Tag Archives: Treks in maharashtra

Torna Fort Trek

Leave a comment
Torna Fort
Torna Fort

Location: Velhe
Distance from Pune: 65 km
Distance from Mumbai: 213 km
Trekking Duration: 1 day / 2 day treks
Trekking Length: 3 hours 30 minutes
Starting Point: Velhe is the base village
Best season to visit: Winter and Monsoon (During Monsoon ideal for experienced trekkers only)
Difficulty level: Medium to Difficult
Height: 1405 mt (4610 feet) above sea level

Mangai Devi Temple at the Torna Fort
Mangai Devi Temple at the Torna Fort

What to see at the fort:

  • Kothi Darwaza
  • Konkan Darwaza
  • Bini Darwaza (The main entrance)
  • Hanuman Bastion
  • Zunjar Machi (Bastions)
  • Budla Machi (Bastions)
  • View of numerous waterfalls around
  • View of beautiful valleys and mountains
  • Mangai Devi Temple

A brief history:

Torna Fort also known as Prachandagad is one of the highest forts in Pune district located at a height 4610 feet. It was captured by Shivaji Maharaj at a tender age of 16. Though not much is known about its origins of the fort but it has seen many wars between the Mughals and the Marathas over its possession and has been an important and strategic fort in the western ghats.

Trekking to Torna fort
Trekking to Torna fort

Trekking the Torna fort is a fascinating experience both during monsoons and winters as it keeps a trekker encapsulated for the entire duration of the trek with its beauty.

Trekker making his way to the top
Trekker making his way to the top

While trekking up the fort, trekkers will come across a series of temples, old ruins which were once used to accommodate soldiers, water reservoirs and tanks. Once at the summit trekkers will be rewarded with breathtaking views of neighboring forts, beautiful landscapes and mountain ranges.

Trekkers at the summit of Torna fort
Trekkers at the summit of Torna fort

During heavy monsoon showers there could be difficulty in exploring the fort as there is heavy cloud cover and fog at the top. But during winters a trek to the top is considered the best as the entire trail is laden with beautiful wild flowers.

The beautiful landscape surrounding the Torna Fort
The beautiful landscape surrounding the Torna Fort

Experienced trekkers can go for a twin treks i.e. Rajgad and Torna or Torna and Rajgad.This trek involves crossing a few hills and take about 5 to 6 hours of ridge walking.

Camping Info:

The best time to camp at the fort is during winters (October to December). Trekkers can bring their own camping gear and setup a camp site anywhere within the open spaces of the fort. Trekkers without camping gear can take shelter at Mangai Devi Temple on top of the fort.

Camping at Torna fort
Camping at Torna fort

Furthermore, Velhe the base village has a number of restaurants serving authentic Maharashtrain delicacies like kanda poha, misal and wada pav. Every year due to the large numbers of trekkers visiting the place the local villagers have started lodging and boarding facility for trekkers planning an overnight stay.

Please note: Avoid camping during monsoon season. During winters carry sufficient warm clothes as since it is pretty cold at the top of the fort at night.

How to reach:

S.T buses and other public transport are easily available from Swargate S.T. stand to Velhe village on a daily and regular basis.
By road the best route is Pune -> NH4-> Nasrapur Phata->Velhe village.

From Mumbai

Mumbai -> Lonavala -> Pune -> Pune Satara HW -> Nasrapur -> Adoli -> Velhe -> Torna.

For bookings for a Monsoon Trek to Torna Fort  PLEASE CLICK  HERE

Caution: The roads and trails leading to the fort are quite slippery during Monsoon so be careful while venturing on a trek.For more information read: Precautions to be taken during Monsoon trekking.

