Vikatgad (Peb Fort)

Vikatgad (Peb Fort)

It is assumed that this fort derived its name Peb from the 'Goddess Pebi' at the base of the fort. Historical references clearly indicate that Shivaji Maharaj used the caves on the fort as silos for grain storage

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The cave on the fort is occupied by disciples of Swami Samarth, a great saint. They have contributed a lot to development on this fort from last ten years. They have managed successfully to keep the cave and the fort clean, and maintained the dignity of the fort. Near to this cave are meditation caverns, which are underground. These caverns are still in good condition. One has to crawl into these and only one man can enter at one time. In monsoon two of these are filled with water. On the top we can go by climbing the wall of the fort. On the top we can see some remnants. The main attraction here is the bastion on the topmost part. This faces the mountain of Matheran. Here we can clearly see the ridge connecting mountains of Matheran and Peb. When we stand here we feel to be at the top of the world.

On the other side of the fort is a temple of a deity. Here is a big cistern. The disciples are constructing a good temple here. We can reside here for some time.The beautiful waterfall on the way is the main attraction here. Surrounding scenery looks marvelous from the cave in the monsoon. From here we also see the pinnacles of Navara-Navari, Bhatoba and Irshaal, along with forts of Chanderi, Prabalgad and Malanggad and also Nakhind. This trekking is pleasant in all seasons.

District: Raigad

Height above mean sea level - 2100 feet. 

Time to reach the top - 2 and a half.

Best season to visit - Anytime.

How to get there - Mumbai to Neral via local train going to Karjat and satichivadi ,maldunge panvel

Notes:

The trek starts from Neral station itself, ask for directions to Peb fort and anyone will direct you.You don't need a guide as the road is well marked right till the top.Water is available at the cistern on top and seemed potable.There are caves to stay in, so shelter too isn't a problem.There are about 3 different temples to visit, one is near the caves, one at the summit, and one just below the summit.

The temple at the summit

We saw Dhruwin and gang from Try The Thrill having a clean up initiative at Peb. They carried out Route Marking and also supplied dustbins and 'do not litter' boards. Kudos to them!