Nakhind Ridge Trek: The Complete Guide for First-Time Trekkers

The Nakhind Ridge Trek is one of the most underrated and undiscovered treks, situated near Matheran in Maharashtra. It is the best place for trekkers seeking peace and a less crowded destination in the monsoon, with river crossings, scenic views, hidden waterfalls, a beautiful village and finally the rock cavity with a mind-blowing view. It is the perfect spot for adventure-loving trekkers with thrills.

Table of Contents

Essentials Breakdown:

Nearest station: Vangani (Take an auto or sharing jeeps till base village)

Base camp: Bedisgaon (4 km from Vangani station)

Difficulty: moderate (not beginner friendly / avoid if no early experience)

Time: 3:00 -3:30 hr

Distance: 4-5 km Elevation: 2,300 ft

Essentials: 2L water full sleves shirt, full track pant shorts may cause injury to legs as trail is through dense forest and good treking shoes.

Scenic Route Of Trek

Chapter One: Straight Route

The trail starts at Bedisgaon by crossing the first bridge. My 3 friends and I started the trail around 7:30 am. We headed towards the second bridge till this bridge, the route was normal and some descent. The second bridge has a pleasing flow of water, worth it to spend a few minutes there. Then comes a straight ascent that will continue till the Vaghini Chi Wadi, but after some ascent……..

Chapter Two: Hidden Waterfall

….then comes the hidden gem. There is no signboard for it, but the sound- that’s the only clue to find its route. Once you find the route on your left, follow it, and you will be at the hidden almighty with literally zero crowd, like u have seen in any of the famous reels. The route brings you to the waterfall, but after some more climbing, you can reach the exact base of the waterfall as in the picture. The route is on the right side of the waterfall, but it’s slippery and a little risky, so be careful. Back to the ascent route, we will resume our trek to Nakhind……..

Chapter Three: Vaghini Chi Wadi

After the ascent, there is one village (Vaghini Chi Wadi). The Nakhind Ridge Trek route passes through this village; from the right of the govt school, the route is straight. You can also get some breakfast in this village. There is a small grocery store at the very start of the village that provides breakfast and tea. If you are getting confused with the route, better ask locals for directions. The route forward is through dense forest and contains multiple paths at some steps, so if you want, you can ask locals for a guide; they charge nearly 500-700 INR for this trek. We decided to move forward without a guide.

Chapter Four: Actual Trek

The trek is through dense forest with slippery pathways and a narrow route; at some spots there is a high risk of water crossing. (Not recommended for the trek in case of heavy rain). As you ascend, different kinds of trees start appearing, not usual in a normal trek, which gives hope that we are close to the summit, but much more we have to climb now with increased difficulty. Once you reach the top, you understand the pleasant view is worth the climb. But some path is still to be covered to the Epic NEDHE (a massive, naturally formed rock arch).

To go on top of the Nedhe, the route is from the left of the cavity. Avoid this part in rain and strong wind. When we got up there, there was heavy rain and strong wind; we avoided that part, but we didn’t mind missing that part because the view from the cavity is also worth it. I advise bringing some snacks because they will be much needed at the top. BUT take back the litter with you and don’t spoil the spot.

Final Chapter: The Descent

While descending the path, the pathfinder (dog) spawned and walked in front of us, showing the path, and surprisingly, we descended with very little effort and in just 1 hr. We didn’t even realise when we were at Vaghini Chi Wadi.

FOR BETTER VIEW SEPTEMBER – JANUARY IS BEST PERIOD .