Korigad Fort Trek

Leave a comment
Koraigad Fort
Koraigad Fort

Location: Lonavala, Amby Valley
Distance from Pune: 90 km
Distance from Mumbai: 105 km
Trekking Duration: 1 day trek
Trekking Length: 1 hour
Starting Point: Peth Shahpur village & Ambavne village
Best season to visit: Monsoon and winter season
Difficulty level: Easy
Height: 929 mt (3000 feet) above sea level

Old structures at the summit of the fort
Old structures at the summit of the fort

What to see at the fort:

  • Water reservoirs on the fort
  • Temple of goddess Korai Devi
  • Strong fortifications of the fort
  • Old Canons
  • Caves
  • View of Amby Valley
  • View of Waterfalls
  • View of beautiful valleys and landscapes surrounding the fort
  • If the sky is clear and not foggy one get a view of various forts and hill stations nearby

A brief history:

The origins of the fort are fairly unknown but according to recent history the Korigad fort was incorporated into the Kingdom of Chhatrapati Shivaji along with other neighboring forts of Lohagad, Visapur, Tikona and Tung during the 16th century and later during the 18th century the fort came under British control.

Trekkers at the Korigad Fort
Trekkers at the Korigad Fort

There are two routes by which trekkers can reach to the top of Korigad fort. The first route is from Peth Shahpur and the other is from Ambavne village.The route from Peth Shahpur is easier as compared to Ambavne village and experienced trekkers can try the latter to enhance their trekking skills.

A group of trekkers at the summit
A group of trekkers at the summit

The trek is fairly easy and one can reach the top after climbing a series of 510 steps. Once at the summit the fort has water reservoirs, temples dedicated to various deities. The walls of the fort are still intact and trekkers can easily walk along its entire perimeter for about 2 km and enjoy breathtaking views of the landscape surrounding the fort.

The Laxmi Toop at teh fort.
The Laxmi Toop at teh fort.

There are several other ruins and old structures on various parts of the fort to explore. There are 6 canons scattered at different parts of the fort the biggest one is the ‘Laxmi Toop’ located near the Korai Devi temple. Do carry sufficient food and water as there are shops or drinking water easily available.

Camping Info:

The fort is very good place for camping as there are plenty of open spaces where campers can set up their campsite.

Camping at Koraigad

Ideally carry your own tents and in case you do not have one then trekkers can camp at the Korai Devi temple which can accommodate at least 10 people for the night. Furthermore the local villagers are very helpful and are more than willing to help in case of any need.

How to reach:

There are 3 routes to reach Korigad Fort from Pune and varies from 75 km to 110 km.

Copy right

By Road

Route 1 (110 km): Pune -> NH4->Lonavala-> Bushi Dam-> INS Shivaji Road-> Peth Shahpur.

Route 2 (77 km): Pune-> Chandni Chowk-> Paud-> Kolvan Phata->Kolvan->Hadashi Dam->Take a left to Javan Tungi Road-> Peth Shahpur.

Route 3 (88 km): Pune -> Chandni Chowk-> Paud-> Mulshi /Tamhini Ghat ->Take a right to Dhangod – Peth Shahpur.

From Mumbai

Korigad fort is situated very close to Ambey Valley city and with the roads in good condition one can reach easily in their own vehicle. Mumbaikars can reach Lonavala and then travel about 20km amidst green hills and valleys to reach  Peth Shahpur the base village for Korigad fort.

For bookings for a Monsoon Trek to Korigad Fort  PLEASE CLICK  HERE

Caution: The roads and trails leading to the fort are quite slippery during Monsoon so be careful while venturing on a trek.For more information read: Precautions to be taken during Monsoon trekking.

Raireshwar Fort Trek

Leave a comment
Raireshwar Fort
Raireshwar Fort

Location: Bhor Tehsil
Distance from Pune: 90 km
Distance from Mumbai: 226 km
Trekking Duration: 1 to 2 days depending on trekkers
Trekking Length: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Starting Point: Korel / Korla is the base village
Best season to visit: Monsoon and winter season
Difficulty level: Easy
Height: 1340 mt (4589 feet) above sea level

The Shiva linga inside the Raireshwar temple
The Shiva linga inside the Raireshwar temple

What to see at the fort:

  • Raireshwar Temple
  • Gomukh Lake
  • Aswal Lake
  • Pandav Leni
  • View of the Kenjal Gad fort
  • Panoramic views of Wai, Panchgani, Mahableshwar and surrounding landscape.

A brief history:

The Raireshwar fort is considered as one of the most historical places in Maharashtra as it was here that Shivaji Maharaj had taken oath of Swaraajya at the temple of Raireshwar at the fort.

