Trekking and Photography

Smoke Photography

2009-10-07T18:19:00.003+05:30

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Flowers - My Angle

2009-10-07T18:14:00.003+05:30

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Sunset & Moon Captured After Long time

2009-10-07T18:08:00.005+05:30

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My Clicks - 10

2009-10-07T17:59:00.004+05:30

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My Clicks - 9

2009-10-07T17:50:00.003+05:30

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My Clicks - 8

2009-10-07T17:29:00.005+05:30

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My Clicks - 7

2009-09-07T12:07:00.004+05:30

Brand matters...for some..though...!! Qality matters...for the rest..!! Hang out....Hang around...!!

I liked this pose/angle

The another use of book

Any Comments..??

The result of bird watching for hours...

Just a click...

Are we like this...??

Babaji in Gurudwara at Nanded

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My Clicks - 6

2009-09-07T11:42:00.003+05:30

Gone are the days.... Chiuuuu.... The OLD wondow

Eyes says it all...

What she must be thinking..??

Water tanks...but water...??

.................................................

There is something catchy in this pic...I dont know what...!!

and in this one too....

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My Favourite Books

2009-09-07T11:33:00.002+05:30

Shreeman Yogi by Ranjeet Desai Sambhaji by Vishwaas Patil Chaavaa by Shivaji Sawant

Sambhaji by Vishwaas Patil

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Some of my favourite clicks

2009-09-07T11:20:00.006+05:30

Moon, the god of romance A table lamp Water Photography

The only thing which lightens more in dark

Speed Photography

Our National Flag, Our Pride...The Tricolour

Laddu Gopal

Lights again....

The setting sun...second best scene in the world

Another one....

Free Fall....

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Gurudwara Sachkhand Sahib - Nanded

2009-09-07T10:48:00.004+05:30

Banda Ghat, Nagina Ghat and New Bridge Nishan Saahib Gurudwara at Nagina Ghat Sachkhand Saahib

The second most holy place for Sikhs

The weapons, used by Guru Gobind Sing Ji and his family

Possibly the biggest Pistol in the world

Gurudwara Sachkhand Saahib, Nanded

Liked this pic very much

A broader view

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Ganesh Festival 2009

2009-08-28T14:54:00.009+05:30

Many Bappas...Many Wishes... At least someone gets clean water...

Feet of Lord Ganesh, where everybody bends and seeks blessings These hands are always ready to GIVE the best for our goodwill The blessing After the first Pooja

Untouched look

His Highness...

He listens to everybody...

And stores the pain and all bad things in his stomach

The one, The only

Concentration on the world

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Harishchandragad

2009-06-23T18:05:00.014+05:30

(History)
Harishchandragad is one of the oldest forts in Maharashtra. The fort is quite ancient and very big too. Remnants of Microlithic man have been discovered here. The various Puranas (ancient scriptures) like Matsyapurana, Agnipurana and Skandapurana include many references about Harishchandragad. Its origin is said to have been in 6th century, during the rule of Kalchuri dynasty. It is said that the citadel (Balekilla) was built during that era. The various caves probably have been carved out in the 11th century. Though the peaks are named as Taramati and Rohidas, they are not related to Ayodhya. Taramati is known as second highest peak in Maharashtra at about 4500 feet of height from sea level. A Great saint Changdev (one who wrote the epic ‘Tatvasaar’) used to meditate here in 14th century. One can even see the ‘Samadhi Sthan’ of this saint behind the Harishchandreshwar Temple. This fort was under control of Yadavas, Mughals, Marathas and then British Raj. The temples on fort and in the base village are of ‘Hemadpamthi’ type.

(Reach the Base)
There are total seven ways from four different base villages to reach Harishchandragad. The best, safe and easiest of all is from Khireshwar via Tolar Khind. There is another way to reach top from Khireshwar which goes from Nedhe (Niddle Hole) via Junnar Darwaja but this route is very difficult and it is suggested not to go by this route without any local guide. Following are the ways to reach Khireshwar from Mumbai and Pune. Mumbai-Kalyan-Malshej Ghat-Khubi Phata-Khireshwar and Pune-Nashik Phata-Bhosri-Aale Phata-Khubi Phata-Khireshwar. The distance between Khubi Phata and Khireshwar is 4KM and goes over the wall of Manikdoh Dam’s back water reservoir. There is bus service from Swarget to Khireshwar which leaves Swarget at 4.30 PM and leaves Khireshwar at 6.00AM. This is the only bus for Khireshwar which is direct from Pune; there is no direct option from Mumbai. One can reach Khireshwar in 3-4 hours from Pune and Mumbai respectively. From here, it takes about 4 hours walk including few rock patches to reach the fort top. Note that we don’t get drinking water in between so remember to carry at least 2 liter drinking water per head.

Nageshwar Temple near Khireshwar
This is a great antique construction, and diverse artistic works are seen on this. On the ceiling of the temple are beautiful carvings. The main attraction of the carvings here is the 1.5 m long sculpture of Lord Vishnu in the sleeping posture, popularly known as "Shesh-Shayyi Vishnu" in Marathi. It is rare and hence holds a lot of importance. There are a lot of legends told about this sculpture. There are caves near the temple.

(Ascend the Fort)
Ascending starts from the Khireshwar village and you can reach the caves on top in 4 hours walk. There are 2-3 rock patches on the way after Tolar Khind and one before it. In the middle of Khind, you can see the rock carved with a tiger’s image, this is called as ‘Vyaghra Shilp’. Remember to take left from this point as right turn will take you to another base village on opposite side of the mountain. While reaching this point, you can observe the vertically straight rocks of the fort. One can even enjoy the echo from the first rock patch before reaching this ‘Shilp’. Then starts the vertical rock patches, one has to be careful while climbing those patches else you will thrown in about 3000 feet deep valley. After these rocks, you will reach the first section of fort where you can get network coverage for your mobile. From this place there can be seen two ways, which is divided by the huge citadel before you, one goes to the Junnar Darwaja (i.e. to Khireshwar) from left side of citadel and another will take you to Caves on fort from right side if Citadel. You can observe the walls of Citadel from here. There is nothing special or different to have a look on Citadel that’s why many trekkers don’t go over there. There is a small water tank and few ruins of wall of the fort on Citadel. After walking through few small mountains and a little forest area you will reach the main part of the fort leaving behind the Citadel. Note that, you can find many stones which are naturally so different and attractive. If you are lucky enough, you can also witness some animal hunting too as we saw.

(About Fort and Sightseeing)
Once reached the place from where you can see the Temples and Caves, you can observe the small temples and few ruined rocks. On one of the small rock, you can see the image of some man with water containers on his shoulder. This is Raja Harish Chandra’s statue that is shown filling water at a poor man’s house. From this place, there are four ways, one goes to Caves, one goes to Main Temples, one goes to Taramati and last one goes to another base village on other side of the fort. I would suggest you to go to caves from here, put down your bags and get some rest and food. Then you go to see the Harishchandreshwar Temple, Kedar Ling (Kedareshwar Temple cum Cave), Pushkarni Lake and Saptatirtha which are all nearby. There are other few small and half broken temples of lord Ganesh, Shiva and Vishnu in same premises. The notable thing about this huge fort is that it has no door now. There were two doors in ancient time named ‘Junnar Darwaja’ (beside citadel) and ‘Maha Darwaja’ (behind Konkan Kada) but both are broken and almost not viewable now.

Saptatirtha Pushkarni
To the east of the main temple is a well-built lake called “Saptatirtha Pushkarni”. On its bank are temple-like constructions in which there are idols of Lord Vishnu and Siva. Recently these idols have been shifted in the caves inside the temple of Harishchandreshwar. The water in the pond is not in good condition following some waste material thrown by many trekkers.

Kedareshwar Cave
Going rightwards of Harishchandreshwar temple, we come across a huge cave. This is the cave of Kedareshwar, in which there is a big Shiv Ling, which is totally surrounded by water. The total height from its base is five feet, and the water is waist-deep. It is quite difficult to reach the Shiv Ling, as the water is ice-cold. There are sculptures of marriage of Shiva-Parvati are carved out here. In monsoon it is not possible to reach this cave, as a huge stream flows across the way. The origin of a river named ‘Mangal Ganga’ is near this cave.

