Introduction:
Pune is one of the major cities in the Indian state of Maharashtra. It is known for its rich history, given the Peshwas had their sitting here.
The historic places in and around the city, followed by well-established IT hubs and the coolest hangout places, are the most desirable destinations for Maharashtrians.
It is not only known for its rich history and educational institutions but also for its beautiful natural landscapes.
It’s nestled amidst the impressive Western Ghats, which are a range of mountains. This location makes Pune an excellent place for trekking.
Trekking means going on adventurous walks in the hills and mountains. And guess what? Pune offers lots of trekking opportunities for people who are experienced trekkers and those who are just starting out.
The Western Ghats provide a beautiful backdrop for trekking in Pune. You can explore the lush green forests, scenic trails, and breathtaking views while trekking here. It’s like a natural playground for adventure enthusiasts.
Table of Contents
5 best treks in Pune
Monsoon and post-monsoon times are just perfect for trekking in the Western Ghats. During these seasons, the Western Ghats come alive with vibrant forests and lush green grasslands covered in pretty wildflowers.
The sight of the rolling green hills is sure to make you feel happy. Here’s a cool fact: the Western Ghats are even older than the Himalayas! This mountain range stretches all the way from Gujarat to Kerala, covering a distance of about 1600 kilometres. And guess what? Maharashtra is home to a significant peak in the Western Ghats.
This means that no matter which part of Maharashtra you’re in, you’ll have some fantastic trekking spots nearby. In fact, more than 160 forts were built here, which led to a strong trekking culture in the region.
Pune, one of the well-known districts in Maharashtra, is famous for its hill stations like Lonavala and Malshej Ghat. This makes it a top spot for treks in the Sahyadris. There are plenty of trekking options that are just a short drive away.
You can go on treks that take you through wild forests, explore vast plateaus, visit impressive forts, follow waterfall trails, and even witness a reverse waterfall. So, I’ve explored five of the best treks near Pune that you shouldn’t miss. Let’s dive into the details of these exciting treks without any further delay.
1. Sinhagad trek
Sinhagad is one of the most famous forts and trekking sites in Pune.
The fort was strategically built to provide natural protection. It is part of the triumvirate forts like Sinhagad, Rajgad and Torna. It has also been the centre of a number of queries. Unlike many other forts, the fort structure of Sinhgad is still intact and well-preserved.
Due to this reason, the trek of Sinhagad is one of the best and famous treks in this region.
Sinhagad trek can be divided into two sections. The first section begins at Donje Gaon’s tar road and ascends to a two-wheeler parking area. The second half of the trek is the highest climb to the Sinhagad top. It’s high but gratifying.
2. Torna Fort Trek
Torna Fort is the highest hill fort and the highest altitude in the Pune District.
It is situated at an altitude of 4,603 ft from sea level; it is known among other forts in the western ghats of Maharashtra.
Because of the big size of the fort, it is also called Prachandagad. The Marathi word for this name is Prachanda, which means huge, and gad, which means 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 the place where the core of the Maratha empire was built. It has a great history.
Trek to the Torna fort includes many exciting things.
You can 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.
3. Rajgad Trek
The most breathtaking trek in Maharashtra is the Rajgad trek.
It is known as the king of forts.
Because of the rich history and the mesmerizing architecture of the fort, it is special among other forts in the Western Ghats.
Rajgad was the capital of the Maratha emperor Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj for 26 years. After that, he shifted to Raigad.
This is one of the reasons the fort was built and looked so beautiful.
Rajgad has witnessed many significant events, including the birth of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s son Rajaram and the death of his queen Saibai.
Trek to Rajgad offers the beauty of the Sahyadris as well as the beauty of the fort.
The fortification of the 3 Machis, Padmavati Machi, Suvela Machi, and Sanjivani Machi, defines the architectural creativity of that time.
It also offers a beautiful view of other surrounding forts like Torna, Lingana, Raigad, Sinhagad and many other forts.
For the mesmerizing views and the rich history of the fort, this trek is a must-do trek.
Also read: Trekking Near Mumbai
4. Visapur Fort Trek
Visapur Fort comes from the 1700s.
It was built by Balaji Vishwanath, who was the first Peshwa of the Maratha Empire.
Visapur Fort is a part of the Lohagad-Visapur defences.
Visapur is at a higher altitude than its twin, Lohagad.
The trek to Visapur Fort has two routes. One derives from Bhaje village, and the other from Patan village.
As the Patan village trail is slightly challenging, trekking from Bhaje village is more accessible than from Patan village.
The trek from the Bhaje Village starts from a dirt road and gradually winds up in an ascending forest section.
The forest section becomes a waterfall in the monsoon season. It later ends in an expansive, flower-filled.
Figuring out the correct trail from the Patan village is hard.
It is also covered in a small forest section, followed by dried-up waterfalls to reach the plateau on top.
Do this trek for the waterfall series in the monsoon and the view from the plateau.
5. Lonavala Bhimashankar Trek
Lonavala to Bhimashankar is possibly the best back-country trek in the Sahyadri range.
The trek starts right from Lonavala. Lonavala is 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, a small trench, remote tribal villages, temples, green meadows, hidden waterfalls and a level of flowers.
You explore the best features of the Sahyadri scope on the Lonavala Bhimashankar trek.
Green overfill, distant villages, countless tunnels and occasional waterfalls. – The trek shows the Indian countryside at its best.
The Bhima River originates from Bhimashankar hill.
It passes through the heavy part of the forest. It attracts rich wildlife, as there is no other water source around.
The Lonavala Bhimashankar trek is named as the sprouting of Flowers of Maharashtra.
Do this trek in the monsoon to witness the magic of flower-covered trails
In this article, we explored the mesmerizing world of trekking in Pune.
Scenic Trails for All Levels
- Pune shows a different range of trekking trails, which are suitable for beginners, intermediate, and expert trekkers.
- Beginners can explore accessible routes like Sinhagad Fort and Lohagad Fort, while experienced trekkers can take on challenging treks such as Rajmachi Fort of Torna Fort.
- Transition: Whether you’re a master or an experienced trekker, Pune has a trail for you.
Breathtaking Western Ghat Views
- The Western Ghats offer unparalleled scenic beauty with lush greenery, clean waterfalls, and stunning scenic views.
- Trekking in Pune allows you to engage yourself in the serene charm of the Sahyadri mountain range.
- Transition: Get ready to be mesmerized by the beauty of the Western Ghats.
Ideal Seasons for Trekking
- Trekking in Pune season typically runs from June to September and from October to February.
- The monsoon season converts the landscape into a lush green, stunning paradise with numerous waterfalls in full flow.
- Transition: Plan your trek according to the best season to make the most of your experience.
Cultural and Historical Significance
- Trekking in Pune is not just about nature; it also has historical and cultural significance.
- Explore the rich heritage of Pune by visiting ancient forts like Sinhagad and Rajmachi.
- Transition: Combine adventure with history on these ambitious treks.
Conclusion:
Trekking in Pune is a delightful mixture of adventure, natural beauty, and historical exploration.
With different trails suitable for all levels, awe-inspiring Western Ghats views, and the chance to uncover the region’s rich history.
Pune offers an unforgettable trekking experience.
So, put on your hiking boots, grab your backpack, and embark on a journey to discover the hidden treasures of Pune’s mesmerizing landscapes.
Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning Western Ghats and create lasting memories on the trails of Pune. Please do not throw plastics or water bottles, or any kind of trash, while trekking. Happy trekking! Stay safe and stay happy.
