Hello!! Trekking lover!! Have you heard the name of Alang Madan Kulang? Also known as AMK or Alangad Madangad Kulangad, is one of the most challenging and thrilling treks in Maharashtra, India. Nearby attractions, distance, how to reach, how many days, and cost all under one roof of the itinerary plan. Let your safe travel journey start with us from today.
Table of Contents
Overview of the Alang Madan Kulang Trek:
- Address: AMK Base camp, Uddavne, Bhandardara, Udawane, Maharashtra 422604, India
- Start point: Ambewadi village
- Nearest city: Nashik
- Altitude: Approximately 4,500 feet (1,372 meters)
- Accessibility: The trek is located in a remote area and access is limited to trekking groups with experienced guides.
- Trek Distance: Approximately 18 kilometers (11 miles)
- Duration: 3 days and 2 nights
Map
Location
The trek begins in the village of Ambewadi, and takes trekkers through dense forests, across gushing streams, and up narrow ridges. The first fort, Alang Fort, is reached after a challenging climb. From Alang Fort, trekkers must descend into a deep gorge and then ascend again to reach Madan Fort. The final fort, Kulang Fort, is the most difficult to reach, as it is situated on a sheer rock face.
Alang Madan Kulang History
The history of the Alang Madan Kulang trek is not well documented. However, it is believed that the forts were built in the 14th century by the Maratha king Shivaji Maharaj. The forts were used as strategic outposts to protect the Maratha kingdom from invading armies.
The Alang Madan Kulang trek is a popular destination for trekkers from all over India. The trek is typically done from October to March when the weather is cool and dry. Trekkers should be prepared for cold temperatures at night and the possibility of rain.
What to watch out for
The Alang Madan Kulang trek is a challenging and demanding expedition, and trekkers should be aware of the potential hazards involved.
Here are some things to consider:
- Terrain: The trek involves traversing steep slopes, narrow ridges, and exposed ledges. Trekkers should have good balance and coordination, and be prepared to use their hands and feet to navigate the terrain.
- Rock faces: Some sections of the trek require climbing over vertical rock faces. Trekkers should have basic rock climbing skills and be comfortable using ropes and harnesses.
- Water: There is limited potable water available on the trek. Trekkers should carry enough water to last them for the entire duration of the trek.
- Weather: The weather in the Sahyadri mountains can be unpredictable. Trekkers should be prepared for rain, fog, and cold temperatures.
- Altitude sickness: The altitude of the trek can cause altitude sickness in some people. Symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Trekkers should ascend gradually and acclimatize themselves to the altitude before attempting the more challenging sections of the trek.
In addition to these general tips, here are some specific things to watch out for on each of the three forts:
Alang Fort:
- The climb to the top of the fort is very steep and exposed. Trekkers should use caution and take their time.
- Some narrow ledges and ridges can be slippery when wet. Trekkers should be careful not to slip and fall.
Madan Fort:
- The route to Madan Fort is overgrown and there are several thorny bushes. Trekkers should wear long pants and sturdy shoes.
- There are several places where the trail is not well-marked. Trekkers should follow the cairns (piles of stones) carefully.
Kulang Fort:
- The climb to the top of Kulang Fort is very steep and there is no clear trail. Trekkers should use caution and be prepared to scramble.
- The top of Kulang Fort is very exposed. Trekkers should be careful not to fall.
The best time to hike Alang Madan Kulang
The post-monsoon (October to March) and winter seasons are the most favorable for the Alang Madan Kulang trek, offering pleasant weather, clear skies, and a safer trekking environment.
1. Post-Monsoon Season (September to November):
- The ideal time for the AMK trek with pleasant weather.
- Lush green landscapes after the monsoon, reducing the risk of slippery trails.
- Cool temperatures make the challenging ascent more manageable.
2. Winter Season (December to February):
- Favorable period with cooler temperatures.
- Clear skies offer breathtaking views and excellent stargazing opportunities.
