How to Reach Harishchandragad

Overview | How to Reach | Sightseeing | Hotels | Photos

Trekkers would easily recognize the name Harishchandragad. Located at 1,422m in Malshej Ghat, Ahmednagar Maharashtra, this hill fort is popular for its unsurpassed scenic beauty. The majestic summit adds to the beauty of the surroundings.

This fort displays the presence of Microlithic man and dates back to the 6th Century when the Kalachuri dynasty ruled. The Puranas often refer to this fort in its scriptures. The Mughals ruled here, and so did the Marathas in 1747.




The Taramati Peak (Taramanchi) is the highest point here and is the third highest peak in Maharashtra. Standing here, visitors enjoy a stunning view of the surrounding mountain ranges while basking in a golden canopy of a glorious sunrise on the peak. Harishchandragad poses moderate trekking challenges.

Let’s explore how to reach Harishchandragad from major locations by road, rail, air, and popular trekking routes. Harishchandragad lies at the convergence of Thane, Pune, and Ahmednagar districts boundaries.

How to Reach Harishchandragad by Road

Located approximately 201 km from Mumbai, you can reach here within 4hrs and 30 min on a normal traffic day. You can follow the NH3 to reach Ghoti-Shukl Tirth Road or the Nagpur-Aurangabad-Mumbai Highway at Khambale. Now continue on this road to reach your destination.

Many people also use public and private buses to reach Harishchandragad. The best route to take is from Mumbai via Kalyan, Khubi Phata to Khireshwar. You can also take a daily bus from the Shivajinagar ST bus stand (Pune) to Khireswar village. Alternatively, take a bus from Kalyan to reach Alephata through Malshej Ghat.

Consider taking a cab/taxi.

If you can afford to travel by cab/taxi, it is a great way to reach your destination. For a standard Mumbai- Harishchandragad trip, the taxi usually charges a rate of INR 9/11 per km.

How to Reach Harishchandragad by Train

The nearest railway station to Harishchandragad fort is Igatpuri Train Station, at a distance of 41 km away from Harishchandragad Fort. However, to arrive here, you need to take a train from Kalyan (Mumbai). Trains from across India for this hill fort connect at Kalyan, such as Howrah, Nagpur, Allahabad, and Chennai.

How to Reach Harishchandragad by Air

The Chattrapati Shivaji airport in Mumbai is the nearest airport to Harishchandragad. The distance between the two destinations is 154 km. Upon leaving the airport, you can travel by road to your trekking destination.

View all forts in Maharashtra

Harishchandragad Trek

Get your fill of adventure with greatly challenged treks at Harishchandragad!!!

Harishchandragad is all about filling your lungs with the freshest air and getting your adrenaline pumping. When you stand atop Konkan Kada, seeping in the surroundings, it will be one of the most exhilarating experiences ever!

Lush green flora envelops you, with the majestic Sahyadri Ranges forming the backdrop. This trek is a feast for the eyes and your soul, a Shangri la of sorts. If you love nature in its raw, rustic, rugged, and undiluted beauty, this trek is for you!

Trekking options to suit everyone from the beginner to the seasoned campaigner.

To reach the top, you can take any of the seven routes that lead to the destination. However, from the seven routes, only three are the most popular. Let’s explore further!

• A simple trek via the Pachnai Village helps beginners to hone their skills and experience.
• Mild to moderate trek routes are pass through the Khireshwar Village that offers a bonus of spectacular scenic views.
• Extremely challenging treks pass through the Nalichi Vaat. Try this at your own risk! Beware of the treacherous loose stones dotting the route.

Harishchandragad Trek Route

Pachnai Village Route– the easiest camping trail

The simplest, the safest, the easiest, there seems no end to the epithets related to this trek. Make the most of the safe camping options, the ready availability of water and food. An amazing route with rocks and valleys keeping you company on both sides. Trekking does keep a tad difficult during the monsoon.




The trail takes you to Pachnai Village, with a spectacular sunset at Kokan Kada. It has the most spectacular and, thankfully, a long sunset of approximately 35-40 minutes. You will love the chilly nights here with campfire fun, complete with jokes, tales, and songs. The memories of the star-lit night will remain etched in your memory forever. The whole trek via this route is quite comfortable. Are you ready to try this anytime soon?

Khireshwar Village Route – scenic beauty to the power infinity

Nothing is more powerful than nature, communicating with you in all its verdant glory. You will have a chance to experience this firsthand when trekking to Harishchandragad via Khireshwar Village Route. When you are spending time with nature, time flies by. Thus, nature lovers prefer this route even if it is a bit time-consuming.

Revel in the majesty of Ganesh Caves, remain transfixed deep in the Konkan Kada valley, known for stunning green shades and an intimidating height. Remain in awe as nature unravels right in front of your eyes. Become mesmerized right down to your core with balmy weather and soothing wisps of fog.

Places to Visit in Harishchandragad

Nalichi Vaat – much awaits the seasoned trekkers on this route.




You will travel via Malshej Ghat to Walivare, the base village. From here, there is an uphill trek of 1 hour to Konkan Kada. This involves jumping, walking, and climbing, and any wrong step may lead to falls and injuries. However, you will also be privy to some incomparable views in the course of your journey. With all the hard work that you do, it will be an awesome experience!!!

So, when do you plan to trek in these verdant landscapes?

View all forts in Maharashtra

Map of Harishchandragad

Explore Harishchandragad with a map. Harishchandragad Map showing city attractions, roads, hospitals, police stations, and many important places. Get complete information about Harishchandragad and plan your holidays.