Lohagad
makes an ideal trekking destination for trekkers from Pune and Mumbai because
of its accessibility, ease of trek and lush green surroundings. Keeping this in
mind, our coordinators selected this beautiful place for our trek. Our group
consisted of all young trekkers from Mumbai and Pune. We were almost 200 people
and 70% of us were first time trekkers.
I had known that trekking route to
Lohagad is very easy and it is an ideal “1st Trek experience” with
picturesque scenery, lush green grass, cool mountain air and the pleasant
salubrious climate. It was my 1st trek so I was very excited. I
started from home at around 5.00 a.m. and reached Dadar station. Plan was to go
to Lonavala by Indrayani Express and then by local train to Malavli. It was
start of September and the atmosphere was very cool. All picnic games, songs
made the ambiance more interesting and fun in the train. After getting down at
Malavli, the scenic beauty made me offensant. The feeling was very pleasant. As
I headed towards the fort, I was astonished with the beautiful, charming and
lovely village scene. It was simple tar road towards the fort and while on way,
I saw various trees with different species and their attractive flowers.
Lohagad, the Iron fort is at an
elevation of 3450 feet. It was conquered by Shivaji Maharaj in the year 1648.
Initially the road was very clear with few turns. Later it became rocky and
muddy. After some height, there were steps till Mahadarwaja. As I wanted to
have a real trekking experience, I used shortcuts through trees and rocks
instead of road. It was very hard and challenging but it was fun indeed. After
reaching the fort, I experienced a hefty feeling. The weather was very calm and
cool. The saffron flag blew gorgeously amidst the fort. I had an amazing photo
session with my friends and then I along with my friends went to a small
cave-like space for lunch which we brought from home. The day was going really
phenomenal.
Afternoon, I along with my friend
went for sightseeing on the fort. I went on a hilly place of the fort to see
the scenery from height and it was very wonderful and marvelous. From there at
backside of fort, I noticed two beautiful small lakes and a very pleasant place
to visit. The beauty near the lake was infinite and I experienced an inner
peace of mind and a blissful state. I forgot all hustle and bustle and felt far
away from madding crowd. Indeed it was an incredible experience. It felt as if
the time stopped and I had an ecstatic feeling.
While returning, though tired, my
mind was elated and I could sense that happiness within. There was bit of
history, hard work, some adventure, serene breath taking scenes and lots of
sweet memories which made this trek nostalgic.
-OJASWI RAO
Ruia College, Mumbai -19
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