Chanderi
Range
Matheran
Altitude
710m
Difficulty
Hard
Explore Offline
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About Chanderi
Chanderi Fort: High above the Bombay-Pune rail route (between Kalyan & Karjat) lies the Chanderi plateau. Start your trek from Goregaon village (on the Badlapur to Karjat road, between Badlapur & Vangani railway stations). Chanderi is one of the illustrious forts in the Nakhind, Chanderi, Mhasmaal mountain ranges, alongside Karnala, Prabalgad, Irshalgad, Manikgad, Peb, & Matheran.
Best time to visit
All year round / Check local forecast
History & Significance
Chanderi: The Jewel of Raigad Forts! Lacks major historical records, but remnants of fortification are visible near the caves. Key moment: Shivaji Maharaj conquered this area (up to Kalyan-Bhiwandi-Rairi) in May 1656, bringing the fort under Maratha rule. Due to limited facilities, low water, and difficult access, it was likely used as a military base rather than a traditional fort.
Places to See
Explore Fascinating Spots! Inside the cave, see a desecrated idol of Lord Shiva. A potable water reservoir is nearby, but water is only available until October. The cave fits 8-10 people. Another reservoir is at the base of the pinnacle, near the cave. The fort's top area is small. Reaching the pinnacle is now extremely difficult due to a landslide. Views: East: Matheran, Peb, Prabalgad range. West: Forts like Bhimashankar, Siddhagad, Gorakhgad, Peth. Monsoon Bonus: The Chanderi foothills are enchanting during monsoons, with many tourists visiting for the waterfalls.
Journey & Transport
Time to Reach
1.5 hours from Chincholi village.
How to Reach
**Reaching Chanderi Fort** **1. Via Vangani Station (Mumbai-Karjat rail-route):** * Alight at Vangani. * Walk along the railway track (towards Badlapur) to Goregaon village. * Take the dirt path left from the main road to Chincholi (Fort Base). * *Tip:* Hire a vehicle from Vangani to Chincholi for convenience.**2. Via Badlapur Station:** * Walk to Chincholi in \~45 mins.**Trek from Chincholi Base:** * At Chincholi, two paths ascend around a small hillock: * Right path: Rocky. * Left path: Through shrubbery on slippery red mud. * Both lead to a small peak. * From the peak, aim for the ‘T’-shaped niche between Mhasmaal (Right mountain) and Chanderi (Left pinnacle). * Ahead of the peak, find water streams. The path above leads to the waterfalls. * Beyond the waterfalls' hollow, climb left to reach the top in approx. 1 hour. * *Caution:* The final path is very narrow with steep drops to the valley. * The path to the left at the top leads to the cave. * *Recommendation:* First-time Chanderi trekkers should hire a guide.
Important Notes
Climbing required to summit fort.
Facilities
- StayFort Cave Stay: Sleeps 8-10.
- FoodBYO Foodstuffs.
- WaterWater available in reservoir, usually until late October (depends on monsoons).