Ratangad Fort, a 400-year-old hill fort in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, is a trekker’s delight. Known for its historical significance, breathtaking views of Bhandardara backwaters, and the iconic "Nedhe" or Eye of the Needle rock formation, the Ratangad trek is perfect for both adventure and nature lovers. Here's a complete guide on how to reach Ratangad Fort and enjoy this iconic Sahyadri experience.
📍 Location Details:
- Fort Name: Ratangad Fort
- Height: 4,255 ft (1,297 meters)
- Region: Ahmednagar District
- Nearest Town: Bhandardara
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Time to Reach Summit: 2.5 to 4 hours (one way)
🛣️ Base Village: Ratanwadi
- Ratanwadi is the base village for the Ratangad trek.
- It is also home to the famous Amruteshwar Temple, a beautiful 1200-year-old Shiva temple.
- The village is accessible by road and partially via boat ride across Arthur Lake (optional from Bhandardara).
🗺️ Google Maps Link to Base Village:
📌 Ratanwadi, Base Village
📌 Ratangad Fort
🚗 How to Reach Ratangad Trek (Ratanwadi):
From Mumbai:
By Car:
- Mumbai → Kasara → Igatpuri → Ghoti → Bhandardara → Ratanwadi
- Total Distance: ~180 km
- Duration: ~5–6 hours
By Train + Local Transport:
- Train to Kasara (Central Line)
- From Kasara, take a shared jeep or ST bus to Ghoti or Bhandardara
- From Bhandardara, hire a jeep or take a boat ride across Arthur Lake to reach Ratanwadi
From Pune:
By Car:
- Pune → Sangamner → Akole → Bhandardara → Ratanwadi
- Total Distance: ~175 km
- Duration: ~5 hours
By Bus/Train:
- Travel to Sangamner or Igatpuri via bus/train
- Then take local transport or jeep to Ratanwadi via Bhandardara
🥾 Trek Route Details:
- Start from Ratanwadi village near Amruteshwar Temple
- Trail includes forest walk, rocky patches, and ladder climb
- Reach the caves midway where trekkers often rest or camp
- The summit features the Nedhe (natural rock hole) with panoramic views
🌟 Key Attractions:
- Amruteshwar Temple – Hemadpanthi architecture
- Nedhe (Eye of the Needle) – Iconic natural rock window
- Ratangad Caves – Good for overnight stay
- Bhandardara Backwaters View – Mesmerizing sunrise/sunset view
- Seasonal waterfalls and wildflowers during monsoon
🕒 Best Time to Visit:
- Monsoon (July–September): Lush greenery, misty views, slippery trails
- Post-Monsoon (October–December): Clear views, blooming flowers
- Winter (Jan–Feb): Cold nights, best for camping
- Avoid summer due to heat and lack of water sources
🏕️ Camping & Stay:
- Camping: Allowed in the Ratangad caves (carry sleeping bags/mats)
- Homestays: Available in Ratanwadi village
- Bhandardara: Offers resorts, lodges, and lakeside camps
🎒 Trekking Essentials:
- Water (at least 2–3 litres), snacks, energy bars
- Torch/headlamp (especially if camping in caves)
- Windcheater/raincoat in monsoon
- Sturdy trekking shoes
- Avoid plastics; carry your waste back
- Basic first-aid kit
🧷 Nearby Attractions:
- Sandhan Valley Trek
- Kalsubai Peak (Highest in Maharashtra)
- Wilson Dam & Arthur Lake
- Randha Falls
- Umbrella Falls
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