Kondana Caves And Ulhas Valley Trek In Maharashtra

Kondana Caves are located at 60m above sea level. They are a group of Buddhist Caves which belong to ancient period. It is their location and easy accessibility that makes them a very pleasurable and famous trek near Mumbai. Ulhas Valley comprises the area of Ulhas River. The area is filled with lush greenery and rich fauna. Kondana Caves And Ulhas Valley Trek In Maharashtra is an effortless and interesting one.

Season to trek Kondana Caves and Ulhas Valley

It is from June to January.

Location of Kondana Caves and Ulhas Valley

It is located in Karjat region, by the Ulhas River, near Rajmachi Fort in Raigad district.

Trekking Kondana Caves and Ulhas Valley

1. Day 1
2. Kondana Village-Kondana Caves

Start your trek from Kondana village where the road ends outside Van Vihar. A road leads along the Ulhas River which will take you to a tribal village. Beyond it, the path turns left and winds across a field. Beyond it, the path ascends a gentle spur and enters into a forest. The path crosses many streams and rivulets. After a small bypass you are at a lovely waterfall during monsoon. If the weather is dry, you can try some rock climbing.

Treading further will bring you to a dense forest. From the left another trail joins your path. Don't be misled and be focused on the left to reach the rock cut caves of Kondana. While moving back, return the same way, you came up. You can also have a dip in the upper reaches of the Ulhas River. You can also spend your night at Van Vihar if you wish for.

1. Day 2
2. Kondana Village-Ulhas Valley

You can have a leisure walk up to Ulhas Valley today. If you walk during or immediately after the monsoons, you will find it all the more interesting. After you have taken a walk to the fullest of your desire, return to Van Vihar. From here, walk on the path leading to Kondana Caves till the tribal village. Walking a little more, you will reach another tribal village. From here head to the river and a cascade about 25 ft down a sheer slope is visible. Now, paddy fields thin out and scrub and jungle come into the scene. It is advisable to stay along the river bank. In 1 and a half hours, you will find yourself in the Ulhas Valley.

If you are on the left bank, moving up the hill side to the railway line and Thakurwadi Station is pleasurable. If you are more adventurous, walk down the steep slope to Rajmachi Fort.

Trekking Options

1. From Kondana Caves Hike up to Rajmachi Fort, then move to Lonavla.
2. If the weather is pleasant, move to Karjat. Walk along the river to Palasdhari Station and take a local train to Karjat/Mumbai. If you are not short of time, walk across to Palasdhari Dam.

Kondana Caves and Ulhas Valley trek in Maharashtra becomes more exciting when you go there during or after monsoon because then you come across many waterfalls, pools and streams along the way. Don't forget to stock up the potable water before the trek, take a guide at places and enhance the delight of your trek.