About TreKshitiZ

Trek Kshitij began as a small initiative among four college friends who shared a passion for trekking and fort exploration. What started as casual treks gradually evolved into a structured movement driven by curiosity, discipline, and respect for heritage.

In 2001, under the guidance of Pramod Joshisar, a group of thirteen trekking enthusiasts from Dombivli formally established the Kshitij Group with the guiding motto: “Dream of Fort Wandering, Challenge of Kshitij.” Trek Kshitij Sanstha is a registered Public Trust (NGO) dedicated to trekking, documentation, and fort conservation.

Recognizing the importance of structured knowledge sharing, the group ventured into digital documentation at a time when such initiatives were rare. In the same year, www.trekshitiz.com was launched, becoming the first platform to provide systematic fort information in Marathi. Over time, the website expanded to include information on more than 400+ forts, nearly 10,000 photographs, computer-generated maps, trekking resources, and travel guidance.

Beyond documentation, Trek Kshitij actively works toward heritage awareness and conservation. One of its most significant long-term initiatives is the conservation effort at Sudhagad Fort, where volunteers have continuously contributed through cleaning, plantation, maintenance, and restoration support for over a decade.

Social responsibility forms an integral part of the organization’s philosophy. Trek Kshitij has supported educational initiatives in villages near trekking regions by developing school libraries, improving infrastructure, and organizing educational and health programs for students.

Creative documentation has also played a major role in spreading awareness. The organization has produced over 200 fort-related slide shows, organized photo exhibitions, published themed calendars, and conducted fort model-making competitions to engage younger generations in heritage and environmental awareness.

Trek Kshitij’s contributions have been recognized through several honors, including the Girimitra Sanstha Samman and the Swarajya Bhushan Puraskar. Its publication efforts, particularly fort map documentation, have received national-level recognition.

Today, Trek Kshitij continues to organize regular treks across the Sahyadri range, combining physical exploration with historical and geographical learning. Special treks led by historians and naturalists offer participants deeper insights into Maharashtra’s rich heritage.

While many college-based trekking groups dissolve over time, Trek Kshitij continues its journey with strength and purpose — carried forward by both experienced members and new generations, steadily moving toward the horizon.