- Refreshing environment for trekking, making it an enjoyable experience.
3. Monsoon Season (June to August):
- Not recommended for the AMK trek due to heavy rainfall.
- Trails can become slippery and dangerous, posing risks to trekkers.
4. Summer Season (March to May):
- Possible to trek but can be challenging due to hot and dry conditions.
- Scorching temperatures may make the trek more strenuous for hikers.
Trekkers are advised to avoid the monsoon season due to slippery trails, and while summer trekking is feasible, the high temperatures can make the experience more demanding.
How Hard Is It to Trek the AMK?
The entire trek, which is classed as Difficult, has many challenging portions and technical obstacles. The treks on top of the forts are the easiest part of the trek, but you will still need to exercise caution the entire time.
The following sections call for extreme caution and close attention to every step you take:
- Slippery trail: The trail gets more difficult in the months following the monsoon because of the loose gravel and boulders, which make them extremely slippery. Travelers must exercise extreme caution. Trekkers need to be extremely cautious when selecting their footwear and should consult weather forecasts to steer clear of days that are predicted to have a lot of rain.
- exposed ledges: There are a few spots where the smooth, slick granite on one side is entirely exposed to a plunge of over a thousand to two thousand feet. They must be crossed carefully because even a slight mistake could endanger your life. Ropes fastened to the rocks provide support for some of these exposed parts. Whenever there are ropes accessible, always accept their assistance.
- Climbing rocks and using rappels on steep walls: Even though they sound exciting, these are the parts that carry the greatest risk. Make sure your squad is composed of knowledgeable mountain climbing specialists, whether they are hired guides or your teammates. On the hike, make sure you have all the necessary safety and technical gear, including helmets, carabiners, mittens (gloves), ropes, and harnesses.
- Steep rock-cut steps: This walk presents a safety risk due to the rock-cut steps. Whenever available, use the ropes on the sides to assist as you negotiate the near-vertical steps at various stages of the walk. Soon after the monsoon, when these rocks are likely to have formed moss, the risk multiplies.
Trail information
Not only is the hike through Alang Madan Kulang difficult but choosing where to start and finish the journey is difficult too! This is because there are numerous base villages from which to begin the hike. Additionally, you can change the locations of your start and finish points! There aren’t many treks that let you pick where you start and end your trip. We hiked customarily and most efficiently, starting and ending at Ghatghar and heading towards Kurungwadi. Since the walk provides stunning views of all three forts, we think this is the best option.
Since the trail gives stunning views of all three forts once you start the hike, we think this is the best option. The paths are more verdant on this side of the route, which also passes past farmlands. You can only experience the thrill of starting a hike in one community and finishing it in another when you are in the Himalayas.
We don’t want you to miss this opportunity to receive Sahyadris directly from Sahyadris! The trail into four sections as it passes through three different forts.
2- Day Itinerary Plans for AMK Trek
Day – 1
Part 1: Ghatghar to Alang Fort (Approximate Duration: 4-5 hours)
- 07:00 AM: Start your trek from Ghatghar, following the well-defined trail.
- 10:00 AM: Take a break to enjoy the refreshing ambiance of the dense forests.
- 12:00 PM: Reach Alang Fort and explore its ruins and fortifications.
- 01:00 PM: Have lunch amidst the panoramic vistas of the Sahyadri ranges.
Part 2: Alang Fort to Madan Fort (Approximate Duration: 3-4 hours)
- 02:00 PM: Descend from Alang Fort, following a steep and rocky trail.
- 04:00 PM: Reach Madan Fort and explore its impressive 17th-century structure.
- 05:00 PM: Camp at the base of Madan Fort, enjoying the tranquillity of the surroundings.
- 06:00 PM: Prepare and enjoy a warm meal under the starlit sky.
Day – 2
Part 3: Madan Fort to Kulang Fort (Approximate Duration: 5-6 hours)
- 06:00 AM: Witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Sahyadri ranges.
