Ratangad trek is a simple trek with the trail passing through small feilds and thick forests by the Pravara river. The way up can be divided in three steps each separated by small plateaus. After crossing the second plateau to reach the ratangad fort one needs to take right at the diversion that would come up, the left trail is a jungle trail that would end in Harishchandragad. Towards the end of the trek there are two ladders one after the other to reach on top of the Ratangad fort.
Ratangad Trek Routes
Ratangad trek is a magnificent trek which passes through one of the most beautiful regions in the Sahyadris. Ratangad is believed to be one of the favourite forts of even Shivaji maharaj!. The best season to visit Ratangad is just after monsons when the entire region would covered in green with numerous waterfalls enroute the trek route to Ratangad fort. The trek to Ratangad from Ratanwadi would approximately take 3-4 hours
Amruteshwar Temple..
The Amruteshwar temple is near Ratanwadi, locals here believe that this temple was built by Pandavas during their stay in the jungles! Built in the Hemadpanthi style, this Amruteshwar temple no matter what the truth is about who built it is certainly worth a visit.
Randha Falls
Randha falls is before the deviation that you take to Bhandardara. The tranquility of Bhandardara is shattered only by the roar of Randha falls. The Pravavra river plunges 170ft into a gorge creating a breathtaking sight and the third largest waterfall in India. There is a temple on the banks of the river. A lookout point just above the Randha falls provides a great view.
The everest of the Sahyadris, Kalasubai is the highest peak of the mountain range of Sahyadri. Kalsubai is part of the Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary which spreads from Kalsubai to Harischandragad. Kalsubai is a challenging treks with its rugged hilly terrain and the Kalsubai pinnacle at its height of 5500 ft is a real steep climb. Bari the base village is very close to Ratanwadi the base of Ratangad.
Ratangad is a great location for camping. There is a cave spacious enough to accommodate about 20 people with a iron grill to be closed at night for safety atop the fort, although carrying your own tent would always be advisable. During weekends the villagers do set up small stalls and serve 'pitla bhakri' but do not bank on it. Be prepared to make your own food.
Distance from Major cities..
