Trekking in Pune and its vicinity offers the best of the Western Ghats, the rustic beauty of ancient forts, lush green forests, and gushing waterfalls sprouting everywhere. From challenging trails to beginner-friendly hikes, there is a plethora of options for exploring treks near Pune.
Trekking in Pune lets you encounter the alluring Western Ghats, verdant grasslands and farms, rejuvenating water streams and the rich legacy of the Maratha empire in the form of gigantic forts.
Western Ghats is one of the oldest mountain ranges that traverse the states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Goa, Gujarat and Maharashtra and stretches for almost 1600km. Older than the Himalayas, the mountain range is a biodiversity hotspot. Since the big portions of Western Ghats lie in the state of Maharashtra, there is ample opportunity to explore the Shayadris.
Another big attraction for trekking in Pune is witnessing the architectural marvel of ancient forts located across the Western Ghats.
During the monsoon season, the treks near Pune come to life. The wildflowers spring up, waterfalls sprout along the trail and grasslands and forests embrace lush green shades. There are numerous options for trekking in Pune and its surrounding areas. Here is a list of the top 10 treks near Pune that are doable over the weekend.
Here is a list of10 Best Treks Near Pune
1. Kalsu Bai Trek
Trek Distance – 5.6km
Duration – 4hrs (One way)
Starting Point – Bari Village
Distance from Pune – 180 km
Kalsu Bai Trek, located near Pune City, is one of the most picturesque treks. The trek takes you through lush green fields, forests, waterfalls and scenic rural villages.
Kalsu Pai Peak is frequented by locals from nearby villagers who climb to visit the revered Kalsu Bai temple and seek blessings from Kalsu Bai devi.
Kalsu Bai Peak trek is located inside Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary and is the highest peak in Maharashtra. Located in Ahmednagar district, Kalsu Bai Peak commands panoramic views of the Western Ghats. The trail has ladders installed by locals for the convenience of the trekkers. Traversing these narrow iron ladders is a challenging affair, especially during the monsoon
Kalsubai Peak being the highest peak in Maharashtra commands spectacular views of some of the famous peaks of the Sahyadris.
2. Sinhagad Trek
Trek Distance – 2.7 km
Trek Duration – 2 to 3 hrs(One way)
Starting Point – Donje Gaon
Distance from Pune – 35 km
Sinhagad is one of the most popular treks owing to its proximity to Pune. The trek takes you to the historic hill fort of Sinhagad, the site of many iconic battles. Sinhagad’s historic significance draws people from all over. It’s one of the most loved weekend treks, located 35 km from Pune.
The trek is known for its scenic view and the remains of the Maratha empire’s rich history.
Sinhagad Fort stands tall at 4320 feet and overlooks the bustling Pune city. During the monsoon, the trail embraces a lush green shade, inviting the city dwellers. Dont forget to visit Lokmanya Tilak Bungalow, Tanaji Kada and Tanaji malusares Samadhi atop the fort.
It takes 2 hours to cover the distance of 2.7 km to the fort. The uphill climb traverses a beautiful trail, especially during the monsoon season. Sinhagad Fort can be done in a day.
3. Torna Fort Trek
Trek Distance – 11km
Trek Duration – 3 to 4 hrs (Starting Point to the Top)
Starting Point – Velhe Village
Distance from Pune – 60 km
Torna Fort Trek is one of the most adventurous trekking trails near Pune. A picturesque trail, starting from Velhe village takes you to the top where Torna Fort stands tall in all its glory. A paradise for nature lovers, Torna Fort traverses a lush green forest trail. Come monsoon, the grassland along the route remains abloomed with vibrant wildflowers. You will be enchanted to walk on a flowerbed.
The highlight of this trek is the ruins of the Torna Fort, also called Prachandgad owing to its mega-sized structure. Prachanda in Marathi means massive and Gad translates to fort. Famed to be the highest hill fort of Pune, Torn holds many historic significance. It was the first fort captured by Chattrapati Shivaji at the young age of 16. The fort has been witness to a series of historic battles, a prominent one was between the Marathas and Mughals.
