Exciting Dhodap Fort Trek

The adventurous Dhodap Fort Trek is one of the most popular and thrilling treks in Nashik District. It requires quite a bit of trekking skills and expertise. Dhodap Fort is situated at a height of approximately 4829 feet above sea leve and is the second highest fort in the Sahyadris after Salher Fort. In addition, it is Maharashtra’s third highest peak and the 29^th highest peak in the Western Ghats.

Dhodap Fort is about 281 km away from Pune and it takes about 7 to 8 hours of travelling by road to reach the fort. The fort has two base villages – Hatti and Vadala. Most trekkers prefer the Hatti village route as it is easier and shorter in distance when compared to the Vadala village route. From Hatti village it takes about 3 to 4 hours to reach the top of the fort. There are a few rocky patches on this route and you may need the assistance of ropes and other rock-climbing gear to climb over them.

Atop the fort, there are several things to explore including a big water tank known as Hanuman Taaki, Shembi Cliff, Persian inscriptions near the fort entrance, several caves, bastions, water cisterns, and many other ancient ruins. One of the temples on the fort is dedicated to Goddess Dhodambdevi, the presiding deity of Dhodap. The fort also has temples dedicated to Lord Hanuman, Lord Ganesha and Lord Shiva.

After exploring the fort, you can relax in one of larger caves. You may even stay there for the night if you have brought along the required cooking equipment and sleeping bags. Or else, start descending back to the base village.