Tamhini to Ghol

From Tamhini, the trail heads south through an eight-kilometre dense forest section toward Dhamanvohal. There is technically one water source early on, but it isn't reliable — carry 2–3 litres before starting, since once you're in the forest you're committed to the section.

The opening stretch through farmland is deceptively easy to get wrong: the terrain is flat, multiple trails split in different directions, and it's easy to drift onto the wrong path. Stay disciplined and stick to the mapped route rather than what feels right.

The trail gradually pulls into forest, gains elevation, reaches a ridgeline, and traverses west-facing slopes — the unreliable water source sits somewhere along this stretch. Use it if you find it; don't count on a second chance later.

At a saddle further on, navigation gets critical — a sharp left turn here is easy to miss, and continuing straight puts you on the wrong plateau before you realise it. This is where micro-navigation matters: reading small signals — ribbons, faint footmarks, how the terrain flows — rather than moving fast. Drift off the correct line here and getting back costs real time and energy.

The next five kilometres run deep under thick canopy — filtered light, a trail that keeps appearing and disappearing, constant small ascents and descents. There will be moments it feels like the trail has vanished entirely. Stay patient, keep checking direction, and don't guess.

The forest opens up as you approach Dhamanvohal; cross a small stream just before the village.

From Dhamanvohal, the trail climbs toward the crestline and heads toward Kurdugad. The initial stretch is flat and relaxed, opening onto a plateau with a small shrine and a viewpoint called Mumbai Point. Here the trail splits — Lingya Ghat and Nishnichi Waat — the EST takes Nishnichi Waat, contouring along the mountain to the base of the fort.

Leave your bag at the base near the temple for a short out-and-back to Kurdugad (also known locally as Vishramgad). The climb has rock-cut steps, some exposed sections, and a cave on the northern side. The fort itself isn't in great condition, but it's a strong vantage point for reading the surrounding terrain.

From Kurdugad the trail continues smoothly to Petwadi, then descends quickly to Jite. This section is relatively easy compared to what precedes it.

The route simplifies here: flat terrain across to Titve, then a rough road to Badademachi.

From Badademachi begins the stage's final challenge: Waghzai Khind, another long forest section — roughly seven kilometres with a significant climb. No settlements, no reliable water, very few people on this route — pure wilderness.

The trail starts wide and clear, climbs through a gully, reaches a plateau, then moves through a mix of open scrub and dense forest. It passes a large water body — not a confirmed refill point — then re-enters more enclosed forest.

This section can feel overwhelming solo — the silence, density, and lack of human presence can play on your mind. Same approach as before: don't rush, stay on the trail, keep checking your position, stay aware of your surroundings.

Once you cross the main saddle, the landscape opens up again and the trail becomes easier to follow — a long contouring walk brings you into Ghol, where the stage ends.