Introduction
Lohagad Fort is located in the Sahyadri range in Maharashtra and the trek to the fort is generally preferred by trekkers and those who love nature. In terms of history, breath-taking views and ease of trek, Lohagad trekking is splendid, moderate trek that can be undertaken amidst the history and beauty. But is Lohagad trekking the right thing to do? In this article, the writer seeks to provide information on factors such as Lohagad trekking difficulty, benefits or gains to be expected by the trekkers, type of trekkers most suited for the activity among others.
This guide will enable you to find out whether Lohagad Trekking is suitable for your interest, physical ability and fitness, as well as the kind of experience you want to have. So, as you get to the end of this article, you are most likely going to have a good feel of Lohagad trekking and if it will be the right type of trekking for you.
A brief insight of Lohagad Fort and it’s history
Lohagad fort which means Iron fort is one of the historical forts with evidence of the period of Satavahanas to Marathas. From time immemorial the fort has seen rulers and reigns ranging from the Marathas, the Mughals, and the British monarchs. This was due to the fact that the city was located at strategic positions along the trade routes hence useful in the management of the area.
This comes in view of its historical significance in that it has strong walls, large doors, and other decorative designs. During the Period of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj this fort was used as a storage place for loots from successful battles in the region. The fact that the trekking takes place in the historical fort makes it a historical as well as a trekking exercise.
Lohagad Trekking – Natural beauty of the region
The scenic beauty is one of the primary attractions that a trekker is able to experience when he goes for Lohagad trekking. Sited close to Lonavala, the fort has beautiful sightseeing of the valleys, misty hills and the cool serene lakes. Most people prefer the trek during the rainy season as the whole of this area then looks stunning with small waterfalls, green cover, and cool winds.
Flora and Fauna: Lohagad Trekking is adorned with bio-diversity Spread across the Lohagad Trekking you can find number of trees and plants and animals. At various levels of the trail, you will find diverse plants including trees and shrubs as well as wild flowers. Bird watchers in particular will also enjoy the walk as they eye several endemic as well as migratory species of birds during the hike.
The Lohagad Trekking Route: About this book:
Difficulty Level:
The Lohagad trekking is said to have a moderate difficulty, and thus, suitable for novices who go trekking as well as those people who are veteran in trekking. The round trip distance is about five Kilometers while the rise and fall in altitude is roughly three thousand, four hundred and fifty feet. It is one of the best marked and relatively easy treks, though there are some steep portions towards the latter part and during the monsoon period.
Starting Point:
It is one of those treks which start from the village of Malavali, so access to Malavali is good both by road and railway. After reaching Malavali, a definite track is available which gradually rises towards the fort. The trail goes through an open pale, through middle growth timber, and over some rocks.
Key Landmarks:
As you progress along the trail, you’ll encounter several landmarks that add to the trek’s appeal: As you progress along the trail, you’ll encounter several landmarks that add to the trek’s appeal:
• Bhaje Caves: Ancient Buddhist caves carved out of rocks at the initial stage of the trek to give the trekker a feel of the area’s antiquity.
• Vinchu Kata: A long striking shaped like that of scorpions, and holds panoramic views of the valley, and an experience that is electric to hikers.
• Pawna Lake: An ornamental water channel around which the fort was constructed and which adds a finishing touch of calm to the raw outlook.
Final Ascent:
The last stretch to the fort is to climb several steps which are hewed in the rock. This part may be risky if the steps’ surfaces are wet and slippery, as it requires a good deal of balancing. However, it is very much worth it because a great view of the surrounding landscape can be seen from the top of the fort.
The Monsoon Experience: The ‘Mask of Masculinity’ is a two-faceted phenomenon.
The monsoon is the most favorite season for the Lohagad trekking because of the scenic beauty of the area during the rainy season. The waterfalls here are normally roaring, the environment is humid, and there is mist throughout the place. However trekking during the monsoon also has it’s own benefits and difficulties unlike Lohagad Trekking during the other seasons of the year.
