Trek to Harishchandragad

Date :- 16th- 17th Feb.2013 ( Sat.- Sun.) 

About Fort

 Most of us have either visited or heard somewhere about Harishchandragad. Yes friends, the  most prominent, fabulous & significant from all points of view. As a guard of Malshej Ghat, the  fort has played a major role in guarding the surrounding region.

History

The fort is quite ancient. Remnants of Microlithic man have been discovered here. The various Puranas (ancient scriptures) like Matsyapurana, Agnipurana and Skandapurana include many references about Harishchandragad. Its origin is said to have been in 6th century, during the rule of Kalchuri dynasty. The citadel was built during this era. The various caves probably have been carved out in the 11th century. In these caves are idols of Lord Vishnu. Though the cliffs are named Taramati and Rohidas, they are not related to Ayodhya. Great sage Changdev (one who created the epic “Tatvasaar”), used to meditate here in 14th century. The caves are from the same period. The various constructions on the fort and those existing the surrounding region point to the existence of diverse cultures here. The carvings on the temples of Nageshwar (in Khireshwar village), in the Harishchandreshwar temple and in the cave of Kedareshwar indicate that the fort belongs to the medieval period, since it is related to Shaiva, Shakta or Naath. Later the fort was under the control of Moguls. The Marathas captured it in 1747. The last warrior named Joshi became a martyr in the fight against the English in 1818.

Fascinating Spots

Konkan Kada (Konkan cliff) : The most interesting point on this fort is this cliff, which has always fascinated many people from many years. From here, one can have a breathtaking view of the surrounding region & the setting sun. This cliff is not straight, but concave in its topmost approach. This feature renders it distinct. It has been accessed by rock-climbers only twice till now. Members of Pinnacle group recently ascended this cliff, after 12 years it was ascended for first time. A youth from Pune fell in love with this cliff & jumped from here. A monument is built here in his memory. It is said that a rainbow as a circle is seen from here. 

 

Temple of Harishchandreshwar : This temple is marvelous example of the fine art of carving sculptures out of stones that prevailed in ancient India. It is about 16m high from its base. Around this temple there a few caves & ancient water tanks. Near the temple, the river Mangal Ganga originates. The top of the temple resembles construction with the north-Indian temples. A similar temple is situated in Buddha-Gaya. Here we can see many tombs, in which a typical construction is seen. These are built by arranging stones one over the other. The stones are well finished. There are three caves near the temple. The cisterns near the temple provide drinking water. Here another temple called Kashitirtha is located.
The fascinating thing about this temple is that it has been carved out from a single huge rock. There are entrances from all four sides. On the main entrance there are sculptures of faces. These are faces of guards of the temple. On the left side of the entrance is a Devnagri inscription, which is about saint Changdev.

Travel Directions

Start Location :- Kalyan

Base location :-Khireshwar village Start Time :- 5 AM Route :- Kalyan- Murbad -Tokawde - Malshej Ghat - Khubi Phata ( Near malshej Ghat MTDC Resort)-khireshwar ( Base village)

Accommodation Facility :   Ganesh caves & caves near the temple of Harishchandreshwar.

 

 

Things to Carry

• A good sack in proper condition.
• Clothing as per your requirements.
• Water. - 2 lit / person
• Food material - ( Preferable oil free)
• Camera and its accessories (if interested in photography, always carry an extra pair of batteries)
• First aid box.
• Electrol Powder
• A good pair of shoes.( Must have good grip)
• Cap(preferably of cotton).
• Toothpaste & Toothbrush (for overnight stay).
• Candles & Matchbox.
• Torch with batteries.
• Sufficient amount of cash.
• Polythene bags
• Soap.
• Wastepaper (old newspaper).
• Sunglasses ( Optional)
• Sleeping mat and blanket.    

For more details check Link :- 

(Marathi):- http://trekshitiz.com/trekshitiz/marathi/Harishchandragad-Trek-H-Alpha.html

(English):-  http://trekshitiz.com/trekshitiz/EI/Harishchandragad-Trek-H-Alpha.html