Trekkers make their way up to the Raireshwar fort on a cold monsoon day
Trekkers make their way up to the Raireshwar fort on a cold monsoon day

The trek is fairly easy as the path up to the Raireshwar fort is clearly marked and the trail is surrounded by picturesque landscapes and hills, the entire beauty of nature is worth admiring and experiencing.

Staircase leading to the Raireshwar fort.
Staircase leading to the Raireshwar fort.

After reaching the half way mark trekkers need to climb a series of about 300 steps and towards the end climb a series of metal staircase which further facilitates the climb to the top.

Waterfalls at the Raireshwar fort
Waterfalls at the Raireshwar fort

Within the same day experienced trekkers can also make a trip to Kenjalgad fort nearby which is located at the southeast of Raireshwar fort.

Camping Info:

Many trekkers who trek Kenjalgad and Rohida fort on the same day generally prefer to camp at Raireshwar fort. Therefore trekkers planning an overnight stay should carry their own tents as there is no proper shelter within the Raireshwar fort.

Camping at the Raireshwar fort
Camping at the Raireshwar fort

There is basic shelter available at the Raireshwar temple that can accommodate 9 to 10 people. Local villagers are kind and will help you with basic needs but always carry basic camping equipments in order to avoid any trouble.

How to reach:

By road the route is Pune -> Bhor-> Korla village -> Raireshwar

There are several S.T buses that ply between Pune and Bhor tehsil from Swargate. From Bhor Tehsil trekkers can take the local transport available like share jeeps, rickshaws etc to reach Raireshwar.

Reaching 2

The distance between Pune and Bhor is 54 km and the distance of Bhor to Raireshwar fort is 30 km. From Bhor there Local transport like jeep is available for Raireshwar.

From Mumbai:

There are several S.T Buses and luxury buses available from Mumbai to Pune and after reaching Pune one can continue their journey to Bhor by bus or any other local transport. Mumbai – > Pune (120km) – > Bhor(106 km). Total : 226 km

If trekkers are travelling by car then they can continue your journey on NH4 and from Mumbai – > Somatne Phata – > Khed Shivapur- >Bhor – >Raireshwar. The total distance of Mumbai to Raireshwar fort will be around 226 km

For bookings for a Monsoon Trek to Raireshwar Fort  PLEASE CLICK  HERE

Caution: The roads and trails leading to the fort are quite slippery during Monsoon so be careful while venturing on a trek.For more information read: Precautions to be taken during Monsoon trekking.

Purandar Fort Trek

Leave a comment
The massive gateway of Purandar Fort
The massive gateway of Purandar Fort

Location: Narayanpur / Bhor
Distance from Pune: 52 km
Distance from Mumbai: 200 km
Trekking Duration: 1 day
Trekking Length: There are 2 levels of trekking from level 1: 2hours and from level 2: 45 minutes
Starting Point: Purandar / Narayangaon is the base village
Best season to visit: Monsoon and winter seasons
Difficulty level: Medium
Height: 1387 mt (4472 feet) above sea level

A statue of Murarbaji Deshpande at the fort.
A statue of Murarbaji Deshpande at the fort.

What to see at the fort:

  • An ancient church built during the British era
  • Statue of Murarbaji Deshpande
  • Kedarreshwar Temple
  • View of Vajragad Fort
  • Ancient Narayaneshwar temple at the base village
  • Old water tanks and fortifications

Timing: The fort is in control of the Indian Army and is open between 09:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m. (Reach at least 3 hours before closing time).

A brief History:

It is believed that the fort was built during the 13th century by the Persian invaders. Since then there have been several interesting legends associated with its construction. As time passed by the fort witnessed many tussles between the Marathas and the Mughals over its possession only to later fall in the hands of the British Empire.

Trekkers trek towards Purandar Fort
Trekkers trek towards Purandar Fort

Trekking at the Purandar fort can be done at 2 levels. The first level begins at the base of the hill and is locally known as a ‘Full Trek’ which takes about 2 hours to reach to the top. While the second level starts at a midway to the fort and is known as ‘Half Trek’ as the road till this section is motor able hence many first timers prefer this trek as it take about 45 minutes from here to the top.

