Snapshots
The Vasota Fort Trek is the ideal option if you are looking for a trek through a dense forest where you can see historical sites and stunning scenery. Following this path will lead you to the historic Vasota Fort, also known as Vyaghragad or Tiger Fort. The Vasota Trek, situated in the Western Ghats' Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary, is a hidden treasure for adventurers interested in the Maratha's illustrious past, wildlife, and winding forest trails.
The Vasota Fort Trek will be an even more fascinating experience if you are familiar with the area's history. Bhoja II of the Shilahara dynasty constructed this fort in the 1600s. However, following its incorporation by Shivaji Maharaj in 1655, it became an important military station for the Maratha kingdom. Situated on a hilltop that overlooked important routes, it provided excellent observation and defence capabilities against invaders.
Why is Vasota Trek so fascinating?
Ambewadi, a small community near the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary, serves as the Vasota Trek's beginning point. This settlement is conveniently located for trekkers because it is easily accessible by car and offers basic services, including small shops and guesthouses. From Talewadi village, some hikers can also set out. Despite its difficulty and isolation, this path passes through beautiful, untouched wilderness. The most typical beginning location for hikers is the city of Pune in Maharashtra; however, both starting points are easily approachable from there.
The route that the Vasota Fort Trek follows is one of its finest features. The trail heads out from the village of Ambewadi and winds its way through the dense forest of the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary. Birds, monkeys, and even distant tigers and leopards are all possibilities. An enjoyable challenge, the Vasota Fort walk gradually ascends with moderate and difficult sections.
Things to do in Vasota Trek
- Start your trek with a boat ride: Very few hikes begin with a traverse of a lake. The Vasota Fort Trek begins in Bamnoli, where a small boat will take you across the backwaters of Koyna and Shivaji Sagar. The tranquil boat trip calms your mind and prepares you for a romantic hike in the forest.
- Get a real jungle experience: You won't find a well-kept path here. True Sahyadri jungle awaits you on the Vasota Fort Trek, complete with towering trees, occasional muddy patches during the rainy season, and the sound of birdsong in lieu of the sound of traffic. This is because the forest is so vibrant; many people go back there.
- Trek to get amazing views of the fort: Cracked stone, moss, and expansive vistas of the reservoir create an evocative atmosphere among the fort's ruins. An ideal vantage point for photographs and peaceful contemplation, the view from Vasota's peak is dramatic, taking in the surrounding ocean, ridgelines, and little islets.
- Spend some time near the Koyna River: Nights spent camping on the Koyna backwaters are second to none. Picture this: you're outside enjoying some local fare beside a crackling fire under a starry sky when suddenly a mist rises from the lake. People come back for those moments.
- Do some birdwatching: The walk passes through or is close to protected areas that are home to timid animals. Birdwatchers frequently come across raptors, peacocks, and bulbuls. The Vasota Fort Trek offers more than just a vista if you can manage to be quiet and patient.
Best time for a Vasota fort trek
- October through February is the ideal time to go on the Vasota Fort Trek. The track is at its most enjoyable with weather that ranges from 10 to 25 degrees Celsius, making it a wonderful time to go hiking.
- A verdant, multicoloured forest emerges from June through September, adorned with cascading waterfalls and a plethora of newly sprouting plants. However, you should only attempt to hike if you are an experienced hiker, as the trail might be slippery.
- The Vasota Fort hike may be too taxing during the summer months of March through May due to the high temperatures and humidity.
The difficulty level of the Vasota Fort trek
Those who have trekked before or are in excellent physical shape should tackle the Vasota trek with caution, as it is quite demanding. This is because the trail conditions can vary greatly, including rocky and uneven sections, woodland trails, and uphill sections. After a rain, the trail can be quite slick. It is highly recommended to hire a guide or join a group because the path is not always well signposted. It usually takes around 5 to 6 hours to climb Vasota Fort and about the same amount of time to descend.
It is certainly doable, but a one-day trek would be somewhat taxing. Due to the early morning start and late afternoon departure, there is little time to visit the Vasota fort. The two-day hike is the most popular option among trekkers. Spend the night at one of the neighbouring campsites or close to the Vasota Fort. You may relax and take in the serene scenery when the sun goes down and rises again.