- 07:00 AM: Begin your ascent towards Kulang Fort, the highest point of the trek.
- 10:00 AM: Take a break to replenish your energy and enjoy the scenic vistas.
- 12:00 PM: Reach Kulang Fort, the most well-preserved of the three forts.
Part 4: Kulang Fort to Kurungwadi (Approximate Duration: 4-5 hours)
- 01:00 PM: Explore Kulang fort’s remnants, including its cisterns, granaries, and watchtowers.
- 02:00 PM: Commence your descent from Kulang Fort, carefully navigating the steep and rocky trail.
- 04:00 PM: Experience the thrill of rappelling down a 50-foot waterfall.
- 05:00 PM: Reach Kurungwadi, a small village at the trek’s endpoint.
End of the trek:
- 06:00 PM: Celebrate your successful completion of the Alang Madan Kulang trek.
- 07:00 PM: Enjoy a farewell dinner and share memories of the challenging yet rewarding adventure.
How to reach AMK Trek
Transportation to Base Village:
- Reach Igatpuri or Kasara by train or bus, the nearest railway station.
- From these stations, hire local jeeps or shared cabs to reach the base village of the AMK trek.
Self-Drive Options:
- Consider using car rental services in major cities like Mumbai and Pune.
- Companies such as Zoomcar, Avis, and Ola Rentals offer rental services in India.
Driving Precautions:
- Ensure the rental vehicle is suitable for mountainous terrains.
- Verify with the rental company if the chosen vehicle is permitted for the specific location.
Trek Start Timing:
- Commence the trek early in the morning to maximize daylight hours.
- Check public transportation schedules if using them to reach the base village.
Local Assistance:
- Trekkers often hire local guides from the base village for a safer and more informed trekking experience.
- Confirm with the guides about the current trekking conditions and any local regulations.
Plan Accordingly:
- Be aware of the local regulations and conditions before embarking on the journey.
- Check for any updates or changes in transportation services and schedules.
How to Prepare Yourself for the Alang Madan Kulang Trek
Preparing for the Alang Madan Kulang (AMK) trek requires a combination of physical conditioning, mental preparation, and proper gear selection. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get ready:
Physical Conditioning:
- Regular Exercise: Engage in regular cardio and strength training exercises to build endurance, stamina, and muscle strength, focusing on lower body muscles for uphill climbs.
- Hiking Practice: Participate in shorter hikes to gradually increase your endurance and acclimate your body to hiking conditions.
- Strengthening Exercises: Incorporate exercises that target core stability, leg strength, and balance, such as squats, lunges, planks, and yoga poses.
Mental Preparation:
- Research and Understand the Trek: Familiarize yourself with the terrain, challenges, and weather conditions to set realistic expectations and prepare mentally.
- Develop a Positive Mindset: Cultivate a positive attitude and mental resilience to overcome tough moments and maintain motivation throughout the trek.
- Visualization Techniques: Visualize yourself successfully completing the trek, overcoming obstacles, and enjoying the scenic beauty.
Gear Selection:
- Trekking Shoes: Invest in a pair of sturdy, comfortable, and waterproof trekking shoes with good ankle support and grip.
- Appropriate Clothing: Pack quick-drying, moisture-wicking clothing, including long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, a fleece jacket, and a rain jacket.
- Hydration Pack: Carry a hydration pack with a water capacity of at least 2 litres to stay hydrated throughout the trek.
- First Aid Kit: Pack a well-stocked first aid kit with essential medical supplies to handle minor injuries.
- Navigation Tools: Carry a map, compass, and GPS device to navigate the unmarked trail effectively.
Other Essentials: Pack a headlamp, sunscreen, sunglasses, snacks, a whistle, and a personal emergency locator beacon for safety.
Additional Tips:
- Hire a Local Guide: Consider hiring a local guide with expertise in the AMK trek for safe navigation, route guidance, and local insights.
- Acclimatization: If traveling from a lower altitude, spend a few days in Nashik or nearby areas to acclimatize to the higher altitude before starting the trek.