Konkan Kada
The most interesting point on this fort is this cliff, which has always fascinated many people from many years. The cliff faces west and looks down upon the Konkan. From here, one can have a breathtaking view of the surrounding region and the setting sun. This cliff is not just vertical; it is an overhang, almost like a cobra's hood. It has been climbed many times. The first climb was in 1985 by a group from IIT Bombay (V. V. Limaye, Jayant Kulkarni, Girish Sant, Anand Pai, and others). The second climb was in 1997 by a team from the Pinnacle group. Most recent (November 2006) climb was done by Giri Viraj Hikers group from Dombivali. Sometimes a circular rainbow called ‘Indravajra’ is seen from this point. It can be seen only when there is a bit of mist in the valley, and the sun is right behind the person facing the valley. One amazing phenomenon that can be observed at this place is the vertical cloud burst, in which the clouds nearing the cliff get sucked into the pit fall area below and are thrown vertically into the sky reaching more than 50 feet. It creates a magical wall that is rising straight from the edge of the cliff without entering the landmass area. The fog show and hovering clouds below the cliff complement the season if one visits. Seeing all this beauty, a person has jumped off form this place. A marble sheet with same information was installed near the right end of this place which is broken by unknown people. Two more routes come near this place from two different base villages. One of them is very popularly known as ‘Nalichi Vaat’.

Taramati Peak
This is the topmost point on the fort at about 4500 feet. It is the second highest peak in Maharashtra. From here we can have a glimpse of the whole range of Naneghat and Malshej Ghat and the forts near Murbad. One can also see the highest peak Kalsubai, Ratangad, Bhairavgad and Nanacha Angatha from here.

Caves on Harishchandragad
These caves are situated all over the fort. Many of these are situated at the foot of Taramati peak & are the place of accommodation. A few are near the temple, whereas some are near the citadel and some far away in the forests. A 30 feet deep natural cave is on the northwestern side of the fort, to the right of Konkan Kada is recently found. Many other caves are still said to remain undiscovered. One of the caves is known as ‘Ganesh Guha’ as a huge sculpture of Lord Ganesh is caved in it.

Temple of Harishchandreshwar
This temple is marvelous example of the fine art of carving sculptures out of stones that prevailed in ancient India. It is about 16 m high from its base. Around this temple there a few caves & ancient water tanks. This water is drinkable. As I said above, the river Mangal Ganga is said to originate from one of the tanks located close to the temple. The top of the temple resembles construction with the north-Indian temples. A similar temple is situated in Buddha-Gaya. Here we can see many tombs, in which a typical construction is seen. These are built by well-finished arranging stones one on top of the other. A short distance away, another temple called Kashitirtha is located. The fascinating thing about this temple is that it has been carved out from a single huge rock. There are entrances from all four sides. On the main entrance there are sculptures of faces. These are faces of guards of the temple. On the both sides of the entrance is a Devnagri inscription, which is about saint Changdev. At the back side of this temple, a huge Nandi is placed. Behind this Nandi, there is a small underground room which is said to be ‘Samadhi Sthan of Changdev’. There are few ‘Havan Kund’ above this place. A very beautiful Ganesh Temple is adjacent to this temple.

(Descend the Fort)
This fort at least requires two days (1 night and 2 days) stay for a better experience. The best time to visit is post monsoon and starting of winter. Descending the fort is from same way as of ascending but one has to be careful while selecting the right/left turns in the jungle else you will be lost in jungle and then it may take much time to reach Khireshwar. I am posting some of the pictures taken by me when I visited this fort in June 2009.

Taramati - Second Highest Peak in Maharashtra

Konkan Kada Different Elephants on the Walls of Temple Harishchandreshwar Temple Carving on Temple Walls A Sanskrit Line Carved on Wall King Harishchandra Marriage of Lord Shiva and Godess Parvati Kedareshwar Temple cum Cave Harishchandreshwar Temple

A Click by Me

Just Another Angle

Shri Ganesh Temple on the Fort

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Sunset at Harishchandragad

2009-06-17T20:38:00.005+05:30

Shades of Sunset from Konkan Kada Is that a Diamond? Its all couldy and also polluted a bit

There was one Konkan Kada on earth and one in sky

Sun rays on mountains

...............................

Suggest the Caption

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Raigad (on Maharashtra Day)

2009-05-06T17:45:00.009+05:30

Raigad…!! A self contained name which is inspiring us since its existence. You can just imagine the threat of this fort unless you actually visit it. After coming here and standing at its base, you can feel it. It’s so huge, tall and vertically straight from almost all sides that it is truly said about this fort – “Only water can come down and wind can climb upwards”. This is the reason; I decided to visit this fort on the auspicious occasion of Maharashtra Day to attend the Indian Tricolor Flag Hosting which is done thrice a year (15 Aug, 26 Jan and 1 May). Another secrete reason was, I have got a new camera (Nikon P80) and wanted to start it off with a memorable trek. I will try not to repeat the already posted information about this fort here.

If you are planning to visit Raigad, take my suggestion of visiting on your own vehicle (may that be bike or car). When I visited this place, on all my visits, I faced problem in reaching the fort base from Mahad. It costs you more than what you had planned as there are very few state transport buses running in between and smaller auto doesn’t agree to go till base following a hard Ghat. You may have to have a private auto/rickshaw which may cost you Rs/- 300.00 for full auto to reach the base village (Hirkani Wadi/Rope Way Station). I believe, you know the ways to reach Mahad by now. After reaching base, you can either go by walkway or ropeway. Ropeway will cost you Rs/- 150.00 per head for two way (going up and coming down) and Rs/- 100.00 for one way. Walkway is of course free…!! Here, I would suggest, go by ropeway and come down by walkway so as to feel less tired. You can also book the room at upper ropeway station from Here in Pune. It will cost you starting from Rs/- 300.00 to Rs/- 900.00 per room for 24 hours stay. MTDC rooms are also available on fort but they are little costlier. After reaching the top, I suggest, not to eat and drink anything at the canteen of ropeway or MTDC as they are not worth it from cost and taste perspective. Better you go to the people living on the fort and they can serve you at their best taste and your best price. Specially, if you buy water from canteen, it will again add up to your expenses, better you take it from these guys, you will get clean, cool and natural water from Hanuman Taka. Please remember to leave some tip, may be Rs/- 20.00 to 30.00 for 4-5 bottles of water. The lunch/dinner will cost you Rs/- 30.00 per plate which includes 2 Bhakari and either Pithala or Bhaji along with Kanda and Chatani. If you are staying on the fort for a day or two and missing sunset and sunrise then its criminal offence against the nature of Raigad…!! Few places where you can catch best sun shots are Holicha Maal, Takmak, Shiv Samadhi and Jagadishwar Temple. Another important thing to mention is, remember to see the Bhavani Tok, BaraTaki, Wagh Darwaja and other untouched spots on fort as these places are visited by very few trekkers.

Note : For more information about how to reach the base and top of fort and what things to see there along with measures to take while trekking Raigad, please visit - This Page. I hope, the information posted in these two pages helps you to explore and enjoy the fort at its best. I am posting some of the pictures taken by me when I visited this fort on May Day (1 May, also known as Maharashtra Day in India as the state was formed on this day in 1960).

Maha Darwaja Raja Shiv Chatrapati Saffron Flag on Takmak Tok The SON and SUN

Bajaarpeth (Market)

Megh Dambari, Nagaarkhana aani Raajsabha

Jagadishwar Temple

These pillars were 7 storied at that time Palakhi Darwaja

Shiv Samadhi

Indian Tricolor, Raje and Nagarkhana from Holicha Maal

One of the Canons near Maha Darwaja

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Sunrise, Sunset and Moon at Raigad

2009-05-04T15:09:00.007+05:30

The SON of soil Is this sun or moon? Raising Sun from "Rajyasabha" .................. Getting Brightter

Hide and Sick

Sunset from Jagadishwar Temple

Red Hot Sun

Let me get out of this...

Let me get over this...

Jagadishwar

From Raigad

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Ajanta Caves - Structures

2009-04-17T15:45:00.016+05:30

(History)
These caves were discovered accidentally by a British Captain, John Smith on 28th April 1819, while he was on a hunting expedition. He had then written his name and date on a pillar in a cave (Cave # 10, Pillar # 12, from entrance of cave on right hand side) which can be seen even today. Ajanta provides a unique combination of architecture, sculpture and paintings. Two basic types of monastic Buddhist architecture are preserved at Ajanta, the Chaitya or prayer hall (Cave Nos. 9, 10, 19, 26 and 29) and Vihara or Monastery (remaining 25 Caves). These caves suggest a well defined form of architecture, broadly resolving into two phases with a time gap of about 4 Centuries from each other.

