Dangerous monsoon treks
The most dangerous monsoon treks in Maharashtra are the ones that have a high risk of landslides, rockfalls, Slippery conditions, huge crowds, and whiteout conditions. These can be some of the scariest moments for trekkers as they sometimes don't know what to expect. The worst part is when people go into these journeys not knowing what to expect. This blog post will give you an idea of how dangerous each trek is so you can decide if it's worth going on them or not!
Dhak Bahiri Trek - Most Dangerous Trek near Karjat in Monsoon
The Dhak Bahiri Trek in Karjat is one of the most dangerous monsoon treks in Maharashtra that takes you through some of the most breathtaking scenery. You will be hiking for 6-7 hours, and at times walking up steep inclines with loose gravel where one wrong step could send you tumbling down the mountainside. Along this trek, there are caves, windy paths, and slippery surfaces to watch out for, so it can be quite dangerous if not careful. The best part of this trek is making it to the top of Dhak Bahiri Caves, which overlooks the Valley. This view alone makes your journey worthwhile! Watch out for landslides and rockfalls during the monsoon treks.
Pro tip: Join a trekking company with a technical team of expert and climbing gear. They will manage the grade and your safety and make sure you complete the trek safely. You would endure a wilderness trek and rock climbing activity bound to provide you a super adventuresome spirit. This Dhak Bahiri Cave trek is best attempted around the winter season.
Adventurous Bhimashankar Trek via Shidi Ghat
The Bhimashankar Trek via Shidi Ghat is adventurous. The trek starts from Shidi Ghat and ends at Bhimashanker, which takes about four to six hours. This trek offers spectacular views of the Padargad and can be done in the winter season also. There are two other easier paths to choose from: one that's easier going but longer known as Ganesh Ghat and another shorter Bhor Giri route nearer to Pune. You can also drive to Bhimashankar.
On weekends the trek attracts many Indian hikers from all over Maharashtra. It is also a pilgrimage site for many during the month of Shravan. Most Pilgrim's climb from Ganesh Ghat with their friends and families takes around six hours from Ganesh Ghat. Be careful if the crowd is huge on Shidi Ghat as the route is prone to rockfall. Locals will warn you about the route and ask you to choose the Ganesh Ghats. There are ladders placed now to make the rock patch section safer and easier. Wear good trekking shoes like campus trekking shoes as the entire patch can be slippery. The rope is a must to help first-timers negotiate the climb in certain sections.
Pro Tip: Avoid the weekends as there will be a huge rush on the trek and at Bhimashankar as the endpoint is well connected by road. If this is your first trek, take the Ganesh Ghat route. Although longer, it is more enjoyable with many Dhabas for refreshment and snacks.
Adventurous Jivdhan Fort Trek
The trek to Jivdhan Fort near Naneghat has everything that a mountain lover's heart can wish for. It is an adventurous, fun, and scenic trek with a myriad of terrain. The route passes through the rugged hills up to the fort, which offers an amazing reverse waterfall, Naneghat, and beautiful valleys below. It takes one day for skilled trekkers to complete this challenging but rewarding journey from Naneghat to Jivdhan Fort. Along the way, one might encounter various obstacles such as slippery rock patches, tricky rock patches, or even whiteout conditions at times! Caution if it rains heavily, you should avoid this trek in the rock patch section. The water flow currents can become overpowering, and there will be a whiteout on the fort top. The local guide is a must on this trek to avoid getting lost on this trek with low visibility during the monsoon.
Pro Tip: Attempt this trek after the monsoon season to watch the Sonki flowers bloom and form a carpet of yellow hue on the plateau area. It is also a lot safer to climb during the winter season.
Kalavantin Durg Trek - Most Dangerous Trek near Mumbai in Monsoon
The Kalavantin Durg Trek Trek is a one-day trekking adventure of the rugged mountain terrain in Raigad District. This trip will take you through breathtaking scenery, as well as treacherous conditions that present themselves with every step. You may find yourself climbing rock cut steps exposed on one side without any barriers to protect you from falling. Thousands of trekkers climb the mountains on weekends, creating a huge rush and a dangerous atmosphere for hikers on the slope. All while trying to keep your footing on a slippery rock-cut path and dirt paths often covered by moss and other debris from the recent rains. You will be exposed to changing weather conditions such as rainstorms, foggy whiteouts, thunderstorms, and aggressive crowds trying to reach the summit quickly, so bring appropriate gear for all situations!
Pro Tip: Kalavantin Durg Trek is best attempted during the weekdays when the crowds are very thin. Be prepared for any natural disaster or human-made disaster by checking your gear and making plans with loved ones before setting off on your next adventure!
Harihar Fort Trek - Most Dangerous Monsoon Trek in Maharashtra
Harihar fort is one of the toughest treks in India. The trek takes place on a high, steep mountain, and you need to be in good shape to finish it. You also need to know how to navigate your way through tricky rock-cut steps as well as avoid slipping on slippery rocks or getting caught up in whiteout conditions. Be prepared for some tough challenges!
Pro Tip: You should attempt Harihar Trek on a weekday to avoid the crowds. The Rockcut steps have holds while climbing and descending for support, but the large crowds make it challenging to climb the forts on weekends. Some other hiker is always in a hurry trying to overtake or taking a selfie at the worst spot possible.
Monsoon Trekking and Importance of Safety
The monsoon trekking season is here, and we want to remind you of the importance of safety. Be sure to plan, inform your family where you are going, check the weather forecast before heading out, wear proper trekking gear, invest in trekking shoes, and make sure that you book with a reputable company that will be there for any emergencies. Avoid booking with third-party aggregator portals as they will send your booking to the cheapest operator they can find for maximum profits.
Monsoon Trekking and Importance of Safety
The monsoon trekking season is here, and we want to remind you of the importance of safety. Be sure to plan, inform your family where you are going, check the weather forecast before heading out, wear proper trekking gear, invest in trekking shoes, and make sure that you book with a reputable company that will be there for any emergencies. Avoid booking with third-party aggregator portals as they will send your booking to the cheapest operator they can find for maximum profits.
Always choose the trekking operator after checking his reviews, website, associations, and feedback from friends and family. Avoid Monsoon Trekking groups that have started after one or two treks. They don't invest in trekking equipment, don't have well-trained guides, their trek leaders are part-timers, will choose the cheapest bus operator and local guides for route help, or such groups are formed in monsoon to make some income on the side. Monsoon trekking groups who mushroom up for a quick profit rely on trekking clubs for numbers, local contacts, rescue, and bus operators. Don't leave your safety on a chance with a group that started trekking after going on two or three treks.
We've listed some treks above, which have been graded on their difficulty level so that you can assess them before booking one! Have fun and stay safe out there!