Introduction
The beautiful Sahyadri Mountain Range surrounds Pune, sometimes referred to as the “Oxford of the East” and the cultural center of Maharashtra. The city is well known for a variety of hiking options that it provides to adventure seekers in addition to its rich history and educational institutions. Pune is a great location for hikers and wildlife enthusiasts alike due to its proximity to the Sahyadris. If you enjoy hiking and want to discover the natural beauty in Pune, look no further. The best five treks in Pune that guarantee spectacular views, intense challenges, and unique experiences are revealed in this article.You can also visit Beas kund Trek , It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a favorite spot for both seasoned trekkers and beginners.
1. Sinhagad Fort Trek:
One of the most well-liked and historically significant hikes close to Pune is Sinhagad, commonly known as the Lion’s Fort. This fort, which is perched at a height of about 1,300 meters above sea level and saw countless conflicts, played a significant role in Maratha history. Thakarwadi is the starting point of the trip, and it takes between 1.5 and 2 hours to get there. The trail offers a variety of rocky terrains, lush vegetation, and breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Trekkers are greeted with a view of the majestic Sahyadris and the lovely Khadakwasla Lake once they reach the summit. The fort also contains historical artifacts like historic buildings, monuments, and the grave of the brave Maratha warrior Tanaji Malusare. The monsoon season, when the area comes alive with lush greenery and tumbling waterfalls, is the ideal time to start the Sinhagad Fort walk.
2. Rajmachi Trek:
The Rajmachi Fort trek is a lovely adventure that leads hikers through the Western Ghats’ enthralling scenery. Rajmachi, which consists of the forts Shrivardhan Fort and Manaranjan Fort, is close to the town of Lonavala and is accessible from Pune by car. Two alternative paths go to the trek: one departing from Lonavala and the other from Karjat. Each route offers a distinctive experience, with the Karjat route offering difficult terrain while the Lonavala route is easier and more attractive during the monsoon.
A surreal environment is created by the trail’s lush forests, sparkling waterfalls, and mist-shrouded valleys. Trekkers are enthralled by the sweeping vistas of the Sahyadri hills and the charming settlement of Udhewadi once they reach the summit. Additionally, Rajmachi has a long cultural heritage, which deepens the whole hiking experience.
3. Lohagad Fort Trek:
The Lohagad Fort hike, which is adjacent to the hill town of Lonavala, is a favourite with both novice and experienced trekkers. The Lohagad Fort, which stands towering at an altitude of roughly 1,033 meters, is significant historically since it formerly served as a key battleground for different empires.
It takes 1.5 to 2 hours to complete the very easy walk to Lohagad Fort. Especially during the monsoon when the entire region turns lush green, the trail provides magnificent views of the surrounding surroundings. The “Ganesh Darwaza,” the fort’s great gateway, which features exquisite carvings and dazzling architecture, is the trek’s high point.
4. Torna Fort Trek:
The Torna Fort walk is a great option for experienced hikers looking for a more difficult and exciting adventure. At a height of roughly 1,403 meters above sea level, Torna Fort is one of the tallest forts in Maharashtra. The walk takes between three and four hours to complete from the base village of Velhe.
Trekking lovers will find the trail to Torna Fort to be an exhilarating excursion because of its combination of steep ascents, rocky outcroppings, and deep forests. Trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Sahyadris and the surrounding valleys as they reach the summit. As the first fort taken by the famous Maratha emperor, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Torna Fort is significant historically and it still has ancient architectural relics.
5. Harishchandragad Trek:
Around 200 kilometers from Pune, in Maharashtra’s Ahmednagar district, is the captivating trekking destination of Harishchandragad. Reaching the summit of this difficult walk takes around 4 to 5 hours, but it is well worth it. The Konkan Kada in Harishchandragad is renowned for providing stunning views of the Konkan region from its steep cliff wall.
Navigating through dense forests, rocky outcroppings, and stunning plateaus is part of the walk. The Konkan Kada is one of the trek’s highlights, particularly at sunrise and dusk when the entire landscape is bathed in golden light. The Konkan Kada caverns and the historic Kedareshwar temple are also located in Harishchandragad, which gives the trip a spiritual element.
Pune is a hiking enthusiast’s paradise because of its close proximity to the Western Ghats. These five hikes each offer a distinctive experience that can help you connect with the natural world, human history, and your inner self. Remember to respect the environment, practice responsible trekking, and leave no trace when you set out on these adventures. So prepare your gear and get set to travel across the breathtaking landscapes of Pune’s top trekking spots for an amazing experience. A happy trek!
