Irshalgad

Irshalgad is not technically a conventional fort but a dramatic rocky pinnacle, which explains its relatively low historical profile, yet it held strategic importance as a watchtower like structure used by the Marathas to monitor trade routes and nearby strongholds such as Prabalgad and Karnala Fort; after Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj captured the Kalyan Bhiwandi region up to Rairi in May 1666, Irshalgad came under Maratha control, strengthening surveillance over this crucial belt, and located right next to Prabalgad in the Karjat region, the pinnacle today stands as a thrilling trekking destination with deep emotional significance, as on January 23, 1972, Kumar Prakash Durve tragically lost his life here, and every year on January 26 trekkers from Mumbai and Thane gather to pay tribute and remember him.

From the Irshal plateau, the trail advances toward the towering pinnacle, passing a rock cut water tank along the way; as you approach the upper section, a straightforward rock climbing patch leads you to the iconic Nedhe, the massive natural rock hole that defines Irshalgad’s identity, and beyond it you will find a drinking water tank on the left and a cave on the right, while reaching the true summit above this section requires proper artificial rock climbing gear due to the near vertical exposure. Key highlights include the Irshaldevi Temple at the plateau level, the dramatic Nedhe formation, multiple rock cut cisterns, and breathtaking panoramic views stretching across Prabalgad, Matheran, Chanderi Fort, Malanggad, Karnala Fort, Manikgad Fort, Morbe Dam, and Kalavantin Durg, making Irshalgad one of the most thrilling climber friendly pinnacles in the Sahyadris.