Monsoon and post-monsoon are synonymous with trekking in the Western Ghats. This is when the Western Ghats spring into life. The forest section comes alive. The lush green grasslands beam with tiny wildflowers. The view of rolling green hills takes your breath away.  

Western Ghats are older than the Himalayas! They span from Gujarat to Kerala and are almost 1600 km long. A large chunk of them lies in Maharashtra. This means, no matter what part of Maharashtra you are from, you have a place to trek to. The presence of more than 160 forts adds to this. As a result, there is a strong trekking culture too.

Pune, being one of the popular districts in Maharashtra, is home to the famous hill stations such as Lonavala and Malshej Ghat. This makes it one of the hotspots for treks in Sahyadris. There are numerous treks that are just a couple of hours away. 

There are treks that take you through dense forests. There are vast plateaus to explore. There are forts that are architectural marvels. There are waterfall trails to quench your thirst for adventure. There is a reverse waterfall phenomenon to marvel at!

Here, I’ve curated 10 such best treks near Pune that you must do. So without further delay, let’s dive into the details of these treks.

Starting point of the trek: Donje Gaon
Distance from Pune: 20 km
Best route to get there: https://goo.gl/maps/NSZ2P6MKVaX4ViqS8

Views of the rolling green hills and cloud bed seen from the Sinhgad Fort top. Picture from the Indiahikes archives.

Sinhagad is one of the most significant forts around Pune. The fort, strategically built to provide natural protection, is part of the triumvirate Sinhagad, Rajgad and Torna. It has also been the centre of a number of battles. Unlike many other forts, the fort structure of Sinhagad is still intact and well preserved. Because of this reason, the trek to Sinhagad is one of the most popular treks in this region. 

Sinhagad trek can be divided into two sections. The first part starts from tar road at Donje Gaon and climbs up to a parking lot for two wheelers. The second half of the trek is a steep climb to Sinhagad top. It’s steep but incredibly rewarding.

Starting point of the trek: Velhe village
Distance from Pune: 48 km
Best route to get there: https://goo.gl/maps/ccdty7LacAeAz3aH9

Zunjar Machi as seen from the Dhaalkathi on the Torna Fort trek. Observe the double fortified wall. Picture by Nitesh Kumar.

Torna Fort is the highest hill-fort in the Pune District. Situated at an altitude of 4,603 ft from sea level, it stands out among other forts in the western ghats of Maharashtra. Because of the massive size of the fort, it is also called Prachandagad. This name is derived from Marathi which means Prachanda – massive and gad – a fort.

Torna Fort has a rich history as it was captured by Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1646 when he was 16 years old. This is where the core of the Maratha empire was built. It has a great history as it has gone under many rulers.

Trek to the Torna Fort unfolds many exciting things. You trek along the beautiful flower beds, on the top, there are temples, water cisterns, Balekilla, 2 magnificent Machis, Zunjar Machi, and Budhla Machi, and a ridge connecting to Rajgad Fort.

Starting point of the trek: Gunjavane village
Distance from Pune: 62 km
Best route to get there: https://goo.gl/maps/ZRH5KcYgGpeuXgLc9

The Sanjivani Machi of Rajgad Fort. Picture by Nitesh Kumar.

Rajgad trek is the most beautiful trek in Maharashtra. As the name suggests, it is the king of forts. Because of the rich history and mesmerizing architecture of the fort, it stands out among other forts in the Western Ghats.

Rajgad was the capital of the Maratha emperor Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj for 26 years after which he shifted to Raigad. This is one of the reasons why the fort was built so beautifully. Rajgad has witnessed many significant events, including the birth of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s son Rajaram I to the death of his queen Saibai.

Trek to Rajgad offers the beauty of the Sahyadris as well as the fort. The fortification of the 3 Machis: Padmavati Machi, Suvela Machi, and Sanjivani Machi define the architectural creativity of that time. It also offers a splendid view of other surrounding forts like Torna, Lingana, Raigad, Sinhagad and many other forts.

For the mesmerising views and the rich history of the fort, this trek is a must-do.

Starting point of the trek: Bhaje village
Distance from Pune: 64 km
Best route to get there: https://goo.gl/maps/Z1njsVNgwNe6CFip7

Wall of the Visapur fort. Picture by Mugdha Bhusari.

Visapur Fort dates back to the 1700's and was built by Balaji Vishwanath, the first Peshwa of the Maratha Empire. Visapur Fort is a part of the Lohagad-Visapur fortification. Visapur is at a higher elevation than its twin Lohagad. 

