12:34:11 pm
Pune,Maharashtra
27°C / Clouds
Nestled in the lap of the Sahyadri Mountain range in Maharashtra, Naneghat is a mountain pass that connects the Konkan sea coast with Junnar town in the Deccan. Situated at a height of 2,600 feet, Naneghat was once an important corridor link through the forests of Ghatghar between the important towns inland and the coastal region. Now, Naneghat is a much-loved and much-frequented route for the explorers and adventurers. The beauty of lush greens amidst patches of dusty terrain is the trademark of this region. Naneghat is no less than a treat to the eyes, soul, and to the adventure-seeking, nature-loving mind.
Most part of the fort has crumbled down, but a few of the inscriptions on the caves are still present that praise the rulers who built them. There are several reservoirs and water tanks around the place. The fort has many artificial caves and the Naneghat pass with gigantic rock walls on both sides. The other side of the pass is blessed with a Ganesha Temple and has a giant rock-cut pot that was used to collect coins from the traders passing by. The pinnacle of the fort is in the shape of a thumb which is famous as ‘Nancha Angtha.’
The best time to visit Naneghat is during the late monsoon as the mountain pass is full of waterfalls and after the monsoon, these waterfalls come alive.
The ancient Naneghat trek route is known to be in existence since the rule of the mighty Satavahana dynasty. ‘Nane’ means coin and ‘Ghat’ means pass, which means that the Naneghat pass was used to collect taxes from the traders who wish to cross the hill. Hence, it was one of the most important trade routes during 200 BC to 190 CE or the reign of Satavahanas, which used to connect seaports on the west coast like Thane, Sopara, and Kalyan with the major settlements like Junnar, Nasik, and Paithan. According to Charles Allen, a renowned historian, there is Buddhist Stupa-like carved stone on the route which was used to store the collected coins.
Read More: Lonavala Dreamscape
At the end of the Naneghat trekking route, there is an ancient cave with inscriptions in Devanagari and Brahmi scripts believed to be older than 2,000 years. This gives evidence to prove the reign of the Satavahana dynasty over this region. After researching, archaeologists found that these inscriptions mention the rituals of Vedas and deities like Indra, Surya, Chandra, Yama, and Vasudeva or Krishna, and some historical information about the early rulers of the Satavahana dynasty. The researchers concluded that the cave was commissioned by a female, Satavahana Queen or Queen Mother, Naganika, the wife of Satakarni.
Read More: Book Hotels Near Naneghat – Adotrip
There is no official bus stop in Naneghat. So either keep an eye on the signboards or ask your bus conductor to inform you when you are about to reach.
Before going out for the trek, stock your bag with water and food as it goes through forests and there is nothing much for 2-2.5 hours of climbing and trekking.
Discover the soul of Naneghat through these iconic landmarks
To reach Naneghat, you'll need to cover significant distances from major cities. Here are the most convenient ways to travel to Naneghat.
The nearest airports to Naneghat offer regular connectivity to major Indian cities. Pune International Airport serves as the closest air gateway, while Mumbai and Nashik airports provide excellent alternatives. From the airport, travelers can hire taxis or take local transport to reach Naneghat.
Nearest Airport to Naneghat: Pune International Airport, Approximately 83 km
Second Nearest Airport to Naneghat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai, Approximately 89 km
Third Nearest Airport to Naneghat: Nashik Airport, Approximately 94 km
Naneghat is accessible through several railway stations connected to Mumbai, Pune, and other major cities. Kalyan Junction is the nearest major railhead and serves as the most convenient access point for travelers visiting the ancient mountain pass.
Nearest Railway Station to Naneghat: Kalyan Junction, Approximately 92 km
Second Nearest Railway Station to Naneghat: Shivajinagar Railway Station, Pune, Approximately 118 km
Third Nearest Railway Station to Naneghat: Kasara Railway Station, Approximately 96 km
Naneghat enjoys excellent road connectivity via the Mumbai-Nashik Highway and Pune-Nashik routes. Private vehicles, taxis, and state transport buses operate regularly, making road travel one of the most scenic and preferred ways to reach this historic destination.
Mumbai to Naneghat: Approximately 120 km
Pune to Naneghat: Approximately 120 km
Nashik to Naneghat: Approximately 145 km