Ahivantgad is a historic hill fort located in the Nashik district of Maharashtra, India. It is situated around 55 kilometers from Nashik city and is considered an important fort in the region.
The name "Ahivantgad" literally translates to "the abode of serpents" in Marathi. The fort is said to have been built sometime in the 11th or 12th century and was strategically important due to its location on the ancient trade route connecting Gujarat and Deccan.
Getting to Ahivantgad
There are two main routes to reach Ahivantgad:
Via Nashik: This is the shortest and most popular route. You can take a taxi or bus from Nashik to Vani (44 km). From Vani, you will need to hire a local vehicle to reach the base village of Daregaon (13 km). The trekking route starts from the hillock north of Daregaon and takes about two hours to reach the fort entrance.
Ahivantgad fort route mapVia Pimpripada-Achala: This is a longer route that takes you through the scenic beauty of the Satmala range. You will need to reach Pimpripada from Vani and then take a route to Achala fort. From Achala, you can trek to Ahivantgad. This route is more challenging but offers stunning views of the surrounding hills.
Things to see at Ahivantgad
Ahivantgad is a vast fort with a lot to explore. Here are some of the key highlights:
The Fort Plateau: Unlike many other forts, the top of Ahivantgad resembles a wide plateau rather than a peak. This plateau offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Ahivantgad fort plateauRuins of Palaces: The fort once had several palaces and other structures. While most of these structures are now in ruins, you can still see their remains scattered around the plateau.
Entrance Gates: The fort has two massive entrance gates, though they are now in a crumbled state. These gates give you a glimpse into the fort's grandeur during its heydays.
Hanuman Idol: There is an idol of Lord Hanuman, the monkey god, at the top of the fort.
Caves: There are a number of caves on the fort, but some may require a guide to locate. One cave on the southern side is suitable for overnight stays.
Lakes: There are a few scattered lakes on the plateau that once served as the fort's water source.
Tips for visiting Ahivantgad
- Ahivantgad is a moderate trek and requires a good level of fitness.
- There is no proper water source on the fort, so it is important to carry sufficient water during your trek.
- Wear sturdy shoes with good grip as the terrain can be rocky and uneven.
- The best time to visit Ahivantgad is during the winter months (October to February) when the weather is pleasant.
- It is advisable to hire a local guide if you are not familiar with the fort's terrain.
- Since there are limited stay options on the fort, most visitors prefer to take a day trip. However, camping is possible with proper arrangements.