Beautiful Peb Fort – 3 reasons to visit

Peb Fort, also known as Vikatgad is a famous one-day trekking spot situated in the lush greens of Matheran. Matheran is filled with abundant flora and fauna and a walk to the Peb fort in the monsoon makes this a wholesome experience!!

Details:

Peb Fort, also known as Vikatgad Fort, is situated in the hills of Matheran, which is approximately 20 km away from Karjat. It’s a famous destination for one-day trekkers, and it is majorly famous for its versatility.

How to reach:

Peb fort can be reached easily from the towns of Panvel and Karjat. The nearest railway station to Peb fort is Neral Junction. It is a busy station on the Mumbai-Pune Railway Lines. One can get share rickshaws or jeeps on a sharing basis, which are readily available from outside the station. Neral is well connected by roads as well. The best way to reach the fort is to get down at Matheran by road and start walking along the railway tracks. The entire distance of the trek is nearby 8-9kms

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There are many attractions on this trek but a few amazing ones are:

1. Versatility: Peb is different from other trekking destinations. It is easier to climb as compared to other forts, but the different types of paths through which you reach the destination are what make this trek unique. The initial trail throughout the railway trek is truly a paradise to the eyes, as one gets a beautiful view of the Matheran hill ranges and small waterfalls. The sounds of the breeze and the greenery spread through will take you into a different world. After walking for 30–45 minutes, one can get a beautiful view of Kadyavarcha Ganpati from the tracks.

There is a small entry gate to enter down to reach the main fort. Steps down through that gate will take you down to a junction point from where one route goes to the base of Kadyawarcha Ganpati and the other route leads you toward Peb Fort/Vikatgad. If you have reached the fort from the Matheran end, a ladder overlooking the deep valley stands between you and the top of the defense. You can experience a fantastic trail to Peb fort.

2. Kadyavarcha Ganpati: It is also one of the popular tourist attractions. Although it’s not a part of this trek, the stunning view of the Ganesha idol carved in stone makes it worth visiting. You should not miss a chance to visit a similar site! One can have a mesmerizing view from the tracks, or else you can reach the base of the idol to visit the temple.

3. While following the path to Peb fort, you can have a mesmerizing 360-degree view of the beautiful hill ranges of Matheran and Chanderi forts, Nakhind hill, Malanggad, Tahuli, Prablagad, Kalavantin, and the Matheran plateau in clear weather.

Also Read : Jivdhan fort trek

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Peb Fort Difficulty:

The trek grade of Peb Fort is Easy-Moderate and it takes around 2-2.5hrs to reach the temple at the top.

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Attractions nearby:

Kadyavarcha Ganpati, The ruins of the gates and a temple at the top, with a commanding view of the Matheran hills, and many more unexplored places.

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Bagpacking:

• Trekking shoes with proper grip
• Sunglasses
• Raincoats/ Ponchos
• Snacks and Water as there is no point between the trek to get water
• Extra pair of clothes if visited during monsoon

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Best Time to Visit Peb Fort:

During monsoons. The greens of Matheran make it more attractive during these months!

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Budget:

500-1000INR

One-day trekking to Peb Fort is an amazing experience. You must visit if you are seeking a little escape from your busy life. Also read – Kalsubai Trek: An amazing experience

To know about the Highest Peak of Maharashtra check Kalsubai Trek- an amazing experience