The AMK (Alang-Madan-Kulang) Trek is a popular trekking route in the Western Ghats of India, especially known for its stunning views, historical forts, and challenging terrain. It is located in the state of Maharashtra, near the town of Igatpuri, about 120 kilometers from Mumbai. The trek offers an excellent experience for those looking for a mix of adventure, history, and natural beauty. Here's detailed information about the AMK Range Trek:
Trek Highlights:
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Fortifications: The trek takes you through the remains of three ancient forts:
- Alang Fort: Known for its tough access and a challenging rock patch. This fort offers panoramic views and a sense of history.
- Madan Fort: Located at a higher altitude, this fort has remnants of its past, including caves and structures.
- Kulang Fort: The highest among the three, Kulang Fort offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and valleys.
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Scenic Views: Throughout the trek, you will be treated to spectacular views of the surrounding valleys, waterfalls, lush green landscapes, and other peaks of the Western Ghats.
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Rock Climbing and Rappelling: The trek involves some sections where you need to do basic rock climbing and rappelling, especially when ascending or descending steep rock faces. This adds an adventurous element to the trek.
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Caves and Waterfalls: The region is home to several caves, some of which were used by locals or as shelter during ancient times. You’ll also come across waterfalls, which are especially beautiful during the monsoon.
Trekking Route:
- Alang Fort is the first major point, and it takes about 3-4 hours to reach it.
- After exploring Alang Fort, you’ll head to Madan Fort, which takes another 4-5 hours of climbing.
- The last part involves reaching Kulang Fort, which takes the longest and can be quite physically demanding, especially the final ascent. Once you reach Kulang, you can either descend the same way or take an alternate route, depending on the trek plan.
The AMK Range Trek is a fantastic adventure for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. It offers a perfect blend of fort exploration, natural beauty, and adventure.
- Location: Western Ghats, Maharashtra
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
- Duration: 2–3 days
- Distance: Around 35–40 km, depending on the route taken
- Best Season: October to April (Post-monsoon and winter)
- Trek Type: Ridge walk, forest trail, fort trek, rock climbing
- Grade: Moderate to difficult (due to rocky terrain and steep climbs.
- 10:00 PM : Ch. Shivaji Nagar in front of SBM bank (https://maps.app.goo.gl/Y9M15nAzRNUtJzN78)
- 10:30 PM : Nashik Phata (https://maps.app.goo.gl/iaaaUc9CPfYf6rDp7)
- 10:40 PM : Bhosari Pickup point (https://maps.app.goo.gl/Sod2TKqUcSdyxhj17)
- 10:50 PM : Moshi, Bharat Mata Chowk (https://maps.app.goo.gl/mzpCZQRU8ZweEyS26)
- 11:00 PM : Chakan Chowk (https://maps.app.goo.gl/3HPHagBoPC7iQ28k9)
- 03:30 AM : Reach Base Village, rest, and freshen up
- 05:00 AM : Equipment distribution and introduction session
- 06:00 AM : Breakfast, start the trek to Alang Fort
- 09:00 AM : Reach climbing point of Alang Fort, start climbing with the technical team's guidance
- 11:00 AM : Reach the top of Alang Fort, explore and enjoy scenic views
- 02:00 PM : Rappelling down from Alang Fort, have lunch
- 03:00 PM : Start trek towards Madan Fort
- 04:00 PM : Reach climbing patch of Madan Fort, start climbing with the expert team
- 06:00 PM : (approx): Reach the top of Madan Fort, have dinner, stay in tents/cave
- 05:00 AM : Wakeup call, witness sunrise
- 05:30 AM : Breakfast
- 06:00 AM : Start descending from Madan Fort with rappelling
- 07:30 AM : Trek toward Kulang Fort
- 09:30 AM : Reach Kulang Fort base
- 10:30 AM : Reach the top of Kulang Fort, explore
- 12:30 PM : Start descending the fort
- 03:00 PM : Reach Base Village, have lunch
- 05:00 PM : Start the return journey to Pune
- 10:00 PM : Reach Pune (approx)
Note - 1-2hrs buffer time is possible depending on the speed of trekkers, traffic on the road & other unavoidable circumstances during the trip.
What is included in the tour
- Travel by Private Vehicle
- All the climbing and safety equipments
- Meals : 2 Breakfast + 2 Lunch + 1 Dinner
- One night stay on Madan fort
- Trek leader expertise
- Forest Entry Charges
- Technical Support
- Basic First Aid (if required)
- Our Badge
What is NOT included in the tour
- Any kind of cost which is not mentioned and included in the inclusion of this package
- Any kind of personal expense like Mineral water/lime water/ Soft Drinks/ Extra snacks or meals purchased for personal consumption
- All expenses incurred due to unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances like roadblocks, bad weather etc
- Any Medical / Emergency evacuations if required
- Any kind of Insurance is not included in the package
- Step 1 : Make Payment on PhonePay/Google Pay 8799856476 (Maharashtra Gadkille)
- Step 2 : Send a screenshot of the payment on WhatsApp number 8799856476 for confirmation.
- Step 3 : Fill the registration form for the final booking procedure
OR
- Step 1: Scroll down & tap on "BOOK NOW"
- Step 2 : Select your departure date from the calendar and proceed.
- Step 3 : Select your ticket type & no. of participants. (At this step you can use the coupon code if you have any)
- Step 4 : Fill your details and proceed.
- Step 5 : Tap on review & Payment to select your payment type (UPI, Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking) and proceed.
- Step 6 : Once your tickets are booked, you will receive confirmation mail. WhatsApp us the booking ID details on 8799856476 & fill the google registration form.
