Trek to Peth

I went hiking to Peth fort (aka Kothligad / Kothaligad / Kothilgad) on 31 Dec 05 with my school friends. We started from Dombivli by the 02:00 Karjat train (last suburban local) and reached Karjat station at 03:30. After spending a couple of hours at Karjat station, we went by local transport to Ambivli village, approximately 25 km away.

Route to Peth fort starts from here. The first part is a simple walk across a spiral path to the Peth village, which should take about 2 hours walking at leisure. This path alternates between left and right sides promising a breathtaking view of the valley on either side. A long plateau covered with stretches of dry golden grass welcomes you to the Peth village at the base of the fort – good place for a break. The village is not yet connected by electricity and one can get a glimpse of pure rural countryside – haystacks, animal shelters and small fields. This is an ideal place to stop for lunch or snacks as local villagers are keen to assist.

From here starts the second part of the hike which is very steep. Due to the extreme heat, it took us about 90 minutes to reach the pinnacle. The destination offered a paramount view of the area around. Mountain ranges of the mighty Sahyadris and deep valleys covered by forests surround the region. The pinnacle is funnel shaped and carved from inside. Also, there are some caves, water tanks and cisterns which can be useful for over night halts. The Bhairoba deity is worshipped here. Several small openings at strategic locations in the cave offer a bird’s eye view of the whole valley to the east, south and north. Gauging by its size, the fort was probably used as defense outpost rather than strong base. Other famous trekking destinations in the Sahyadris, namely Nagphani, Siddhagad, Malanggad, Chanderi, Prabalgad, Manikgad, and Matheran are visible from the top.

According to (unverified) sources of history, these caves date back to 13th century. The fort was passed from control of Marathas, Mughals, and British due to its strategic importance.

Trek here any time except summer season is recommended. Local product khawaa (milk derivative and used to prepare sweets) is famous. Being well connected to Karjat and Neral stations (Mumbai suburban), the trek can be completed in a day if started early.

Details

Name: Peth fort (or Kothligad / Kothaligad / Kothilgad).
Location: 3100ft above MSL, Sahyadri mountain ranges.
How to reach: Ambivli village, from where the trek starts, is connected to Neral and Karjat railway stations (Central Railway, Mumbai suburban) by State Transport buses or local private transport. Distance is 25 km from Karjat.
Time to visit: except summers
Overnight stay: Caves and water tanks available. Night trek possible.
Food: Good food is available in Ambivli and Peth villages. Water supply abundant.

Photo Gallery