I finally booked the AMK trek. This one feels special. I love exploring new places and writing about them. Among all the Treks, forts and hidden trails, AMK was different. I first read about it while looking for the toughest treks in Maharashtra. Again and again, the name came up of these trio of forts. A journey that tests your grit. That’s when I knew. One day, I had to do it.
Now the day is near. Dates are fixed. The countdown has begun. This post is where the journey begins.
About AMK
AMK stands for Alang, Madan, and Kulang. These are three massive forts in the Sahyadri ranges. They rise tall in Nashik district, surrounded by cliffs, valleys, and endless views.
Alang is known for its caves and water cisterns. It gives trekkers a place to rest and refuel. Madan is the tricky one. The climb is steep, with rock patches that test your skills and courage. Kulang fort has wide plateaus and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
Trekkers usually do them together. That’s how it became the AMK trek. It is not a simple trail. You climb, you descend, you rappel, and then climb again. It takes strength, focus, and patience. That is why people call it one of the toughest treks in Maharashtra.
For me, that is the charm. Tough trails, raw adventure, and forts that still stand strong after centuries. AMK is a full package.
Planning the Trek
The date is set, 20th September 2025. That’s when the real climb begins. I asked my friends if they wanted to join. Some said maybe, then went quiet. Others were unsure. I did not push anyone. AMK is risky. It needs full commitment. I just told them, “I am going. You can come if you feel ready.”
Now it feels like a countdown. Only seven days to go. My gear is almost ready. Shoes, ropes, torch, backpack, all checked. Still, I go through the list again and again. I will also practise gripping. AMK has rock patches where you depend on your hands as much as your feet. There is rappelling too. Skills matter here. Preparation matters.
Related: Toughest & Most Difficult Treks in Maharashtra
The Itinerary
Day 0, Friday
Departure from Pune
The journey starts on 19th September, Friday night. We leave Pune with backpacks full and hearts racing. By morning we should reach Ambewadi, a small village in Nashik. This will be our base.
Day 1 , Saturday
Alang Fort
20th September. The trek begins. First climb is Alang. The trail is steep but rewarding. We plan to reach the top by noon. After a climb, we’ll have lunch. From there, we descend and head towards Madan.
Madan Fort
Night stay is planned on Madan fort. A new moon night. The sky should be clear. I hope to see a million stars above us. Just thinking about it gives me chills. On 21st morning, we will watch the sunrise from Madan.
Day 2, Sunday
Kulang Fort and Return
After sunrise, we climb down Madan and start for Kulang. This fort is huge. The plateau stretches wide. We will rest for a while, then make our way back to the base village. By evening, we plan to head back to Pune.
Why AMK Excites Me
AMK is not just another trek for me. It’s a challenge I always wanted to face.
The new moon makes it even more special. On 20th September the sky will be dark, clear, and full of stars. I imagine lying on the fort, staring up, and feeling tiny under that endless sky.
The thrill is in the climb, the rappelling, and the narrow paths. Every step will test my focus and courage. This is not just a walk in the hills. It is raw adventure. The challenge and the reward at the top, that is what excites me the most.
Stay Updated | My Journey to AMK Trek
The countdown has begun. In a few days, I will step onto the trail and face AMK. Three forts. Endless climbs. Nights under the stars. I can already feel the thrill.
This trek means a lot to me. It is tough, raw, and unforgettable. Exactly the kind of adventure I seek.
I will share more updates as the journey unfolds. Stay in touch if you want to follow along. And if AMK is calling you too, connect with me. You are welcome to join.
