’s mind that return would be more risky and tricky and its better to complete the same asap and get out of this tension.

Clock ticked 3 pm and we decided to return back without any further delay. Though descending was risky but quicker than ascend, quickly we reached at the water cistern where we took rest and had water. In 3:30 pm, we started again the descend with extra cautious mind as there would be mistake accepted otherwise straight fall down. At risky parts, we were guiding each other and this way we reached at the bottom quickly and safely. So, the tension was over and we were feeling little relaxed as no more risky ascend/descend is there.

Then returned back to the cave though the walk was little risky but compering the risk part we covered it was feeling nothing and easily we crossed, though again got the sever cramps in the thighs and further walk was impossible, gathered the courage and reached at the cave in very difficult and painful walk. Just laid down on the floor and there was no power to walk further and the 3^rd cramps made me too weak.

Other people were waiting for us and cheered us for the success, still in pain I expressed my happiness to them and thanked them for their support. Really its very much cooperation from both the group without whom today success was not achievable, both of them gave me cooperation, company and confident to achieve the same.

Clock ticked 4 pm and my group asked me to join with them and return, as they were waiting for me so I joined with them and by saying bye to another group (with whom I climbed top) we started the descend. Though we were supposed to meet somewhere at the bottom.

There may not be further chance for getting lost otherwise it may more delayed as the darkness almost approaching and in winter darkness reaches very quick at the afternoon and mostly in the jungle. Now we got the correct path which was on the gully and straight forward and without any confusion, we could have saved our energy if we followed the path while ascending any way that’s another way of memory.

With continuous walk we were getting down and the group also quickly reached us and we together walked down. It was very lengthy route, after 1.5 hour of descend, we reached at the point where we took the wrong diversion.

Took some time halt there and again started descend, the descend was seemed to be more lengthy and not finishing. The darkness reached and we had to start our torch to walk further. Finally at 7 pm we reached at the bae village.

The first group took an auto to Badlapur station I couldn’t accommodated in the auto as already 5 members were there, said good bye to them and exchanged our contacts. I took lift from the person of the second group until Vangani station. Really they are very cooperative without whom it was more than impossible from me to make the trek successful. We too exchanged our contact number keeping in mind that on next trek we would check with each other.

That’s really great memorable and extreme adventurous trek I had in my life time indeed a thrilling experience and lot of great memory to cherish. Though this is not the end of the game, I am too much enthusiast for next such treks and no moral was down at all rather the moral got boosted to do some more like “Yeah Dil Maange More”

I was too much exhausted due to 12 hours of trek and all body parts started answering and no power to walk further, still gathered the courage and boarded in the train and after exchanging one more train, reached ay my destination

This way the great successful trek finished with lot of memory to cherish.

My same dialog, Love nature, care nature and save nature as we came from the nature only.

Photo Section:

Started the trek with Sun Rise from the Chinchavli village

New Trek Mates, very friendly and mixing, indeed my new friends

Time pass photos in the cool morning

Task force in Action! left side is the Chanderi and right Side hill is Mhaismal

Before entering into the Jungle

This is the place where we got actual route after getting lost in the deep jungle

More Big rocks in the route of Ascend

Its me in the front, just before heading further

Now almost reached at the base of the Chanderi Cave

Heading towards the Chanderi Cave, but actual destination is the top of this hill, dont be scared plz..!

Lord Shiva inside the cave

Its me taking some time pass photos inside the cave

Ohh! its me again

Our troopers infront of the cave

Can you spot the path to the extreme end of the hill, where small hill is there, there is a hidden scary path

Yes, this is the path about which I was talking about, scary?

Don't get scared, try to find the path, yes the path is like this only, and you have to reach at the top of the mountain like this

Can you spot the small tree with safron Flag, from where further climb towards the top

The Alley with scree, be careful

We crossed all the dangerous point, now relaxing before climbing further

Now at the top, but still have to walk towards the extreme end, where Shivaji Statue is there, so a scary walk in the edge!!

Salute to those who established the statue at such height

Its me at the top onlly

AT the extreme edge

I am finished if the rock start rolling down!!

Only we six able to make to the top out of 14 trekkers

Descending!

Careful descend is required, as descend is more tricky and risky than ascend.

 Guys, please comment how was this story. We will meet in another story with more thrilling experience till that time Bye.

