Travel: 5 trekking destinations near Mumbai

Trekking destinations, Travel

Love going on treks and nature walks? Or are you one of those people who have never experienced one but want to? Read on below...

Kalavantin Durg
Situated on the northeast side of Panvel, on Mumbai-Pune Road at an elevation of 2,300 feet, and is accessible only through stairs carved around its steep rocky walls, Kalavantin Durg is considered to be one of the most dangerous fortresses in the world. Legend has it that the fort was build for a queen known as Kalavantin, and that it was used a secret hideout by freedom fighter Umaji Naik in the early 19th century. Wild Rangers organised a special trek on the fortress top in 2014. (Read more)

Chinchoti waterfalls
Located in Naigaon (E), 90 minutes away from Chinchoti Phata on the Western Express highway, this moderate trek, which is recommended for beginners starts from Kaman Village in Vasai. Bordered by thick foliage on both sides of the foothill, it might even allow you to cross the stream a few times before reaching the falls. However, this isn't your average trek. Pan-Indian social enterprise, iVolunteer had organised a clean-up drive along the trekking route on International Volunteer Day last year. (Read more)

Ratangad
2000-year-old hill fort Ratangad near Ratan Wadi has a natural rock peak with a cavity in it at the top, which is called Nedhe or Eye of the Needle. Contact trek organisers Mumbai Travellers, who planned the trek last year for further details. (Read more)

Kanheri Caves
The Kanheri Caves are a group of rock-cut monuments located deep within the forests of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Reaching it means climbing uphill through a forest terrain with a forest guide who knows the way. The trek is an interesting and educational one for children (Read more)

Alang Madan
This is a for those who are looking for a trek that challenges and tests you. Mumbai Rangers organised a trek last October to Sahyadri Alang Madan Forts from October 22 to October 25. Considered one of the toughest treks, the Alang fort has a 70-feet straight rock patch while Madan bears a 50-feet rock patch and is comparatively easier. (Read more)