ShivtharGhal

ShivtharGhal

Maharashtra, RaigadDay hikes

Range

Raigad

Altitude

909m

Difficulty

Easier

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About ShivtharGhal

**Shivthar Ghal: The Writers' Cavern** Discover Shivthar Ghal ("cavern"), the scenic retreat where Samarth Ramdas Swami resided after 1649 and wrote his famous 'Dasbodha.' This place connects directly to the legendary era of Shivaji Maharaj, with connections to Shahaji Raje and Jijamata. A nature-adorned, must-visit historical site!

Best time to visit

Best Time: Any Season!

History & Significance

**Shivthar Ghal: A Historic Standout\!** Originally ruled by the Mores (known as Chandrarao by Adilshah) in the Javali region. This strategically important place was brought under Shivaji Maharaj's control in 1648. Ramdas Swami lived here from 1649 to 1660, and it's where he wrote the **Dasbodha**. In 1776, before his "Dakshin Digvijay" (great southern campaign), Shivaji Maharaj received Ramdas Swami's blessings here. Long undiscovered, this great pilgrimage site was finally rediscovered in 1930 by Shankar Krishna Dev, 300 years after Shivaji Maharaj's birth.

Places to See

Climb the steps to a building maintained by "Shivthar Ghal Shree Sunder math Samiti" (facilities provided, sanctity preserved). Inside the main hall, see a portrait of Ramdas Swami. Follow the path to the main cavern where Ramdas Swami meditated and composed Dasbodha. This beautiful spot features a stunning waterfall. Above the cavern, find remnants of Chandrarao More's palace (sworn enemy of Swarajya). From here, glimpse Rajgad, Raigad, Pratapgad, and Torna!

Journey & Transport

Time to Reach

15 min walk to Cavern from Tar Road.

How to Reach

How to Reach Shivthar Ghal **Location:** * 30km from Mahad * 200km from Mumbai * 90km from Pune**Most Convenient Route (Trekking Required):** * Take an S.T. bus to Mahad (from Mumbai, Kalyan, or Pune). * Vehicles go up to the foothills. * Ascend \~100 steps to reach the cave. * Villages en route: Kumbhe Shivthar, Kasbe Shivthar, Ambe Shivthar.**Alternative Tough Route:** * Via Kasbe Shivthar/Gopya Ghat (from Pune). * Route: Rajgad - Bhutonde - Belvandi river - Kumbale Mountain - Gopya Ghat - Kasbe Shivthar - Shivthar Ghal. * Note: This route is tough and time-consuming.

Bus Schedule

Mahad to Shivthar Bus Schedule (8.30, 13.00, 17.45, 15.00, 18.15 From Depot)

Facilities

  • StayComfortable lodging available! Managed by Shivthar Ghal Shree Sunder math Samiti.
  • FoodBYOF
  • WaterWater Available Year-Round