Purandar-Fort-9 Treks

The fort is in control of the Indian army and there is a check post set up by them at the half way mark. It is mandatory for all trekkers to enroll their details at this point before trekking to the top.

The ancient church built by the British in the 18th century on the way to the fort
The ancient church built by the British in the 18th century on the way to the fort

Also at the half way mark trekkers have 2 options, either to trek the Purandar fort or trek the Vajragad fort which is just adjacent to the Purandar fort.Furthermore, trekkers are advised to carry sufficient amount of food and water as there are no shops or drinking water facilities at the fort. There is a small shop at the base of the fort, which serves hot tea, Pitla bhakri and Kanda bhajji’s.

Purandar Fort trek

Camping Info:

Since the fort and its surrounding areas are used for military training, Camping or overnight stays are not possible at the fort as the military guards ensure that all trekkers leave the fort by 4:30 p.m.

How to reach:

By Car

By Road: Purandar fort can be reached by 2 routes

Via Katraj -> Khapurhol -> Narayanpur -> Purandar village (Best route)
Via Hadapsar -> Dive Ghat-> Saswad -> Narayanpur -> Purandar village (This route takes more time but is picturesque and ideal for nature lovers).

From Mumbai: Trekkers coming from Mumbai can first reach Pune city and then choose any of the 2 routes mentioned above to reach Purandar fort.

By Bus

Way from Pune to Purandar Fort
From Saswad board an S.T buses to Bhor which will take you to the ghat of Purandar Matha which is in the Narayanpur village. There is a road on the left side which goes straight to Purandar Fort.

Way from Mumbai to Purandar Fort
After reaching Pune trekkers can board an S.T bus available from Pune to Saswad which will take them to the Purandar fort. There are also buses available to Narayanpur from Hadapsar, firstly reach Hadapsar and then from there to Narayanpur.

For bookings for a Monsoon Trek to Purandar Fort  PLEASE CLICK  HERE

Caution: The roads and trails leading to the fort are quite slippery during Monsoon so be careful while venturing on a trek.For more information read: Precautions to be taken during Monsoon trekking.

Lohagad Fort Trek

Leave a comment
A birds eye view of Lohagad Fort
A birds eye view of Lohagad Fort

Location: Near Lonavala
Distance from Mumbai:  96 Km
Distance from Pune: 77 Km
Trekking Duration: 1 day trek
Trek Length: 2 hour and 30 minutes
Starting Point: Malawli  is the base village.
Best Season to Visit: All round the year (Monsoon preferable)
Difficulty Level: Easy
Height: 1051 m (3450 feet) above sea level

A view from the top
A view from the top

A brief history : Lohagad Fort also nicknamed as ‘The Iron Fort’ was built and extensively used by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. It was later ruled by the members of the Maratha dynasty and many structures were built in and around the fort during their rule.

Lohagad3

Today, it is one of the favorite destinations for trekkers especially during Monsoon season i.e. July to September and every year it attracts trekkers and tourist from Mumbai and Pune.

Trekkers enjoy a brief shower during their trek
Trekkers enjoy a brief shower during their trek

Usually seen as a beginners trek, the fort is a perfect blend of history and adventure. During monsoon the top of the fort is covered with mist and clouds. The surrounding hills are covered in shades of green making it a sight to behold.The fort is easily accessible as there are only steps and less amount of trekking required.

Trekkers relax at the summit.
Trekkers relax at the summit.

Once atop the fort offers splendid views and once can view the Tung and Tikona hills, the Pavana Dam and the Duke’s nose. This is one of the most scenic and picturesque treks near Mumbai.Experienced trekkers can go for twin treks in one day i.e. Lohagad Fort and Visapur Fort which is connected.

Trekkers take part in the Astro night trek at Lohagad fort
Trekkers take part in the Astro night trek at Lohagad fort

Adventure and Astronomy lovers can also take part in The Astronomical Night trek to Lohagad Fort.

What to see at the fort

  • A tomb
  • A manmade lake
  • 4 large gates
  • Walls of the fort
  • Temples
  • Water tanks and Reservoirs
  • Long stretch of greenery
  • Visit the Bhaja and Karla caves on your way back
Camping venue at Lohagad Fort
Camping venue at Lohagad Fort

Camping Info:

During monsoon ideally avoid camping as it can be dangerous unless you are part of an expert group of trekkers and campers. Winters are the ideal time for camping at the fort if you have the required gear.