Pros:
• Scenic Beauty: Cold and monsoon season is good for the natural beauty where hills are green and full of flowers and small streams are also there.
• Cool Climate: The rain helps to cool the air which makes it easier when doing the hike, not forgetting it is conducted in one of the hottest months of the year, summer.
Cons:
• Slippery Trails: The trails are usually slippery when it is raining and the terrain can turn to be muddy hence such issue as falling and getting injured.
• Limited Visibility: The mist and rain adds the possibilities of reduced vi visibility and navigating through the forests becomes limiting.
• Insect Presence: It can also cause insects to come around due to the wet conditions, so one must pack for a mosquito repellent.
For the trekkers who decide to undertake the Lohagad Trekking during monsoon, it is advisable to carry along items like a raincoat, good trekking shoes with rubber soles, and trekking stick.
Is Lohagad trekking a good trek for beginners?
Lohagad trekking is suitable for novice trekkers because of the easy level of the trek and the short distance. However, there are a few factors that the first-timers should look at before they start the trek.
Physical Fitness:
Although the Lohagad Trekking is moderate, it is not very strenuous, but one must be in reasonable physical health. In case it is your first time out trekking or had been idle and out of practice, it is recommended that one take a warm-up of some exercises such as walking to prepare the body for the trek.
Preparation:
Newcomers should ensure that they make arrangements in order that they are properly prepared for the trek. This entails the camping plan where one has to discover the trail, pack the equipment as well as foresee the difficulties. This is important since joining a guide in a Lohagad Trekking can also work to your advantage since then you shall be accompanied by a specialist.
Mental Readiness:
Adventure which includes trekking can also be mentally tiring as seen on the Lohagad Trekking. One has to understand that it is not a sprint but a marathon and needs to take it one step at a time and be as upbeat as possible. Bear in mind the fact that trekking in a sense is not only the destination or the goal you are targeting to get to.
The Cultural Voyage on the Lohagad Trekking
Hence, the experience of Lohagad Trekking is not only inclined on physicality and aesthetics but also on history. The area surrounding the Lohagad fort has several archaeological structures that give a chronological history of the area.
Bhaje Caves:
As pointed out above the Bhaje Caves are a cultural tourism attraction located at the onset of the trail. These are old Buddhist caving made in the second century BC which contains carvings, stupas and viharas. It is an interesting thing that one can start the trek observing the grottos which had been used by the people for religious purposes.
Local Villages:
The village around Lohagad like Malavali and Lohagadwadi have population localites who have maintained their native culture. Just like in all other tours, one may be privileged to get insights and more information concerning the villagers and their way of life, food habits and stories.
Festivals:
However if by any chance you happen to do Lohagad Trekking in any local festival then you will be able to witness true colors of tradition of Maharashtra. Religious and other fairs like Diwali, Holi festival and Ganesh Chaturthi Festival in the region are also a common feature and if you fancy having the opportunity to embrace and take part in them would enhance your trekking encounter.
The Health Benefits of Lohagad Trekking
On the basis of the present study, conclusion may be drawn that Lohagad trekking have various health benefits Among those, only few important benefits are described below for the brevity of the paper.
In fact, trekking is a very effective exercise to enhance one’s fitness and health and the Lohagad trekking also therefore proffers the same. The trek is estimated to provide numerous health benefits that should see this activity suit those who want to improve their health.
Cardiovascular Fitness:
Hiking at Lohagad hills involve incline that makes the trekking to be cardiovascular in nature due to change in altitude. Lohagad Trekking number of times can help in cases of heart diseases, increased and better lungs demand, and personal general endurance.
Muscle Strength:
Lohagad Trekking exercises all the big groups of muscles; the leg muscles, the abdominal muscles and the arm muscles. Some parts of the course are bumpy and contain sharp inclines – this makes working out the strength as well as stability of the lower limbs possible.
Mental Well-Being:
Hiking in the natural environment has been known to help in stress, anxiety, and depression. I believe that owing to the fact that physical activities involve movement and exercises are done out of doors, and the places mentioned above are endowed with natural beauty, it leads to the improvement of the mental health of the persons.
