Taramati peak is the highest point of Harishchandragad and one of the best sunrise spots in the Sahyadri. From its grassy top you look over the whole fort plateau, the Konkan Kada cliff and range after range of the Western Ghats. You will often read that Taramati is "the second highest peak in Maharashtra". It is not, and this guide explains why, along with the Taramati height, how to climb it, the best time for sunrise and how to fit it into a Harishchandragad trek.
Taramati Peak at a Glance
- Height: about 1,431 m (4,695 ft) above sea level
- Where: the highest point of Harishchandragad fort, Akole taluka, Ahilyanagar (Ahmednagar) district
- Climb: a short, steep walk up from the Harishchandreshwar temple plateau
- Best for: sunrise and 360-degree views
- Best season: October to February
- Protected area: inside the Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary
Is Taramati the Second Highest Peak in Maharashtra?
No. This is a very common mix-up on trekking pages and social media. The tallest peaks in Maharashtra are:
- Kalsubai, about 1,646 m, the highest peak in Maharashtra (read our Kalsubai trek guide)
- Salher, about 1,567 m, the second highest peak and the highest fort in the Sahyadri
At about 1,431 m, Taramati is lower than both, and lists of Maharashtra peaks place it further down. What is true is that Taramati is the highest point of Harishchandragad and one of the higher peaks in the Kalsubai-Harishchandragad region, which is probably where the "second highest" idea comes from.
How to Climb Taramati Peak
First you need to reach the top of Harishchandragad. The easiest way is the Pachnai route, about 2 to 3 hours from Pachnai village to the temple plateau. From the Harishchandreshwar temple area, a steep path climbs to the top of Taramati. Most trekkers do it early in the morning after a night camping on the plateau, so they reach the top in time for sunrise.
- Start in the dark: leave camp before first light with a headlamp.
- Go with your group: the plateau has many paths and is easy to get lost on in the dark.
- Wear shoes with grip: the grass and soil are slippery with morning dew.
- Carry a warm layer: the top is cold and windy before sunrise.
Sunrise from Taramati
Taramati faces the morning sun across the Sahyadri, and on clear days the sky turns orange over ridge after ridge while the valleys below are still in shadow. After the monsoon, clouds often fill the valleys, and you watch the sun come up over a sea of white. Sunset is best at Konkan Kada, and sunrise is best from Taramati, which is why most people do Harishchandragad as a 2 day trek with camping.
What You See from the Top
- The whole Harishchandragad plateau, with the temple and caves below
- The curve of Konkan Kada dropping into the Konkan
- The Kalsubai range and the peaks around Bhandardara on clear days
- The ridges around Malshej Ghat and Naneghat
Best Time to Climb Taramati
- October to February: clear skies and the best sunrises. The ideal time.
- Late monsoon: green slopes and clouds in the valleys, but slippery paths and frequent mist.
- March to May: hazy and hot. Go only at sunrise.
Safety Tips
- Stay with your trek leader, especially in the dark and in mist.
- Keep away from steep edges while taking photos.
- Do not leave the path in the grass, where the ground can be uneven.
- Carry water and a snack, and bring your waste back down.
Climb Taramati with Touriko Trek & Travel
Our Harishchandragad Trek and Camping (24-25 October 2026) includes the Konkan Kada sunset, a night in tents on the plateau and an early climb to Taramati for sunrise. It is safe for women and perfect for first-time trekkers, with experienced guides with the group at every step. For ₹2,999 you get travel from Mumbai or Pune, 2 meals, 2 snacks, tent stay and an experienced trek guide (₹2,099 without travel). Book your seat or WhatsApp us at +91 89768 74681.
Taramati Peak FAQs
What is the height of Taramati peak?
Taramati peak is about 1,431 m (4,695 ft) above sea level. It is the highest point of Harishchandragad fort.
Is Taramati the second highest peak in Maharashtra?
No. Kalsubai (about 1,646 m) is the highest peak in Maharashtra and Salher (about 1,567 m) is the second highest. Taramati, at about 1,431 m, is lower than both. It is the highest point of Harishchandragad.
Where is Taramati peak?
Taramati is on Harishchandragad fort in Akole taluka of Ahilyanagar (Ahmednagar) district, near Malshej Ghat, inside the Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary.
How do I climb Taramati peak?
Climb Harishchandragad first, most easily from Pachnai village in about 2 to 3 hours. From the temple plateau a short, steep path leads to the top of Taramati.
Is Taramati good for sunrise?
Yes. Taramati is the best sunrise point on Harishchandragad. Most trekkers camp on the plateau and climb it early in the morning.
What is the best time to visit Taramati?
October to February, when skies are clear and the paths are dry.