Ahupe Ghat | A mysterious adventure |Beautiful lovely valley

Dear Readers, a hearty welcome to my blog. Hope you have enjoyed reading my other posts. This time I will be sharing my trek experience to Ahupe Ghat. So, without any delay, lets read it:

It was 2nd Sep 2017 (Saturday), I didn't plan any trek that weekend due to my physical status (not feeling good), so not decided any trek for coming Sunday. While I was resting at my room, got a call from Tushar (my office mate) asking me to plan for a trek, I suddenly surprised to hear that as Tushar never joins with us for trek, rather he prefers staying at room and take rest. How this time he voluntarily asking for the same, I asked him again for the reconfirmation, are you sure and correct state of mind? he replied yes Sumanta Bhai, I am sure. As somebody triggers me to arrange trek, so I agreed on him & informed him I would let him know about the plan. Then I checked my plan list of treks, I shortlisted the Ahupe Ghat, near Murbad. As last time when visited Gorakhgad, I have spotted 5 trekkers heading towards Ahupe & I kept that in my trekking list. Therefore, I informed Tushar about the same and we checked with other friends, but none had shown positive signal, though it was late night of 22:00 Hrs, other might not have the preparedness. So, we two only decided to go. Then I checked with internet and other blogs about the place and collected some general information and informed Tushar about the plan.

3^rd Sep 2017, got up at 5.45 am, called to Tushar but he didn’t respond, I thought he wouldnot go, as I was mentally prepared to go so planned to go alone if Tushar not joining so, started preparing. Later Tushar called and informed that he prepared and heading towards station, I was surprised to know that any way I also prepared. We got the 06:21 am Local from Koperkhairne (Navi Mumbai) station to Thane. That was less cloudy morning, outside greeneries adding boost to mind & I was so excited to see greeneries during the trek and explore more things.

We reached Thane & go another Local to Kalyan 06.50 am (it reached delayed of 10 min), now reached at Kalyan at 7.30 around. Then ran to the bus station to catch bus to Murbad, there was a bus waiting & we boarded on the bus, which started at 7.45 am. Now the journey had begun, the same lush green everywhere, though no symbol of rain anywhere, probably rain God has poured all the water last week which caused Mumbaikars suffered water log (10-12 death reported too & high alert was issued on 29^th Aug 2017 suspecting cloud burst and 2005 like situation though nothing much happened as expected) ohh! I am deviating from point sorry for that.

After around 40 min of travel, the bus stopped a normal halt at Potegaon (5-6 km from Murbad), suddenly we heard a Bang sound, but couldnot understand what caused the same, someone told a vehicle hit our bus from behind. We thought it might be truck, we came outside to check, found that bust rear guard was damaged and Pick up van hit to the bus. The van totally damaged from front, the engine totally damaged, when we looked to the driver seat found that the driver was seriously injured, he was bleeding from mouth (due to internal injury somewhere in face), he was sitting quietly, another person was seating near to him he also seating calm and seemed to be not injured none of them reacting. Few people offered water to the driver, but the bleeding still continuing, both doors also locked (jammed due to damage), the driver managed to come out by the window, but later he was down due to pain and injury, the steering might have hit in his chest/belly. He lied down on the road,later came to know that the driver was feeling sleepy and driving which caused the accident.  I thought of calling Ambulance/police (108/100) but the bloody network operators saying “Appne ek Galat Number dial kiy ahai, kripaya number jaanch lijiye”, what nonsense!, at this critical time network operator making fun, don’t know who should be blamed for this, anyway Tushar tried several times & luckily the call connected to Ambulance & after explaining the location & patient details, they arranged an ambulance and would start shortly, later people shouted on the other person in the vehicle & asked him to carry him to nearby hospital by auto or any other available transport. So, he took him to the hospital. I never seen such kind of accident nor had any desire to see such. Also, I dint took any photos as I understand the seriousness of the situation rather than taking photos and showing to others, which maximum people of the generation doing (they should educate their culture first)

Anyway our bus conductor arranged another bus for us. Now we reached at Murbad by 8.50 around. My mood was totally off due to the accident, I was thinking about the injured person and wishing for his cure.

Now we bought some snacks, fruits & water and boarded on the ST bus to Gorakhgad which started by 9.20 (actual timing is 9.15am). Now we were approaching toward the base village. That was 2^nd time I was travelling on the bus. Surprised to see the add of entertainment, that turn on your wi-fi and enjoy movie, entertainment, I thought it maynot be possible in ST bus at least. But surprisingly it was working, I just checked and stopped as I prefer to enjoy the nature rather than sticking to the mobile device. SO just watching the outer beauty, the greenery, green cultivation, farm house, water flow.. all these are really making the place more beautiful.

