Red rules at Sinhagad

Is this Peepal?

Heart shaped leaves

Asana shoots

Awwww Not agaaaaain...
Is that what I hear on seeing the post title?

But I am sure you will enjoy this post. The majestic Sinhagad offers something new each time one treks up (note: trek up, not drive up)- maybe a self revelation, some new aspect of its geography, changed landscape or as in my case, simply being able to recognise trees.

We climb up the Kondana Fort (aka Sinhagad) almost at any time of the year. The difficulty level soars in the monsoon due to rivulets of water, moss on the rocks, slush etc but some find this enjoyable. The other difference is in the trees growing on its slopes. They are totally bare (most are the deciduous kind) in summer which makes the climb all that more difficult as the rocks become terribly hot. Come monsoon, they burst into full green glory and flower as per their own individual seasons. Thus one gets a different visual treat each time, the backwaters of the Khadakvasla dam forming a steady constant in each.

The Kanda bhaji, Bhakri pithle, Dahi, Taak, Bhajalele Kanees (Bhutta/Corn on the cob) Nimboo pani, fresh fruits like Jambhul, Karvanda, just ripe-local mangoes are heavenly.


Like the last time, I found the fort to be quite clean, free of garbage (in areas that I walked) and people were generally disciplined. The stone track made walking easier and the road going up is under construction presently. The latter part towards Sinhagad is complete but the earlier part of the climb is still full of potholes with rocks and mudslides on the periphery. I did notice some cutely decorated Jeeps (Similar to those seen in some Rajasthan forts) ready to ferry people down.

My single complaint against lack of a proper toilet for ladies.

Last week, it was Red that ruled the climb. Several trees had lovely red shoots all bursting forth anticipating the rain gods to bestow their offering. I have compiled some photographs for you to enjoy and maybe tempt you to climb up as well... Besides red, green and brown were the predominant colours.

=

Karvanda

Asana

Ficus

Pithocelobium dulcae

Cheers!
Archana