Narayangad Fort: Easy Hike, Panaromic Views & GMRT Sight
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Discover Narayangad Fort near Narayangaon. Enjoy an easy hike with 360° views, an ancient temple, and unique GMRT sight.
Nestled near the town of Narayangaon, off the Nashik-Pune Highway, lies the historic Narayangad Fort. While not a large fortress, it offers a short, rewarding hike perfect for a quick getaway. The fort is easily accessible, with parking available at the base.
The history of Narayangad is tied to the region's past, with remnants hinting at its former significance. The climb features both newly built stairs and parts of the original carved steps, giving a sense of connecting with history. At the summit, an ancient temple stands alongside ruins and vital water storage tanks, essential features of historic hill forts.
The main draws to Narayangad Fort are its accessibility and incredible views. It's renowned for being an easy hike, making it ideal for families, including young children, or those new to trekking. The panoramic 360-degree views from the top are simply breathtaking, offering expansive vistas of the surrounding landscape. A unique point of interest is the clear view of the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT) array located nearby, a fascinating sight for visitors.
For the best experience, plan your visit for the early morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and beautiful light. While Narayangad itself is a short visit, the area is rich in attractions. Nearby alternatives include the GMRT facility, Yedgaon Dam, the historic town of Junnar with Shivneri Fort (birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj), the ancient Lenyadri caves, and the scenic Hatkeshwar region.
LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS
Summit Temple
An ancient temple located at the top of Narayangad Fort, offering a peaceful spot for reflection.
💡 Ensure respectful attire when visiting the temple.
Water Tanks
Several historical water storage tanks carved into the rock, vital for the fort's inhabitants in the past.
💡 Observe these tanks closely to appreciate the engineering from earlier times.
Fort Ruins
Scattered remnants and walls indicate the historical presence and structure of the fort.
💡 Be cautious when exploring the uneven terrain around the ruins.
Panoramic Viewpoint
The fort offers stunning 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding hills and plains.
💡 Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
Original Carved Stairs
Sections of the ascent feature the original steps carved into the rock face.
💡 Take care on these older steps as they can be uneven.
GMRT View
A unique viewpoint from the fort offering a clear sight of the nearby Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT) facility.
💡 Bring binoculars if you want a closer look at the GMRT dishes.
TIMINGS