Finally reached at Gorakhgad stop at 10:10 am (Dehri Village), now we asked about any vehicle to Khopivali, the bus conductor guided us the direction, thanks to him. Now we got a local jeep plying towards vaishakhare, It took 10 min to reach at the base village, though we adjusted ourselfs in the rear seat of the jeep with 3 person at one side (but this another kind of fun), one person in the jeep asked about our plan, we replied him that we were planning to go Ahupe, he asked what to see there, we told don’t know but good trekking place, then suggested visting Gorakhgad & Siddhagad. As I already visited Gorakhgad, so informed him that I may plan Siddhagad, but post monsoon as it’s too much risky to go there in monsoon, said thanks to that person for his suggestion & guidance & we got off from the jeep.

Now we could see the stand tall hill cliffs at so height, clouds below the mountain what a scenery!, excited to reach at the top. Also, we could see the twin mountain Gorakhgad & Machhindgad, explained Tushar about the difficulty level of Gorakhgad & how we successfully completed that on 6^th Aug 2017. The village is small one with max 100 houses, village in the green farming of paddy/wheat doubling the beauty. Now walked in the village checking for the way to Ahupe Ghat, one old woman shown us the direction. That was 10:30 am, now we were walking in the green cultivation, fencing were made to protect the cultivation from the walkers & animals. We couldnot find any other trekkers, but I was sure to meet any as during the weekend any trekking place I found other trekkers. Now the confusion started, the trail was bifurcated, but I applied my idea by checking the wrappers of toffee, biscuits and footprints & following that trail. We reached at the small stream, stopped and did photography as view was very good, my camera also turning on which was not working before few moment (due to charge problem). Then moved ahead, now were at the big water stream with gorgeous view, the water very clear and colour is blue. Now started the photography & Photo session, I slipped in the rock as the shoes slipping once got wet so, carefully posing for photos. We took around 30 min there for only sake of photos (one should blame us for the same!!), the water stream photo I have seen in the internet and now I am at same place, nothing great than this.

We spotted one couple having one kid of 4-5 years heading towards the Ghat, we checked with them about the way, they guided us the direction. Tushar astonished to the see them as he considered them as they came to pick their kid from school. Though later it was proved that it’s not possible, they might have come for other reason.

We stopped the photo session and started the walk, we entered into the deep forest with darkness due to less sunlight, there was no person visible from there and the couple with kid seemed to be disappeared. It was very tiring as humidity level was more and sweating making us exhausted very fast. We taking rest and proceeding, the only way was to follow is by following the trail where wrappers found which is the proof of any trekkers might have followed the trail. The way now became narrow, the trail might have made due to rain water flow, we reached at place, where a sign board by forest department was there with notice written in Marathi, Tushar made me understand that the notice warns people to not go inside without permission and don’t hurt wild animals etc.

Again climb started, after some time I spotted one person standing at far distance, I though they are also trekkers, when we reached there, found 3 person, one is the visitor and other 2 were the guide, the person seems to be photographer in profession or by hobby (as he was having DSLR). They informed us about their plan, they were heading towards Gorakhgad, I surprised to know as they have to cover lot of distance and the place is too difficult and risky, I just warned them. Actually they came from Ahupe Ghat & kept their vehicle at the village & they had to return back to the village any how by today. It seemed very tuff but let see how they are managing to do the same.  We asked them about the Ahupe ghat, the black person from the group replied by scolding to the mountain, idiot person, may be they had bad time during the trek, but we were not demoralized at all. One more guy joined with us but later he ran away as he had to catch the bus at 12:30pm & that was 12 pm. We don’t know how he would reach in 30 min as the giant hill still to cover 60% distance (seemed from the height). Later the person disappeared, we were in normal speed and taking rest and again climbing, as the humidity slowing down our pace as there was no rain & no wind.

Now we found two Chacha’s (Uncles) who greeted us by saying "Ram Ram", we reciprocated same manner, they were descending & gave us good moral support by saying its easy and not so far. Good some positive thing during the trek.

Though the trek was not difficult but lengthy, trails made clearly without any confusion, somewhere rocks arranged to protect from slip/fall,  it was first time for Tushar so I was allowing him to take sufficient rest whenever he was requiring. Now we reached at a spot where,  a tiny water fall was there and below a cistern made and upper roof covered by concrete, may be the same made to store water for passerby using this route, that’s great.

