The Adventures of Trekking on Vikatgad Fort, Matheran
Every time I think about Vikatgad, I cherish the adventure and moments I spent there. This trek is unique for its hiking trail. It is steep enough to make one exhausted, but gentle enough for the first timers to conquer it. It was one of the monsoon days when I decided to go for this trek with my best friend Natesh. Vikatgad comes in the Matheran range of mountains. It is also called Peb Fort. We got down at Neral station early morning to have our chronicles with Chai. We asked the Chai wala about the trek. It is the best way to know everything about the area from a local. We walked the 3 Kms to its base village, Fanaswadi through the lone houses shedding fired smoke. Its vast fields and tall grasses covered the beautiful flowers. The villagers were doing their daily chores. As we enter the base village, the way straight goes to the veranda of a huge temple surrounded by the red roofed huts. The curious staring eyes of the villagers make you feel like an alien. But you ask them anything, and they are ready to help you. We started our trek from the backside of the temple, entering a murky green jungle. Our ears were soon pleased to hear the roaring rhythm of a waterfall. It was a little dangerous as we walked on the slippery path of green algae till the waterfall. When the fierce force of water dropped on the top of my skull, all my thoughts vanish. And suddenly I felt so light and happy. We further exited the jungle and cross the small stream of the river, entering vast open meadows. The green empty patches surrounded by mountains are so picturesque that you just can’t stop yourself from getting clicked. The gradual incline walk is the most pleasant part of the trek. And then the real adventure starts!
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