I had been trekking for last seven years now but still stuffs like rock climbing were practically new for me. This entire remained dream till my good friend Amit informed me that Mr Sanjay Lokhre had planned a trek at Alanggad, Madangad.
These forts were kept away from our list of future treks, as little knowledge of climbing was necessary along with the instruments.
So the trek was planned and it was decided to meet at Sanjay’s photo studio. At 12 am we all came together at the meeting point.
We had our SUMO jeep with us for travelling. All the sacks were checked for necessary equipments and were packed on the top of the jeep.
After packing Dilip prayed to god for our safety and we started our journey. As soon as the jeep turtled through the road front lights were put on which slashed the foggy night.
At 1.30 in the night we reached Kasara ghat, had a cup of tea and resumed our journey. Early morning at 5 we reached Khed, mistakenly assuming it to be Ambewadi.
After discovering our mistake we again got back in the jeep and finally at 6 reached Ambewadi village.
Having some refreshments we started our trek towards Alanggad at 7.15. As the sun rose, the light falling on the ranges made it look baroque.
We felt minuscule in front of the prodigiousness of Mother Nature.
Aiming at a “V” shaped valley near about 1200 meters above sea level we started our climb.
With photographers exploiting every chance they got, the jungle felt like a divine studio set by gods themselves.
Encountering a group rappelling on a 100-foot patch we chose that route instead of a narrow five-hour traverse.
After reaching the top by 3.30 pm we saw a deep amphitheatre-like valley behind the mountain and a cave that possibly was a Buddhist vihar.
Sanjay reached the cave last at 5 pm after removing all ropes. Evening tea, search for water and a candle-light dinner followed.
The cooperation shown among us despite knowing each other for just 20 hours was heart-warming.
At sunrise we explored the fort, water cisterns, ancient houses and the artificial lake.
From the summit views of Kalsubai, Avandh, Patta, Bitangad, Harihar, Trimbak, Madangad, Kulanggad, Ratan, Ajoba and Harischandragad invited us again.
After breakfast we marched towards Madangad, descending rock patches and traversing exposed ledges with utmost caution.
Technical climbing again tested us and after ascending zig-zag steps we reached the Madan cave for the night.
The sunset behind Kulung fort and the thrilling descent through the hole were unforgettable experiences.
Despite a tense moment involving stuck ropes and strong winds, teamwork once again saved the day.
Next morning the mist-filled Sahyadris unveiled a primeval spectacle of cloud seas and forested ridges.
By 11.30 am we were back at Ambewadi and soon on our journey home.
“It is only when we leave some of our city bred ideas and wants behind and create space for something new and fresh that we are able to savour this beautiful gift of nature.”
— Harshal Ravindra Mahajan