| - Elina Mohanty
Standing at a great height, overlooking the Bhor Ghat and
Ulhas Valley, the twin peaks of Rajmachi attracts a large
number of trekkers. The “trek area” of Maharshtra,
Rajmachi lies to the north west of Lonavla (hill station).
Rajmachi is actually a fort that houses streams, waterfalls,
temples, etc. A trip to Rajmachi through the Tungarli Lake
from Lonavla is decorated with breathtaking landscape.
Rajmachi is highly suitable for a half-day excursion trip,
picnic or trek. Monsoons are the best time to visit this twin
fort because the entire area has gliding waterfalls passing
thorugh the sprawling greenery and hard rocks.
Places to visit:
Walwan village
This tranquil village lies at the base of the twin hills.
10kms, from Lonavla, a walk to this village can be thrilling
in monsoons, owing to its waterfalls.
Udhewadi village
This village is famous for serving tasty and authentic Maharashtrian
food. Rented accommodation is available in the area, making
it accessible for the tourists. Udhewadi is located at the
plateau (700m), at the base of the twin peaks.
Shreevardhan and Manoranjan peaks
Shreevardhan peak is the taller of the two peaks. It stands
at an height of 130m from the plateau. This peak can be climbed
from the Udhewadi village in 30 minutes. A flag pole is located
at the peak.
The shorter of the two peaks, is the Manoranjan peak. It
stands at an height of 80m from the plateau. This, too, can
be reached from the Udhewadi village. Manoranjan is famous
for the strong walls and water tanks.
A temple is found in between these two peaks. Most of the
trekkers take refuge in this temple. While climbing the two
peaks, one can view the country side, ruins of many forts,
water tanks and water falls.
Buddhist Caves
There are four ancient Buddhist caves at the base of the
Twin peaks.
Special Trek Advice:
Rajmachi is famous as the Trekking zone of Maharashtra. So
while trekking the twin peaks it is essential to keep in mind:
Carry light bags.
The trek may strech over a period of 10 to 12 hours, so be
physically fit.
Carry food, until you plan to treat yourself at the Udhewadi
Village.
Trekking in Rajmachi is fun only during the monsoons, so carry
appropriate clothing.
Advisable to trek with an experienced trekker.
How to reach to Rajmachi:
By air, the nearest airport will be Mumbai
By rail, the closest station to Rajmachi is Lonavla station,
which is well connected to Mumbai. For exmple, Pune Passenger
train from VT station halts at Lonavla.
By road, to Rajmachi one has to trek from Lonavla or Karjat,
each about 20kms from Rajmachi.
Where to stay:
Since Rajmach is preffered for half-day trip, it is advisable
to stay at Lonavla and Karjat (Check the travelogues of Lonavla
and Karjat for details on hotels). Decent hotels and resorts
are available at both the places. However, there are rented
accommodations available at Udhewadi village.
Best Time to Visit:
The beauty of Rajmachi is at its best during the Monsoons,
so it is advisable to visit the twin peaks from June to August.
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