Basic Info: Dhodap is the second highest fort in Maharashtra after Salher. Dhodap trek is definitely a must do trek for anyone visiting Nasik.
The trek is quite challenging in some places, but once you get to the top of the fort, it is all worth it. There are plenty of caves on the fort which are very clean and hence can be used for camping.
We would advice that you take some safety gear like ropes along with you. Some of the rock patches are difficult to cross and would require assistance by ropes.
How to Reach: There are two base villages for this fort, Hatti and Vadala. We would recommend that you take the Hatti base village route for trekking. This is of moderate level difficulty takes around 3 hours to complete the trek.
Hatti vilage is on the Nasik-Vani route
Dhodap is close to Mumbai and travelers from Mumbai can get to this fort in 6-7 hours. From Pune its almost 345 kms and it takes around 8-9 hours of travelling including the breaks that you would take.
Plan your treks in advance to avoid any last minute delays or cancellations. If you do not want overnight trek, you might want to look for a suitable accomodation in Nashik somewhere.
What to see:
- Tank with Idol of Lord Hanuman
- Shembi Cliff
- iKhara cliff: Ideal for folks who love rock climbing. Not at all recommended for novice trekkers.
- Caves
- Temple on the fort
Camping Info: Camping is recommended, specially if you are a traveller from Mumbai or Pune. After a long tiring journey and tiring trek, overnight camping will do wonders for your body.
Ensure that you take plenty of water and food that can be cooked easily. Cooked Potatoes and Eggs are ideal.
In the winters, ensure that you take plenty of firewood from the base village and blankets to keep you warm.
If you have never camped on a fort before, the villagers at the base village can help you with accomodation in their front yards.
Please leave a comment below for others if you have been to Dhodap or you have any questions related to Dhodap trek.