Located in Satara district of western Maharashtra, Vasota Fort is a favorite spot for those interested in trekking. This trek through dense forest passes through the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve. Bamnoli village, situated about 45 kilometers from Satara city by road, serves as the starting point. The route to Bamnoli goes through Kaas Pathar, the Valley of Flowers in Maharashtra. Bamnoli village is located on the shores of Shivsagar Lake, a very large lake with a length of around 50 kilometers.
I have always been fascinated by the forts built in the remote areas of Maharashtra. After learning about Vasota Fort, I always wanted to go on this trek. One day, we planned a trek, and all of us friends set out from Pune towards Bamnoli village in Satara at around 3 AM on a lazy morning. The distance from Pune to Bamnoli is 150 kilometers, which we covered in about 3 hours. In the morning, the view along the shores of Shivsagar Lake was beautiful. After having breakfast and buying boat tickets, we started moving towards the starting point of the Vasota Fort trek on the other side of the lake.
Shivsagar Lake was quite deep, surrounded by hills and forests on all sides. The construction of this lake was due to the Koyna River being dammed. Our boat was swiftly moving ahead in the lake’s waters. The ripples in the water looked very beautiful. In about 2 hours, our boat reached the destination point for trekking. We could see hills stretching far into the distance.
Perched atop one of these hills was Vasota Fort. After disembarking from the boat and walking a short distance, we reached the main entrance of the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve. Here, permission from the Forest Department is required for trekking in this jungle. After completing these formalities, we proceeded further into the jungle.
This was a dense jungle, home to various types of trees, plants, and wildlife. Walking on the trails in the jungle was providing us with a great adventure. The paths were formed from ascents and descents. As we progressed, we came across a natural water source.
The water here was very clear, and people were filling their bottles and drinking it. We were also very thirsty and tasted the water ourselves. After spending some time here, we resumed our journey.
After trekking through dense forests, we came very close to the mountain where Vasota Fort is situated atop. The path ahead started getting difficult. The rocky and muddy trails were causing slips. Despite walking with caution, I fell twice. But such incidents are common in adventurous trekking.
After trekking for 2 hours on difficult paths, we finally reached Vasota Fort at the top of the mountain. The mountains of the Sahyadri Ghats from here looked very beautiful. The lake from where we had come also seemed far away in the dense forests.
We were very tired, and hunger was also hitting us hard. Sitting under the trees inside the fort, we had our meal. After a little rest, we explored Vasota Fort and took some photographs. After spending some quality time and enjoying the views, it was time to descend from the mountain.
Slowly and steadily, with discipline, we descended from the mountain. After crossing the jungle paths again, we reached the boat. Sitting comfortably in the boat, relieving our fatigue, and admiring the tall mountains and dense forests, we headed back towards the village of Bamnoli.
The trek to Vasota Fort is a truly magnificent and adventurous trek. We thoroughly enjoyed completing this trek. Getting away from the hustle and bustle of city life and being amidst the Sahyadri mountains and dense forests has always been a great experience.
The confidence gained from this trek is remarkable, and it also provides an opportunity to spend some quality time in the lap of nature. Additionally, Vasota Fort showcases the incredible valor of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the unmatched warfare skills of the Maratha Empire. Whenever you get the chance, do come and experience the trek to Vasota Fort.
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➝Difficulty Level:Moderate.
➝Endurance Level: Moderate.
➝Trekking Time: Approximately 4-5 hours. Boat ride: 4 hours.
➝How to Reach Vasota Fort Trek: Bamnoli village in Satara, which is about 150 kilometers from Pune, can be easily reached by car. From Bamnoli, you can reach the starting point of the Vasota Fort trek via boat in about 2 hours.
➝Best Time to Visit Vasota Fort Trek: From October to March. The trek to Vasota Fort is closed during the monsoon season due to heavy rainfall.
➝Time Required for Vasota Fort Trek: 1 day.
➝Essential Items for Vasota Fort Trek: Trekking shoes, water bottle with glucose, camera, pain relieving spray, snacks, photo ID.
Information Source: Authentic information sources available on internet, Various Articles and books on the subject & Interaction with local public.
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