Mesmerizing Views from the Summit of Vikatgad Peb Fort

Vikatgad Peb Fort, also known as Peb Fort, is a fascinating hill fort in nearby Neral in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, India. Peb Fort is situated in the Sahyadri hills and is approximately 2,100 feet above sea level. Peb Fort is a trekker's delight all year round because of its looks, comparatively challenging trail, and historical significance. The fort is dedicated to the local goddess Pebi Devi and also to Swami Samarth, a saint of Marathwada. Vikatgad Peb Fort was visited by adventure enthusiasts, history enthusiasts, and nature enthusiasts in the past who were willing to traverse its ruins, caves, and landscapes of the area. 3-4 km away from Neral railway station, the fort is conveniently reachable from Mumbai and Pune, and thus it is a perfect weekend trip for trekkers. Vikatgad Peb Fort trek is an adrenaline rush with dense green forest cover, steep slopes, rock-solid trails, and a bird's eye view of the surrounding peaks such as Matheran, Chanderi, and Malanggad. 

Vikatgad History

Vikatgad Peb Fort is an extremely ancient hill fort with a rich heritage with historical significance, strategic position, and cultural past situated near Neral in the state of Maharashtra. One of the top trekking destinations today located on a plateau around 2,100 feet mean sea level above is a place with a peaceful view and highly strong pull of the past. Its history is centuries old, and it has been part of various times in history, such as the Maratha and British colonial times.

Origin and Historical Significance

The history of Vikatgad Peb Fort goes back to the early medieval era, although there are no definite records of its establishment. The fort was so named after the Hindu god Lord Ganesha, also known as 'Vikat,' and 'Peb,' from the river and stone that flows along. Like most of the hill forts in Maharashtra, Vikatgad was constructed predominantly as a defence and sentinel fortress, capitalizing on its natural elevated ground to search for hostile movement along the surrounding valleys. The fort acted as a strategic watchtower and outpost for several local conflicts and as a buffer to the larger forts of Rajmachi, Prabalgad, and Irshalgad. As it was situated on trade and military routes, it fell into the hands of different powers who governed alternately, such as local chieftains, Marathas, and lastly the British. The terrain of the hilly Sahyadri range was naturally defensive and hence an apt place for defence and communication purposes from the military perspective. Identification with Shivaji Maharaj and Marathas

While Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was consolidating the Maratha Empire in the 17th century, Vikatgad Peb Fort was part of a series of hill forts added to the Maratha Empire. Less prominent than more renowned forts like Raigad or Sinhagad, Peb Fort served Shivaji's long chain of forts with the goal of guerrilla warfare tactics against the Mughal and Adilshahi armies. Marathas employed Peb Fort mainly for reconnaissance and as a depot to furnish supplies. That the fort was located close to other strategic forts rendered Peb Fort a significant nexus in the web of strategically situated forts developed by Shivaji across Maharashtra. Rockiness and high vegetation of forests around Peb Fort gave Maratha troops a tactical edge to attack unsuspecting invading forces moving through the area. Even after the reign of Shivaji, Peb Fort remained under the influence of the Maratha Empire. The Peshwas, who came to rule the empire after Shivaji, held the strategic significance of the fort and employed it in their warfare against the Nizams and the British.

Nearby Forts

History and adventure enthusiasts like you can visit our region with some historic forts narrating tales of chivalry and strategic significance in the past era. Some of them are:

1. Prabalgad Fort: Situated midway between Panvel and Matheran is Prabalgad Fort - the paradise of adventurers that has a mix of history and adventure. The reasonably challenging trek to the fort is worth it in terms of bird's eye views of the Sahyadri range. The erstwhile great Maratha fort has ruins that remind one of its golden days.

2.  Irshalgad Fort: Unconventional but stunning fort near Panvel, Irshalgad is an unconventional trek for those in need of some thrills. The fort is not hard to find as it is a strange pinnacle-shaped fort. The trek is short but promises a spine-chilling rock surface and fantastic vistas at the top. It is the favourite choice of seasoned trekkers who never fail to seek a dash of thrill.

3.  Rajmachi Fort: Rajmachi Fort situated on the borders of Lonavala is the most sought-after fort of Maharashtra. It consists of twin forts complex in the form of pairs, Shrikardhan and Manaranjan, and even offers lovely landscapes in all directions for valleys. Amateurs and professionals alike can easily undertake the Rajmachi trek with the ease of beginning either from the village base Udhewadi or from Lonavala. The history of the fort and the beauty surrounding it make the place a tour spot to visit for all.

4. Bhivpuri Waterfalls:  Bhivpuri Waterfalls is not only a place to see; it is an adventurous trekking tour. The trek begins from Bhivpuri station and continues through the dense green meadows, streams, and forest and reaches the enormous waterfall. The peaceful cool water and the calm atmosphere make it an ideal spot for relaxation and rejuvenation. With activities ranging from the tranquillity of Matheran, and the historical forts, to the refreshing Bhivpuri Waterfalls, our resort is the perfect destination to be for a memory to cherish.

How to Reach Vikatgad Peb Fort

Nearest Railway Station: Neral

The nearest railway head to Vikatgad Peb Fort is Neral Railway Station, and it also serves as the main tourist entry point for tourists coming from Mumbai, Pune, and other nearby cities. 

• By Train: Board a local train to Karjat from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Dadar, or Thane. Alight at Neral Railway Station. From Neral, proceed via shared auto-rickshaw or taxi to the trekking destination at Anandwadi village.