Things to carry
- ID proof (Compulsory)
- Full Pant & Full Shirt
- Jacket/Sweater
- Good quality Trekking shoes for Safety
- Cap/Scarf/Hat
- Hand/Head torch
- Dry Snacks/Dry Fruits/Energy Bars/Energy Drinks etc
- Water Bottle(2 litres)
- Extra pair of clothes
- Hand sanitizer, Mask, Sunscreen, Mosquito repellent
- Chappals/Flip-flops/ Sandals (Travel Comfy)
- Shawl/small blanket for bus journey.
Terms and Conditions
- Please note that your registration will be confirmed only after the acceptance of complete trek/tour charges.
- Please check cancellation policy in case any refunds or cancellations.
- First two seats will always be reserved for leaders to lead & show route to the driver.
- Seats arrangement will be on first come first serve basis at the time of pickup and it will be same throughout journey. (Any disputes regarding seating arrangement would result in dismissal of both the parties and would not be liable for any refunds.)
- Please make sure you are added in the whatsapp group 6-8 hours prior to the trip as all the pickup details.
- Food and Stay arrangements are done as per the availability & locations so kindly don't expect too luxurious.
- Treks are arranged for the people who looking out for pocket friendly trips and are more about chasing experiences.
- Once the payment is completed, inform our team via sharing a screenshot/copy of the payment confirmation. Make sure the date, time, and UTR number are visible in the copy and please fill the registration form to confirm the names & age with the team.
- Your payment implies that you have read & complied with all our terms and conditions.
Cancellation Policy
- '75℅ Refund' of total trip cost, if cancelled before 21 days prior to the trip date.
- '50℅ Refund' of total trip cost, if cancelled before 14 days prior to the trip date.
- '25℅ Refund' of total trip cost, if cancelled before 7 days prior to the trip date.
- "No Refund" if cancelled less than 7 days before the event date.
- "The advance booking amount paid is non refundable."
- 'No Show, No Refund'
- Trip Tickets cannot be transferred to another date against cancellation.
- Trip Tickets can be transferred to another person of same age group, replaced by you against cancellation.
- If Event gets cancelled by us, we will refund "Trip Amount" only.
- "NO REFUND" will be given due to sudden closure of the destinations, natural or unexpected calamities after reaching the venue.
- If the event is cancelled due to any natural calamity, political unrest or other such reasons beyond our control the same cancellation policy will apply.
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Refund timeline :- Refund will be credited within 7 working days to your bank account
FAQs
- Are washrooms available on the trek?
Washrooms are available at the base village only. No facility is available during the trek.
- What about extra baggage?
You can safely keep your extra bags in bus
- Are changing rooms available?
Changing rooms and washrooms are available at the base village
- Can I charge my phone?
No electricity. Please carry a power bank if required.
AMK Trek Blog
AMK Trek: Conquering Alang, Madan, and Kulang Forts
The AMK trek, short for Alang, Madan, and Kulang, is one of the most thrilling and challenging treks in the Sahyadri mountain range. Located in the Nashik district of Maharashtra, the trio of forts stands tall amidst rugged cliffs and dense valleys, offering an exhilarating experience for seasoned trekkers. If you're looking for an adventurous escape that tests your endurance and rewards you with unparalleled views, the AMK trek is where you should head next.
The forts of Alang, Madan, and Kulang hold historical significance, having been part of the Maratha empire under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj . These forts were used as strategic watchpoints due to their elevation, offering control over the surrounding areas and trade routes. Today, they stand as testaments to the engineering prowess of the past, waiting to be explored by thrill-seekers.
The AMK trek is notorious for its difficulty level and is recommended for trekkers with prior experience in rock climbing and navigating steep ascents. The trek typically spans **2-3 days, covering the three forts in sequence. Each fort presents a unique challenge, with a combination of rock climbing, rappelling, and technical trails.
Alang Fort: The trek to Alang Fort is marked by a vertical rock patch, which requires basic rock-climbing skills. Once atop, you'll find the vast expanse of the fort ruins, water cisterns, and mesmerizing views of the surrounding peaks.
Madan Fort: Madan is often regarded as the toughest of the three forts due to its nearly vertical climb. The ascent involves a steep rock wall, which requires ropes and assistance from professional guides. The fort itself offers a secluded, peaceful atmosphere with views of **Kalsubai** (the highest peak in Maharashtra).
Kulang Fort: Kulang has the longest climb among the three. Though not as steep as Madan, it still requires endurance and determination. The fort is known for its long ridge walk and panoramic vistas of the Sahyadri range.
Breathtaking Views: The AMK trek provides an uninterrupted 360-degree view of the **Western Ghats**, with neighboring peaks like **Kalsubai, Ratangad, Harishchandragad, and Ajobagad** clearly visible. The play of clouds during the monsoon adds to the magic of the landscape.
Technical Climbing : This trek is not for the faint-hearted. You will need to use rock-climbing equipment and ropes to ascend certain sections, especially while climbing Madan Fort. Having an experienced guide is crucial for ensuring safety.
Camping Under the Stars: Camping atop one of these forts is an unforgettable experience. The night sky, free from city lights, is a stargazer’s dream. Forts like Alang offer spacious areas where you can set up tents and experience the serenity of the mountains.
Historical Exploration : The forts are dotted with ancient water tanks, remnants of old structures, and hidden pathways that narrate tales of a bygone era. Exploring these sites gives you a sense of the strategic importance these forts once held.
The AMK trek is a unique blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty. Conquering these forts is a badge of honor for any trekker, and the experience will leave you with memories that last a lifetime. If you’re ready to push your limits and dive deep into the wilderness of the Sahyadris, the AMK trek should definitely be on your bucket list.
Prepare well, trek safe, and get ready for one of the most rewarding adventures of your life!