When you try to make an ordinary trip extraordinary, you often include out-of-the-box experiences. At the same time, you may look for better options; trekking promises to tick all the right boxes. One such excursion is the Salher trek in the mystical lands of Maharashtra. The state offers plenty to explore and appreciate, from distant hills to the closest shores. And Salher Trek is no exception.Discover the fantastic natural trek to Maharashtra’s highest fort and beyond.
Overview Of Salher Trek
Two forts are located near each other in the Baglan region of Nashik district, around 280 kilometres from Mumbai. These forts are called Salher and Salota, part of the Selbari-Dolbari hill ranges. These forts are situated close to the border of Maharashtra and Gujarat. The Salher Trek will bring you closer to these forts. After Kalsubai, the Salher summit is Maharashtra’s second-highest summit. Interestingly, at 5,175 feet, Salher Fort is Maharashtra’s tallest fort.
The medieval forts here are most renowned for their role in the 1672 Marathas-Mughals Battle of Salher. The Marathas defeated the Mughals in their first-ever open-field battle. A saddle or col in the centre separates the massive hills on which these forts reside. A saddle is the lowest point on a mountain ridge between two summits. At the peak, a breathtaking panorama stretches all the way to Gujarat and Maharashtra. Most of the trail is nearly vertical on both days and necessitates wading over rock-cut steps during ascent and descent. Therefore, this trek is best suited for beginners and intermediate hikers.
Also Read: Places To Visit In Maharashtra In Summer
History Of Salher:The Forts of Salher and Salhote
Image Credit: Ccmarathe for Wikipedia
The forts of Salher and Salota are near one another. If you climb to the peak of one hill, you can see the other from above. You can still observe historical artefacts at both forts. We are reminded of the beautiful history held by the Salher fort by the pond at its peak and the temple at its highest point. The highest point of Salota Fort also features a statue of Lord Hanuman.
In addition, the route to Salher Fort passes via a series of interconnected caverns. Why did they dig these caverns? Who slept in those rooms before? The imaginations run wild. Despite its fame, the journey of the Salher Trek is primarily unknown in Maharashtra, which makes it an ideal unusual excursion to enjoy on your own. The expansive area above Salher is perfect for camping the night before the trek to Salota.
Things To Do During Salher Trek
The trek, in itself, is a journey of adrenaline and experience. You will see plenty of points that will strike your interest and make your heart beat faster. Here are a few of these to watch out:
1. Salher Hill’s pyramid-shape
Image Credit: Bhushan Kotakar for Wikipedia
Amazingly, the Salher fort sits atop a naturally occurring pyramid. Stunning and exhilarating, the rock-cut steps complete the scene. During the Battle of Salher, this distinctive structure offered the Marathas a strategic edge.
Key Note: Immense strategic importance during the historic Battle of Salher.
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Related Post: Hill Stations In Maharashtra
2. Hikes in Salher-Fort
The Salher fort is on top of the hill, and the rock-cut steps are in the very centre of the hill. While you need to tread carefully on these, you should also enjoy the journey while experiencing the adrenaline rush.
Key Note: Witness the beautiful views, rock-cut steps and lush greenery
Best Time To Visit: October to February
3. Looking down on Salota from the Salher peak
From Salher Fort’s vantage point, Salota Fort appears to be a natural drone shot. You can see the entire area from this vantage point. The Gujarati towns can be made out when the weather is clear. From Salher Peak, Salota Fort appears like a minifigure. Additional Western Ghats peaks can be seen behind Salota, offering breathtaking views.
Key Note: Salota Fort, picturesque views
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Related Post: Weekend Getaways From Mumbai
4. The Parshuram Temple on top of Salher Fort
Image Credit: Sushrut.bhore for Wikimedia Commons
The Parshuram temple is located atop Salher fort. One of the highest points in Maharashtra, it stands at around 5,175 feet and is home to this temple, which is not frequented by devotees but remains a beautiful spiritual place.
Key Note: One of the highest Temple in Maharashtra
Best Time To Visit: October to February
5. Sunsets and Sunrises
From the highest point of Salher Fort, travellers or hikers will be fortunate enough to see the breathtaking dawn and sunset, given that they time the hike perfectly. One may enjoy fantastic sunrise and sunset views from either Salher or Salota. However, if you’re looking for a fort with better views than Salota, we suggest Salher Fort. Its elevation gives it the edge.
Key Note: visit before sunset and sunrise to witness the mesmerising beauty
Best Time To Visit: Before sunrise and sunset time
Related Post: Islands In Maharashtra
Knowing the Trek
The Salher-Salota Fort Trek begins in the village of Waghambe in the Satana Taluka. One can also reach the col by beginning your hike in another settlement named Salher Wadi. The track from the col is identical whether you’re starting from Salher Wadi or Waghambe. If you start from Waghambe, the distance to the col is shorter than from Salher Wadi. In addition, few buses travel to Waghambe from Taharabad, although plenty go to Salher Wadi.
A good option to reach Wahhambe is by bus. The private and government buses offer genuine service throughout the day. Before you plan your trip to Wahhambe, make sure you check the schedule and frequency from Taharabad. Since you will see two forts daily, you can split the time and cover half each in one day. For the first part, you can trek to Salher Fort from Waghambe or Salher Wadi Village. You can go from Salher Fort to Salota Fort on the second day.
The Ideal Time To Embark The Salher Trek
October through February is the peak trekking season for Salher Trek, and it is ideal for seeing both Salher and Salota Fort. Due to the desolate terrain surrounding this region of Maharashtra, it is recommended to undertake the trip following the monsoons and before summer. This will shield you from the sun during the day and the rain at night, ensuring that you are not out in the elements during the summer and monsoons.
The journey is still possible during the monsoon season, but you will enjoy it less due to the constant rain and lack of forest cover. In addition, the monsoons make the rock-cut steps quite tricky. The Salher-Salota fort walk is best avoided during the summer. Over two days, the oppressive heat and humidity make the experience intolerable.
You May Also Like To Read: Honeymoon Destinations Near Mumbai
Salher Trek might not offer a bustling experience, crowded markets, or urban developments. It’s a trek that will take you close to nature and to the top of a hill that will look like the top of the world. If this suits your travel site, include the Salher trek on your next trip to Maharashtra.
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image Source: Facebook
Frequently Asked Questions About Salher Trek
What makes Salher Trek so unique?
The trek will take you to the tallest fort in Maharashtra. In the midway, you will see the iconic fort ruins, temples and some of the best panoramic views. The pyramid shape of the Salher fort is also a huge draw. Overall, this is an excellent trekking option for adrenaline junkies.
What is the difficulty level of the Salher trek?
Given the height and the difficult trek to the summit, the Salher trek is ideal for adults and experienced travellers. Novices can also take up the trek, but with someone experienced along with them.
What should I carry to the trek?
Make sure you balance the bag with the right quantity of items. Water bottles, a Swiss knife, a lighter, and some snacks are necessary. And remember to take your camera along.
How far is Salher Trek from Nashik?
Ther Salher trek is around 110km away from Nashik.
What is the nearest railway station to Salher Trek?
The nearest railway station is Mandmad Junction, some 80 km from the Salher Fort.
People Also Read:
Tarsar Marsar Trek Jomolhari Trek Bugyal Trek
With a passion for travelling, and carving beautiful stories of stunning locations I chose my profession as a content writer. The unique blend of creativity and strategy ensures that each narrative takes readers on a journey to their desired destination. With distinct locations and unique vibes, I strive to deliver captivating content that speaks to the hearts of readers.
