Plus Valley Trek
Plus Valley Trek is a unique trekking destination located in the heart of the Tamhini Ghat near Kolad. The valley gets its name because, when viewed from certain vantage points, the topography resembles a mathematical "plus" symbol. Unlike many other treks in the Sahyadris that involve climbing up a mountain, this trek is primarily a descent into a deep, lush valley. The trail takes you through dense forest patches, rocky terrains, and beautiful waterfalls that come alive during the Monsoon. The trek is considered moderately difficult and is a favorite among adventure enthusiasts from Mumbai and Pune. As you descend, the air becomes cooler and the surrounding hills seem to rise higher around you. The valley is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature photographers. At the base of the valley, there are serene ponds and a waterfall where trekkers often take a refreshing dip. The silence of the forest is only broken by the chirping of birds and the sound of gushing water. It is an ideal spot for camping under the stars, provided you have the right gear and permissions. The trek offers a perfect blend of physical challenge and natural beauty. The trek usually takes about 5 to 6 hours to complete, including the return journey which involves a steep climb back to the starting point. It is highly recommended to go with a local guide, especially during the rainy season when the trails can become slippery and confusing.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
5 to 7 HoursPlace Type:
Adventure & TrekkingEntry Fees:
Entry Fee Details: Usually Free, but if trekking via a private group, charges may be around Rs.800 to Rs.1,500 including food and guides.
Forest Permission: Small forest entry fees might apply. ...Entry Fee Details: Usually Free, but if trekking via a private group, charges may be around Rs.800 to Rs.1,500 including food and guides.
Forest Permission: Small forest entry fees might apply.Timing:
Regular Timings: Best to start by 7:00 AM and finish by 5:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Early Morning to enjoy the mist and avoid the afternoon sun. ...Regular Timings: Best to start by 7:00 AM and finish by 5:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Early Morning to enjoy the mist and avoid the afternoon sun.Special Events:
Monsoon Trekking Festival: Organized by local groups in August to celebrate the peak greenery.
Environment Day: Special clean-up drives are often organized here in June. ...Monsoon Trekking Festival: Organized by local groups in August to celebrate the peak greenery.
Environment Day: Special clean-up drives are often organized here in June.Best Photo Spots:
The Viewpoint: The spot where the "Plus" shape is visible is the best photo spot.
The Waterfall Base: Provides a dramatic backdrop for adventure shots.
The Dense Jungle Patches: Great for moody, forest-theme...The Viewpoint: The spot where the "Plus" shape is visible is the best photo spot.
The Waterfall Base: Provides a dramatic backdrop for adventure shots.
The Dense Jungle Patches: Great for moody, forest-themed photography.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Hiking and Trekking: Experience the thrill of descending into the heart of the Sahyadri mountains.
Nature Photography: Capture the lush green landscapes and the unique valley formation.
Wilderness Camping: Set up a tent near the valley floor for an overnight adventure.
Bird Watching: Look out for species like the Malabar Whistling Thrush.
Freshwater Swimming: Take a dip in the cool natural pools at the bottom.
Rappelling: Professional groups often organize rappelling sessions on the steep rocky walls.
Botany Exploration: Identify various wild flowers and medicinal plants found in the region. ...
Information
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Why Famous:
Famous for Unique Shape: Renowned for its distinctive plus-shaped valley view from the top.
Famous for Biodiversity: A major spot for spotting rare Sahyadri plants and birds. ...Famous for Unique Shape: Renowned for its distinctive plus-shaped valley view from the top.
Famous for Biodiversity: A major spot for spotting rare Sahyadri plants and birds. -
Architecture:
Topographical Features: The valley is formed by the intersection of four mountain ranges, creating the "Plus" shape.
Trek Pathway: The architecture of the trail consists of natural stone steps and dirt paths through thick jungle.Topographical Features: The valley is formed by the intersection of four mountain ranges, creating the "Plus" shape.
Trek Pathway: The architecture of the trail consists of natural stone steps and dirt paths through thick jungle.
Dimensions: The trek covers a distance of approximately 9 KMS with a maximum altitude of around 2,460 feet. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Pune Airport (PNQ) is the closest at 80 KMS.
By Train: Lonavala or Mangaon are the nearest stations.
By Road: Easily accessible from Kolad via the Tamhini Ghat road.
By ... -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Tamhini Ghat (2 KMS), 2. Devkund Waterfall (15 KMS), 3. Bhira Dam (12 KMS), 4. Kundalika River (10 KMS), 5. Mulshi Dam (25 KMS), 6. Sudhagad Fort (30 KMS), 7. Ghangad Fort (20 KMS), 8. TailBaila Rocks (18 KMS), 9. Sarasgad Fort (35 KMS), 10. Pali Ganpati (38 KMS)
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Carry a first-aid kit and wear sturdy trekking boots.
Packing: Bring extra clothes, rain gear, and at least 3 liters of water.
Accommodation: Camp in the valley or stay at resorts in Kolad. ...
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Plus Valley Trek Tourism:-
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