Weight Management:
Lohagad Trekking is one of the recreational activities helps in burning calories hence useful in managing the excess body weight. Cardiovascular exercise also involves contraction of both the heart muscles and other muscles in the body and this helps trigger calorie spending thus a good way to avoid obesity.
Bone Health:
One of the best benefits of Lohagad Trekking is that a body weight is subjected to more stress through the bones, which is records better bone mineral content, decreasing the prevalence of osteoporosis.
Practical Guidelines and Measures to be Adopted for the Lohagad Trekking.
Though the Lohagad trekking is not much risky, one has to follow certain measures and tips that would make the trek easy and enjoyable.
Check the Weather:
It is advisable to consult the weather forecast before undertaking the Lohagad Trekking particularly during the monsoon period. Do not go trekking during a rainy or thunderstorm because the trail can be fatal.
Stay Hydrated:
Ensure that you take enough waters that will see you out till the end of the Lohagad Trekking. Despite cold weather there is need to ensure that one is well hydrated therefore the need to drink a lot of water.
Wear Appropriate Footwear:
Ensure that you have a good and comfortable pair of trekking shoes preferably the ones that have a good grip and that offer your ankles support. It is also advised not to wear sandals or casual shoes as these will offer little grip and no protection at all.
Carry Essential Gear:
Tucked in items like a first aid kit, insect repellent, sunblock and flash light. These items may be of importance especially when an individual is caught up in some unforeseeable circumstance at Lohagad Trekking.
Travel in a Group:
This is especially so if one is a newbie and has little knowledge of the trail to undertake a Lohagad Trekking alone or with the family, it is recommended to embark on the journey in a group or better still hire the services of a professional guide. This helps to make sure that there is back up that can be relied on incase of any emergencies.
Respect the Environment:
Lohagad is a natural and historical monument therefore littering is prohibited. Do not drop trash, walk off trails and do not disturb animals and birds.
Lohagad Trekking for the True Adventurers
For those who are looking for some thrill, Lohagad trekking lets you experience a more than a nature walk with a trek through trails. Overall, it must be said that, the trail is not very technical but there are elements about the Lohagad Trekking that will undoubtedly appeal to the adventurous side of any one.
Exploring the Fort’s Hidden Corners: Exploring the Fort’s Hidden Corners:
The fort of Lohagad is not merely an important historical site, but is indeed a complex of structures, passages and the chambers. Visiting these untouched areas of the fort can be an adventurous experience for the people who have an attitude for such related adventures. What makes the place wonderful is its architecture: high walls, deep cisterns, and Heptastadion with its complex system of dark passages inside the fort.
Night Lohagad Trekking:
If one wants more than a regular trek, then night Lohagad Trekking is possible. As per the local guide’s advice, the fort is best explored at night and when the moon is out and illuminates the fort and its walls with a kind of gloom. Night Lohagad Trekking entails extra precautions like ensuring that you have a good flashlight, appropriate dressing code and good anxiousness over the ground, but all these equals you to a magical moment, a moment to cherish forever.
Camping at the Fort:
Despite there being many Lohagad Trekking to Lohagad Fort during the day, night trek to the fort accompanied by camping will spiced up. The experience of sleeping in the tent or in a hammock with the view only to the stars and the old fort in the background is awesome. The chilly fresh night air, the chirping of insects, and the heritage lively experience all forms a thrilling activity. But, one should be careful and make sure that barrier is open, that is camping is allowed when one intends to visit the area.
Challenging Weather Conditions:
However, if you are a regular trekker wanting to take up a challenge, doing Lohagad Trekking at its extreme weather is one real test. Lohagad Trekking at Lohagad fort requires crossing slimy monsoon trails or facing the chilling cold winds during winter trek and this challenges you to the core and gives you the sense of achievement.
Family Friendly Factors of Lohagad Trekking
Lohagad trekking is also another suggestion for families who wish to have fun outside but not so strenuous and which would be suitable for every age level. In as much as the Lohagad Trekking is moderately challenging, the scenic nature view and history makes the trek worthy of a family tourism special break.