(Reach There)
The caves are in a wooded and rugged horseshoe-shaped ravine about 3½ km from the village of Ajantha. It is situated in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra State in India (106 kilometers away from the city of Aurangabad). The nearest towns are Jalgaon (60 kilometers away) and Bhusawal (70 kilometers away). Along the bottom of the ravine runs the river Waghur, a mountain stream. One can got from either of these three places. I would suggest Bhusawal for guys going from Mumbai and Aurangabad for those who are going from Pune. There is regular bus service available from all these cities and we are not required to worry about food and rest rooms on this tour.

(About Caves)
Since 1983, the Ajanta Caves have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the past, scholars divided the caves in three groups, but this is now discredited in light of fresh evidence and research. This theory of dating believed that the oldest group of caves dated from 200 BCE to CE 200, the second group belonged, approximately, to the 6th, and the third group to the 7th century. Ajanta was a kind of college monastery. There are 29 caves in Ajanta of which 9, 10, 19, 26 and 29 are Chaitya-Halls and the rest are monasteries. These caves were discovered in AD 1819 and were built up in the earlier 2nd century BC-AD. Most of the paintings in Ajanta are right from 2nd century BC-AD and some of them about the fifth century AD and continued for the next two centuries. All paintings show heavy religious influence and are centered around Buddha, Bodhisattvas, incidents from the life of Buddha and the Jatakas. The paintings are executed on a ground of mud-plaster in the tempera technique. All the rock-cut caves had paintings on verandahs, inner walls and ceilings, these revealed some of the most beautiful masterpieces of world art. In the grottos were also symbolic Buddhist mounds called Stupas, and cells for monks called Vihara. There were giant sculptures of Buddha's, Bodhisattvas (potential Buddha's), or Taras (female Buddhist divinities), as also Dwarapalas (doorkeepers). More detailed information about each cave can be read from here.
Incomplete Caves - 3, 5, 14, 16, 18, 25, 27 and 28.
I am posting some of the pictures taken by me when I visited Ajanta in April 2009.

Elephant Head Beautiful Carving on Pillar Buddha in Cave # 26 Cave # 26 Again Cave # 26

An Incomplete Statue in Cave # 26

Again Cave # 26

Steps in the Ajanta Complex

Light Show in Some Cave

Entrance of one of Cave

Elephant at the door of Cave

John Smith, 28 April 1819

Pillars in Cave # 10

Cave # 10

Walkway at Ajanta

Countless Buddha

Cool Budhha

Light in Some Cave

Natural Light in Somes Cave

Cave # 3

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Ajanta Caves - Paintings

2009-04-17T14:51:00.013+05:30

HOW PAINTINGS WERE DONE IN THE DARK CAVES?

It is thought that the craftsmen who painted and sculpted in the Ajanta caves, were mostly Buddhist monks Perhaps many Hindu craftsmen of the lower castes had accepted the faith of the Buddha, the Craftsmen, in those days, were grouped together according to their profession, they learnt their skill from father to son and son to son. Some of them were great masters, who invented new techniques new tools and new ways of handling paint and chisel, in every generation.As the Buddhists began to scoop caves from the 1st century A.D. downwards, they evolved practical ways of working in the dark. The marshal, or stick torch, was smeared with vegetable oil and used for lighting dark corners. Also, large mirrors were used to reflect sunshine in to the interiors. And the walls were whitewashed smeared with lime plaster, before painting.

HOW PAINTS WERE MADE?

Colors used for the wall paintings were made from pebbles and vegetable found on the hillside. The guide will show you the pebbles of different Colors, these were crushed and ground and the mixed with glue.The main colors used were; red ochre, yellow ochre, brown ochre, lamp black, white and lapis lazuli (blue). This last pigment was imported from Northern India, central Asia and Persia. Green was made by mixed this lapis lazuli with Indian yellow ochre.

TECHNIQUES OF MAKING WALL PAINTINGS:

The Indian wall painting technique is different from that of the fresco of the West. A layer of clay was mixed with cow dung and powdered rice hunk. This was first applied to the chipped rock surface. When it dries, a second coat of lime plaster was a trowel. The lines were then drawn in pink, brown or black; the colors were filled in with big brushes, made from the hair of squirrel’s tail. I am posting some pictures of paintings taken by me when I visited Ajanta in April 2009.

Painting # 1 Painting # 2 Painting # 3 Painting # 4 - Brand of Ajanta Painting # 5

Painting # 6

Painting # 7

Painting # 8

Painting # 9

Painting # 10

This Child is Looking at You

Even if You Change Your Position, This Child Still Looks at You

Pillar in Cave # 10

Ceiling of one of Cave

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Shaniwar Wada

2009-04-17T12:08:00.008+05:30

Wooden Pillars Shaniwar Wada at Night First Bajirao Peshwa

Main Gate Main Gate Again

Panoramic View of Palace One of the Canons

Painting Near the Entrance Steps in Garden

Inner Wall

Wooden First Floor

The Garden Area of Palace

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Elephanta Caves

2009-03-23T09:23:00.014+05:30

(History)
The Elephanta Caves (also known as Caves of Gharapuri) are situated on Gharapuri Island, which was renamed Elephanta Island by the Portuguese and which is located in Mumbai harbour off the coast of Mumbai in Taluka Uran and District Raigad. The island is named after a colossal elephant found near the main entrance of cave. At present, the statue of elephant is housed at Jijamata Garden in Mumbai. The Island is located at about 11 km north-east of the Apollo Bandar, Mumbai, 7 km from the shore of the Gate Way of India. In 1987, the caves were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Most of the sculptures here are defaced by the Portuguese, who used the sculptures as target practice in the 17th century. The caves are thought to date back to the Silhara kings of the 9th through 13th centuries. Some of the sculptures of this site are also attributed to the imperial Rashtrakutas of Manyakheta (presently in Karnataka), the Trimurti of Elephanta showing the three faces of Shiva almost akin to the Trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh. This was also the royal insignia of the Rashtrakutas. The rock-cut temple complex cover an area of 60,000 sq ft (5,600 m2) consisting of a main chamber, 2 lateral ones, courtyards and subsidiary shrines. It seems, different dynasties held their sway over this island, namely, the Konkan-Mauryas, Trikutakas, Chalukyas of Badami, Silaharas, Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Yadavas of Deogiri, Muslim rulers of Ahmadabad and then by the Portuguese. The Marathas also had this island under their control and from them it passed into the control of the British. There are seven cave excavations (out of which 5 are easily reachable) in the elephanta group and these are datable from circa 6th – 7th centuries A.D. The main cave has a main entrance on the north with two other openings on the east and west respectively and a central hall with six rows of pillared columns, six in each row except on the western corner, where a shrine of lingam is provided.

(Reach the Caves)
Best way to reach these caves is from The Gate Way of India. Another way is from Uran. There is regular boat service from gate way to this island at the cost of Rs/- 100.00 and 120.00 only per head from 9.00 AM to 5.00 PM. It takes about an hour to reach the island from gate way. While reaching island from gate way, you can see more spots than from Uran such as Tata Power Plant, Bhabha Atomic Center, Beautiful view of gate way and hotel taj and few giant commercial ships and private cruises if you are lucky enough. I would suggest, take the earliest possible boat from gate way and reach the island before 12 noon so that you get maximum time to watch the caves and surrounding area. Remember to have a look at all the spots during your journey. Once you reach the destination, you have an option of taking the ride of toy train which will cost you Rs/- 10.00 only per head. You can enjoy the treat of “Kairi”, “Awala”, “Bor”, “Maka” and “Kakadi” (these are all Indian names of some of the best known fruits) while reaching caves from the boat station. After reaching the base of caves either by walk or train, you have to get the ticket which will cost you Rs/- 10.00 only per head if you are Indian and Rs/- 100.00 only per head if you are Non-Indian. After buying ticket you enter the premise where everything is very costlier than regular price. Remember to keep enough water and eatables with you so that you don’t need to buy anything there. After a walk for few minutes, there are steps which will take you to the caves. You can even hire a chair which will be lifted by four persons and they will take you to top. While going though these steps you can see many stalls and small shops selling many things like craft material, metal statues, bags and t-shirts, paintings and much more. Be ware of monkeys while you are on this trip, they are every where and they will not allow you to eat anything easily specially to girls/ladies. Once you reach the top, have a break and also have some cold water from the water cooler near the gate. Note this place as one way from here will take you towards caves and another will take you to Canon Hill where two huge canons are installed by British Army in 18th century. Take the way to caves and you will see a small museum which will follow you though summary of these caves and will also show you the pictures from other caves across India. Visit this museum and have a look at the available information, maps and pictures so that you will not miss anything during you trip.