The trek to Visapur fort has two routes. One from Bhaje village, and the other from Patan village. As the Patan village trail is slightly challenging, trekking from Bhaje village is preferred by many. 

The trek from the Bhaje Village starts from a mud road and gradually winds up in an ascending forest section. The forest section becomes a waterfall trail in the monsoon season. It later ends in an expansive plateau. Figuring out the correct trail from the Patan village is tricky. It also winds in a small forest section followed by dried up waterfalls to reach the plateau on the top. 

Do this trek for the waterfall trail in monsoon and the view from the plateau.

Starting point of the trek: Lonavala
Distance from Pune: 68 km
Best route to get there: https://goo.gl/maps/qBnFQJbScaURpjxAA

Lush greenery of Dhak plateau as seen on the Lonavala Bhimashankar trek. Picture from the Indiahikes archives.

The Lonavala Bhimashankar is arguably the best back-country trek in the Sahyadri range. The trek starts right at Lonavala, one of the most famous hill stations in South India. The trail then passes through deep wild rainforest, head-high bushes, lost-and-found trails, small rivulets, remote tribal villages, eerie temples, green meadows, hidden waterfalls, and a plateau of flowers. You explore the best features of the Sahyadri range on this trek.

You explore the best features of the Sahyadri range on the Lonavala Bhimashankar trek. Green gorges, distant villages, countless tunnels, and occasional waterfalls—the trek shows the Indian countryside at its best. The Bhima River originates from Bhimashankar Hill and passes through the deepest part of the forest. It attracts abundant wildlife, as there is no other water source around.

The Lonavala Bhimashankar trek is known as the Valley of Flowers in Maharashtra. Do this trek in the monsoon to witness the magic of flower-laden trails.

Starting point of the trek: Pimpri village
Distance from Pune: 72 km
Best route to get there: https://goo.gl/maps/tAnCCXQqs1TvrciWA

Stunning view you get to see on the Andharban trek. Picture from the Indiahikes archives.

Andharban is one of the most refreshing treks in the Sahyadri region. Andharban is a compound word of Andhar which means dark and ban, meaning forest. At par with its name, the trail passes through dense overgrowth. 

Andharban is a descending trail, scattered throughout with numerous small streams and waterfalls. The trek begins at an elevation of approximately 2,160 feet in the Sahyadri mountains and descends down into the valley, to reach the backwaters of the Bhira Dam. Andharban trek offers beautiful views of the Devkund waterfall, Plus Valley and the Tamhini Ghat along the way.

The Andharban trek starts from a location called Independence Point about 200 metres away from Pimpri village. Being a jungle trek, it’s a must-do for those who are birders and wildlife enthusiasts. The Andharban trek, along with the Rajmachi trek, are popular trails for fireflies.

Starting point of the trek: Karanjale village
Distance from Pune: 112 km
Best route to get there: https://goo.gl/maps/QtXE5eGC4vEhdJ9P9

The pinnacle structure of the Sindola fort seen from the second ridge. Picture by Kailesh Padevkar.

Sindola Fort Trek is one of the lesser-known treks in the very popular region of Maharashtra. It is situated in the Malshej ghat in the Junnar region at an altitude of 3,680 ft above sea level.

Sindola Fort dates back to similar times in Nimgiri and Hadsar. This fort was used as a watchtower as it offers a complete view of Malshej Ghat, Pargaon village, and other famous forts.

The fort is very small compared to other famous forts in the Jaunnr region. However, the ruins of bastions, a few water reservoirs and a Ganesha idol at the entrance on the top of the fort will set you wondering of the beauty. The rock-cut steps while climbing to the pinnacle will leave you astonished.

Do this trek for the serenity and the adventure it offers.

Starting point of the trek: Prabalmachi
Distance from Pune: 123 km
Best route to get there: https://goo.gl/maps/CKkRWFSFfoKQBnFg9

View from the summit of Kalavantin Durg trek. Picture by Mugdha Bhusari.

Kalavantin Durg Trek is one of the most popular treks in Maharashtra. Situated at an altitude of around 2,205 feet in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, the trek is a perfect one for beginners or adventure seekers. 

The Pinnacle of Kalavantin is a thrilling experience that one goes for. Though popular, it is a tricky trek. If you are going on your own, take a local guide with you. With enough precautions and knowing the trek well, the trek is one adventure that you should go on. 