How to reach : 

Trekkers planning to reach by public transport can board a train from Mumbai and alight at Lonavala or Malawli station the next stop after Lonavala (Make sure the train you take has a stop at Malawli).After reaching Malawli walk for a few minutes and reach ‘Bhaje Goan – Junction’ this is the starting point of the trek.

If you are traveling by car then take the Mumbai – Pune Expressway and after passing Lonavala, look for signs for Malawli or take directions and reach Malawli station. Once here drive towards Bhaje Goan – Junction nearby.

For bookings for a Monsoon Trek to Lohagad Fort  PLEASE CLICK  HERE

Caution: The roads and trails leading to the fort are quite slippery during Monsoon so be careful while venturing on a trek.For more information read: Precautions to be taken during Monsoon trekking.

Rajmachi Fort Trek

Leave a comment
Rajmachi Fort during monsoon
Rajmachi Fort during monsoon

Location:  Can be reached via Karjat / Lonavala
Distance from Mumbai: 95 Km
Distance from Pune: 80 Km
Trekking Duration: 1 day
Trek Length: Via Lonavala: 2 hr. / Via Karjat : 2 hr
Starting Point:  Base village Udhewadi
Best Season to Visit: All round the year (Monsoon preferable)
Difficulty Level: Easy
Height: 826 mt (2710 feet) above sea level

Rajmachi Fort

A brief history :

It is believed that the Rajmachi fort was first established by the Satavahanas. In recent history the fort was in control of the Marathas under the leadership of Shivaji Maharaj  during the 16th century and served as a strategic fort to control the historical trade routes. Later in the 17th – century the fort was captured by the Mughals for a brief period be recaptured by the Marathas again and finally, after the downfall of the Maratha empire the ownership of the fort was taken by the British empire.

Rajmachi Fort during monsoon
Rajmachi Fort during monsoon

Located in the Sahyadri mountain ranges near the twin hill stations of Lonavala and Khandala is the beautiful Rajmachi fort.The Rajmachi peak offers breathtaking views of the valley and has 2 fortified structures i.e. Shrivardhan fort and Manaranjan fort. The fort offers one of the most beautiful treks near Mumbai.

lonavala-trek1

Rajmachi can be reached by 2 routes i.e. via Kondivade village near Karjat, which involves a climb-up of about 2000 feet.While the other route is from Lonavala, which is easy and almost a 20 km plain trek via Udhewadi village.

Trekkers enjoy their trek trek through the cold mist
Trekkers enjoy their trek trek through the cold mist

The trekking route on both sides is surrounded by dense forests hence during monsoon trekkers will pass by beautiful waterfalls, streams and lush green landscapes.

A view of waterfalls and scenic landscape from Rajmachi Fort.
A view of waterfalls and scenic landscape from Rajmachi Fort.

What to see at the fort:

  • The fortified structures of Shrivardhan and Manaranjan
  • Buddist Caves
  • Kal Bhairava temple and ancient monuments.
  • Might walls and gateways
  • Secret exit gateways
  • Water storage tanks
  • Residential quarters now in a state of ruin
Nature camping at Rajmachi Fort
Nature camping at Rajmachi Fort

Camping Info:

During monsoon ideally avoid camping as it can be dangerous unless you are part of a professional group of trekkers and campers. Otherwise Rajmachi fort is an ideal fort for camping. There are 2 caves within the vicinity and can accommodate a large group of campers. In case you would not like to camp in the wild you can opt for a stay at the Kalbhairavnath temple which is at the base of the fort.Trekkers will also find camping facilities at the base village of Udhivade.

How to reach:  

Trekkers from Mumbai can reach Lonavala or Karjat by bus, train or car, from there on trekkers can reach the Rajmachi fort  by the following routes.

From Lonavala they will have to reach Tungrali village and start the trek while those coming from Karjat will have to reach Kondivade village and start their trek. Both the trek routes converge at the Udhivade village which is the base village for Rajmachi Fort Trek.