(About Caves and Sightseeing)
Once you get out of museum, the caves starts from your right hand side. It is cave 1 and other caves from 2 to 5 are behind this cave and the last cave 6 is somewhere away from all these and it is quite hard to reach also. As you enter cave 1, you will see few huge pillars and the famous “Trimurti” which will be in front of you as you stand on caves entrance. Remember this cave is biggest among all and has maximum to watch out for. This cave has total 9 carved structures and a shiv temple. This cave has two sub caves from its entrance, one on its right side and other on left side which has 4 structures plus a shiv temple and 2 structures plus a water reservoir respectively. Take you time and watch all these 15 beautifully carved structures, 2 shiv temples with huge “Shiv Pind” and a water reservoir. I would suggest either to have a guide or to follow some group which has guide so that you can understand the meaning of all these structures. The reason to have a guide is that, most of these statues are almost broken and each one of them has a story to tell which can not be understood by just watching them. Even the pillars are so minutely and beautifully carved that you can not resist but watch them again and again. There are almost 40 such pillars. I will not be able to mention each of the statue and its meaning here as it’s very lengthy and so much descriptive that it can not be understood just by reading, you have to be before that particular structure to understand its meaning. Here, you can take some rest and can even eat your packed food safely as those monkeys will not follow you here. But be ware and remember that you don’t leave any of your waste material behind so that the place is left clean. After spending enough time in this cave, you can move on to other caves which don’t have much to watch for but are still in good condition except cave 5 which looks like half done task. There is a toilet near cave 5 where you can unload yourself. After watching all these caves, come near the water cooler or museum which I had mentioned earlier and take left turn from here to go to Canon Hill. In about 20 minutes, you will reach that hill and have a look at that huge canon. Take a left turn from this canon to go to another canon and also see that. They are almost same in size and notable thing is that they were connected from underground by a tunnel so that one can reach them from within ground without anyone’s notice. This tunnel is closed now but you can at least see the doors of that tunnel. Both canons are about 8-10 meters in length. From canon hill, you can see the lake of Elephanta which falls behind caves and the commercial harbour which also falls behind these caves. After having deep look at all these things and the surrounding area, you can start the journey towards boat station and then towards Mumbai with sweet memory of these caves, canons and this island. I am posting some of the pictures taken by me when I visited this place in March 2009.

Shiv Temple in cave # 1 View from the entrance of Cave # 1

Cave # 1 in natural light

Pillars at Cave # 2

Another Ganesh Idol

Trying to show the ancient indian art from another angle, nothing else..!!

Lord Ganesha

Guard of Lord

Shiv-Parvati

Main Sculpture - Trimurti

Ardha-Narishwara

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गणपती अथर्वशीष - Hymn of Lord Ganesh

2009-03-20T10:22:00.014+05:30

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My Clicks - 5

2009-03-20T09:43:00.006+05:30

Marine Drive AKA Queen's Necklace Mumbai Skyline

Hotel Trident, observe the 26/11 damage

Hotel Old Taj, observe 26/11 damage

The Gate Way of India

Mumbai

Surprised to see 4th Monkey?

Best "Sprite" Add Ever

Canon on Gharapuri Island

Another Canon

Two Taj and The Gate Way of India

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हनुमान चालीसा - Hymn of Lord Hanuman

2009-03-20T09:02:00.006+05:30

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Wedding in my Family - Marwadi Affair

2009-03-09T16:22:00.013+05:30

Note - This post is not complete yet, info is still to be added.

Beva... Saat Fere.... Emotions and Expressions.... Best couple of our family My Bhabhi My Mother

Tilak My Uncle and Aunty

Pooja

Kalash

Nikashi....

My Brother "Binayak" Pooja The lamp which lightens our lives

Ganeshji Maharaj

My Grandmother

My Brothers, smarter and faster than me...

My Uncle, A man with a cool head on his shoulders

Don't know what happened to me...

Dulheraaja

You can't resist but dance

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My Clicks - 4

2009-03-09T14:18:00.005+05:30

Wall of Lake on Sarasgad Where is this road going?

Food of farm animals in India

Way to Pali

A Tunnel near Lonavala

Pune-Mumbai Express Way

Duke's Nose and X-Way

X-Way from Tiger Valley

Ganapati Idol near Pune

My Sun Glasses

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Sarasgad

2009-03-09T13:09:00.010+05:30

(History)
Sarasgad fort is at a height of 1400 feet. Caves were used for storing food and water. Except for a few steep rocky patches (which can be dangerous during rainy season), the climb is relatively easy. To the southeast of the peak is the wall of Taila-Baila, a series of small peaks, which are often used for mountaineering training and camps. Not much of historic information is available about this fort. A very huge wall of Sarasgad is at the north south border of Pali. This fort was mainly used to keep a check on the surrounding regions. From fort, ‘Pali’ and all surrounding areas can be seen. Shivaji Maharaj brought this fort under Swarajya and spent 2000 Hon (the prevailing currency of that time) for its reconstruction. Till independence this fort was under Bhor Sansthan.

(Reach the Base)
The base village for Sarasgad is “Pali” which is the holy city of one of the “Ashtavinayak Ganapati” namely “Ballaleshwar”. It’s in Sudhagad Taluka of Raigad District in Maharashtra. Pali is about 35-40 KM from Khopoli and 120-130 KM from both Mumbai and Pune. If you are going from Pune then route would be Pune-Lonavala-Khopoli-Pali and from Mumbai it would be Mumbai-Khopoli-Pali. You can do this trek either by public transport or by your own vehicle too. I would suggest you to go by own one (Car or Bike) so that you can also catch the nature and amazing Lonavala-Khandala Valley during the travel. I had completed this trek on bike, so let me describe the way to reach Pali by bike. While going from Pune, when you reach Khopoli, take the first left as soon as you enter Khopoli and move forward till more 6-7 KM and then again take left for Pali. You can see a big sign board showing the way to Pali here as it’s famous place in Maharashtra. From here, you will have to drive along the road without any major turn for about 35 KM more and you will reach Pali. This is the base village for Sarasgad. You can park your bikes to any house nearby Main Temple after asking the owner if they can provide the meal and breakfast to you. Many of the houses near temple provide this service for very reasonable rates. Park your vehicles, order the meal/breakfast/tea according to your needs, put your language and take the blessings from Lord Ganesh (Shri Ballaleshwar and Dhondu Vinayak). You will find a drinking water tank near these temples; its water is very chill and sweet too. You can fill your bottles with this water so that you can use this during trek. Better get your food packed from here and eat that on fort, so that none of you will get any problem (I assume, you know the problem…).

(Ascend)
There are actually two ways to reach the top of this fort. One way is from Temple side and another from MSEB office side. I would suggest you to ascend from Temple side as it’s from within city and take you through better/tough route also. Once you all are ready to ascend the fort, take the road behind the temple which goes from within temple premises and walk along the road for few minutes then you will see a cement road to left hand side. Take this road and start ascending fort. After few minutes again, leave this cement road and take the normal road (Paaywaat), you will be then guided by yourself along this route. After some time you will be able to see the rock patch and steps thereafter. Climb the rock patch safely and see the Cave before starting to move towards steps. You may need torch to see the inside view of this cave, as it’s about 18-20 feet deep. 15-20 people can rest here at a time. After this you can see the rock cut steps, start ascending them safely again and after some 90+ steps you will reach the Main Door (Dindi Darwaja) of fort. You can not resist but take some rest here as the cool air flowing throw narrow Khind leaves no option for you.

