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Ghanchakkar trek

The Ghanchakkar Trek is a trek in the Sahyadri mountain range of Maharashtra, India, often combined with the climb to Bhairavgad (Shirpunje) fort.

Ghanachakkar Range Trek (shirpunje-bhairavgad-ghanachakkar-gavaldev-katrabai-pass-kumshet)

Akole taluka is probably the most picturesque region of Sahyadri. It has three prominent east-west mountain ranges – Harishchandragad range on the south, Ghanachakkar range in the middle and Kalsubai range in the north, these host numerous gads, as well as tallest peaks of western ghats. On the west, you have kokankada with ferocious drops of 3000-4000ft to take you down to konkan, rather quickly if you are not careful. We trekked the Ghanachakkar range this weekend.

We drove to Shirpunje overnight and started for Bhairavgad at 7:30. There is a temple at the top with horse mounted carved idol of Bhairavnath. After taking his blessings, we started westward, travelling mostly on the ridge. First stop was Ghanachakkar, #3 peak in sahyadri. Next stop, Gavaldev, #4, turned out to be tricky due to steep slopewith to scree. A bit of halt, some food and photography, we pushed on towards Katrabai pass. Really stunning views on both sides through-out this trail. Harishchandragad, Nhapta, Kaladgad, Rohidas on the south side, Alang-Madan-Kulang, Kalsubai, Bhandardara lake on the north side, Ratangad, Katrabai ahead of us – so many VIPs of sahyadri are located here. We descended from Katrabai pass to Kumshet village to for the night’s rest.

Next day, our bus dropped us few km ahead towards Ajoba. That is the western most point of this range and probably most stunning views of kokankad. But we were not lucky. About halfway, the trail turned out to be very difficult, there were some rockslides, much harder than anticipated. Our group leaders decided to turn the group back. We had a long journey back to Pune ahead of us. It was midnight when we reached back to Pune.

https://www.wikiloc.com/hiking-trails/ghanachakkar-range-trek-shirpunje-bhairavgad-ghanachakkar-gavaldev-katrabai-pass-kumshet-118812401

Here are the key details:

Ghanchakkar and Bhairavgad (Shirpunje) are two distinct geographical and historical points that are located adjacent to each other and are almost always covered together in a single trek.

The fundamental difference lies in their nature:

Feature Ghanchakkar Bhairavgad (Shirpunje)
Nature Peak / Mountain Hill Fort (Giri Durg)
Primary Identity One of the highest peaks in Maharashtra (3rd or 4th highest). An ancient fort (estimated to be 2500 years old) with historical significance.
Altitude Higher: Approx. meters ( feet). Lower than Ghanchakkar: Approx. meters ( feet).
Key Attractions Panoramic 360-degree views of the Sahyadri range. Ancient caves, water cisterns (water tanks), ruins of structures, and a shrine to Lord Bhairavnath.
Trek Route Element The summit is often reached after a traverse from the fort or via a separate climb. Features the famous long metal ladder route, which is a major thrill element of the combined trek.

 

Summary of their Relationship

 

  • Location: They are two different points on the same mountain mass or range, very close to each other.
  • The Trek: The popular trek is a combination of both, often called the Bhairavgad-Ghanchakkar Trek. Trekkers often reach the fort first, explore its historical elements, and then proceed to the higher Ghanchakkar peak for the commanding views.
  • Base Village: Both are approached from the same base village, Shirpunje.

In short, Bhairavgad (Shirpunje) is the historic fort with the caves and ladders, while Ghanchakkar is the neighboring, higher peak that offers expansive views.

The road leading to Ghanchakkar and Gawlidev
One Day Trek

Ghanchakkar 1532 m; Bhairavgad 1523 m; Gavladev 1520 m
are three nearby peaks located in Kalsubai Harishchandra Gad Sanctuary. Ghanchakkar is the third highest peak in Maharashtra. Trekkers have to reach Ghanchakkar peak by either going through Bhairavgad from Shirpunje village or by climbing the hill of Shirpunje village. The route is confusing and long-winded, taking about 2 hours from where one can trek to Gavladev. 