The ruins of the fort attract hundreds of trekkers from around the city, especially in post-monsoon months. Monsoon months witness a flock of adventurers who climb to the fort for verdant trails and scenic views of the hills around. Known for spectacular views from the top, Torna lets you catch glimpses of the nearby forts such as – Raigad, Rajgad, Sinhagad, and Pratapgad among others. There are specific viewpoints of attractions within the fort, Balekilla, Zunjar Machi, and Budhla Machi.
It is categorized as an easy-to-moderate trek, and trekkers hike on tricky patches to reach the summit. If you have enough time extend your hike to Rajgad Fort. Follow the ridge from Budhla Machi in Torna Fort that connects to Rajgad Fort.
4. Rajgad Fort Trek
Rajgad Fort Trek Distance 11 km
Trek Duration – 3 to 4 hrs (Starting Point to the Top)
Starting Point – Velhe Village
Distance from Pune – 60 km
Rajgad Fort near Pune is one of the prettiest trekking trails. An architectural marvel amid the Western Ghats, Rajgad Fort boasts rich historic tales. Located at an altitude of 4,514 ft., the trek takes you through a splendid trail, offering magnificent landscapes of Shayadris. The fort was the capital of Chattrapati Shivaji for a long duration and has witnessed a wealth of historic events.
Constructed during the Maratha empire’s glorious years, the fort has Machis or viewpoints, and double-fortified walls, and the entire fort boasts of the great architectural prowess of the Maratha empire.
While the beauty of this fort spellbinds you, the trail to the top is equally impressive. It takes you through lush green fields, a flower-laden trail and serene forest sections. The view from the top is a treat to your eyes. Watch out for a magical view of Shayadri from the top. You will need a minimum of 2 to 3 hours to explore the fort.
5. Visapur Trek
Trek Distance – 5 km( From base to Top)
Trek Duration – 3hr (Starting Point to the Top)
Starting Point – Baje Village
Distance from Pune – 65 km
Visapur Fort trek near Mumbai Pune Expressway takes you to the ruins of historic Visapur Fort. The Fort was constructed under the watch of Balaji Vishwanath, the first Peshwa of the Maratha Empire. A popular monsoon trek, the trail is dotted with waterfalls sprouting during the monsoon months. You will navigate through small streams along the route. Lush green forest, a walk on the plateau, and spectacular views of historic forts are some of the highlights of Visapur Fort Trek in Pune.
The trek starts from Baje Village and takes approximately 3 hours to reach the top. A moderate trek, this one-day trek near Pune traverses a few rocky patches. Do this trek in the post-monsoon season to witness the verdant grassland and soothing summit views.
6. Devkund Waterfall Trek
Trek Distance – 6 km( From base to Top)
Trek Duration – 2hr (One Way)
Starting Point – Bhira
Distance from Pune – 110 km
Devkund Waterfall Trek near Pune is a hidden treasure. Nestled deep inside the forest, the waterfall comes to life when the monsoon arrives, increasing the volume of the waterfall.
The waterfall is believed to have been a bathing ground for Devs or Gods and is considered sacred by the villagers. Hidden inside a dense forest surrounded by Bhira Dam, the Devkund waterfall trek is an easy hike. You can complete the trek in a day. Camp along the Bhira water reservoir for a night to add adventure to your getaway. A waterfall of 280 mt in height swells as it begins raining in July. It is a perfect weekend getaway to escape the city heat.
The trek starts from Bhira and takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the waterfall. In winter, the trail adorns autumn hues and appears in shades of gold and brown.
7. Harishchandra Trek
Trek Distance – 5km( From Pichnai Village)
Trek Duration – 2hr (One Way)
Starting Point – Khireshwar, Pachnai and Walhivale/Belpada village.
Distance from Pune – 125 km
Harishchandragad Trek near Pune is one of the most diverse trekking destinations in the Western Ghats. Harishchandragad trek takes you to an ancient fort offering a perfect blend of adventurous trails and historic landmarks.