Though Kalavantin Durg is much closer to Mumbai than Pune, it can easily be done from Pune as well. Trekking through the uneven trail, thick vegetation, and the thrill of reaching the top is an experience you must not miss out on.

Starting point of the trek: Ambivali
Distance from Pune: 125 km
Best route to get there: https://goo.gl/maps/1uytwjPZ3MNmMSE38

The waterfalls of Peth plateau are often sent back upwards, a phenomenon popularly known as Reverse waterfalls. Picture by Saurabh Sawant.

Kothaligad, a small marvel of architecture, nestled in the famous Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary near Karjat. It rises to a maximum altitude of 2,033 ft. Kothaligad stands detached from the main trail of Bhimashankar thus providing a rare 360 degree view from the peak. From the Peth plateau, you can even witness the reverse waterfall phenomenon. 

Kothaligad Fort was primarily used as a watchtower and ammunition depot by the ruling armies. The strategic location of the hill provides a commanding view of Padargad, Malanggad, Siddhagad, Chanderi Fort, Bhimashankar & Matheran Plateau in clear weather.

Located less than 100 km from both Mumbai and Pune and well connected by road and railways, Kothaligad is an ideal all-season trek for anyone looking for a quick getaway from bustling city life.

Starting point of the trek: Pali village
Distance from Pune: 136 km
Best route to get there: https://goo.gl/maps/x61TAyUu7zGR7xuK7

View of the surrounding valley as seen from the Sudhagad top. Picture by Apoorva Karlekar.

Sudhagad Trek is a short weekend getaway for trekkers from both Mumbai and Pune. The fort is almost equidistant from both cities. The trek offers spectacular views of the Sarasgad, Tail Baila and Ghangad from the top. There are also two huge lakes on the top where you can take a dip and camp beside for the night. There is also Bhorai Devi temple and “Pant Sachivancha Vada”.

The Sudhagad trek also known as Bhorapgad after the goddess Bhoraidevi. The origin of the fort dates back to the 2nd century BC. It was named Sudhagad after the Marathas conquered it from the Bahamani dynasty in 1657. 

Go for this trek if you are seeking a 2-day adventure near Pune or Mumbai.

This brings us to the end of this list, '10 best treks near Pune that you can do on your own.'

Click here to know about offbeat treks in Maharashtra to avoid crowds on weekends. 

But if you are looking for treks in your region, you can check our Trek Library as well - https://indiahikes.com/do-it-yourself-treks

If you have done any of these treks or have any recommendations that you think I should add to this list, write to me at manasa@indiahikes.com.

Finally, if you can help us document these treks further or new treks that trekkers can do on their own, write to Suhas Saya (Head of DIY and Documentation Team) at suhas@ndiahikes.com. It will greatly help us take DIY trekking forward in our country!

Pune is one of the hotspots for treks in Maharashtra. This is the only guide you ever need to know about and do the treks near Pune on your own. It includes a gpx file, trail information, difficult sections, how to reach the base and more.

10 Best Treks Near Pune That You Can Do On your Own

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Outside of the Himalayas, India is blessed with Western and Eastern ghats that offer countless trekking opportunities. Of course, trekking in these regions is different to that of the Himalayas but it has its own charm.

The Western Ghats are the chain of mountain ranges that run parallel to the western coast of India. It extends from Gujarat, all the way to Kerala covering almost 1600 km of distance. Unknown to many, the western ghats are older than the Himalayas.

Be it trekking in the dense jungles, in the lush green grasslands, trekking to the snout or the base of the waterfalls, the variety that western ghats treks offer are huge. A large chunk of the Western Ghats treks lie in Maharashtra. These are also called Sahyadris. 

In addition to the experience of a typical western ghats trek, Maharashtra has more than 160 fort treks to explore. These forts were mostly built by Marathas to guard their empire. Including these, though there are a large number of treks to explore, only some of these treks have gained traction and are flocked by trekkers.

In this article, we have curated 10 such famous treks in Maharashtra and why are these famous treks. 

Base Village: Bari
Total Trek Distance: 8.6 km
Distance from Mumbai/Pune: 153 km from Mumbai and 169 km from Pune

The mighty Sahyadris soaking in the golden hour. Picture by Vijay Ogalapurkar.

Situated in the Kasara Range of Western Ghats, Kalsubai is the highest peak in Maharashtra. And this makes it one of the most famous treks of Maharashtra. 

At 5400 feet, Kalsubai might seem like a daunting task. To be honest, it is! But that doesn’t mean that you can not do it in one day. 