Again continued the climb, now the path was like Zig-zag, this is to avoid steep climb, we were just climbing, somewhere getting wind and also could expect the rain in some time. SO far we have crossed two waterfalls, where little risk of slipping is there but we completed carefully. Met with another person who carrying one bag in his shoulder, may be some goods, he told it took 1 hour for him to descend and may take 1.5 to 2 hour for us to ascend. We thought he is joking but later we realized. Tushar was feeling frustrated as the climbing not coming to an end, earlier we set our target to 1 pm at top which we have failed,  then set target by 2 pm still failed as the trek not coming to end. Tushar asking me Sumanta Bhai, are we on the correct path, I just assuring him by saying that there is no other route to follow, this must be the only route and nothing to be worried when I am there. He was saying intermittently, this is my first and worst trekking , yes I can understand the pain of first time trekker and the level of frustration for him. Now the rain also started, the path became slippery so careful attention was required. I was climbing fast and waiting for Tushar to reach me. Now it was around 2:30 pm still no sign of reaching at top as the hill top looking still at height. I was saying to Tushar that when the twin hills top (Gorakhgad & Machhindragad) would be seen below our level then, there could chance that we are at top of the hill, now the twin hills (Gorakhgad & Machhindgad) seen below our level but we were not at the top, after some climb, I could see the day light at other side of the hill which means the top not far, also I made sound expecting response from others who available at the top, after long time someone responded. That’s great signal, within no time I reached at the top (at 3:05 pm).

Wow what a scenery, we were at the highest point of the place, there is no further climb required. Tushar also ran towards the top & started dancing in joy. Yes, I could understand the happiness of first time trekker, after covering such distance of 4.5 hours he must dance in joy & rejoice.

I just had an initial look, the mountain cliff stretching with parallel to other cliffs at other side of the hill. Ohh!, what I saw, Its rainbow as the rain stopped and sun ray came causing this beautiful natural phenomenon & he same appeared between two big mountain cliffs. Really, I forgot all the pain and labor to see the view which is one billion dollar worthy view. There is a village at other side of the hill (at equal height and easily accessible), there are temples, school & colleges visible. The village is very beautiful; I wish I could be there at the village (Just planned to have one more visit with night stay at the village & to explore other part of the valley)

 Just stretched the hand with satisfaction & gratitude, started enjoying the great view. The village Khopivali visible from the top, twin mountain visible but looking very small as we were at great height and distance.

The mesmerizing cool wind, breath-taking views, lush greenery in the valley, I couldn’t stop myself to stay there for at least 1 hour though we were running out of time. The clouds gathered at the top of other hills giving a gorgeous view which we might have seen in the movies; now time to watch the same in real life, that’s great achievement & matter of great pleasure for an enthusiast like me. It was not possible to cover other valley cliffs by reaching the village due to time factor which not much in hand and lot more distance to be covered while descending and darkness may cause hurdle to the descend and there could be chance of getting lost in the darkness in the deep jungle. We had the foods we carried with us. There is another satisfaction by having your favorite food at such height under the lap of greenery and nature.

The village is connected to Junnar & Pune (with very less frequency transport). People earlier doing trading between the upper and lower region by transporting goods (by human only). Though now also the same is being observed, that’s great.

When we are at the top of the Gorakhgad mountain, we were taking photos and background as this hill and luckily, we were at the same hill now, earlier we thought its not possible to reach at this top, but now we made it possible, this proves nothing is impossible in this world.

Then we headed toward the other side of the valley, found there is big waterfall, no one can reach at the bottom as we were at height of 3885 Ft & straight fall is there from the cliff. Little mistake would take you to the straight bottom and might worth your life. So, we enjoyed the view from far, of course we had photo session too there. We were still not satisfied and wanted to stay more, the clock ticked 4:15 pm. It’s too much delayed, we must return to base village before the sunlight goes off otherwise it may be very risky to walk in the jungle in darkness which may prone to wild animals & other threats.

Without making any further delay, we started returning at 4:15 pm, now the path was more slippery due to rain, we were descending carefully, now were not taking rest, just moving faster. By 5:10 pm, we reached at the water cistern & took rest for 10 min and again started. The day light was still there.

After continuous descend, we reached at the large water stream, there is no threats as we completed the descend & most difficult part in 2 hours, thats great & the time was 6:15 pm. Now we enjoyed the water stream for 30 min around. Now it was getting darker, so without making any delay we started. When we looked back we couldn’t believe ourselves that we reached at such height which seems to be impossible.

