Mahuli Fort is in Thane district of Maharashtra.
This trek is a hit with both rock climbers and corporate professionals alike, so you know it’s going to be good!
As you make your way up the highest altitude in the Thane district, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking birds-eye view of the landscape below. It’s a real feast for the eyes! And let’s not forget the lush green forest and meadows that’ll have you gasping in awe.
The trek starts at the Mahuli Fort base where you’ll find a local temple and a map of the trek. Finish your darshan and start the trek with an enthusiastic “Ganapathy Bappa Morya”. You may not need a guide as the trail is pretty straightforward, but if you’re feeling a little lost, the villagers are warm and helpful, and you can hire a guide or buy food from them.
You’ll come across a river crossing within the first 10 minutes of the trek, and during the monsoons, it’s best to tread carefully as the flow can be unpredictable. But don’t worry, a bridge has been constructed over the river to aid crossing in monsoons.
As you make your way up the trail, you’ll notice the terrain gradually getting steeper and a few slippery patches that need to be crossed. But don’t let that deter you because the views of Mahuli’s well-known pinnacles on your left are worth the effort!
Once you reach the top, you can spend time exploring the fort. There’s a Shiva temple if you walk towards the left, and if you go further ahead, you’ll find remains of the original fort wall. To the right, you’ll find a few caves, but we have to admit, they could do with a little more maintenance.
Now, let’s talk history. Mahuli’s historical significance lies in the various eras of rulers who have ruled here. From the Moghuls who created the fort to Chatrapati Shivaji Raje, who won and sacrificed it twice, this fort is steeped in history. In 1670, when Gaud was in charge of the fort, Marathas attacked it again, but ended up losing a gem, Sardar Kadam, later named ‘Sonare’ (Gold of Swarajya) by Chatrapati Shivaji Raje. By mid-1670, the fort was conquered by Moropant Pingle and added to Swarajya.
Reaching the fort is a bit of a challenge, but it’s totally worth it! From the Asangaon railway station, cross the national highway, walk about 1 km towards Shahpur on the highway, turn left on the road going to Manas Mandir, walk further 15–20 minutes, and keep walking straight ahead past a government forest check post towards Mahuli Village. Walk through the village, and about five minutes later, you’ll reach the Shiva temple right at the base of the fort.
The trek takes around three hours to complete, with a prominent route that will take you to the top-most plateau on the fort. And don’t forget to carry plenty of water because there aren’t any water sources along the way. So, gear up, hit the trail, and let the adventure begin!
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