Bhaskargad

 

 

Bhaskargad, also known as Basgad, is a hill fort located in the Nashik district of Maharashtra, India. Situated in the Trimbak hill range, it lies in close proximity to the more famous Harihar Fort.

Here's a brief overview of Bhaskargad:

• Location: Part of the Trimbak range, near Trimbakeshwar, approximately 48 km east of Nashik.
• Alternate Name: Also known as Basgad.
• Height: Approximately 3500 feet above sea level.
• History: The fort's origins can be traced back to the Yadava dynasty of Deogiri in the 13th century. It subsequently came under the control of various rulers, including the Bahamani Sultanate, Nizamshahi of Ahmednagar, the Mughals, and the Marathas under Shivaji Maharaj. It was also briefly held by the Koli tribe and later by the Peshwas before the British captured it in 1818.
• Trekking: Bhaskargad is a popular destination for trekking and hiking enthusiasts, especially during the monsoon season when the surrounding landscape is lush and green.

• Things to See:
  • Main Entrance Gate: Carved out of rock.
  • Rock-cut Steps: Leading to the fort entrance.
  • Water Cisterns: Rock-hewn structures for water storage. Some are buried.
  • Idol of Veer Maruti: A crude idol located on the fort.
  • Remnants of Structures: Ruins of houses and walls can be found on the fort top.
  • Panoramic Views: The fort offers excellent views of the surrounding Sahyadri range, including Harihar Fort and other peaks.
• Significance: Bhaskargad was strategically important as it guarded the ancient Gonda Pass, a trade route connecting the west coast to Nashik.

Trekking to Bhaskargad:

• Base Village: Nirgudpada or Dahalepada are the common base villages for the trek.
• Routes: There are a couple of routes to reach the base village from Igatpuri or Khodala.
• Difficulty: Generally considered a moderate trek.
• Time to Reach: It can take around 1-2 hours to reach the top from the base village.
• Accommodation & Water: There are no accommodation facilities or reliable water sources on the fort, so it's essential to carry sufficient water and plan for a day trek.

Bhaskargad offers a less crowded and offbeat trekking experience compared to its neighbor, Harihar Fort, while still providing scenic beauty and a glimpse into the region's history.

Architectural Peculiarities:

• Rock-Cut Marvels: The fort showcases remarkable rock-cut architecture. The main entrance gate and the steps leading up to it are carved directly out of the basalt rock face. This monolithic construction is a testament to the skills of the artisans of that era.
• Buried Entrance: Interestingly, the main entrance of the fort is now partially buried under soil and debris. One has to crawl a bit to enter, adding a touch of adventure to the experience. Despite being partially buried, intricate lotus carvings on either side of the gate are still visible.
• Water Management: The fort has several rock-cut water cisterns, crucial for sustaining the inhabitants. Some of these are quite large, while others are now buried. One cistern near the Hanuman idol still holds water. The presence of multiple cisterns suggests a significant population resided here at some point.
• Remnants of Habitation: While largely in ruins, the fort still bears traces of residential and other structures, indicating a once bustling settlement. Scattered stones and remnants of walls can be seen across the fort's plateau.

Legends and Local Beliefs:

• While historical records about Bhaskargad are somewhat limited, local folklore often fills the gaps. Some villagers believe that the fort is guarded by Bhairoba, a local deity. This belief sometimes translates into practices like abstaining from non-vegetarian food on the fort premises.
• There are also tales of hidden treasures within the fort, a common theme associated with many ancient forts in India. However, these remain firmly in the realm of legend.

The Trekking Experience in Detail:

• Diverse Trails: While Nirgudpada is the primary base village, trekkers might encounter different paths depending on their starting point and local guidance. Some routes involve crossing a small stream at the beginning of the trek.
• Changing Landscapes: The trek typically begins through a mix of scrubland and denser vegetation as one ascends. Closer to the fort, the path often follows exposed ridges, offering panoramic views.
• The Thrill of the Steps: The rock-cut steps are a highlight of the trek. Carved in a helical fashion, they sometimes become narrow and can be slippery, especially during the monsoon. Some sections of the steps might also be covered with loose stones.
• Panoramic Vistas: From the fort top, trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding Sahyadri range. Harihar Fort stands prominently nearby, and on a clear day, one can also spot other peaks like Brahmagiri, Fani Hill, and even distant forts.
• Monsoon Magic: While the trek is possible throughout the year, the monsoon season (June to September) transforms the landscape into a lush green paradise, with mist often enveloping the fort, creating a mystical atmosphere. However, the trails can be slippery during this time, requiring extra caution.

Offbeat Appeal:

• Compared to the popular Harihar Fort, Bhaskargad sees fewer visitors. This makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a quieter and more solitary trekking experience. The relative lack of crowds allows for a more intimate connection with nature and the fort's ruins.

Bhaskargad, therefore, offers a blend of historical intrigue, architectural fascination, natural beauty, and a rewarding trekking experience away from the mainstream tourist trails. Its silent ruins whisper tales of bygone eras, while its strategic location continues to offer stunning perspectives of the majestic Sahyadris.