Mighty Sada Trek

Places of Interest: Waterfall, Underground Volcanic Caves and Fort Sada

Location: In the ranges of the Western ghats, just 60 kms from Belgaum, this fort having resisted the hard test of time for about three centuries, is in a little ruined condition and speaks of the great Maratha warriors who ruled this remote territory.

Physically, Fort Sada is located on the edge of a hill, being surrounded by dense forests at its east and south. To the north & the west are very deep forested valleys of Maharashtra and Goa respectively. This must have added for the security of the fort making it practically impossible, least difficult, for enemies. Still more, thick jungles and breath-taking valleys add to the simply magnificent scenic beauty of the fort.

Other than, there are centuries old step wells of typical shapes which still can supply fresh water. An hour of strenuous walk can lead to a 200+ feet waterfall deeper in the jungles. A quite trekker can be lucky to see a bear or a bison or a stag. A luckier may see a leopard or a tiger too.

Another exciting part of Sada is the underground caves which have been formed due to volcanic eruptions some thousands years ago. A visit to fort Sada can be designed to the need of anyone – a petty walker, an athlete or a serious trekker.

Road Conditions are extremely bad and there are many paths that can easily misguide an inexperienced trekker. If essential night stay can be made possible in tents & security.

About the Trek: During monsoons the trek begins 3 or 4 kms before the small village Sada. While the fort is just at the lip of the village, it can take about an hour or so to go around the fort. A gradual descend and then a steeper will lead to the splendid Sada Waterfall, while a steeper ascend in an exactly opposite direction will lead to the mystical underground volcanic caves high on the plateau at about 2900 ft asl. Trekking distance can be 8 to 18 kms depending upon the season and road conditions. To & fro Motorable distance is about 140 kms.