Rajmachi (3000 ft)
The fort in Rajmachi can be considered as two forts, one on Shrivardhan and another on Manoranjan, two peaks of Rajmachi. Rajmachi offer a panoromic view of the surrounding region and the konkan plains. Rajmachi is renowned for trekking; one can trek from the Tungarli Lake to Rajmachi through the rocky trek routes. The ancient Kondhavi caves is an interesting part of the Rajmachi trek.
Rajmachi with its two peaks Shrivardhan and Manoranjan, is an ideal destination for trekking. Ruins of forts, water falls, temples and the ancient Buddhist caves on the way beacon the trekker through dense forests presenting a mixture of history and nature which makes Rajmachi a much sought after trekking destination. Trek to Rajmachi during monsoon is most adventurous and challenging. Udhewadi is the base of Rajmachi fort trek.
Approximate trek duration - 4-5 hrs
Rajmachi Rural Aid and Development Programme..
Rajmachi Rural Aid and Development Programme is a non profit NGO, commenced in the year 1976 with a view to bringing about development of Rajmachi region. They have been successful in providing clean drinking water in the hamlet of Udhewadi. They also have made available a basic camp facility for trekkers to Rajmachi.
Udhewadi is the base of Rajmachi trek and the trek can be started from Tungarli near Lonavala or Kondivade village near Karjat. The route from Tungarli is longer and it will take about 6 hours to reach Rajmachi. Via the Karjat route one can reach Rajmachi in about 5 hours. You may take the Kharvandi village route which is the shortest or Kondana route and visit the budhist caves too.
Rajmachi History..
In 1657, Shivaji Maharaj captured this fort from the Adilshahi ruler of Bijapur. In 1704, the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb captured the fort from the Marathas. However, the Marathas regained its control in 1705. In 1713, Shahu Maharaj handed over Rajmachi fort to Kanhoji Angre. Eventually in 1818 the British acquired the control of Rajmachi.
A half an hours climb from Udhewadi takes one to the plateaue connecting Shrivardhan and Manoranjan the twin forts of Rajmachi. A small temple with the idols of Kalbhairav and Jogeshwari is in this temple. There is a cannon placed in front of the temple. A 15 mins walk over a narrow ridge takes one to Shrivardhan and a similar trek to the other end of Rajmachi would take one to Manoranjan!
Distance from Major cities..