For bookings for a Monsoon Trek to Rajmachi  Fort  PLEASE CLICK  HERE

Caution: The roads and trails leading to the fort are quite slippery during Monsoon so be careful while venturing on a trek.For more information read: Precautions to be taken during Monsoon trekking.

Mahuli Fort Trek

Leave a comment
A view of the Mahuli Fort
A view of the Mahuli Fort

Location: Near Asangoan, Shahpur. Thane
Distance from Mumbai: 92 km
Distance from Pune : 190 km
Trekking Duration: 1 day
Trek Length: 3 hours
Starting Point: Mahuli  is the base village
Best Season to Visit: Monsoon and winter season
Difficulty Level: Medium (Beginners should avoid)
Height: 860 mt (2815 feet) above sea level

A brief history : The creator of this fort is unknown, but the fort, traces its origins to the 15th century and has been ruled by several rulers, the prominent ones being the Marathas and the Mughals.

Mahuli_Fort_From_Pivali_End

The Mahuli Mountain is the highest in the Thane district and is famous for its pinnacles. The trek covers 3 hills and every year experienced trekkers and rock climbers plan their expedition here.

Rock climbing at Mahuli Fort
Rock climbing at Mahuli Fort

Monsoon and winter are ideal for trekking and rock climbing at Mahuli, but this trek is not advisable for beginners as the trek has several steep  climbs and above all it’s a long trek that takes about 3 hours to reach the top.

Trekkers make their way through the dense trails of Mahuli
Trekkers make their way through the dense trails of Mahuli

The trek begins at Mahuli village and it’s a well marked trek till the summit. It is highly recommended to travel in a big group for this trek as in the recent years there have been leopard sightings, but let this not deter you from taking this trek as wildlife sightings are a rare phenomenon. Furthermore do carry sufficient amount of water and food.

Mahuli-2

Over the recent years Mahuli has become popular with trekkers and is a paradise for rock climbers  because of its pinnacles. The forest surrounding Mahuli has now been declared a sanctuary and the fort has been declared as a protected monument by the ASI.

At the summit
At the summit

What to see at the fort:

  • Remote Village
  • Waterfalls and fresh mountain water at the top
  • Dense Forest
  • Ancient Caves
  • Shiva temple
Camping at Mahuli Fort
Camping at Mahuli Fort

Camping Info:

One can consider camping atop the fort or even stay at one of the ancient caves. But ideally care  your own tent, lots of water, snacks and ready to make food in case you plan to camp at the fort. There is a small hotel at the base village which provides snacks, tea and staying facility which is limited.

How to reach:

From Asangoan station there is  public transport available up to Mahuli village which is about 5 km away and is the starting point of the trek.

For bookings for a Monsoon Trek to Mahuli Fort  PLEASE CLICK  HERE

Caution: The roads and trails leading to the fort are quite slippery during Monsoon so be careful while venturing on a trek.For more information read: Precautions to be taken during Monsoon trekking.

Sudhagad Fort Trek

Leave a comment
The majestic Sudhagad Fort
The majestic Sudhagad Fort

Location: Pali , Pachahapur
Distance from Mumbai: 110 km
Distance from Pune: 120 km
Trekking Duration: 1 day
Trek Length: 2 hours
Starting Point: Pachchapur ( Thakurwadi village)
Best Season to Visit: Monsoon and Winter season
Difficulty Level: Easy
Height: 590 mt (1935 feet) above sea level

A trekker makes his way on the wet stairs of Sudhagad Fort during the monsoon
A trekker makes his way on the wet stairs of Sudhagad Fort during the monsoon

A brief history : The origins of the fort can be traced to the 2nd – century when it was originally called as ‘Bhorapgad’. According to historical records, during the early part of the 15th – century the fort was captured by the Bahamani Sultan and later in the 16th – century it was captured by the Marathas and named ‘Sudhagad’ which means Sweet One in  Marathi.

Trekkers on their way

The Sudhagad fort is one of the most beautiful forts in the Sahyadri ranges and is mostly visited by trekkers for a one day trek as it has a very easy endurance level.Sudhagad is an amazing place to trek during the monsoon and seems like a stairway to heaven. The fort is surrounded by lush greenery and the weather is just beautiful.

