Tikona Trek
Fort Name: Tikona(Vitnadgad)
Fort Height: 3580 ft
Type: Hill forts
Fort Range: Lonavala
District: Pune
Grade: Simple
The mountains on Deccan plateau in the vicinity of Bor Ghat have many ancient caves like Karle, Bhaje, Bedse, Bhandara and Shelarwadi. The forts of Lohgad, Visapur, Tung and Tikona were built in order to defend these caves. This region also has a number of Ghat-routes connecting the ports on the western coast to the cities located on the Deccan plateau. These forts served as protectors of these important trade routes of ancient India. As the caves found in this area belong to the Buddhist and Heenyana era, it is believed that these forts must have been built around 800 to 1000 AD.
History
Not much is known about the history of this fort. Malik Ahmed Nizamshah of the Nizam dynasty conquered it in 1585 and thus it was made part of the Nizam territory. In 1657 Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj conquered Tikona along with the forts of Mahuli, Lohgad, Visapur, Songad, Tala and Karnala. Thus, all areas of Konkan, which earlier belonged to the Nizam’s territory, came under king Shivaji MAharaj’s control. This fort was strategically very important to keep a watch on the entire region of Pauna Mawal.
Fascinating Spots
The whole fort can be seen in an hour’s time, as the area is not so wide. Turn left after passing the entrance. In a short while a cistern and cave can be seen. About 10 to 15 persons can be accommodated in this cave. However, it is not suitable for a stay during monsoon. The path going uphill adjacent to the cave takes us to the entrance to the bastion. The steps in this stretch are a bit tiring. One can see cisterns on the right and fortification on the left after passing through the entrance. After taking a few steps straight ahead, a trail climbs down on our right. Here too are a few cisterns. Return back and join the main path, which takes us to a stretch of broken steps. A climb uphill brings us to a Mahadev temple, behind which is a big moat. Circumventing this moat takes us to the flag-post. From the bastion one can have a view of adjacent fort Tung, Lohgad, Visapur, Bhatrashi hill, Morse hill, Jambhuli hill, Pauna region and Fagne dam. Thus, the whole of Mawal region is visible from fort Tikona.
Things to Carry
- Minimum 2 ltrs of Water
- Munching Items: Dry Fruits, Chocolates or Energy Bars.
- Good quality trekking Shoes
- Hand Sanitizer, mask
- Smartphone or Compact Camera
- Power bank
- Rainy season jacket/poncho/ umbrella
- Pair of dry cloths.
- Necessary medicines (if any)
- ORS, Glucon-D
- Few old news papers
- Torch / Emergency Light
Trek Time
Average 1.5 hours to reach the top.
Group Size
Max 25
Other logistics would be sent on WhatsApp group of all confirmed participants!
Do’s
- Keep the forts clean. If you find some plastic bottles or any trash that is non-degradable, carry it in a bag and then dump it in our city dustbins.
- Wear clothes that are comfortable. Avoid jeans in rainy season.
- Walk, don’t run.
- Consume plenty of water
- Respect Nature
- Follow leaders instructions
Dont’s
- If at some places photography is not allowed, you should not click photos.
- Ensure that you do not pollute such places by leaving trash behind. Leave nothing but your footsteps.
- DO NOT wear anything funky that might attract wild animals. And don’t tease wild animals if you encounter any.
- Don’t make random marking on trees or the structures on the fort.
- Do not drink/smoke.
- No Selfies at dangerous places
For more information please reach out to –
Mobile / WhatsApp – 9822241880
Email – contact.iCampers@gmail.com
