As our hike to Mulher ended, the clouds had dispersed and
the sun was shining brightly. we had taken a dip in a nearby stream, wondering
how hot it would be the next day. When we got up next day at six, it was dark
and drizzling, but nothing prepared us for the weather when we made our way to
Vaghambe for climbing Salher.
Being more towards the west and at higher elevation, the
area around Salher is more wet and it was pouring cats and dogs as we started
with a guide from the village. Everything in front of us was covered in mist.
As we climbed through the fields, nothing was visible.
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| Flowers and mists on Salher top |
We were wet pretty early on but the rain meant that the
steep climb was not very exhausting. The route climbs towards Salota,
traversing its foothills till the col between the two forts is reached. The
route to Salher was lovely with pink flowers blooming on all sides. It led
gradually to the carved staircase in the mountain with its crumbling steps and
gateways. Unfortunately we could not see anything around nor could my fellow
trekkers fully appreciate of how adroitly the way has been constructed through
the seemingly impregnable mountain.
On the grassy, fog covered top we walked past caves and
tanks. Another steep climb lay ahead from the main cave which is clean and
habitable. We wanted to go to the highest point where the Parshuram temple
stands. Salher fort is after all the highest fort in Maharashtra and the second
highest mountain – quite a jewel in the Baglan range.
At the small Parshuram temple, there was no rain so it was
relief after being wet for so long. Returning back the rain had lessened and as
we descended some of the fog lifted and I could see the slopes of Salota and
the some of the route to the top. Our guide said it was tricky in the rain so
we left it; everytime it is the mountain that gets away!
As we descended to Vagambhe, the fog at the bottom had
lifted but still the mountains were hidden completely in mist. The hidden
mountains were a minor disappointment on an otherwise wonderful hike. It was
also the easiest overnight trek I’ve done because we dumped most of our stuff
in the car. But it was a great experience to enjoy the northern Sayhadris in
the rain.
How to reach: Vagambhe is about 12 kms ahead of Mulher village. Salher fort can also be climbed from Salher village, which further ahead and the route is trickier.
Where to stay: Cave on top of Salher village is clean and large; however it might get smelly as cattle are housed temporarily in neighbouring caverns!
Photos at the Picasa link in the first part of the Baglan trek blog.
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