Pass between both Bhairavgad and Ghanchakkar mountains
Starting at $400-600

Since Bhairoba is the deity of the people of Panchkroshi, the path to Bhairavgad is well-paved. There are stone-carved steps and railings at many places on this path. In 1 hour, we reach the pass between Bhairavgad and the mountain next to it. There is a tank at the top here. Further, there are beautiful steps carved in the rock. After climbing these steps, we see the ramparts of the fort and the ruined entrance facing north. After entering the fort through the entrance, there are 4 tanks carved in the rock on the right side. There is a dry tank in front of it. After seeing them, we start walking along the path leading to the cave (to the south), and there is a large pillar tank on the left side. The path to the tank is also made of stone carving. A beautiful ravine is carved on the side of this tank. On the top of the tank, there are three large pits dug. After seeing the tank and the large pits above it, when you return to the path and go towards the cave, there are 4 tanks carved in the rock on the right side. On the top of it, there are 4 more water tanks. There is a cave carved in the rock next to the tank. This cave also has an arched entrance.

After seeing the tank and the cave, come back on the path and go north towards Bhairoba’s cave, on the right side there is a four and a half feet high Virgal. Further on the left side, on the top of the cave, there is a Virgal. All four sides of this Virgal are carved. Near the Virgal, worn-out idols of Ganapati are placed with vermilion. After seeing that, go down the steps dug in the rock and go to the Bhairoba cave carved on the edge of the cliff, where there is a Virgal on the outside. There is a horse-mounted idol of Bhairoba in the cave. The cave, located on the side of Bhairoba’s cave, can accommodate 10 people. A railing is installed on the side of the cave’s cliff. From here, Shirpunje village and the surrounding area are visible. A gate is installed on one side of this railing. There is a path to descend from there. There is a cave at the bottom. It must have been used for surveillance.

After seeing Bhairoba, we reach the top of the cave and start climbing up on the left side. After seeing this tank, we start walking towards the highest peak of the fort. On the right side, there are two caves carved in the rock. The big cave, which is supported by two pillars, now looks like a tank because of the accumulation of water. There is a small cave on the right side of the big cave. It is also filled with water. After seeing the cave, we reach the top of the fort in 5 minutes through the footpath leading to the top of the fort. Here there are 3 water tanks carved in the rock. From the top of the fort, Harishchandragad and Pabargad forts are visible to the south.

How to reach:
There are two ways to reach Shirpunje, the foothills of Bhairavgad, from Mumbai.

1) On the Mumbai City Highway, reach Otur at 159 km via Kalyan, Murbad, Malshej Ghat. A road along the side of Otur bus station goes to Kotul village 30 km above via Bamanwada. From Kotul, after traveling 22 km via Kotul Rajur to Rajur, another 22 km away is Shirpunje village. From Rajur, via Hiledev, there is Manik Ozhar village. From Manik Ozhar village, take the right route to Dhamanvan Shirpunje village via Savarkute. After coming down from the bus stop of this village, after passing two turns, there is a bridge over the river. After crossing the bridge, immediately on the left side, a road is seen climbing up. There is also a board saying “Shirpunje Bhairavgad”. This road goes directly to the foot of Bhairavgad. A vehicle like a jeep goes to the foot of the hill.

 

2) Go on Mumbai Nashik highway till Ghoti. From Ghoti, reach Rajur (distance 155 km) via Bhandardara. From Rajur, via Hiledev, there is Manik Ojar village. From Manik Ojar village, take a right turn to Dhamanavan Shirpunje village via Savarkute. After coming down from the bus stop of this village, after crossing two turns, there is a bridge over the river. Immediately after crossing the bridge, a road is seen climbing up on the left side. There is also a board saying “Shirpunje Bhairavgad”. This road goes directly to the foot of Bhairavgad. A vehicle like a jeep goes to the foot of the hill.

There are ST buses and jeeps available to go from Rajur to Ambit. It takes about half an hour to reach the fort by walking down the Shirpunje pass.
Food facilities:
Will be provided as per your requirement.
Water facilities:
The water in the tank on the fort is drinkable.
Travel time:
It takes 45 hours to reach the fort from Shirpunje village.

Bhairavgad Shirpunje Hotel Ghanchakar Pabhargad Camping Tracking Guide Shirpunje bk, Devachiwadi, Rajur, Tal, Maharashtra 422604
08055901709

https://maps.app.goo.gl/snLxbdj74FVgGrrb7

Ghanchakkar Peak

  • Location: Ahmednagar District, Maharashtra. It lies within the Kalsubai–Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary.

  • Altitude: Approximately 1,532 meters (5,026 feet). It is considered the third or fourth highest peak in Maharashtra.

  • Difficulty: Moderate.

  • Trek Duration: Climbing the Ghanchakkar Peak itself generally takes about 2.5 to 3 hours for the ascent and around 2 hours for the descent from the base village of Shirpunje. The entire trek, including Bhairavgad, is typically a 1-day or 1-night/2-day event.

