Trekkk Diaries...!!!

Vikatgad, also known as Peb Fort, is indeed fascinating! Its name comes from the local goddess Pebi, and the fort's summit is reminiscent of Lord Ganesha, which adds to its cultural significance. Historically, it played a vital role during Shivaji Maharaj's reign, serving as a granary. The fort offers stunning views and is a popular trekking destination, making it a great spot for both history buffs and nature lovers.

HOW TO REACH – By Train

NEAREST RAILWAY STATION – Neral Railway Station (Central Line)

There are basically 2 routes to reach the topmost peak of Peb fort –

1.) Through Matheran City

2.) Through Anantwadi Village

1.) Through Matheran City

LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY – Easy to Moderate

TIME REQUIRED – Around 2 hours

After getting down at Neral Railway station, head towards Matheran City via sharing cab available just outside the station.

The cabs will charge Rs.100 per person to reach the outskirts of Matheran city.

Then enter Matheran and start walking along the toy train track in downhill direction.

After walking for around half hour you will see a gate on left hand side which mentions the starting point of trek.

It takes around 2 hours to reach the top of mountain.

The hike is slippery during monsoon season, hence need to take adequate care and wear appropriate trekking shoes.

This route is narrow on few stretches and also quite adventurous.

Need to carry good amount of drinking water and food because these provisions are not available along the hiking route.

Once you reach the mountain, there is a small temple devoted to Lord Shiva where you can rest for a while and start the return journey.

2.) Through Anantwadi Village

LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY – High

TIME REQUIRED – Around 5 hours

Well, this route is quite treacherous and risky.

SOLO trekking on this route will be highly unadvisable.

After getting down at Neral Railway Station, ask a Rickshaw driver to drop you near Anantwadi trek starting point.

Rickshaw will charge around Rs.100 and do ask the driver for guidance for trail.

Once you start walking along the trail, you will notice electric poles. Follow those poles uphill, then take a left from the 3rd Pole to continue the trail.

Along the way there are markings on the stone to guide.

Through this route one will reach at the other end of the fort where a flag pole and a statue is situated. If you wish to reach the top of the fort, then it is another hour of hike. Though this portion is not so difficult, just need to follow the trail to reach the top. At the end there is a small mandir where one can rest for a while before continuing further journey.