(About Fort and Sight Seeing)
Once you pass the Dindi Darwaja, you can see the place to live for soldiers called “Chowkidaranchya Devdya”. Walk few steps ahead and you on the fort; here you can see the remains of fort such as “Sadar”, a water tank and ruins of palace. Again walk up few steps and see the bigger water tank called “Moti Haud” and few more caves where food was stored. You can also notice the watch points/towers here which were used keep watch on the nearby area. Come back to left side from here and you can see the way to reach the top most point of the fort called Bale Killa (in Marathi) meaning Citadel (in English). On the Citadel you can see Kedareshwar temple and a lake nearby. Two bastions are there to keep watch on surrounding areas. The place to hold the flag is also here on citadel, in front of Kedareshwar Temple, called Dhal Kathi (in Marathi). We proudly installed our flag (Bhagava) here and roared Shiv-Garjana. From citadel we can see the mountain of ‘Tin Kavdi’. We can locate Sudhagad, Taila-Baila, Dhangad and Korigad. You can of course see the Pali, River Amba along with hot water reservoirs of ‘Unhere’, Konkan and Jambhulpada. On Vaishakh Poornima (full moon day), the villagers celebrate the festival of Shahapeer. Many people go to Kedareshwar temple on ‘Maha Shivratri’.

(Descend)
Once you are all done with sightseeing, eating (keep in mind not to leave your waste material behind) and feeling the old era, you can then start descending fort. I would again suggest to descend via same way as that goes from behind the temple in Pali. It’s very easy while descending just be safe while crossing those rock patches and you can reach the Pali village in an hour. Reach the home where you parked your vehicles, take the blessings once again from Lord Ganesh if you wish and have time, take some refreshment and start heading towards you respective places with sweet memories of Pali and Sarasgad. I am posting some of pictures taken by me when I visited Sarasgad on 7th march 2009.

Sarasgad, while descending Rock cut steps Steps to cave This is awesome view Ruins of fortification

Look at the Cricket Ground View from the top Steps on the way A Cave on the way Sarasgad, first view

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Best Blog Of The Day Award - 4 March 2009

2009-03-06T11:32:00.011+05:30

I am really thrilled to receive this award which is a good kick start for a blogger like me. It will also add a lot of strength for making my blog presence much bigger and keep going strong ahead. Thanks a lot Bill

Blog of the Day Awards are been awarding the “Best Blog of the Day Award” on a regular basis to weblogs of various topics. The award’s judges look at dozens of sites each day and decide which are the best on the basis of key factors, such as content, quality, design, clarity and creativity. The best sites are then announced on the award’s homepage.

I have been nominated and been chosen as a "Best Blog of the Day" winner for 4 March 2009. Here is the formal announcement of THIS blog as winner. I'd like to thank two of my best friends (Amit Bhave and Shailesh Chikate) for bringing me here and constantly encouraging me into this world of blogging and everyone who has helped me along the way. I also thank all my blog viewers and visitors. I would like to receive more suggestions and feedback so as to keep this blog live and happening with more information and pictures of course. So please keep the comments rollin in.

Many thanks with high regards,
Som

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Some Old Clicks - 1

2009-03-05T09:53:00.006+05:30

My THE Fav, Raajgad A click in Pune Market While I was on the way to Purandar Teach India....School Chale Hum

Miramar Beach in Goa

Havan at Home

Highway on my plate Lohagad

A beach in Goa

Shivgarjana Group, in Ganesh Festival 2008 at Pune

MSRTC's Bus

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My Clicks - 3

2009-01-05T11:58:00.001+05:30

Rail track at Malavali station

is Caption required?

Guess...what these guys are talking... Pune-Mumbai Express way

A housing project near Lonavala Lohagad from Bhaje village

Sunrise and Sunset - 3

2009-01-05T11:47:00.000+05:30

Suggest the Caption... ............................................................

I am speechless.....you?

Mood of Sun at Malavali Station

Sunset from Corporation, Pune

Kille Purandar

2009-01-05T11:00:00.000+05:30

Note : For more information about how to reach the base and top of fort and what things to see there along with measures to take while trekking Purandar/Vajragad, please visit - This Page I am posting some of the pictures taken by me on 03 Jan' 09.

Sunrise captured in Dive Ghat Fatte Buruj and Vajragad (in background)

Mastani Talav in Dive Ghat The steps on the way to Bale Killa

Way to Dehli Darwaja

Dehli Darwaja

Kalyan Darwaja

Kedareshwar Temple and Rajgad (in background)

Nishan Darwaja

Bhaje Caves

2008-11-24T16:19:00.000+05:30

Main Cave

One of the cave

Inside one of many caves Wall of Visapur from Bhaje Caves

Guru-Ta-Gaddi

2008-11-04T17:06:00.000+05:30

Lamps at Nishan Sahib

Sachakhand Sahib

Langar Sahib

Rooms near Sachakhand Sahib

Lighting near the entrance

Diwali 2008

2008-11-04T16:54:00.000+05:30

Laxmi Poojan at my home

Designer lamps lighted at my home More light Sky lamp at my home

My Home..."Naman"

Tried a close up..

Moon - 1

2008-10-15T10:21:00.001+05:30

Moon...without ZOOM Moon...2 days before Kojagiri 2008 Another mood of Moon These pics are taken from Shailu's H50 This was on Kojagiri 2008 This was also on Kojagiri 2008

Sunrise and Sunset - 2

2008-10-14T14:45:00.001+05:30

A rising sun in Katraj Ghat A sunset from my Terrace Katraj Ghat again Khadakwasla Lake A Lake near Narayan Pur - Purandar On the way to Mangaon Dive Aagar Sunset at Dive Aagar Sun is setting in Dive Aagar

My Clicks - 2

2008-10-14T14:31:00.001+05:30

Is caption required?

Ghungaru....but of a bull A window...but of a Loo Lotus in Mangaon can you see the Danger Sign?..my first illusion Birds on the beach

"Tal" in Shivai Temple A Cave on Shivneri On the way to Shivneri A bed....of nature A "Kali" on the way to Vajragad

Harihareshwar, Shrivardhan and Dive Aagar

2008-10-14T14:10:00.003+05:30

(History)
There is not much history available about these places except that Harihareshwar is the place of temple of Shri Harihareshwar which is “Kul-Daivat” of “Peshwa” and there is birthplace of “First Bajirao” (one of the Peshwas) very close (about 5 Kms) to “Shrivardhan”. You can see some old temples at all these places and the beach at these places is just awesome as it is still untouched by flood of humans.

(Reach there)
These places are about 200 Kms from Pune and the tour can be completed in one day very easily. If extended to one more day, one can visit “Murud-Janjira” also which very famous sea fort. It would be better to go by a hired/owned car as there could be many spots in tour that one can not resist to stop and watch. If you are leaving from Pune, Plan the trip in sequence of Pune-Harihareshwar-Sheivardhan-Dive Aagar (and Murud-Janjira for 2 day trip)-Pune. I would suggest, leave very early in the morning (about 3-4 AM) so that you can reach the destination before sun raises too high and you can have best view from Tamhani Ghat also. The route is quite simple as follows – Pune - Chandani Chauk - Paud - Mulshi - Dongarwadi - Tamhini Ghat (here you can have a break and catch some pictures as it might be foggy climate all around) – Vile (turn left from here) - Nijampur – Mangaon (it is NH-17) - Lonere Phata (after Mangaon ST Stand, go about 500 meter towards Mahad, you will reach Lonere Phata, here, turn right to go on SH-97 for Mhasala) - Goregaon – Mhasala (turn right to come on SH-98) - Arathi Road Junction (from this junction, you can either go to Harihareshwar or to Shrivardhan. I would suggest, go to Harihareshwar first as these places are in one line and Shrivardhan is in middle so you would then move upside.) – Harihareshwar. Watch and read the sign boards installed on road throughout the tour as they help to find the destination a lot.

(Harihareshwar and sightseeing)
Harihareshwar is known as Kashi of Southern India. The hill near the seashore at Harihareshwar is also known as 'Harihar' or 'Pushpadri'. Once you reach Harihareshwar, anybody can guide you to show the way towards Harihareshwar Temple. Park the vehicle and get yourself ready for feast of Konkan. I would say, have some sun skin lotion so that tanning can be avoided. The temple and beach are standing face to face. Take the blessings from Kal-Bhairav, Harihareshwar, Hanuman and Ganesh idols as these all temples are in one campus only. You can see the strange shape of Shiv-Pind here, the wooden work on the polls of temple is just amazing and Dipmal is also quite different than the usual one. Before going to beach, its better to review your plan for the day and order the breakfast or lunch in any hotel or home. Note that you can get good sea food both in hotels and homes too; there are many families who run this as their business. The water in the beach of Harihareshwar is not safe for swimming and playing too. Plan the day, order the meal and go to the rocks around beach. You can see some strange shapes formed naturally on this rock, the rock is huge and spread in huge area, you can walk along on it and enjoy the scene. There is nothing other than this group of temples and a beach in Harihareshwar. I would suggest, just an hour and half is sufficient for this place.