  • Base Village: Shirpunje village (near Rajur) is the most common starting point.

Ghanchakkar via Harishchandragad” refers to a challenging point-to-point trek in the Sahyadris, connecting Ghanchakkar peak to Harishchandragad fort via a high-altitude route including the Bhairavgad-Ghanchakkar trail. This trek is known for its rugged terrain, scenic ridge walks, and the historic importance of Bhairavgad, which can be included before or after Ghanchakkar. [1, 2, 3, 4]

 

Trek Highlights

  • Bhairavgad-Ghanchakkar Link: This is the core of the “via” route, offering thrilling ascents and ridge walks to Ghanchakkar peak, which is Maharashtra’s 4th highest summit. [1, 2, 5]

  • Challenging & Rugged: The terrain is rocky and includes scrambling, making it a difficult trek suitable for experienced trekkers. [3, 6]

  • Scenic Beauty: The route provides panoramic views of other prominent peaks in the Sahyadri range, such as Kalsubai and Ratangad, as well as scenic forest paths. [1, 7]

  • Historic & Spiritual: The trek includes Bhairavgad, a historic fort with caves, and the opportunity to experience sunrise over the mountains, according to thetravelhood.in. [1, 4]

Practical Considerations

  • Base Villages: The route typically starts from villages like Shirpunje or Kumshet, which serve as entry points to the Ghanachakkar-Bhairavgad region. [2, 7]

  • Logistics: The lack of public transport in the remote area makes it necessary to rely on private vehicles or jeeps to reach the base villages. [2]

  • Trek Duration: This is a longer, point-to-point trek, often requiring an overnight stay at a village like Kumshet to complete the route to Harishchandragad. [2, 7]

  • Fitness: A good level of physical and mental fitness is required to navigate the challenging ascents and descents. [8]

Key Highlights

  • Bhairavgad (Shirpunje): The trek is usually combined with a visit to the ancient Bhairavgad Fort. The fort is known for its caves, water cisterns, and a shrine dedicated to Lord Bhairavnath.

  • Ladder Trail: The route often includes a section with a long metal ladder set up along the rock face, which adds an exciting, adventurous element to the climb.

  • Panoramic Views: From the top of Ghanchakkar, you get a breathtaking 360-degree view of the surrounding Sahyadris, including prominent peaks like Kalsubai, Alang-Madan-Kulang (AMK), Harishchandragad, and a view of the Bhandardara dam.

  • Landscape: The Ghanchakkar plateau is a barren, rugged landscape on the summit, though the initial trek passes through scenic, sometimes lush, forest trails.

Best Time to Visit

  • Post-Monsoon (September to October): This is often cited as the best time, as the monsoon rains leave the mountains lush green, and the famous “valley of flowers” near the base of Bhairavgad is in bloom.

  • Winter (October to February): The weather is pleasant and favorable for trekking.

Note: Water scarcity can be an issue, especially in the summer. Trekkers are strongly advised to carry at least 3 liters of water per person. Many trekkers hire a local guide, especially if combining it with the lesser-known Bhairavgad route.

While the most famous “Ghanchakkar Trek” is in Himachal Pradesh, there is indeed a prominent peak named Ghanchakkar in Maharashtra. However, it is not a separate trek by itself.

Instead, Ghanchakkar is a thrilling and essential part of the larger Harishchandragad Trek in the Sahyadri ranges. It’s a highlight for adventure seekers visiting Harishchandragad.

Here is a complete guide to reaching and experiencing the Ghanchakkar peak in Maharashtra.

Understanding Ghanchakkar in Maharashtra

  • Location: Part of the Harishchandragad fort plateau, Ahmednagar district, near Malshej Ghat.

  • What it is: A distinct, cone-shaped peak situated near the main Harishchandragad fort. The name “Ghanchakkar” literally translates to “round grinding stone,” which its shape resembles.

  • The Main Attraction: The trek to the top of Ghanchakkar involves a thrilling and exposed rock patch climb that makes it a memorable adventure. The 360-degree view from the summit is considered one of the best in the Sahyadris.

The Trek: Ghanchakkar via Harishchandragad

You don’t trek to Ghanchakkar directly from a base village. You first trek to the top of the Harishchandragad plateau and then make your way to the Ghanchakkar peak.

At a Glance

  • Overall Trek: Harishchandragad

  • Difficulty Level: Moderate (The Ghanchakkar rock patch is Difficult and requires caution)

  • Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night

  • Max Altitude: ~1,424 meters (4,672 feet)

  • Base Village (Easiest Route): Pachnai

Suggested 2-Day Itinerary (Pachnai Route)

This is the simplest and most popular route to reach Harishchandragad, from where you can access Ghanchakkar.