Trekkers have a good time at the summit
Trekkers have a good time at the summit

Once at the summit there is a 50 acre plateau with undulating green meadows and is a perfect place to sit or lie down and stare at the beautiful landscape amidst the clouds.

One of secret escape routes at Sudhagad Fort.
One of secret escape routes at Sudhagad Fort.

What to see at the fort:

  • Massive gateways of the fort
  • Secret escape routes within the fort
  • View of the surrounding valleys and mountains
  • Water reservoirs at the top
  • Old ruins
  • Temples of Lord Shiva and Bhoraidevi
  • Tombs

Camping at Sudhagad

Camping Info:

Camping is a good idea at Sudhagad fort only if you plan to trek the Sarasgad fort nearby too otherwise it is not sensible to camp here if you are just trekking at Sudhagad fort. There are a few ancient caves where trekkers can take shelter, but it is strongly recommended to take your own tents along and carry some ready to cook food that can be made easily on a bonfire, also do carry sufficient water.

Trekkers pose for snaps at the iron stairway at Sudhagad Fort
Trekkers pose for snaps at the iron stairway at Sudhagad Fort

How to reach:

From Mumbai or Thane trekkers can board public transport buses upto Pali. From Pali they can take a local transport upto Pachchapur  which is 12 km away. After reaching Pachchapur they can walk up to Thakurwadi village which is 1 k m away and is the base village for the trek.

The best way to reach Sudhagad Fort is by car and the best route from Mumbai is  Mumbai -> Khopoli -> Pali -> Pachchapur village – > Sudhgad Fort

There is no train service available on this route.

For bookings for a Monsoon Trek to Sudhagad Fort  PLEASE CLICK  HERE

Caution: The roads and trails leading to the fort are quite slippery during Monsoon so be careful while venturing on a trek.For more information read: Precautions to be taken during Monsoon trekking.

Prabalgad Fort Trek

Leave a comment
A view of the Prabalgad fort from the base village
A view of the Prabalgad fort from the base village

Location: Panvel.
Distance from Mumbai: 55 km
Distance from Pune : 120 km
Trekking Duration: 1 day.
Trek Length: 1 hour.
Starting Point: Prabalmachi (Thakurwadi) is the base village.
Best Season to Visit: All round the year.
Difficulty Level: Easy to Medium.
Height: 700 mt (2300 feet) above sea level.

A brief history:

The Prabalgad Fort is situated between Panvel and Matheran at a height of 2300 feet in the Western Ghats. It was built on a rocky plateau and was known as Muranajan during the rule of the Bahmani Sultanate, but was renamed by the Marathas under the rule of Shivaji.

Trekkers make their way up to the summit.
Trekkers make their way up to the summit.

The trek begins at the base village of Thakurwadi, initially it is an easy trek, but as it progresses, it does have a few difficult climbs and can be attempted by beginners.

A huge plateau at the top of the fort.
A huge plateau at the top of the fort.

Once at the summit you will find a huge plateau without any fort structure, but being here is an awesome feeling as you are now at the peak in the middle of a jungle.

A splendid view of the valley and Kalavantin Durg from the Prabalgad fort
A splendid view of the valley and Kalavantin Durg from the Prabalgad fort

From here trekkers can enjoy splendid views of the surrounding valleys, pinnacles and landscapes. They can relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere which is misty and surrounded by clouds.

Trekkers enjoy themselves at a waterfall
Trekkers enjoy themselves at a waterfall

Note:

Do carry sufficient snacks and water and if you are visiting this place for the first time it is advisable to hire a local guide as the trail is confusing and not well marked to the top.

What to see at and from the fort:

  • View of Pinnacles
  • View of the surrounding valleys and mountains
  • View of Kalavantin Durg
  • View of the Matheran hill range
  • Irshalgad Fort
  • View of Ulahas, Gadhi and Patalganga River
A group enjoys an overnight camp at the Prabalgad Fort
A group enjoys an overnight camp at the Prabalgad Fort

Camping Info:

Trekkers planning a twin trek to Prabalgad Fort and Kalavantin Durg can opt for camping but make sure you get your entire camping gear which includes tents. Trekkers can also opt for an overnight stay at the hotels at the base village of Prabalmachi.

