On September 10, 2023, Eco Treks, a Goan trekking company, announced its trek to Raigad from September 29 to October 2, and in no time bookings started pouring in.
Durgadas Parab, who runs Eco Treks, said, "This is one trek that has demand. It is just impossible for us to satisfy everyone, except the first 30, who I consider lucky."
The adventurous part of the trek is climbing 1,737 carved steps within about two-and-half to three hours and reaching the top at the Raigad Fort. And for those who don’t want to take the steps, they can enjoy the thrill of the ropeway which takes them up up in 4 to 5 minutes.
Parab said climbing Raigad on foot for many is just like a pilgrimage and they don't mind doing it again and again. "We have had repeat customers on this trek. The best part is there is no age limit, anyone can do it," he added.
The trek is designed in such a way that those working on Saturday, too, can join. One has to sacrifice only one working day (September 30).
"Teachers and students who have to attend Gandhi Jayanti in schools or colleges on October 2 can do it with ease because we are back in Goa by 6.30 am on that day," Parab informed.
The bus journey to Raigad starts on September 29 from Panjim at 8 pm with a stop at Mapusa at 8.20 pm. After checking in at the hotel at Mahad on September 30, the trekkers visit and explore Raigad Fort. The night stay on that day is at Mahad.
On October 1, early morning, the trekkers visit Pratapgad Fort, Mahabaleshwar, in the afternoon, and Panchgini in the evening, after which the overnight journey to Goa begins for the 6 am arrival back home.
The fee of Rs 5,000 for the trek covers the AC bus travel, hotel stay at Mahad, lunch at Raigad Fort (traditional Maharashtrian zunka bhakar) and entry fees to the Raigad and Pratapgad forts.
DETAILS
WHAT: Trek to the Raigad and Pratapgad forts
WHEN: September 29 to October 2, 2023
CONTACT FOR BOOKINGS: 9833155713 (Porvorim), 9860034084 (Vasco), 9764965195 (Margao), 9422445444 (Mapusa)
