Top 10 Popular Weekend Treks from Mumbai and Pune

Monsoon in Maharashtra is infamous for causing traffic jams and sometimes even flood. This season, skip the hustle bustle of the city and go for a trek near Mumbai or Pune. There are some marvelous treks with stunning views of landscapes, lush green forests, gushing waterfalls and historic forts to make your experience wonderful and monsoons enjoyable.

1. Rajgad Fort Trek

• Location: Gunjavane
• Altitude: 885 m
• Difficulty Level: Medium

This is one of the grand forts of Sahaydris, located at 54 km from Pune. The fort was formerly known as Murumdev and remained the capital of Maratha Kingdom under Chhatrapati Shivaji’s rule for almost 26 years. After the trek people could see remains of palaces and caves at the highest part of the fort.

You could enjoy the thrill of night trekking if you have the courage—the fort is said to be haunted.

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2. Kalsubai Trek

• Location: Igatapuri Taluka
• Altitude: 1650 m
• Difficulty Level: Moderate

Kalsubai is the highest peak in Sahyadri hills and is a part of Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary.The trek offers a breathtaking view of the meadows and lush green valleys with roaring winds and a series of gushing waterfalls. On the top is a small temple of Kalsubai, who was a house maid and was believed to have run away from her employer to these mountains. This gives the mountains its current name. One can also see nearby forts and Bhandardara Dam from the top.

3. Korigad Trek

• Location: Lonavala
• Altitude: 930 m
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Korigad is about 20 km from Lonavala. You can reach the top via Ambavne village or begin your trek from Peth Shahpur. People generally prefer the latter route as it is an easier route. One has to climb 510 steps from Peth Shahpur route, which takes around 45 minutes. The main attraction of this trek are the two large caves with a Hanuman Mandir (temple) on the side and two beautiful lakes on the trail.

4. Lohagad Trek

• Location: Near Lonavala
• Altitude: 1050 m
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Lohagad, which translates to ‘Iron Fort’ is located at 11 km from Lonavala. It is called so because of the iron pillars used during its construction. The fort has four iron gates, which are still in good condition. During the monsoon, the fort gets covered with mist and clouds, making the trail beautiful.

5. Tikona Trek

• Location: Near Kamshet
• Altitude: 1066 m
• Difficulty Level: Easy

 Tikona hill fort, also known as Vitandgad is located in Maval region, around 53 km from Pune. The nearest village to the fort is Tikona-Peth. The Trimbakeshwar Mahadev temple, which falls on the trail, holds a historical significance in Marathi culture. Other attractions include Satvahan Caves and a water tank which was used as a reservoir in early days.

6. Rajmachi Trek

• Location: Near Lonavala
• Altitude: 826 m
• Difficulty Level: Easy

One of the famous treks for beginners, Rajmachi trek is located at 15 km from Lonavala. This famous fort was built by Shivaji Maharaj in the 17^th century. There are mainly two routes to this fort—the difficult one through Karjat and easier one via Lonavala. The trek is surrounded by dense forest, giving trekkers the opportunity to witness various species of birds and animals. Surrounded by huge waterfalls during monsoon you can view the beautiful Kataldhar waterfall from Shrivardhan Fort. Rajmachi Fort has many caves used by trekkers for night halt. Pre-monsoon the forest around the forts is glowing with Fireflies at night. Its a magical view.

7. Harishchandragad Trek

• Location: Malshej Ghat
• Altitude: 1423 m
• Difficulty Level: Difficult

Also known as the trekker’s paradise, Harishchandragad is around 159 km from Pune. This trek has 7 routes and most adventurers choose difficult one which is the Makad Naal route. This trek is not for beginners and takes about 8 hours journey from the base to the top. The Ghat is popular for activities like rock climbing and valley crossing apart from trekking.

8. Ratangad Trek

• Location: Ratan Wadi
• Altitude: 1295 m
• Difficulty Level: Medium

Ratangad fort gives the panoramic view of the Sahyadri range from the top. The name translates to ‘Jewels of the Fort’. The trek is comparatively easier, which attracts many non-trekkers as well. Amruteshwar Temple is one of the oldest in the area and is known for its ancient carvings. Located at 183 km from Pune, this place is quite secluded and offers a great escape for solo travelers.

9. Peb Vikatgad Trek

• Location: Karjat
• Altitude: 640 m
• Difficulty Level: Medium

Fort Peb or Vikatgad is situated at 88 km from Mumbai. People who seek peace and solitude must visit this fort. It is famous for its caves, which are maintained by disciples of Swami Smarath, a Guru widely respected in Maharashtra. The beauty of the trek augments in monsoon as the trail gets covered with greenery and mist.

10. Raigad Fort Trek

• Location: Raigad
• Altitude: 820 m
• Difficulty Level: Medium

It is a magnificent hill fortress at 125 km away from Pune. Most of the structure remains in ruins, which are the remnants of the 18^th century Maratha War when the British had attacked the fort.

Have you been searching for places but can’t decide which is the best for your group? We feel we made your work a lot easier with this list. Pack your bags and get ready for an exciting trekking experience. Share your stories and Happy Hiking 🙂

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