Vasota
Vasota / Vyaghragad
Alone, October 2008
Mumbai -> Satara -> Bamnoli -> Met-Indavli (by boat) -> 2 hour hike to top
Vasota is also known as Vyaghragad (fortress of the Tiger). Vasota fort lies within the Koyna sanctuary (total area 423 sq km), and you need a special permit from the Forest office at Bamnoli to get in. The forest at the base of Vasota can be reached only by hiring a boat from Bamnoli and crossing the Koyna lake (1.5 hours). There is no regular boat service. The boat drops you at Met-Indavli, which is a usually uninhabited forest camp, and returns to Bamnoli immediately. A 2-hour tough uphill hike through dense pristine forest takes you to the ruined fortress.
There is no potable water at the top, you must carry your own or fill from a stream on the way up. This is a very isolated and remote mountaintop — no human habitation and no shelter. Do not attempt in the rainy season. You can admire the ruined remains of a palace, Shiva temple and gate to Peshwa’s prison on top. Fantastic views of Babu Kada, Old Vasota, Nageshwar Lingis, Koyna Lake, Koyna Forest…and yes, the stars above !!!