Pune nestled in the western ghats is surrounded by pristine hills and forts. Built by empires dating as back as the 10th century, these were strategically placed to optimise defence and offence, making them both challenging and fun for a hike. The monsoon brings lush green cover and waterfalls making these even better. Plan one adventurous outing with your friends and family.
Sinhagad Fort Trek
Sinhagad Fort might be the closest and the most popular fort near Pune. With rich history and spectacular location, the fort is named after Subedar Tanaji Malusare, who was referred to as "Sinha" which means a lion in marathi, by Chattrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The trek is one of the easiest and takes about 40 minutes to climb from the Donje Village. With the option of driving up till the top, it has become a go to destination for all Punekars once the first rain arrives. With dense fog and clouds covering the top like cotton candy on a cone, the fort should not be missed by any person visiting Pune, especially in Monsoon. Do feast on the delectable kanda bhajiya, pithla bhakri, matka dahi and a spread of local fruits like amla, raw mango and steamed ground nuts. Three must-see things in the fort are Lokmanya Tilak Bungalow, Tanaji Kada and Tanaji Malusare's Samadhi.
Difficulty Level: Easy
Trekking Time ( Base to Base) : 2 Hours
Distance From Pune: 25 Km
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/v2dUVvhCoHJxMfW47
Rajgad Fort Trek
Rajgad (literal meaning Ruling Fort) is a hill fort situated in the Pune district of Maharashtra, India. Formerly known as Murumdev, the fort was the capital of the Maratha Empire under the rule of Chattrapati Shivaji Maharaj for almost 26 years, after which the capital was moved to the Raigad Fort. There are multiple routes to the top, best one being from Gunjawane Village, where you can park your car safely. The fort is of moderate intensity and takes about three hours for one way hike. You can also opt to carry and set up tents at the top. The trek doesn't stop just there. The vast stretch of the fort is a hike of its own. With the Balekilla being the highlight. The climb to Balekilla which is the topmost point, is both adventurous and scary. The Rajgad Fort also offers a splendid view of other surrounding forts like Torna, Lingana, Raigad, Sinhagad, Purandar, Mangalgad, Vajragad, Rohida, Raireshwar, Mahabaleshwar mountain range, Makarandgad, Pratapgad, Varandha ghat, Kavlya fort, Mohangad, Gopya ghat, Madhe ghat, Raidand, Lohgad, Visapaur, Tung, and Tikona.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Trekking Time ( Base to Base) : 6 Hours
Distance From Pune: 60 Km
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/fVGfwVtboRpb9zb59
Kalsubai Trek
Kalsubai is a bit different from the rest. The highest peak in the state of Maharashtra has not fort but a humble temple at the peak after whom the mountain is named after. A tough hike, it is crowded on special ocassions and festivals when you have people rushing to the top to seek the godesses blessing.The top view from the peak is highly superb that offers a stunning view of nearby forts and Bhandardara Dam. Located at a distance of 180 km from Pune, Kalsubai Peak Trek can be done between June to September. The trekking can be completed in a minimum time of 2 days. We did this in one, starting early at $am and finishing by evening. It would be the best trekking done by you as walking amidst the clouds and a cool breeze will be the ultimate experience that you can ever have.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Trekking Time ( Base to Base) : 6 Hours
Distance From Pune: 180 Km
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/LZNeTzRFpKyqwo2F7
K2S Trek
Katraj to Sinhagad Trek more popularly known as K2S Trek starts from the top of Katraj Tunnel and finishes at the top of Sinhagad Fort. 16kms long the trek is fun for all. With most of the stretch being walking atop a ridge with valley on both sides, the hike is pristine in all seasons. Specially done at night with headlamps and torches. one can reach Katraj Tunnel by taking the local bus from Swargate and take a local bus back from Sinhagad Fort to Pune. Loveley view of the city from a different angle, this one takes an entire day. Highly recommended!
