Travelling is exploring your inner being. It always fascinates me as it brings a lot of challenges and expedition in my kitty. This time when I was planning my next trip, the third highest peak of Maharashtra named Ghanchakkar that is positioned beautifully amidst the Sahyadri ranges came out from my bucket list.
Overview of the destination:
These ranges offer an opportunity to observe the beauty of nature and lush green terrain that is perfect for hiking and trekking. Of course, any traveller would love to visit this place. SO, here I decided to take a plunge to the Ghanchakkar peak.
The topography of Ghanchakkar plateau in the western India is a rugged terrain with stunning mountains amidst the Sahyadri mountain ranges in Maharashtra. Ghanchakkar plateau is the third highest peak in the Western Ghats of Sahyadri mountain ranges. It stands beautifully, guarding the two small villages and the flora and fauna, at the height of 1532 meters ( 5,026 ft).
Two base villages surround ascents of the peak, out of which we visited Shirpunje village, which is positioned around 22 kilometres from Rajur on the northern side of the Sahyadri Mountains. Taking this village, a base one can trek the Ghanchakkar peak in around 2.5 hours.
Let’s begin our journey:
I would love to begin my journey with letting you guys a bit about this rugged topography and Rocky Mountains of Ghanchakkar peak. Although, the region is surrounded by gorgeous views, waterfalls, lakes and an extensive forest region that are the virtual paradise for camping, trekking, climbing etc. This region provides an array of choices for outdoor adventures and nature lovers.
It’s indeed a pleasure to illustrate the whole experience of the trek on a canvas of magnificent mountains standing high, stunning waterfalls and nature at its best. The group of around 24 adventure enthusiasts went crazy just with the thought of going on different type of trek and camping. This gusto led me to take a wrong train, Alas! But, I managed to get on the train to move ahead.
Well, wait, the journey to the base camp was thrilling as the monsoons added an extra charm to our trip. The lush green vicinity and the roads all drenched with rains made the view awesomely great. Not just this, the when a 7-year-old kid sat on the top of the jeep, everyone went awe-struck, she enjoyed immensely in the rains while on the top of the jeep with other travelers.
Unforgettable trek experiences
Accommodation: When we travel accommodation becomes an integral part, thus here, I had a home stay this time, which was in the heart a small remotely located village surrounded by the peaks and waterfalls. Yes, visualizing it is divine! The base village was actually a very tiny village that is not developed with a lot of modern amenities and lifestyle; rather I loved the place because of their immense welcoming attitude and treasured culture, which ideally, I was unable to experience in my urbane and chic lifestyle.
With few fellow trekkers we stayed for a night and relished local cuisine, home cooked by the villagers (Staple Maharashtrian food), in fact, we all helped them and learned about the local food that they eat. Moreover, it was great fun to cook with them as well. Wow! What a thrilling experience with the entire team and the co-trekkers. The stay was warm and cozy with mesmerizing views from the windows, needless to mention it was raining, thus the lush green grass and the tiny ponds made us felt like kids again. The whole idea of connecting and gelling up with the villagers paid off when we played with the kids of the villagers. It was indeed an unprecedented experience. Of course, selfies can’t be resisted!
Trek and Trail: We went for a night trail to enjoy the cool breeze and the serenity that this place has to offer. The team had fun at a huge lake that was approachable with an interesting small trek. The panoramic views and the rains was a terrific experience.
Come let’s go #solo and #gocrazy
#spiritedblogger