Sumargad
Range
Mahabaleshwar-Koyna
Altitude
609m
Difficulty
Hard
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About Sumargad
Sumargad Fort: Don't be fooled by the simple Marathi name! This trek is tough. Historian G. N. Dandekar noted, "We have to climb the cliff on eastern face of the fort by catch-holding one tree." Located between Rasalgad and Mahipatgad, the dense forest and difficult route explain why this fort is less known among trekkers.
Best time to visit
All year round / Check local forecast
Places to See
Fort-Top Highlights: See the two cisterns, one containing a cave with a Shivalinga and a goddess idol. Nearby, find a unique cistern supported by just one column. Paths branch here: one climbs up, the other circles the hill. Look out for the two-room cave along the circular route (currently blocked by rocks/soil).
Journey & Transport
Time to Reach
How to get there: Mahipatgad route: ~2.5 hrs Rasalgad route: ~4.5 hrs
How to Reach
Reach Sumargad Fort: Two Routes Available! Both paths meet at a col near the fort top. Via Mahipatgad:1. Descend from Mahipatgad (opposite Wadi Beldar). 2. Pass a shepherds' settlement and cross a stream. 3. Climb a hillock to reach the col in 30 minutes. 4. The path to the left leads toward the fort. 5. Note: The final stretch near the precipice is slightly difficult; rope use is advised for safety. Time: \~2.5 hours to Sumargad.Via Rasalgad:1. Start from Rasalwadi via a shepherds' settlement on a hillock to the col. 2. Don't miss Raya's (helpful shepherd) hut\! 3. Continue past a stream and a suitable drinking water pond. 4. Option 1 (Difficult): Proceed through Karvi bushes and climb a rock using a rope to the fort-top. 5. Option 2 (Easier): Take the straight route to the col, then to the fort-top. Time: \~4.5 hours to Sumargad.
Facilities
- StayNo accommodation on fort.
- FoodBYO Food.
- WaterFresh Water Alert! Perennial source available on the trail to the fort.