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Trekking Time ( Base to Base) : 6 Hours
Distance From Pune: 10 Km
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/spvygiKCLGzSCmDS6
Purandar Fort Trek
Known as the birthplace of Chattrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Chattrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Purandar Fort near Narayanpur, is one of the most popular trekking points, that’s close to the city. Currently, the fort is in ruins. But the majestic beauty of this architectural masterpiece in the heart of Western Ghats, continue to pull hundreds of tourists every month. The trek takes about two hours from the base to the top. Once you reach the fort, we recommend you check out the temples in and around the area. Although most of them are in ruins, the ancient temples of Kedareshwar, Lord Indra and Laxmi are a must-visit. Photography is restricted so are entry timings to the fort as it is in close vicinity to the Army Camp.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Trekking Time ( Base to Base) : 4 Hours
Distance From Pune: 50 Km
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/oPcotUJBcWrdzRWu7
Lohagad Fort Trek
One of the most popular destinations because of its proximity to the hill station of Lonavala. The trek can be completed within 2 and a half hour and it is very famous among locals during monsoon season. If you are a first-time trekker then this is the picture perfect option for you that can be trekked without any difficulty.
Difficulty Level: Easy
Trekking Time ( Base to Base) : 2 Hours
Distance From Pune: 50 Km
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/QrJ1XKUWAfdBPkCU9
Visapur Fort Trek
A trek that went recently viral for it's steps that flood with water and look like a waterfall in rains. Since the video went viral, the fort is crowded on weekends. Preferably try visiting on weekdays. Trekking to the top summit of Visapur Fort is an unforgettable adventure for every single visitor. Although the climb is a rocky one, the trek is serene and tranquil. You could either start your trekking adventure from Lohagadwadi or Patan Village. You may also try a hand at paragliding activity which takes place nearby.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Trekking Time ( Base to Base) : 3 Hours
Distance From Pune: 50 Km
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/oBvBDctE1rcwbVGK9
Raigad Fort Trek
Located at a distance of 54 km from Pune, Raigad Trek is the easiest trek in Pune. Raigad Fort is one of the top-visited places in the state of Maharastra where legends come to spend some lovely hours. There are approximately 1500 steps to climb to the fort that requires lots of struggle. The fort is enclosed by the dense forest that makes the trek more interesting. The beautiful architecture of the fort will offer you relaxation for some time when you will reach it. This is one of the best trekking places in Pune that can be completed in a day.
Difficulty Level: Easy
Trekking Time ( Base to Base) : 3 Hours
Distance From Pune: 55 Km
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/3KCNk7zHYQcoVtPz8
Shivneri Fort Trek
Shivneri Fort is one of the most scenic forts in the country and it doubles as a trekking destination. The entrance to this fort is through a triangular hill that you will have to traverse to reach the very top. There is also an option to enter through a chain gate where you will have to use the chains available to reach the fort gate and it makes for a mesmeric experience. This trek is located about 94 kilometres from our hotel and is considered to be one of the easier treks in Pune.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Trekking Time ( Base to Base) : 6 Hours
Distance From Pune: 95 Km
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/Q8nBhz65z79MPANk7
Devkund Waterfall Trek
The trek to Devkund Waterfall is 5 kms long (one-way) and passes through some dense forests and mighty mountains. It typically takes about 2-3 hours to complete. There are some patches that make you feel like you’re walking through the set of Avatar with massive walls of mountains on one side, mighty birds flying around you, and dense jungle on the other side.
The entire trail runs alongside a river and you cross the stream at multiple instances. The last stream crossing is tricky because the water flows aggressively through the rocky terrain. There’s a tiny bridge constructed to help cross one stream. The village authorities have made it compulsory to get a guide with your group. The guide charges are ₹100 per person. There have been a lot of instances where people lose their way in the jungle and hence it is best to hire a guide. The trek starts from Bhira Village. Avoid this trek in intense rains as the strem floods and makes it impossible to cross over.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Trekking Time ( Base to Base) : 6 Hours
Distance From Pune: 70 Km
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/9vWGEdRvhq7f3XGk8
There are a lot more treks that are worthy of a visit. Share your experience with Just T-Shirts and we will help your reach to our family. Email us at online.shapparels@gmail.com or whatsapp us on +91-7020893051