The trek passes through a dense forest cover, waterfalls along the trail, and a vibrant flower bed. Many ancient temples at the top exhibit the diverse culture this place has witnessed. Harishchandreshwar temple, Kedareshwar cave temple, and Tirta Pushkarini showcase the fine art of stone sculptures on this hike. The trek is also known for its spellbinding view of Naneghat from Taramti Peak, the fourth highest in Maharashtra.
Harishchandragad trek has three starting points – Pachnai village, Khireshwar and Wahivale. The trail is challenging as it has some steep and tricky sections. Traverse these sections carefully, especially during monsoon since the route becomes slippery. Start your trek from Pachnai if you are an absolute beginner. It is the easiest and quickest route.
8. Rajmachi Trek
Trek Distance – 13 km
Trek Duration – 7 hrs
Starting Point – Udewadi
Distance from Pune – 75 km (Approx)
Touted as one of the most picturesque trekking trails near Pune, the Rajmachi Fort trek boasts lush green forests, rich fauna, gushing waterfalls, and breathtaking landscapes of Shahyadris.
Nestled amid two popular Lonavala and Karjat hill stations, the trek takes to the twin fort of Manaranjan Fort (2510 feet) and Shriwardhan (2750. ft). You can approach the trek from both Lonavala and Karjat. The starting point of the trek is Udhewadi village, around km from Lonavala.
The trail is engulfed in vibrant green while the floating clouds keep you company. Monsoon season also witnesses the trail filled with waterfalls. The vantage point at the top is perfect to witness the panoramic views of the hills around.
The magical sight of gleaming fireflies will enhance the trek experience if you plan this trek pre-monsoon. If you camp here for a night, you will witness magical sunsets from the top.
If you are seeking an adventurous escape amidst the serene nature, Rajmachi Fort Trek is a perfect place to be.
9. Kothaligad Trek
Trek Distance -6.5 km
Trek Duration – 3.5 hrs (One way)
Starting Point – Udewadi Village
Distance from Pune – 135 km (Approx)
Located a few hrs from Pune city, Kothaligad is a historic fort that attracts hundreds of adventurers. An easy-moderate trail, inside Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kothaligad Trek is one of the perfect weekend getaways for city dwellers. The trek is easily accessible from Karjat and takes you through a rejuvenating trail. A waterfall along the trail is known for its rare phenomenon and trekkers embark on this trek to catch a glimpse of reverse waterfall. The waterfall is sent upwards due to strong wind in the region.
Kothaligad trek starts from the base village of Ambivli, located 23 km from Karjat. This thrilling trek navigates through steep stair climbs, rock-cut steps, caves and tiny streams during monsoon.
10. Sindola Fort Trek
Trek Distance -2.8km
Trek Duration – 2 to 3 hrs (One way)
Starting Point – Karanjale Village
Distance from Pune – 112 km (Approx)
The Sindola Fort trek takes you to a historic hill fort atop the Malshej Ghat Plateau. An offbeat trail near Malshej Ghat, the trek overlooks the Pimpalgaon Joga dam. Situated at an altitude of 3680 ft, Sindola Fort was built to function as a watch tower. Locals believe the fort dates back to the Shilahara dynasty, who ruled the region between the 8th and 13th centuries.
During the monsoon, the trail comes to life with vibrant wildflowers and the forest sections adorning the lush green shade. As you embark on a thrilling ridge walk, you will catch a glimpse of Sindola Fort. The ridge walk overlooks the stunning view of the dam on your right and the towering peaks of the Western Ghats on your left.
Do this trek during monsoon season to witness the vibrant blooms along the trail. You will play hide and seek with floating clouds and the entire trail becomes a dreamscape after the first spell of rain.
These are a few of the best treks you can explore near Pune to soak in the unexplored beauty of the Western Ghats. If you have already completed this trek and wish to share your experience or add more information for our readers, you can write to us at tamanna@gooutwithowls.com.
If you have done other popular treks near Pune or any other part of the country, you can write to us and help more adventure seekers to goout and explore the outdoors.