The Kalsubai trek offers views of many famous forts like Alang, Madan, and Kulang. The treks to these peaks are pretty challenging. On a clear day, you also get imposing views of other surrounding forts such as Harihargad, Harishchandragad and Ratangad. Many experienced trekkers combine these treks for added adventure.

Base Village: Khireshwar
Total Trek Distance: 14 km
Distance from Mumbai/Pune: 138 km from Mumbai and 119 km from Pune

Harishchandra temple surrounded by yellow and purple wildflowers. Picture by Amit Mohite

Harishchandragad trek is one of the most challenging treks in the western ghats of Maharashtra. Variety of adventures it offers to all kinds of trekkers makes Harishchandragad trek a popular one too.

Harishchandragad is an ancient fort. Its origin is said to have been in the 6th century during the rule of the Kalchuri dynasty. But the caves which you see on the top are probably carved out in the 11th century.

The various constructions on the fort and those in the surrounding region indicate the existence of diverse cultures. Saptatheertha Pushkarni, Kedareshwar cave, Harishchandra temple and other caves are the examples for that.

Harishchandragad trek has three different routes. To know more about all these routes, go through our documentation.

Base Village: Kotamwadi
Total Trek Distance: 6.8 km
Distance from Mumbai/Pune: 191 km from Mumbai and 253 km from Pune

Watch how to do harihar Fort trek on your own here:

Iconic steps to reach Harihar Fort top. Picture by Nitesh Kumar

With its easy terrain and panoramic views throughout the trek, Harihar fort attracts trekkers with a range of experience – from beginners to experienced ones like Doug Scott, a legendary Himalayan mountaineer who climbed the vertical drops of Scottish kada (Nirgudpada) in November 1986.

Harihar brings to you a different type of stone staircase which has been cut for providing trekkers with a pocket like grip to climb easily.While some people might avoid this trek in peak monsoons because of slippery rocks, we say the wind and the rains add to the adventure.

The fort is situated amidst the huge Vaitarna dam and the Trimbakeshwar mountain ranges offer stunning views of the area around. The fort is well supplied with water and can be attempted in any season.

Base Village: Udhewadi
Total Trek Distance: 10 km
Distance from Mumbai/Pune: 95 km from Mumbai and 85 km from Pune

Watch How to do Rajmachi Trek On your own here:

Magical sight of fireflies during late evening on the Rajmachi trek. Picture by Deep Thakkar

Rajmachi Trek is nestled in the midst of two popular hill stations – Lonavala and Karjat. The trek can be approached either via the Lonavala side or another being the Karjat side and offers trekkers to climb two forts starting from the same base village of Udhewadi. Manaranjan fort is at 2510 feet and west-facing fort while the Shriwardhan fort at 2710 feet faces to the east.

These forts were built by the Satavahanas but gained its fame under the rule of Shivaji Maharaj, who took over the fort in the 15th century. Shivaji Maharaj fortified and expanded the fort by adding several structures within the premises. The forts have seen battles between the Marathas and the Mughals. Later in the 19th century, it was taken over by the British. The fort was also a popular trade route connecting present-day Mumbai and Pune.

Base Village: Thakurwadi
Total Trek Distance: 7 km
Distance from Mumbai/Pune: 183 km from Mumbai and 77 km from Pune 

View from the summit of the Kalavantin Durg trek. Picture by Mugdha Bhusari

Kalavantin Durg Trek is one of the most popular treks in Maharashtra. Situated at around 2,205 feet in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, the trek is a perfect one for beginners or adventure seekers.

Trekking through the uneven trail, thick vegetation, and thrill of reaching the top is an experience that is unique to this trek. The Pinnacle of Kalavantin is a thrilling experience that one goes for. The near-vertical drop can be challenging for a faint-hearted or somebody afraid of heights. Although referred to as Kalavantin Durg, there is no fort. It is a pinnacle that was used by rulers to have a watch around the surrounding area.

Base Village: Khandas
Total Trek Distance: 7-8 km
Distance from Mumbai/Pune: 196 km from Mumbai and 110 km from Pune

Tricky rocky patch on the Bhimashankar trek. Picture by Apoorva Karlekar

The Bhimashankar trek is a nature lover’s delight. It takes you into the heart of the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary through thick forests. The Bhimashankar trek gives you a full dose of adventure with stream crossings, ladders, and rock climbing all bundled into one trek. 

