Asherigad
Range
Palghar
Altitude
512m
Difficulty
Hard
Explore Offline
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About Asherigad
Asheri: The 'Elder Brother' of Palghar's small forts! Impressively strong due to its massive size and height.
Best time to visit
Visit year-round!
History & Significance
Ancient History: Built by Bhojraj (Shilahar Dynasty), this fort is at least 800 years old! Captured by the Portuguese, who rebuilt it. Key Battles: Peshwa won it in 1737 (Konkan campaign). British took control in 1818.
Places to See
Discover Fascinating Spots! Explore remnants of settlements and foundations with gutters (for rainwater/overflow). The top cave is medium-sized with a large opening, ingeniously carved to block wind/cold. Note the uneven back portion. Rest platforms for guards are outside and inside. Look for two hibiscus bushes outside the cave—they suggest past rituals! On the top left, find a square water tank with a half-buried cannon, plus two unfinished tanks. From the top plateau, spot Kohoj fort to the South West (binoculars help reveal the "natural human form" on Kohoj!). Continue to see a huge rock depression and a bastion.
Journey & Transport
Time to Reach
Travel Time: ~3 hrs
How to Reach
**Fort Ascent Guide (The Only Route)**1. **Start Point:** Khodkona village bus stop. * **How to Get There:** S.T. bus (Palghar to Kasa) or private vehicle on the highway. * **Location:** \~10-11 km past "Mastan Naka." 2. **Getting to Khodkona Village:** Take the bullock cart route (to the left of the highway) via a small bridge. * **Landmarks:** Vagdev temple, Adsul (right), Asher (left, facing away from Palghar). 3. **Hike Prep:** After reaching the village, quench your thirst and fill bottles with cool well water. Follow the villagers' directions towards the fort. * **Route Detail:** Goes through dense jungle; heat is minimal even in summer. 4. **Reach the Pass:** Takes \~1 to 1.5 hours. The route is easy but continuously climbing. * **Pass Landmark:** A Vagdev temple is slightly ahead and higher. 5. **Fort Top Approach:** Turn right from the pass towards the top. * **Entrance Base:** Go around a huge rock face. Look for a small Ganesh sculpture on the rock. 6. **The Climb (Warning):** The entrance was destroyed by explosives. The climb is zigzag and steep. **Caution is required\!** * **Tip:** It is advisable to climb without heavy sacks and seek assistance from a climbing expert. 7. **Steps and Water Tanks:** After the initial steep climb, you'll reach steps cut into the rock face (to the right). * **Water Tanks (Non-Potable):** Many tanks are encountered but are generally not potable. 8. **Middle of the Fort:** From a non-potable water tank, proceed through shoulder-length bushes. 9. **Potable Water Source:** Below the main route (to the left) are 5 excavated water tanks. **One tank has potable water.** 10. **Clear Water & Cave:** After walking 5 minutes, a path bifurcates to the left, leading down to three more water tanks with very clear, sweet, thirst-quenching water. A cave is nearby on the rock face (right).
Important Notes
Hard Difficulty Grade! Tough rock climbing, dangerous in monsoon. Only attempt with experienced trekkers.
Facilities
- StayTrekker Stay: 10-12 people. Sleep inside the temple or on the outer plinth. Important: Protect your food from mice!
- FoodBYO Food: Trekkers Must Arrange Meals.
- WaterWater available year-round.