(Shrivardhan and sightseeing)
Shrivardhan is 18 Kms from Harihareshwar towards Mumbai/Dive Aagar. A curvy but simple road would take you here in about half hour. This is a Tahasil/Taluka place in Raigad district. The city is small but very cool and calm in the lap of nature. You can visit Somjai/Sonjai Temple and another Shiv Temple here. You can again ask anybody for the way to go to these temples and beach. Also ask the localites about the way to go to Dive Aagar in advance, so that you can take the road from beach itself. The beach is real blasting place, totally untouched by outer world, its clean and long one. One can not resist but go in the water and have some great time with friends and family. It is a C shaped long beach. There is also boat service between Harihareshwar and Shrivardhan so one can get this experience also. After this beach you can visit the birthplace of “First Bajirao” which is 5 Kms from Shrivardhan.

(Dive Aagar and sightseeing)
The best way to go to Dive Aagar from Shrivardhan runs along the seashore and one would never want to miss this opportunity, so even if you go to birthplace of first Bajirao, come back to Shrivardhan and take this road too go to Dive Aagar. There would be some small towns coming in the way. There is no need to ask anybody about the direction and turn for destination as it’s a single road without any subways and all. In an hour you would reach the Dive Aagar. While you enter the city, you will see the Suvarna Ganesh Temple and Kedareshwar Temple (these temples have their stories, ask it to the local peoples so that the secret is not out here only). After this, you can reach the beach. It is about 6 Kms long beach and the cleanness around the beach keeps our mouth open. On the other end of beach, there is Rupnarayan/Sundarnarayan Temple which is a best piece of designing. The idol is the best example of sculpture. The four hands of the idol along with their accessories Shankh (Shell), Chakra (Wheel), Gada (Weapon), Padma (Lotus) are carved in such a manner that when seen in clockwise direction, it shows 24 different appearances of Lord Vishnu. The long beach continues at the back side of this temple.

(Come back)
While coming back to Pune, one has to come to Mhasala (ask somebody from Dive Aagar as there are few right-left turns while going to Mhasala from Dive Aagar), then to Mangaon and so on as per earlier route (but in reverse order and directions). See to it that you have some companion while coming back via Tamhani Ghat in night because it is said that, It could not be so safe traveling alone through this Ghat (we had few more cars around us and found some two wheelers too, so I am not sure about this but lets be cautious) I am posting some of the pictures taken by me when I visited these places in October 2008.

Sand on Shrivardhan Beach A ship leaving the seashore Golden water and Golden boys Dive Aagar beach, close to sunset

Harihareshwar Live Fishing on Harihareshwar Beach Suvarna Ganesh Temple, Dive Aagar Kedareshwar Temple, Dive Aagar Rup Narayan Temple, Dive Aagar

A click on the beach Look at the sun light and object Tamhani Ghat Picture taken from running car This sunrise was taken while the car was on its way

Shivneri

2008-10-14T13:48:00.003+05:30

(History)
Shivaji Maharaj was born on this fort in 1630 and was here till 1632, then this fort was won by Mughals in 1637. Maharaj attacked this fort for four times but could not succeed. This fort was never in “Swarajya” till about 1720 when “Shahu Maharaj” (grandson of Shivaji Maharaj) won it from Mughals. After that Shivneri was with “Peshwa” till British took over the Maratha Empire. Two kilometers away from this fort there are the “Lenyandri Cave” which is one of Ashtavinayak Temple in Maharastra. Closer from here, there is another fort named Jivdhan which is famous for trekking.

(Reach the base)
It is about 100 Kms from Pune. Junner (or say Kusur) is the base village for this fort. It's a Tahasil in Pune district. Better way is to go by ST from Pune to Junner (92-95 Kms) as first bus is at 6.00 AM from Pune and the last one is at 4.00 PM in the evening. Once you get down at Junner, enquire about the last bus going to Pune so that you can take maximum time to see the fort and sites nearby fort, like “Ozar” and “Lenyandri”. These three places can be covered in one day trip, if moved a little fast. From the bus station, you can see “Kamani Majjid”, “Birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj” and “Kadelot Point” along with the caves which are carved on the fort. Take the lrft turn from bus station and reach Shivaji statue (Shivaji Chowk), from here you take the left turn and walk upto 2 Kms to reach village “Kusur”. You will see a college on right hand side while going to “Kusur”, note this as landmark as you will come directly here while coming back. You can also take the bus running between Junner-Kusur but its frequency is very low so better to walk 2 Kms. From “Kusur”, take right turn which will take you on the fort.

(Reach the top)
While walking through the road to top you may observe the well maintained road, road barriers and fortification too. One has to pass through 7 main doors to reach the top of the fort. The names of these doors are as follows in the sequence they come – Maha Darwaja, Ganesh Darwaja, Pir Darwaja, Hatti Darwaja, Shivai Darwaja, Mena Darwaja and Kulup Darwaja. Another small door cum window is at Kadelot Tok called Kadelot Darwaja. There are number of gardens created, street lights installed and sign boards fixed on the way to fort. At first and second door, you can have a good view at both top and down side of the fort as you are at mid height. There is one more “Kaman” before third door, it is broken now but still you can see the ruins of its walls. You can go atop of third door and can again have some great views of nature and gardens on the fort. The distance between third and forth door is maximum amongst all doors and there are few rock cut steps also. Forth door is in the best condition, it has its wooden doors with great piece of craft on it. Big nails are fixed into it along with a small sub-door. You can have few minutes rest here as the cool wind and the chillness below the door roof temps you. One can even have few clicks from camera too. Once you pass this door, you can now go to Shivai Temple to take the blessings from Shivai Devi (on her name the “Raje” was named “Shivaji”) by passing through Shivai Darwaja. From the temple you can either go directly on fort or can choose to go to caves and then to fort. There are some good carvings in the rock that one can not afford to miss. I would suggest go and have a look at these caves, while coming back from there (again through Shivai Darwaja) take right side and keep moving up to reach the sixth door. It’s a double layered and low heighten door. After few more steps you reach the seventh and last door while reaching the top.

(About fort and sightseeing)
There is one more garden after seventh door on both sides and you may found few stalls too selling Lime Water, Butter Milk etc. You can take few minutes rest here and reach the “Ambarkhana” towards the right side. It was the place used to store grains on fort. It is in good condition, as one can go inside and on top of it to have better look at it. From here you can go on the top of a small hill to see the mosque and come back on the main road to head towards main fort. On this way, you will find the iron bars fixed on the deeper side of the road and you can also see the nice view of “Janmasthan”. After waking a bit, you will reach “Ganga-Jamuna Tanks”. These are twin water tanks with very good construction inside. There is one more tank beside these tanks. You can see the “Shiv-Kunj” beside these tanks, where the statue of Shivali Maharaj (as a child) and his mother Jijabai is kept in their memory. Note that there is a way beside “Shiv-Kunj” which will take you to down via some thrilling route, amazing caves and rock cut steps. Just ahead of “Shiv-Kunj”, is the “Kamani Majjid” and “Kamani Tank”. Moving ahead, you come to the ruins of “Royal Palace” which are in good condition. The bathroom having facility for preparing hot water and bathtub is just amazing, moreover the painting and crafting inside the bathroom is still in better condition. Beside this, is the “Birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj” (“Shivjanmasthan’). It is two storied building in very good condition. You can go inside this building and even on the first floor as wel. It is pleasant view from the top. One can have as many pictures as he/she wants here. Leaving this place behind, you come to see the “Badami Lake”. It is called so due to its “Heart Shape”. From here you have to walk some distance and reach the “Kadelot Point” where a small door is build called “Kadelot Darwaja”. This is the other end of fort. Go back to “Shiv-Kunj” from here and take the earlier mentioned route (The line saying…“Note that….”) to go down.