Day 1: Ascent to Harishchandragad & Ghanchakkar Summit

  • Trek from Pachnai to Harishchandragad Plateau:

    • Distance: ~5 km

    • Duration: 2.5 – 3 hours

    • Trail: The trail from Pachnai is well-marked and relatively straightforward compared to other routes like Khireshwar. It’s a gradual climb through a mix of rocky steps and forested patches.

  • Reaching the Top: You will emerge onto the massive plateau of Harishchandragad. Here, you’ll find the ancient Harishchandreshwar Temple, several caves (perfect for camping), and a water cistern.

  • Trek to Ghanchakkar Peak (Late Afternoon):

    • After setting up your camp in the caves or on the plateau, you can head towards Ghanchakkar.

    • The walk to the base of the peak is easy.

    • The Rock Patch: The final 30-40 feet ascent is a narrow, exposed rock climb. While experienced trekkers can do it without equipment, it requires a good grip, confidence, and a head for heights. Hiring a local guide is highly recommended for this section, especially if you are a beginner. They can help with a rope for safety.

    • The Summit: The view from the top is your reward! You get a stunning 360-degree view of the surrounding peaks like Taramati, Ajoba, and Muda, and the vast Konkan plains on one side and the Deccan plateau on the other.

  • Evening: Return to your campsite. Enjoy a simple meal, watch the sunset paint the sky, and camp under a blanket of stars.

Day 2: Sunrise, Exploration & Descent

  • Sunrise at Konkan Kada: Wake up early and visit the famous Konkan Kada, a breathtaking cliff-face not far from the main temple. It offers a spectacular view of the sunrise and the floating cloud phenomenon below.

  • Explore: After breakfast, you can explore the Kedareshwar cave, which houses a massive Shivling.

  • Descent: Begin your descent back to the Pachnai village. The descent is quicker and takes about 2 hours. You can have lunch at the village and head back home.

Key Highlights of the Experience

  1. The Ghanchakkar Rock Patch: The main thrill. It’s an adventure that tests your nerve and climbing skills.

  2. 360-Degree Panoramic View: The unobstructed view from the summit is the primary reason to make this climb.

  3. Camping in Ancient Caves: Spending the night in the centuries-old caves on the Harishchandragad plateau is a unique experience.

  4. Konkan Kada: This iconic cliff is a must-visit. The sheer drop and the view are awe-inspiring.

  5. Harishchandreshwar Temple: The beautifully carved temple from the medieval era is a marvel of architecture.

Important Information

Best Time to Visit

  • Post-Monsoon (September to December): This is the best time. The weather is pleasant, the landscape is lush green, and the skies are clear.

  • Winter (January to February): Also a great time. The weather is crisp and cold, perfect for trekking. Night temperatures on the plateau can drop significantly.

  • Monsoon (June to August): Avoid. The rock patch becomes extremely slippery and dangerous. The region is prone to dense fog and heavy rainfall.

How to Reach Pachnai Base Village

  • From Mumbai/Pune: Take a bus or drive to Ale Phata or Malshej Ghat. From there, you can hire a local jeep (tam-tam) to reach Pachnai village. The road is motorable but in a rustic condition.

What to Carry

  • Sturdy Trekking Shoes with Excellent Grip: This is non-negotiable, especially for the Ghanchakkar rock patch.

  • Backpack (30-40L) with a rain cover.

  • Tent (if you don’t want to stay in caves), Sleeping Bag, Sleeping Mat.

  • At least 2 liters of water and water purification tablets/filters.

  • Food: Snacks, energy bars, and ready-to-cook meals for dinner and breakfast.

  • First-aid kit: Include antiseptic, bandages, pain relievers, and medication for allergies or cramps.

  • Torch/Headlamp with extra batteries.

  • Cash (no ATMs nearby).

  • A rope (optional but recommended) if your group is experienced.

Final Tip

While the trek to Harishchandragad is moderate, the climb to Ghanchakkar is the challenging part. Do not underestimate the rock patch. If you have any hesitation, hire a local guide from Pachnai. They are affordable, know the terrain like the back of their hand, and ensure your safety.

In summary, to experience the Ghanchakkar trek in Maharashtra, you need to embark on the classic Harishchandragad adventure and add this exciting peak climb to your itinerary. It’s an experience that combines history, nature, and pure adrenaline.