Harishchandra Gad - 2012

Harishchandra Gad - 2012

This is second highest peak in Maharashtra i.e. "Taramati hill" (1st one is "Kalsubai Shikhar") on Harishchandragad.  Harishchandragad is one of the most favorited, interesting and popular trek in Maharashtra.  The Largest Kada in Maharashtrea is located here having one of the most magnificent and unbelievable view of Konkan its call "KOKAN KADA", what a view it is.  Everyone should have a look at once.  The fort is quite ancient.  Remnants of Microlithic man has been discovered here.  The various Puratan (ancient scriptures) like Skandapuraana, Agnipurana and Matsyapurana include many reference about Harishchandragad. Its origin is said to have been in 6th century, during the rule of Kalchuri dynasty. There are various caves probably have been carved out in the 11th century. In these caves are idols of Lord Vishnu.  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, Shakti or Naath. Later the fort was under the control of Moguls. The Marathas captured this fort in 1747.

Kedareshwar cave

Harishchandreshwar Temple

Kedareshwar

Going rightwards of Harishchandreshwar temple, we come across a huge cave. This is the cave of Kedareshwar, in which there is a big Shivlinga, which is totally surrounded by water.  All the time this water is cold not very very cold.  It is quite difficult to reach to the "Shivlinga", as the water is ice-cold, but still we tried and take a Darshan by very near. 

The total height from its base is five feet, and the water is waist-deep. There are sculptures carved out here. In monsoon it is not possible to reach this cave, as a huge stream flows across that way, but this time you don't try, no not don't even think to do.

Taramati peak

This is the peak which is 2nd heighst peak in Maharashtra range. Topmost point on the fort. Leopards are seen in the forests beyond this peak. From here we can can see whole range of Naneghat and the forts near Murbad and that range and beautiful view of Malshej ghat. 

Kokan kada

Konkan Kada

 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 and; 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.

How to Reach there?

Harishchandragad lies where the boundaries of Thane,  Pune & Ahmednagar districts converge. There are 4 - 5 known ways to this fort, the most usual being the following ones:

From Thane District

One has to board the bus for Nagar from Kalyan & alight at ‘Khubi Phata’. From there we reach the village of Khireshwar by bus or private vehicle. This village is at 4km from the foothills of the fort.

Way from Khireshwar : The way beside the caves, where water tanks are seen, proceeds further to Junnar Darwaaja (Entrance From Junnar). From here, the route goes straight to Tolar Khind. Walking a few minutes from Tolar Khind, we come across a rock-patch on which railings are fixed. After ascending the railings, we come to the plateau region on which less dense forests are seen. From here, we have to cross 7 hills & after a walk of 2-3 hours, we reach the temple of Harishchandreshwar, the temple of Lord Shiva.

Note: On this way, many arrows help in indicating the way.

Where to stay: 

Ganesh caves & caves near the temple of Harishchandreshwar are good to stay or carry your own tents.

In Khireshwar village : 

In Khireshwar, local school is the best for a night’s stay. In this village, we can see the beautiful temple of Nageshwar as well as ancient caves of the Yadav era.