Ratangad Jewel of the Sahyadris

6:40 PM: Depart from Kacheguda Railway Station via Ajanta Express (Train No. 17064) to Manmad Junction.

Overnight train journey — get a good night’s rest before the adventure begins!

8:30 AM: Arrive at Manmad Railway Station.
If we reach early, we’ll grab a quick breakfast near the station.
9:30 AM: Begin our scenic private vehicle journey towards Ratanwadi Base Village.
On the way, we’ll stop for breakfast and a short sightseeing detour.
1:00 – 2:00 PM: En route, visit Bhandardara Dam (Arthur Lake) and Randha Waterfall.
📍 Location: Along the Pravara River.
💡 Highlights:

• Bhandardara Dam is known for its serene blue waters surrounded by lush green Sahyadri hills.
• Optional short boat ride or lakeside relaxation and photography.
• Randha Waterfall is a dramatic 170-ft cascade — especially beautiful during monsoon months.
  🍴 Lunch break here — either local eatery or packed lunch by the lake.

5:00 PM: Arrive at Ratanwadi Base Village — a picturesque hamlet nestled beside Bhandardara backwaters.
Check-in to your homestay or campsite.
5:30 PM: Visit the Shree Amruteshwar Temple
🛕 About: A 9th-century Hemadpanthi-style Shiva temple built from black stone. Intricate carvings, a unique partially submerged Shivling, and peaceful surroundings make it a must-visit.
Spend about 20–30 minutes exploring and relaxing here.
Evening: Dinner and overnight stay at Ratanwadi. Briefing on the next day’s trek before rest.

3:30 AM: Wake-up call. Freshen up and have light tea/snacks.
Pack all backpacks — keep them in the vehicle (which will later move to Samrad Village for pickup).
4:00 AM: Start the Ratangad Fort Trek from Ratanwadi Base Village via the Ganesh Darwaja route.
Carry headlamps — initial section will be under early dawn light.
🥾 Trek Route Breakdown (Approx. 6.5 km ascent, 3.5–4 hrs)

1. Ratanwadi to Forest Trail (0 – 1 km):

• Start from Amruteshwar Temple trailhead.
• Gradual muddy path leading into dense forest.
• Morning mist and chirping birds make this a serene start.

2. Forest Trail to Stream Crossing (1 – 2.5 km):

• Narrow path along fields and streams.
• During monsoon, multiple small water crossings.
• Watch for small waterfalls and moss-covered boulders.

3. Stream Crossing to Plateau (2.5 – 4 km):

• Gradual incline opens into a wide plateau with grasslands.
• Beautiful view of Bhandardara Lake behind you.
• Rest point for hydration and light snacks.

4. Plateau to Fort Base (4 – 5.5 km):

• Path starts getting steeper; rocky terrain begins.
• Iron ladders come into view — 2 main ladders aid the final climb.
• Strong winds and panoramic views appear as you ascend.

5. Final Ladder Climb to Ganesh Darwaja Entrance (5.5 – 6.5 km):

• Two iron ladders fixed on rock faces.
• After climbing, you’ll enter through the Ganesh Darwaja — the main gate of Ratangad Fort.
  🏰 At the Summit (Approx. 8:00 AM)

Explore the magnificent remains and enjoy 360° Sahyadri views.
📍 Key Attractions on the Fort:

• Nedhe (Eye of the Needle): A naturally formed hole in the mountain — one of Ratangad’s iconic viewpoints offering sweeping vistas of the Bhandardara Lake and valleys.
• Bastions & Caves: Small water cisterns, fort walls, and meditation caves (great for breakfast/snack break).
• Viewpoints: Spot nearby peaks like Kalsubai (highest peak of Maharashtra), Alang-Madan-Kulang, and Wilson Dam.

🕗 Time on top: Around 1 hour for exploration, photos, and light snacks.

⛰️ Descent – Tryambak Darwaja Route → Samrad Village
9:00 AM: Begin descent via the Tryambak Darwaja route (different from ascent).

• Trail passes grassy ridges, steep rocky patches, and open plateaus.
• Offers magnificent views of the Reverse Waterfall, where water appears to flow upward due to strong monsoon winds.
• This route is slightly more rugged but shorter and connects directly to Samrad Village.

12:30 PM: Reach Samrad Village — trek ends here.
Vehicle (already relocated) will be waiting for pickup.
🍛 1:00 PM: Home-cooked Maharashtrian lunch at a local house (bhakri, pithla, rice, vegetable curry, and buttermilk).
1:30 PM: Depart from Samrad → Manmad Railway Station.
6:30 – 7:00 PM: Reach Manmad. Freshen up and grab snacks.
8:40 PM: Board Ajanta Express (Train No. 17063) back to Hyderabad.
Overnight train journey.
Seasonal Waterfalls: Nhani, Necklace, Vasundhara, Koltembhe, Randha — can be covered only if water flow is active during the season.

9:30 AM: Reach Kacheguda

Please read the terms below carefully before RSVPing to the event.
📍 Important Notes

• The schedule may shift slightly based on weather, daylight, and group pace.
• Trek difficulty: Moderate (mix of forest trails, ladders, and rocky climbs).
• Ensure early start for safe descent before heat.
• Organiser’s decisions on route and timing will be final for group safety.