The Sahyadris are home to hundreds of ancient forts, but a journey to Raigad Fort is never just a weekend trek—it is a pilgrimage into Maratha history. Raigad stands proud not only for its rugged cliffs and dramatic elevation, but as the historic capital where Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was crowned.

On 23rd August 2026, the With Sakhi community set out with a passionate group of adventure seekers from Mumbai and Pune for a monsoon expedition to the mighty capital. Thick monsoon mist, gushing trail streams, rolling green landscapes, and the goosebumps of walking on historic stones made this trek unforgettable.

Here is how our journey unfolded!

Dawn at Pachad: Misty Cliffs and Hot Poha

Our overnight bus from Mumbai and Pune arrived at Pachad, the base village of Raigad Fort, just as the first morning light broke through the fog. Stepping out into the cool mountain breeze instantly washed away the travel fatigue. Looking up, the sheer vertical scarps of Raigad were playing hide-and-seek behind heavy monsoon clouds.

We gathered at a local villager’s home for a warm Sahyadri breakfast—piping hot chai and authentic Maharashtrian kande poha. Following quick warm-ups and a safety briefing from our trek leads, the valley echoed with energetic chants of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj ki Jai, and our climb began.

Conquering the Steps: The Grandeur of Maha Darwaja

Climbing Raigad in the monsoon offers a sensory treat. With continuous light drizzles and tiny waterfalls cascading down the stone-cut steps, the trail felt refreshed and alive.

Passing through Nane Darwaja and Chitta Darwaja, the anticipation built until we arrived at the iconic Maha Darwaja (The Main Entrance). Nestled between colossal bastions designed to remain invisible from a distance, its sheer scale left everyone in awe. Walking under this legendary archway truly felt like stepping back into the 17th century.

The Capital Plateau: Holi Cha Mal, Nagarkhana & Meghdambari

Once atop the plateau, a blanket of white mist rolled across the fort grounds, occasionally lifting in dramatic bursts to reveal breathtaking panoramic views:

• Holi Cha Mal & Nagarkhana: Passing through the royal open grounds, we stood before the towering Nagarkhana, marveling at its acoustic brilliance.

• The Royal Court (Raj Sabha) & Meghdambari: Stepping into the Durbar where the historic Coronation (Rajyabhishek) took place was a deeply moving experience. The team stood quietly in front of the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj under the Meghdambari to pay our respects.

• The Royal Market (Bazaar Peth): We walked along the double-rowed stone plinths of the ancient marketplace, where horseback shopping once thrived—a testament to visionary town planning.

Jagdishwar Temple & The Sacred Samadhi

Continuing toward the eastern end of the plateau, we visited the serene Jagdishwar Temple. At the steps, reading the humble inscription by master builder Hiroji Indulkar was a poignant reminder of true devotion and architectural genius.

Right outside lies the holy Samadhi of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Standing before it amidst the howling wind and swirling fog was the most peaceful, reflective moment of the entire expedition.

Village-Style Pithla Bhakri Feast & The Descent

After exploring the expansive plateau, we enjoyed a traditional, freshly prepared lunch cooked over chulhas by local villagers—steaming hot Pithla-Bhakri, spicy thecha, and fresh rice. In cold, breezy monsoon weather, nothing beats an authentic local Maharashtrian meal!

By 2:30 PM, we began our careful descent down the stone steps. Taking precautions on wet patches and supporting one another down the trail, our entire group safely reached Pachad by 5:00 PM with smiles, muddy shoes, and full hearts.

Takeaways from Our 23rd August Raigad Expedition

• A Tight-Knit Community: Strangers from Pune and Mumbai started the journey together and returned as lifelong trek buddies.

• Pure Nature Therapy: Hours spent breathing pure mountain air away from city screens and traffic.

• Living History: Connecting directly with our heritage in the most authentic way possible.

Join With Sakhi on Our Next Adventure!

With our Raigad expedition completed, With Sakhi is gearing up for upcoming weekend treks and camping nights across the Sahyadri range.

Whether you are a beginner looking for your first safe trail or an avid explorer, our carefully planned itineraries and supportive trek leaders make every trip memorable.

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• 🌐 Website: withsakhi.com