- Gradual Ascents: Pace yourself during the trek, taking regular breaks to avoid exhaustion and maintain a consistent pace.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Stay adequately hydrated by drinking plenty of water and consuming energy-rich snacks to maintain energy levels throughout the trek.
- Respect the Environment: On the trail, leave no evidence of your visit. Honor the local wildlife and flora, and dispose of trash in an ethical manner.
- Respect Local Culture: Be mindful of local customs and traditions, dress appropriately, and interact with locals respectfully.
Nearby attractions after visiting Alang Madan Kulang
Here are 6 nearby attractions after visiting Alang Madan Kulang:
- Alang Fort: A natural rock fortress with valley views provides a challenging ascent for trekkers & rock climbers. It is located 2.6 km from Alang Madan Kulang and has a 4.7-star rating on Google Maps.
- Harishchandragad: A hill fort located 12.1 km from Alang Madan Kulang. It is known for its 6 gates, 3 moats, 16 water cisterns, and 3 temples.
- Khandeshwar Temple: A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is located 12.4 km from Alang Madan Kulang. It is believed to be one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, the holiest shrines of Shiva.
- Nandagiri: A hill fort located 14.5 km from Alang Madan Kulang. It is known for its 5 gates, 3 moats, 12 water cisterns, and 4 temples.
- Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple: A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is located 16.2 km from Alang Madan Kulang. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, the holiest shrines of Shiva.
- Pandavleni Caves: A group of 24 rock-cut caves located 20.2 km from Alang Madan Kulang. They are believed to have been carved by the Pandavas during their exile.
FAQ’S
Is the AMK Trek (Alang Madan Kulang Trek) safe?
-The AMK Trek is considered to be a challenging trek with some technical sections. It is important to have a good level of fitness and experience with trekking before attempting this trek.It’s also critical to understand the dangers and take preventative measures to keep yourself safe.
Where can I park my vehicle when doing the AMK Trek?
-There is a small parking lot at the base of the Alang Fort. However, this parking lot can fill up quickly, so it is best to arrive early. There is also some roadside parking available, but this can be limited.
What is the mobile network and connectivity like on the AMK Trek?
-Mobile network coverage can be spotty on the AMK Trek. It is best to download offline maps and apps before you start your trek. You should also bring a power bank to keep your phone charged.
What is the emergency phone number for the AMK Trek?
-The emergency phone number for the AMK Trek is 108. This is the general emergency number for India. You can also call the local police station at +91-98230-22456.
What are the best months to do the AMK Trek?
-The best months to do the AMK Trek are from October to March when the weather is cool and dry. However, the trek can be done year-round, but it is more challenging in the monsoon season (June to September) due to the slippery trails and leeches.
What should I wear on the AMK Trek?
-It is important to wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing and footwear on the AMK Trek. Long pants, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy hiking boots are essential.
What should I bring to the AMK Trek?
-You should bring plenty of water and snacks, as well as a first-aid kit, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a headlamp. You may also want to bring a camera, as there are many opportunities to take amazing photos on the trails.
Are there any guides or companies that offer AMK Trek tours?
-Yes, many guides and companies offer AMK Trek tours. This can be a good option if you are new to trekking or if you want to avoid the hassle of planning your trip.
How difficult is the Kalsubai Trek?
-The Kalsubai Trek is moderate. It is not too difficult, but it is not too easy either. The trail is well-maintained and there are plenty of water sources along the way.
Which season is ideal for the Kalsubai Trek?
-The best time to do the Kalsubai Trek is during the monsoon season when the waterfalls are in full flow. However, the trek can be done year-round. The summer months can be very hot, so it is best to avoid trekking during this time. The winter months can be very cold, so it is important to pack warm clothes.
How do I get to the trailheads for treks in Maharashtra?
-The trailheads for most treks in Maharashtra are accessible by road. You can either drive yourself or hire a car or taxi. Some treks can be reached by public transportation.