Salher Fort

Salher Fort is the highest fort located in the Sahyadri Mountains. Set at an elevation of 5141 feet above sea level, the Salher Mountain Peak is the second highest peak in Maharashtra after Kalsubai and the 32^nd highest peak located in the Western Ghats. Situated near Satana tehsil in Maharashtra’s Nashik district, Salher Fort is a must-do on every trekkers to-do list.

Salher Fort has a rich history. According to a legend, it is the place where Lord Parshuram did ‘Tapascharya’ or Penance. In return for his penance, he received the earth, but he donated it. Instead he pushed back the sea with his arrows to create a land where he could live. It is believed that he shot those arrows from Salher Fort. In addition, Salher Fort was one of the most celebrated forts belonging to the Maratha Empire. The fortune acquired from the raid of Surat made its first pit stop at Salher, before making its way to other capital forts.

Salher Fort was conquered by Chattrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1671, during his campaign of the Baglan region. On hearing this news Aurangzeb, the Mughal king became incensed, and sent a huge army to reclaim the fort. As a result, in 1672, a huge battle, known as the Battle of Salher, ensued between the Mughals and the Maratha Empire. It is significant for being the first battle in which the Mughals lost on an open field. Even though many soldiers lost their lives in this bloody encounter, the Maratha army’s military prowess, bravery, strength and clever warfare strategies took center stage and Salher Fort was reclaimed. This further contributed to Shivaji Maharaj’s widespread fame and eventual rise to power. After Salher, the Maratha’s also conquered the neighbouring Mulher Fort. Salher Fort was occupied by the Peshwas in the 18^th century, and later by the British.

The Salher Fort trek is considerably challenging, especially for beginners. Situated near the Maharashtra – Gujarat border, the location of the fort is quite remote. There are two routes trek leading up to Salher Fort, one begins at the base village of Waghambe and another starts at Salherwadi village.

The Waghambe route leads to the col between Salher Fort and Salota Fort, so you can do both the forts in one day. The ascend to the top takes approximately 2 hours and is very steep. So, be extra careful as you climb over the rocky patches. You will come across 4 entrances on this route. The 4^th entrance in the main entryway which opens up to the vast expanse of Salher top. Also, near the 3^rd and 4^Th entrance you will see about 20 ancient rock-cut caves.

The Salherwadi route to reach Salher Fort is longer and tougher than the Waghambe route. On this route, you will come across 6 entrances and it will take at least 3 hours to reach the tip. However, this route is clearly marked and there are no chances of getting lost or off-track. No matter which you route you take, you will be rewarded with some spectacular views on the region below as you make your way to the top.

There is a big lake known as Gangasagar Lake atop the fort. It has water all through the year, but the water isn’t potable. Temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha and Goddess Renuka Devi are also situated next to this lake. Ahead lies a route that splits into two. One leads to a water tank. There are remnants of a ‘Yagnavedi’, an old construction which was used for yagnas or sacred fire rituals, near the tank. The other route near the lake leads to three caves and a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. You may relax in one of the caves and even stay overnight if you have bought along cooking equipment and sleeping bags.

A path next to these caves leads you to the topmost part of the fort, where a dilapidated temple dedicated to Lord Parshuram is situated. From this point, enjoy the most amazing view of the entire Baglan region. You will be able to see several captivating spots in the distance including Satmaal Range, Dhodap Fort, Ikhara Pinnacle, Mangi–Tungi Pinnacle, Nhavigad, Tambolya, Hanuman Tekdi, Mulhergad, Hargad, Moragad, Salota and Haranbari Dam.  After exploring the fort, you may descend and go to Salota Fort or else go to the base village.