• By Road: Take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway or NH-48 up to Karjat. Get off at the Neural exit and proceed to Anandwadi village, the trekking destination. Personal vehicle travellers have a car parking facility near the base village.

From Pune (Approx. 120 km)

• By Rail: Take the Pune-Mumbai train and get down to Karjat.

• Take the Karjat-CST local train from Karjat and get down to Neral. Take a shared auto or taxi to the base village.

• By Car: Take the Pune-Mumbai Expressway, and exit at Khopoli or Karjat. Drive to Neral and climb to Anandwadi village, the trek point. There are facilities for parking cars in the base village.

Trekking Trails to Vikatgad Peb Fort

Vikatgad Peb Fort is also among the most scenic treks in Maharashtra located close to Neral and Matheran. It is known for its scenery, history, and adventure. The Lord Ganesha avatar 'Vikat' named fort is also among the favourite picks of tourists who look for adventure. This is an exhaustive travel guide explaining various trekking trails to Vikatgad Peb Fort, the level of difficulty, landmarks, and seasonal trekking experience.

Route 1: Neral Station through Peb Base Village

• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

• Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours, The simplest way to Vikatgad Peb Fort is from Neral Railway Station, which is well connected to Mumbai and Pune through local trains. Peb Base Village, the base village for the trek, can be reached by an auto-rickshaw ride from Neral.

• Landmarks along the Route

  • Peb Base Village: There is a base village for the trekkers where they stay and prepare themselves to climb.

  • Dense Forest Patches: The journey goes through heavily green patches of forests, and during the rainy season, the place appears most beautiful.

  • Carved Steps: It has carved steps for easy climb.

  •  Caves and Water Tanks: It has small caves on the trek that are adopted as residences by monks and guests.

  • Temple Remains at the Top: The summit consists of ancient temple ruins and stunning views of the Sahyadri range. The trail consists of rock sections, forests, and narrow paths and is therefore an adventurous but relatively demanding trek.

Route 2: Via Matheran (Toy Train Path)

• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

• Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours, One may also begin at Matheran, a Mumbai-adjacent hill station. The trek is parallel to the Toy Train railroad track, another unique experience.

  Landmarks On The Way:

• Aman Lodge, Matheran: Starting point from where toy train paths begin.

• Toy Train Tunnel: Picturesque zone where the hikers pass via a miniature train tunnel.

• Ladder Pathway: Ladder-like ninety-degree steep, before finally getting to the fort.

• Panorama Viewpoints: Scenic viewpoints of Matheran, Garbett Plateau, and the surrounding valleys. This trail is most suitable for those who want to pair a trek with a tour of Matheran. The railway track is an easy trail, but the last part of the ascent is attempted with the help of a rock climbing effort.

Route 3: From Panorama Point, Matheran

• Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult

• Duration: 3 to 4 hours, This path is more inclined and begins from Matheran's Panorama Point, providing an adventurous experience.

• Landmarks Along the Trail

• Panorama Point: The famous vantage point of Matheran offers a view of the Sahyadri landscape.

• Rocky Ascents and Descents: The trail has various steep ascents and descents.

• Thick Jungle Pathways: Thick foliage cover along which the trekkers walk to reach the fort.

• Railways Ascent for Final Ascent: Route on which use of ladders and railings is necessitated to be aided. Best suited for frequent climbers looking for an increasingly more challenging trekking route, though.

Best Time for Hike to Vikatgad Peb Fort

• Monsoon (June-September)

  The monsoon renders the trek a green paradise with waterfalls, misty trails, and flowers of every colour. The trails are slippery, and caution is to be exercised. The view from the summit is mostly cloud-covered, and hence it's an experience that is beyond this world.

• Winter (October to February)

  It is the ideal time for trekking, with pleasant weather and clear visibility of the Sahyadris. The paths are dry, and hence the climb is more pleasant and less tiring.

Summer (March to May)

Summer treks are exhausting due to the heat, but morning treks are nice. Drinking plenty of water is the secret so that one is not thirsty. Every visit to Vikatgad Peb Fort is different, and hence you must visit there if you are a nature enthusiast or adventure lover. Whether through a short trek from Neral, a toy train trail with scenery, or a tough Panorama Point trek, the trek is one-of-a-kind with history, nature, and scenery.

Why Book with escape2explore

When exploring Vikatgad Peb Fort from Bengaluru and beyond, escape2explore stands out as a trusted name in adventure and experiential travel. Here’s why hundreds of travellers choose us for their getaways:

• Trusted, Well-Reviewed Local Operator: escape2explore has gained the trust of thousands of content tourists all over India. With persistent positive feedback and an unblemished reputation for delivering quality experiences, we assure your experience to be hassle-free, memorable, and value-packed. Our insider local knowledge guarantees that you to always be in safe hands.

• Seasoned Guides: Our trips are led by friendly, trained, and professional guides who are passionate about the outdoors and your safety. Whether it's a beach trek, a cultural tour, or a spiritual walk through temples, our team knows the terrain, the stories, and how to make each moment count.

• Safe & Curated Itineraries: Your safety is our number one priority. Each of our tour packages is thoughtfully crafted with safety measures, researched accommodations, and easy travel arrangements. We take care of the details so you can have the experience hassle-free and worry-free.

• Unique Experience That You Won't Find Anywhere Else: With escape2explore, you discover more than the tourist attractions. We go off the beaten track with hidden beaches, unusual treks, offbeat cultural destinations, and true interactions.