While monsoon is the best time to do this trek, it can also be done in other seasons. The route is scenic and thrilling. Those accustomed to trekking can hike the Bhimashankar via the Shidi Ghat route. While for beginners, we recommend the Ganesh Ghat route, which offers splendid views and is easier.

Base Village: Bhaje
Total Trek Distance: 6 km
Distance from Mumbai/Pune: 95 km from Mumbai and 60 km from Pune

Wall of the Visapur fort. Picture by Mugdha Bhusari

Visapur fort is popular for its waterfall trail and the spectacular views from the plateau on the top. Visapur Fort was built between 1713-1720 CE by Balaji Vishwanath, the first Peshwa of the Maratha Empire. In 1818, Visapur was attacked and occupied. Considering the strategic importance of Visapur, both the north (Konkan) and the south (Deccan) gateways were blown up. Except for a few huts, nothing was left standing.

The Visapur Fort Trek starts from a mud trail out of Bhaje village and then ascends gradually in a forest section. Then comes the waterfall trail wherein you’ve to navigate the ascending trail through boulders in which the water flows during monsoon. For the thrill of this alone, this is a famous monsoon trek. Once you reach the top, it has a huge plateau. Explore the plateau to find small water tanks in caves and large water storage tanks, the flag, cannon and bastion, Hanuman temple, various buildings (wadas), grinders used for construction and other remains of the fort. 

Base Village: Karnala Bird Sanctuary
Total Trek Distance: 6 km 
Distance from Mumbai/Pune: 48 km from Mumbai and 114 km from Pune

Karnala is a quaint fort overlooking a sprawling bird sanctuary. Situated along the Mumbai-Goa highway, it is at a distance of about 10 km from the city of Panvel. It is an absolute beginner’s trek amidst the natural flora and fauna of the enclosed sanctuary. 

The Karnala Fort trek begins at the entrance of the bird sanctuary on a well-defined road and winds through the forest. Eventually, it leads to an uphill track under thick vegetation. There are multiple routes inside the sanctuary that lead to the main trail up to the mountain and offer a variety of fauna, both in the enclosure and in the wilderness. The trek to the top is a little challenging but thoroughly enjoyable. From the peak, there is a splendid 360-degree view of the surrounding Raigad district.

Base Village: Bhira
Total Trek Distance: 10 km
Distance from Mumbai/Pune: 125 km from Mumbai and 104 km from Pune

The majestic Devkund Waterfalls. Picture by Akshita Makhija

Devkund waterfall is a secluded little place situated deep inside the forests surrounding the Bhira dam. There is a hydroelectric power generation unit by Tata power at Bhira. This place was little known to trekkers till recent times, but has come into the limelight due to the waterfall present deep inside the forest.

Though there isn’t much history associated with the falls, locals here believe that once upon a time, utensils used to emerge from the Kund (pond) whenever there was any auspicious ceremony happening in the local village. It is also believed that Kundalika river originates from here.

True or not, the place has its own charm with the water dropping from a height of over 80 ft straight into a pond of approximately 30 metre diameter.

Base Village: Neral
Total Trek Distance: 7-8 km 
Distance from Mumbai/Pune: 75 km from Mumbai and 114 km from Pune

Peb Fort trail goes through lush green grasslands filled with wild flowers. Post-monsoon the landscape changes. Picture by Dhaval

Peb fort, also known as Vikatgad, rises to a maximum altitude of 2,050 ft and was primarily used as a granary and watchtower by the ruling armies. The strategic location of the hill provides a commanding view of Chanderi fort, Nakhind hill, Malanggad, Tahuli, Prabalgad, Kalavantin & Matheran plateau in clear weather.

Located approximately 80 km from Mumbai and less than 120 km from Pune, it’s conveniently accessible by public transport. With five different trails of varying difficulty and length, Peb fort is the ideal trek for anyone looking for a good excursion close to Matheran.

This brings us to the end of this list of 10 famous treks in Maharashtra.

If you’re looking for offbeat treks to do in Maharashtra to avoid crowds, check out this article - https://indiahikes.com/offbeat-treks-in-maharashtra

If you’re looking for treks near your city, we have a vast database of treks to do in almost every state of our country. Check out our Trek Library

Finally, if you have any other treks you’d like to suggest, or if you have questions, drop in a comment below. And if you would like to help us with updating trek information, photos, gpx files of our Do-It-Yourself Treks, fill this form

Maharashtra is home to countless trekking trails. Find out some of the famous treks in Sahyadris and all the details that you need to do these treks on your own.

10 Famous Treks in Maharashtra and Why Are These Famous

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