How to reach:

Prabalgad fort can be reached via Panvel. From Mumbai and Thane, there are several S.T buses and other means of transport to reach Panvel.

Once trekkers reach Panvel they can again board an S.T. bus or take any other local transport (share auto rickshaws) and reach the base village Thakurwadi which is 15 km from Panvel.

Trekkers can also catch a local train to Panvel and from there on  board an S.T. bus or take any other local transport (share auto rickshaws) and reach the base village Thakurwadi which is 15 km from Panvel.

For bookings for a Monsoon Trek to  Prabalgad Fort PLEASE CLICK  HERE

Caution: The roads and trails leading to the fort are quite slippery during Monsoon so be careful while venturing on a trek.For more information read: Precautions to be taken during Monsoon trekking.

Raigad Fort Trek

Leave a comment
A birds eye view of the Raigad Fort
A birds eye view of the Raigad Fort

Location: Mahad, Raigad District
Distance from Mumbai: 170 km
Distance from Pune: 150 km
Trekking Duration: 1 day.
Trek Length: 1 hour 30 minutes.
Starting Point: Pachad village is the base village
Best Season to Visit: All round the year.
Difficulty Level: Easy to Medium.
Height: 820 mt (2700 feet) above sea level.

A green cover during the monsoon season
A green cover during the monsoon season

A brief history:

The Raigad fort was built by Shivaji Maharaj and was made his capital in the year 1674 when he was crowned King of the Maratha Empire. Since then the fort had an interesting history and many legends associated with it. Later during the 18th century the British laid siege and destroyed the Fort.

Trekkers enjoy themselves at a waterfall as they trek the Raigad Fort.
Trekkers enjoy themselves at a waterfall as they trek the Raigad Fort.

In present times, the Raigad Fort is known for its immense beauty and waterfalls and remains a paradise for trekkers, hikers and campers from Mumbai and Pune. This fort is strategically perched atop a wedge-shaped block of hill, split off from the Western Ghats and is inaccessible from three sides.

Trekkers make their way to the summit.
Trekkers make their way to the summit.

The fort rises at 2700 feet above sea level and is located in the Sahyadri mountain range and trekking here is a great experience. There are a series of 1750 steps that will take you to the top of the fort.

Steps leading to the Raigad fort
Steps leading to the Raigad fort

A trek here is completely safe and many trekkers even opt for a night trek which is a great experience. While trekking at Raigad trekkers need not worry about food and water as it is easily available at the many shops at the base and the top of the fort.

The Rope way leading to the top of Raigad Fort
The Rope way leading to the top of Raigad Fort

For tourists who are with family and children and are not interested in trekking they can opt for the ropeway which will take them directly to the top of the fort within 5 minutes.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue in Raigad fort.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue in Raigad fort.

Note:

Trekkers should be aware that Raigad Fort is much more than a tourist attraction and is considered a holy place by locals and many others from different parts of Maharashtra since it is home to the Samadhi of Shivaji Maharaj hence trekkers are advised to be sensitive to the emotions attached to this fort.

An old Canon at the fort belonging to the Marathas now lies idle
An old Canon at the fort belonging to the Marathas now lies idle

What to see at and from the fort:

  • Market Place
  • Holicha Mal
  • Hirkani Buruj
  • Tak Mak Tok Point
  • Jagdishwar Temple
  • Samadhi of Shivaji Maharaj
  • Throne of Shivaji Maharaj
  • Queen’s Palace
  • Meena Darwaza
  • Ropeway

and many more attractions.

Camping Info:

Raigad fort is ideal for camping as there is a lot of open space where trekkers can pitch their tents or alternatively stay in one of the hotels or resorts at the base or top of the fort.

Camping at Raigad Fort
Camping at Raigad Fort

How to reach:

On a daily basis, there are many S.T. buses plying from various locations in Mumbai and Thane for Raigad. A journey by bus will take you about 4 hours hence start early in the morning. Trekkers can also travel by private cars and cabs and can reach Raigad within 2 hours.

For bookings for a Monsoon Trek to Raigad Fort PLEASE CLICK  HERE

Caution: The roads and trails leading to the fort are quite slippery during Monsoon so be careful while venturing on a trek.For more information read: Precautions to be taken during Monsoon trekking.