Gorakhgad
Fort Images
Explore Various Images of the Fort
Machhindragad & Gorakhgad from Daheri Village
Introduction
Gorakhgad is a fort that can be visited in a day's time, quite reachable from Mumbai and Pune. Though the history of the fort is not known, Gorakhgad attracts trekkers due to its thrilling experience of climbing vertical rock wall and breath-taking views. This region of Gorakhgad and Machchindragad has a dense forest cover.
This fort is named after Saint Gorakhnath who is said to have performed penance here. No major battle is recorded to have taken place here. The rock-cut caves and water cisterns here indicate that it was used to look over the nearby region and as a stopover station during the journey to Junnar via Naneghat. Though small in size, there is enough water and accommodation place.
How to Reach
Via Kalyan and Karjat
1.To reach Gorakhgad, Mumbaikars and Punekars can travel to Murbad via Kalyan and Karjat respectively. Reach village Dhasai from Mhase junction. From here, private jeeps as well as S.T. buses are available to reach the village of Dehri.
Right from Dehri village can be seen two prominent pinnacles. The smaller one is Machchindragad and bigger one is Gorakhgad. It is possible to camp in the Vitthal temple in Dehri. Just behind this temple is a walkway that takes us to the fort entrance, which is carved-out in the rock. This way one can reach the fort in about two hours.
From Murbad via Milhe
Village Dehri can also be reached from Murbad via Milhe. The way from this village is very easy.
From Siddhagad
It is also possible to reach Gorakhgad from Siddhagad. This trail through the dense forest is well known among trekkers and can be followed to combine the trek Siddhagad and Gorakhgad. To reach Siddhagad, one can travel from Murbad to village Narivli that lies at its base. Stay on top of Siddhagad and start the descent early in the morning. One way going along the stream enters inside the forest. Proceed towards right on this way, which leads to a waterfall and then to a small plateau. This plateau has a small Mahadeo temple and two tombs. The way ahead from this point onwards is along a vertical rock-wall and hence enough care should be taken while walking. Thus we reach the entrance dug out from the rock. It takes about three hours to reach Gorakhgad this way.
Points of Interest
Two cisterns can be seen just after emerging through the entrance and the path climbs up further ahead. Further, a small step-way descends down to the large caves that are carved out in the main rock of the pinnacle. Nature’s grandeur can be appreciated here with the magnificent view of two large frangipani trees leaning over the valley and the excellent sight of Machchindragad. There are in total fourteen cisterns on the fort, however, only the three tanks near to the cave have potable water.
The trek to Gorakhgad is not complete without reaching the top of the pinnacle. Facing the cave, proceed ahead towards your right. Just after a short walk some steps can be seen on your left, which lead to the top. The climb along this stepped way in the rock needs to be carried out with utmost care.
The top of the fort is very small. There is a small Mahadeo temple with Nandi. A wide region ranging from Siddhagad and Machchindragad up to Ahupe Ghat and Jeevdhan in the Naneghat area towards north can be seen from the fort-top.
Facilities & Amenities
Accommodation
About 25 persons can stay comfortably in the cave.
Food
Trekkers need to carry packed food
Water
Available all the year
Additional Information
Since the approach to the fort as well the rock stairs to the pinnacle top of Gorakhgad are quite steep, extra care should be taken in monsoon and against strong winds. Its advisable to wear shoes with better grip and to avoid dangling clothes and bag.
Nearby Villages
Dehri, Khopivli, Narivli
Other Forts in Karjat
Planning Your Trek?
Pack Smart
Carry essentials, water, and first aid kit
Start Early
Begin your trek early in the morning
Trek in Groups
Always trek with companions for safety