We reached at the village too, now checked for vehicle, they said no vehicle now. We thought they must be joking, but later came to know that they were true, once Guy named Ganesh helped us by taking us to the Dehri stop to catch 7.15 Bus to Murbad, but we failed as we reached at the stop by 7.20 pm. As the person was going towards Siuli stop (highway) by guiding his tractor driver (they were going to bring some goods), the kind hearted fellow decided to drop us at the highway, we couldn't find any words to say him thanks as in bike doing tripling under bad condition no one would agree but he voluntarily helped us, such kind of person are very rare in the world. That was totally night and darkness everywhere, we could see the moon at the top. After 1 hour of bike ride, we reached at the highway. Said thanks to the person, Tushar said you are Lord Ganesh for us. Also he waited for us till we get the bus,  we requested not to do more favour as we wouldn’t able be to return the help which he has he has given to us us. By giving some suggestion, he left, God do well for his favor.

Now, we got an auto to Murbad, then got another bus to Kalyan. Finally reached at home by 11 pm.

This is all about the great trek with Tushar to Ahupe Ghat.

Hope, you enjoyed reading this post. Please comment with your suggestion and feedback.

Below are the photo section:

Lush green land and the hill covered with Cloud..just heavenly

Target is too far but the  greenery adding the boost

Great View right?

The View from the Base village

What a great location of the Small house...I wish I could be there....Love this place

Simple road toward the jungle

Best capture of Tushar bro, here we stopped for Photo session and later came to know there is another great waterfall near to this place

Left side hill top is our target, to far and too much height to cover!!

This beautiful waterfall..mostly the great color of water...

Twin hills Gorakhgad and Machhindagad

Couldnot resist myself for posing....

Tushar Bhai......!

Cool!!!

This place i have seen in the internet and now time to see in own eyes

Please try to read and follow....

This kind of scenery I have seen in Thai movies...where Hills covered with such green grass

Take rest bro...no need to hurry....

Gorakhgad....

Straightaway...

This is the water cistern I was talking about....made for the passer by

Towards the top

Tushar is taking Electoral powder for rehydration

Easy climb but many such to cover and it tests you level of patience

Twin Hills under the Lens, the twin hill were the reference for us to estimate the height have been covered

Seems no regular used road...but this way is only road to follow and to reach at the top

To reach top, much distance to cover...

Road toward top though the deep jungle.

He he.....me exist 

Ohh....I see -( ) ( )-

Not that two man!, its two for Victory sign...never mind..

Waterfall...tu kyun bar bar ati hai aur humara time waste karti hai...we cannot stop ourselves without taking photos....

Its my turn now

Haan Malum hai..aap niche se aye hue hai...aap ki himmat ko tarif karni padegi...

Stacked rocks....to ease the climb..but be careful as rocks are slippery as they are wet

Simple path but long and many to over such....

Thake hue time bhi photo ke liye pose...kya baat hai...

Rain God shown mercy for us..it just started raining when we were almost at the top..Spot Tushar...under umbrella...

Moss covered rock wall...looks like the proper deciduous forest area 

Finally at the Top..can you spot the Rainbow please...its thousand Dollar view....I love it very much

What a view...great!!!

Lovely....

Me not t best....simple pose....with smile in face with satisfaction

The beautiful village at the other side of the Valley, cant go today..in future for sure..

PANORAMA......

Kya smile hai aap ki.....kya baat hai tum bahot muskra rah ho....I see

Koun hai udhar???

Risky place..but dared to pose...

Man on top of Green Carpet...Not on Red Carpet for which I am not eligible...but happy to stand on green carpet....@

What a jump...

Again twin hills...we were at much height than these two hills height...

Uff...

Once more...

Zoomed to capture the lake at the bottom part..

OK

The narrow waterfall but at too much height...

Another view of the waterfall...

The Beautiful location of the Temple...morning enchanting of the Priest would make this place more divinely...Love to live there 

Its me guys..trying for a good pose...best effort of Tushar Bhai

Great Effort of Tushar Bhai, please don't go off the valley...your marriage date is approaching...be careful!! he he 

Admire to the pose or Photography...I think all at their Best...Tushar Bhai at his Best!!

Evening View before the darkness hide the beauty

The view can rejuvenate you heart and mind...most lovely view most beautiful memory to cheris 

Thinking something..hmm....please continue

Thaka hua insaan..but never let the chance to go for posing

Serene water flowing gently and feeding to all the flora and fauna below....wonder of nature.

Evening time the view of waterfall..like water flowing down from snow..love this view..