Peb Fort Vikatgad Trek Base Point: One of the older forts in Matheran is Peb Fort, which is also well-known as Vikatgad Fort. The Matheran Hill Range is where VikatgadPeb Fort is situated. Trekkers looking for an adventurous trail frequently visit this renowned location. It extends continuously to Malang Gad, Tauli Hill, and Chanderi Fort, as well as other forts in the Matheran Hill Range. Trekkers from Pune and Mumbai are drawn to the area primarily on weekends due to its proximity to these big cities and its well-connected railway networks. This fort has a huge sculpture of Ganpati.
Let us give you an overview of the Peb Fort Vikatgad trek base point.
The Matheran range is visible from the summit
The hill’s unique location allows it to possess an expansive overview of the entire Matheran range. Footprints of Swami Samarth are believed to be safeguarded by a temple built atop the fort. Watch out for the monkeys, however. A wonderful sight awaits you if you can muster up enough courage to face them!
The Difficult Road To The Summit
The most interesting feature of this fort is that there is a distinctly small route to the top of the fort. To reach the top, you have to climb an easy-grade rock patch if you are entering from the north. If you have reached the fort from the Matheran end, however, then the temple separates you and looks out over the deep valley!
Peb Fort Trek History
The name Peb Fort, or Vikatgad, comes from the ‘Goddess Pebi,’ and her temple is located at the bottom of the fort. According to history, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj used the caves on this fort to store grains.
The cave used by many devotees of the famous saint Swami Samarth is an important feature of the fort. For the last decade, they have maintained the cleanliness and upkeeping of the cave and fort. Near the main cave, underground meditation caverns exist. These are small caverns, and one needs to crawl in, only one at a time. During the monsoon, two of these caverns fill with water.
From the top, climb to the bastion by hand. There, you can see the waterfalls. From here, you can view the upper slopes of Matheran Mountain and the ridge that links Peb and Matheran. When you stand here, you feel you’re on top of the world!
There is a temple under construction on the other side of the fort, by its disciples. A big tank is here too, and one can rest there. The entire trek looks beautiful during the monsoon, with a waterfall running along the way. From the cave, one can see a panoramic view of the surroundings.
Some other nearby forts are Navara-Navari, Bhatoba, Irshalgad, Chanderi, Prabalgad, Kalavantin Durg, Malanggad, and Nakhind Ridge. Anyone can enjoy Peb fort trek e at any time of the year, as it has different charms during different seasons.
Event Details of Peb Fort Vikatgad Trek Base Point
Peb Fort is located in the Raigad district. It is a hill fort with a height of 2,100 feet above sea level. The trek to Peb Fort is moderately difficult, and some risks are involved. Hence, it is very suitable for adventurous trekkers. Neral is the nearest railway station from where the trek begins. The cost per person is ₹899. It is an exciting nature escape at budget-friendly prices.
Things that you should carry during Peb Fort Trek:
- Water: Carry 2–3 litres of water to hydrate the body through the trek.
- Food: Carry lunch for the trek and some dry fruits, dry snacks, or energy bars for an immediate energy boost.
- Safety Gear: Carry the proper face mask or shield along with sanitiser to ensure hygiene.
- Wear comfortable trekking shoes with a good grip for support.
- Carry a one-day backpack with 20 to 30 litres capacity.
- Don’t forget to carry a good torch with you, along with extra batteries.
- Electrolytes: Carry sachets of Glucon D, ORS, Tang, or Gatorade to keep up the energy levels.
Rain Protection:
- Rains are likely to fall; carry your bags so that they are not dampened.
- Double plastic bags should be used to carry your electronics, your phone, and other valuables.
- Carry raincoats, ponchos, or waterproof jackets.
- Sun Protection: Carry a sun cap and sunscreen to prevent sunburn.
- First Aid: Carry personal first aid supplies and any necessary medications with you.
- Identity Proof: Carry your ID with you at all times.
- Clothing: Wearing full-sleeved shirts and full-track pants will protect you from the sun, thorns, insects, and prickles.
How to reach Peb Fort Vikatgad trek base point
To get good travel information for reaching Vikatgad/Peb Fort in the Matheran region of Maharashtra, follow the steps mentioned below.
Go to the Google search tab.
Enter the following terms in the “My location to VikatgadPeb Fort” search bar. You will receive the precise amount of time needed to travel, the means of transportation, and the Peb Fort trek distance(in kilometres) from your current position.
To go to your location, click the go-Directions button on your screen or, depending on your phone’s operating system, the Start Navigation button. Next, proceed by following the instructions displayed on your phone.
Conclusion:
Peb Fort is famously known as Vikatgad Fort, a thrilling destination for trekkers, which adds a taste of adventure and history coupled with breathtaking views. It is located just above the Mumbai-Pune main corridor, making it perfect for all sorts of nature and adventure lovers. The beauty of the trek throughout the seasons adds to its charm, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to spend some memorable time amidst the hills of Matheran.
FAQs:
Q. Can a first-time Sahyadri Trekker do this one?
Both yes and no. Those who want to have a shorter trekking path for their first trek can go for this one. We suggest Sondai Fort near Matheran which is a little less demanding for those who have a more sedentary lifestyle.
Q. How Difficult is the Route to Peb Fort?
On weekends, thousands of hikers cross the Peb Fort trek path; hence, hiking trails near Matheran are seriously congested. There is one rock climbing stretch, a long crossing, some steel ladders that need to be climbed and crossed, and parts of the trek route are slippery. Good trekking shoes are required on this journey. Be careful on the PebVikatgad since rocks may fall.
Q. Where should we go if we are driving our car to Peb Fort (Vikatgad) Trek?
You need to be at the meeting location specified on the WhatsApp group on time. The precise GPS coordinates and contact details of the person can be found on the WhatsApp group.
Q. Can Children take the Peb Fort (Vikatgad) trek?
Anyone of all ages can participate in the trek, provided that they are fit and averagely fit. An adult guardian must accompany children below the age of sixteen.
Q. Whether Children Can Join Peb Fort (Vikatgad) Trek?
All age groups are free to participate in the trek if fit and averagely fit or more. Children below sixteen need to be accompanied by an adult parent or guardian.