(Come down)
While going down, keep you balance towards the rock and towards the downside because it is quite dangerous at some point, but its still enjoyable patch for a trekker. After you cross the iron bar, go ahead instead of going down and have a look at one of the best cave in the world. You will be amazed by the carving and digging. You can see the window carved in a single/uncut rock and that giant door of the cave. Notice the “Ganesh Murthi” carved in the rock just when that iron rod’s patch ends. See the caves but don’t go more further and deep in greediness of getting more out of the trek, it could be hazards as the route and trees are not that good, so I suggest you all to be cautious. While coming down, you can see the “Teak Wood” trees as the base of “Shivneri” comes under reserved forest area. Cross the compound wall of forest safely and you are now near the college that came in midway while going to “Kusur”. From here, reach the bus station and either go to Lenyandri or go to Pune as per the time constraint. I am posting some of the pictures taken by me when i visited Shivneri in October 2008.

Door 8 - Kadelot Darwaja A cave on the way to fort A window carved in uncut/single rock The way, it was damn HOT

Shivai Devi's Temple Door 7 - Kulup Darwaja Door 6 - Dindi/Mena Darwaja Shiv-Janm Sthan Birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj

Door 1 - Mahadarwaja Door 2 - Ganesh Darwaja Door 3 - Peer Darwaja Door 4 - Hatti Darwaja Door 5 - Shivai Darwaja

Vajragad

2008-10-14T13:36:00.001+05:30

(History)
Vajragad was one of the 23 forts given to Mughals in Purandar treaty in 1665. It was won back in 1670. After Shivaji Maharaj’s death, it was lost to Mughal and they named it as “Ajamgad”. Again in 1695, Shahu Maharaj won it and handed over the control to Peshwas. It is also called “Rudramal”. It’s height from sea level is about 4444 ft (~1355 m). Vajragad and Purandar are sibling forts very near to Pune (about 30-35 Kms). Its mythological name is “Indraneel Parvat”. As per Hindu mythology, when Lord Hanuman attempted to carry “Dronagiri” mountain range, a portion of it slipped off his hands and fell down to form “Indraneel Parvat”. There is a Siva Temple in the base village of these forts, “Narayanpur”, called “Narayaneshwar”. This temple is said to be from the days of “Pandavas”. Purandar and Vajragad always had a demanding place in Maratha Empire as Purandar was Capital of Peshwas for many years.

(Reach the base)
There are two ways to reach the Narayanpur, which is base village for both Purandar and Vajragad. One is via “Saswad” (Pune-Swargate-Hadapsar-Dive Ghat (remember to see the “Mastani Lake” from here)-Saswad-Narayanpur) and another is via “Balaji Temple” near Kapurhol on Pune-Satara highway (Pune-Swargate-Katraj-Katraj Ghat-Kapurhol-Balaji Temple-Narayanpur). One can go either by bike or ST bus or city bus to this fort. There is continuous city bus service for Saswad from Hadapsar and ST bus service for Balaji Temple from Swargate. Once you reach Narayanpur, take the blessings from “Narayaneshwar” and “Ek Mukhi Datta” and then move towards the Narayanpeth. It is a small locality of few houses very close to Narayanpur. From here, one can either go by trek route or by road. There are two trek routes available. One take you directly to “Binni Darwaja” and another route take you through some old bungalows and few lakes. I would suggest go by this route so that you can see the view of Sinhagad, Torna and Rajgad along with some great scenes from down and moreover some of the parts of Purandar and Padmavati Lake. Choose any route from these three (bike/car, trek1 and trek2 (which I suggested)) and you will finally arrive at Binni Darwaja on Pupandar Machi.

(Reach the top)
Here, you can see a statue of “Narveer Murarbaji Deshpande” and a Shiv Temple behind his statue. Beside the Bini Darwaja, you can see the map of India made of cement on the ground. Beside this, is a ruins of church. There are many bungalows and halls on this Machi as it was center for Military activities at some point of point. From this church, move ahead and you may see old Shiv Temple on your right hand side. After this temple, there is a Hotel where you can have your lunch/break fast as per the requirement. The water in the tank beside this hotel is too cool and sweet in taste. There are three temples near this hotel – Purandareshwar, Rameshwar and a Maruti. After having a break at this point, move ahead and reach the “Shivale Lake” surrounded by many ruins of old bungalows. You can see the reflection of Vajragad in this lake. Leave the lake behind and reach “Bhairav Khind”, where a statue of Shivaji Maharaj is installed. From here one may go to either Purandar (right side) or Vajragad (left side). Take left for Vajragad and climb a small hill then keep left and march towards Vajragad. After having almost a round turn to the rock patch you may now see the walls of fort. Locate/Identify the position of door and then move upwards. In rainy season its hard to locate the door as there is much grass and taller trees coming out due to rain.

(About fort and sightseeing)
Once you identify and reach the footsteps of door, you can see the broken road and steps which will take you to the “Mahadarwaja”. A cool and fast moving air flowing in the door tempts you to take the rest and spend few minutes in the shadow of door. You can notice the sign (I think of it to be lotus) on the door which is not elsewhere (on other forts it is generally an elephant, horse or tiger is carved). There could be many buffalos and cows on the fort as they come here to eat the grass. Walk through the steps after door and come on the top of the fort. Here you can see a huge rock in the middle and the wall surrounding the border of the fort. You can see the bigger and complete picture of Purandar from here. There are not much places to see on this fort now but two temples and two water tanks are in good condition along with the Mahadarwaja and few ruins of fortification. Move beside that huge rock and you can see those temples of Vajra Maruti and Shiv Temple. Go though a small door cum window and see those temples and tanks. After seeing the temples you can spend some more time on fort and have a look at surrounding area.

(Come down)
After seeing everything, come back to Purandar Machi from same route and decide whether to go to Purandar or back home depending upon time. While going down, I would suggest, go by the trek route which you haven’t seen while coming so that you can explore more things. This route starts directly from Binni Dwarwaja and take you to Narayan Peth in just 30 minutes. I am posting some of the pictures taken by me when I visited Vajragad in October 2008.

Vajragad - Mahadarwaja Binni Darwaja on Purandar Machi Narveer Murarbaji Deshpande Narayaneshwar Temple in Narayanpur

Purandar-Vajragad Ghat Top view of the ghat Map of India on Purandar Machi Vajragad Balekilla Vajra-Maruti on Vajragad

My Office

2008-09-25T16:18:00.001+05:30

Tech Park One - Tower B Tech Park One - Tower C Tech Park One - Tower A Assembly Area Cafeteria

Kille Raigad

2008-09-25T16:02:00.004+05:30

(History)
This fort needs no introduction just as “Rajgad” doesn’t need. This fort, rises 820 metres (2,700 ft) above sea level, is located in the Sahyandri mountain range. There are approximately 1400–1450 steps leading to the fort, though today a rope-way exists to reach the top of the fort. The fort was looted and destroyed by the British upon siege. Shivaji Maharaj won this fort from Chandrarao More. This was then called “Rairi”, Maharaj constructed it more and made it stronger and then renamed as “Raigad”. After that Maharaj got coronated here in 1674 and this was his capital till he died here in 1680. There is whole lot of information available on internet and even a small child can tell at list two lines about this fort. This is such a great fort.

(Reach the base)
Reaching the base village of Raigad from Pune is quite simple as one can catch the first bus leaving Swargate to Mahad at 6 AM in the morning. Best option to go to Raigad is ST bus or hired car (I would suggest, do not go by bike). Pune-Mahad journey is very exciting as the bus passes through a very beautiful ghat. You can even catch the bus from anywhere between Swargate to Chandani Chowk. From Mahad there is continuous Auto or Bus service available to go to Raigad base or say to Pachad which is base village for Raigad. The food will be available everywhere you go (Mahad/Pachad/Raigad base and top) so, no need to carry food but having a bottle of drinking water will be better option.

(Reach the top)
Once you reach the base, replan or reschedule your trek depending on the time you reach the base. Raigad can be seen completely in one day trek but trekkers prefer to have at least a day’s stay here. You have two options to reach the top, either by rope way or by the steps. I would suggest, reach the top by rope way and come down by steps so that you can experience both ways. Take the tickets and you will be shown a small documentary on Raigad, take some time and see that movie as it will help to see the fort and know the history. It takes 5 minutes to reach the top via rope way. If you want to go by steps then go back (about 1 Kms) from the rope way station and steps starts from your right hand side, these will take you to Maha Darwaja through Chitta Darwaja.