Child-Friendly Trail:
The trail is well marked and not very dangerous, and therefore families with children who fancy adventure can use it. The inclination is relatively gradual and the route quite definite allowing young people to go Lohagad Trekking although supervision is required particularly on steep parts.
Educational Experience:
Lohagad Trekking provides an educational formation for kids and grown-ups. Because of the location and the opportunities to study the history and structures of the fort and the flora of the surrounding countryside, children can become acquainted with the past, architecture, and population of the region. Parents can make a game out of the trip and tell the kids historical facts about the fort as well as other facts and features of plant and animal life that they witness on the journey along the trail.
Picnic Spots:
A number of benches are provided at some point along the trail and also at the fort where families can make a stop and have their picnic. These places provide beautiful and quiet environments and can therefore be used to rest before going on with the journey.
Safety Considerations for Families:
If the Lohagad Trekking is to be done with kids, security must be enhanced. Make sure that everyone wears the correct foot and leg wear, other clothes and that they also have enough water and snacks and also that children are closely monitored when on the trek. It also laid down that it is wise to start Lohagad Trekking in the early morning so that the huge heat of the day does not catch up with you and there is still enough day light.
Guide of Lohagad Trekking to Lohagad Fort for Solo Traveler
For individuals who like to perform solo trekking then Lohagad is a good place to be at for those wishing to be alone in their journeys of discovery. The stroll is a perfect mix of exploration and contemplation together with the appreciation of nature and therefore, such a tour is ideal for individual travelers.
Freedom to Explore:
Trekking alone afford the opportunity to move from one place to another without having any heed to anyone’s timetables or foreseeable future. If you feel like taking a break the take in the views or hiking inside the fort area, trekking alone lets you make your experience as you want it to be.
Personal Growth:
Lohagad Trekking alone tests your skills and your intuition in a most profound way. The model provides confidence; it fosters both the students and a spirit of learning and independence. Crossing through the path, getting past the hurdles and ascending to the top alone can be very liberating.
Meeting Fellow Trekkers:
As for Lohagad, it has always been a trekking site while most solo travelers meet other trekkers on the trail. It also creates a chance to interact with such people, discuss and even exchange experiences as well as making new friends. Nevertheless, the company that trekkers find during Lohagad Trekking is one of the advantages of solo trekking.
Safety Tips for Solo Trekkers:
As engaging in trekking brings many benefits for the trekkers, solo trekking also has following drawbacks Solo trekking is comparatively dangerous than in-group treks. It is always advisable to let someone know you had gone for trekking and the estimated time to be back. It is also important to feed your phone, bring a map or GPS locator and an emergency kit including simple first aid items. Another precaution can be taken is beginning early and not be on the trek during night also one more thing must be kept in mind.
Conclusion
Get Ready for a Stunning Lohagad Trekking:
The chief attractiveness of Lohagad trekking is that there are historical ruins to see, wildlife and bird watching, natural beauty, and adventure for different types of trekkers. Lohagad Trekking is for the person who is doing his first trek, for the person who is an adventure lover, for the family who wants to spend some time in the lap of nature, for the person who is a loner and wants some time from the world.
Such as, cultural tourism, fauna and flora, some moderate trekking and local food – all adds up to GOC’s attraction to tourists, making it the best Sahyadri trek for those looking forward to having the best of the nature. But again, it is an exercise, which needs certain preparation, good health, and appreciation of the terrain and people.
If one is interested in history, nature trail, and getting engaged with trekking as well as Body and mind exercise then Lohagad trekking would be among one’s choice. It doesn’t matter whether you are a first-time trekker or an experienced one who is out to tick another place off his list, Lohagad can guarantee that each experience is as enriching as it is fulfilling.
Therefore, is Lohagad Trekking being the best trekking for you? To which the answer is an unequivocal yes if the thoughts of trekking through greenery, searching for relics of the past and gaining the view from the top of a mountain sound appealing. Prepare your luggage, put on your hiking boots and plan to go on a vacation of your life time.