(About fort and sightseeing)
Raigad is huge fort and its better to have at least a rough map or idea of which place is where and in which direction to go, so that we can cover maximum sites in minimum time. Once you are on top via rope way, you are near Mena/Palakhi Darwaja. You can see the MTDC rooms and few hotels near rope way station on the fort. Climb a small hill after station and you can see the walls of fort. There are few steps for Mena Darwaja. Enter the door and you can see ruins of the royal palaces (there were 6 separate palaces for 6 queens) for the queens of Shivaji Maharaj on left hand side. Sivaji Maharaj had total 7 queens. (6 used to live on Raigad and 1 used live in Pachad with Jijabai as she was ill.) These palaces were two storied wooden buildings surrounded by rock compound wall and door. The architecture can be imagined even today. The rooms, walls and even bathrooms are so beautifully planned. Courts of various ministers are exactly opposite to these palaces. You can also see two huge tanks beside those courts, many peoples say it was jail for the criminals but evidences say it was the place to store the grains. Move ahead and you come to the main Royal Palace of Shivaji Maharaj. It is said that this palace was three storied with the best designed walls and polls. Beside these ruins, you can see the remains of three watch towers and garden around them. There are more things to see and have a keen look at in this area of the fort. There is place of general court (Deevan-a-aam) of Maharaj after this palace, where he used to meet the general people of Swarajya and used to listen to them and solve their problems. After this you came to the place of Royal Court (Raajyasabha) where he became the official King and that historical function of his coronation was said to be happened here. This place is a sure master piece of Architecture. It is about 60*200 feet long and build in such a way that a small noise at any corner can be clearly heard at any other place. No words can describe this place as there is Nagarkhana, Megh-Dambari (Royal Seat/Chair), the place for Queens, Sambhaji Raje and Jijabai to seat in Raajyasabha, the place for the ministers of Maharaj. It is said that even the steps to be passed to reach the Megh-Dambari had a meaning (These 4 steps means the 4 Generals of Maharaj namely Tanaji Malusare, Murar Baji Deshpande, Bajiprabhu Deshpande and Prataprao Gujar who sacrificed their lives for the Swarajya). After passing through this place you can see the Nagarkhana. Walk to the left side from here, pass few steps and you come to “Holi Cha Mal” where a statue of Maharaj built with 5 metals is installed. You can also see two canons near this statue. After this, you can see the three ways going to 1. Mahadarwaja & Shirkai Devi Temple 2. Daru Kothar & Tak-mak Tok 3. Bajarpeth (Main Market), Jagadishwar Temple & Shiv Samadhi. I would suggest, go and visit these places in reverse order so that you come to Mahadarwaja at the end of day and from here, you can come down. I have mentioned only main places here, if you find some time, roam around the fort and explore other minute things also. This fort is as good as heaven on earth.

(Come down)
Descend the fort through Mahadarwaja, the place where, I bet, you will spend at least a half an hour. You can see few more canons here. After coming down, you are at some distance ahead of the rope way station. Go back to the station have some break, get fresh and then you can start you journey to reach home with the wonderful memories of Raigad.

This board has its story to tell... Shiv Samadhi The fogged way Rope Way

The door of Royal Parliament (Raj-sabha) Shivaji - The king of hearts, even today Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Beautiful carving Tak-Mak Tok

Waterfall, taken from Rope Way Basement of the Royal Palace Garden for the Queens The base for the goldern polls in which the Royal Seat (Megh Dambari) was placed. The Royal Seat (Megh Dambari)

Kille Rajgad

2008-09-25T15:55:00.000+05:30

A view from top Sanjivani Machi Pali Darwaja

Bale Killa from Padmavati machi Suvela Machi from Maha Darwaja Sadar and Padmavati Machi from Bale Killa Chandra Tale, on Bale Killa Way to Pali Darwaja

Koraigad

2008-09-25T15:40:00.000+05:30

One of the many canons on the fort Ruins of fortification Another Darwaja Maha Darwaja, another view Mini Konkan Kada...

A view while going on top This is just awesome, isn't it? The fort from base Maha Darwaja Ambe Valley from the top

Kothaligad

2008-09-25T15:29:00.000+05:30

Kothaligad from Peth village Pillars of caves Carving in the caves Carving on the doors A canon

A canon made of five metals, a rare one Dew drops Kothaligad on the way, look at the power of wind On the way to Karjat Kothaligad, another view

Visapur

2008-09-25T15:20:00.000+05:30

A tunnel near Kamshet, on the way to Visapur

Visapur from base Pune-Maumbai Express Highway Bhaje Caves Visapur Fort from base See the Express way from top

Goa Tour

2008-09-25T15:06:00.001+05:30

Miramar Beach, Panjim One of the Bridge Mapsa Beach A view of sunset

Aguada Fort Light House One of the Church Panjim Bridge Dolphins

Sunrise and Sunset - 1

2008-09-25T10:20:00.001+05:30

This one was matchless Pune University, in early morning

Sunset on Mutha river Sunset near Deccan, see the bird Sunset on Mutha river again A Sunset on river Sunset from my terrace

A sunset from my terrace Sun at 4PM on Lohagad A morning on the way to Sinhagad A sunrise while going to Rohida Sunrise in Katraj Ghat

My Clicks - 1

2008-09-25T10:11:00.001+05:30

A sunflower on the way to Rohideshwar

The trees on Sinhagad A Flower At Rohideshwar On the way to Purandar, look at the curves A lake near Narayanpur

Water drops on leaf On the way to Sinhagad Dew drops on leaf A Snail A Crab, I was too close to him while taking this picture

Malhargad

2008-09-25T10:02:00.001+05:30

Ruins of the fortification Zendewadi Darwaja Sonori Darwaja Panse Wada Darwaja Fort Jadhavgad (A heritage hotel)

Nedhe (A natural hole in rock) Smaller - Khandoba Temple, Larger - Shiv Temple Trishul Bhagava Zenda Darwaja

Lohagad

2008-09-25T09:49:00.001+05:30

There were so many monkeys on Fort, the one I caught A very known view of Lohagad Is caption needed here? The Vinchu Kata This snake was just awesome

The small tree in the middle of the road gave me just perfect colour combination Nedhe (A natural hole in the rock) These steps will take you to heaven called Lohagad One of the many Darwaja's A view from one of Darwaja

Rohideshwar

2008-09-25T09:33:00.001+05:30

An elephant carved on the wall and some information written in Devnagari Rohideshwar Temple

Our very own buffalos The river passing by Bhor city Bhatghar Dam Look, where I was sitting? Darwaja

Katraj Ghat What could be this? Satara Highway A Flower Mashroom

Sinhagad

2008-09-25T09:19:00.002+05:30

Sahyandri Ranges Pune/Donage Darwaja Gadi Tal (Parking place) A canon heading towards Pune Kalyan Darwaja

Khadakwasla Dam Wall of Khadakwasla Dam A hut on the bank of dam Sinhagad - First View Sinhagad Valley

Ganesh Festival 2008 - Pune

2008-09-24T19:49:00.001+05:30

Lakadi Ganapati Look at the small child participating in procession This small guy enjoys the band Warkari dancing on "Tal-Mrudung" Shrimant - Back Home

Pune Municipal Corporation

Bhausaheb Rangari (First Public ganapati in India) Bal Ganesh Shrimant Dagadusheth Halawai Shrimant Shrimant Dagadusheth - A Different Look

Tilak Wada Hatti Ganapati Deccan Vinchurkar Wada (First personal ganapati in India) Gauri Ganapati Tulasi Bagh

Akhil Mandai Babu Genu (Near) Shaniwar Wada (Chandan Murti) Dagadusheth Halawai - Original Temple Dagadusheth Halawai - New Temple Dagadusheth Halawai Ganapati Kasba Peth Tambadi Jogeshwari Guruji Talim

Jai Ganesh

2008-09-24T17:41:00.001+05:30

Shrimant Dagadushet Halwai Ganapati was at his best in this year's Ganesh Festival. He needs no words of introduction to world. He has always been with me and has always shown me the right way out of the dark. I start my first ever blog with a post related to him. Jai Ganesh.

First Post

2008-09-24T16:36:00.000+05:30

Hi All

This is my first post, just testing... :)

-Som