Where are you heading for a weekend trek this monsoon season? Top 5 places to visit near Pune

Every Year during the monsoon Pune transforms into one of the hottest destinations in India. Deep plunge waterfalls, the valley of flowers, fog-covered hills, historic forts, rain forests, river rafting, you have it all here. Sahyadri Mountain Range is an adventure seekers’ paradise. The monsoon season is usually the best time to step out into the surrounding Sahyadris and explore treks near Pune. Near or far, whichever exit you take from the city, you can spot a monsoon trek near Pune.

Trekking enthusiasts flock the hills around Pune pretty much all around the year, the monsoon season of great significance as these trails turn into lush green forests and waterfalls in every corner. There are great options for a one-day trek near Pune.

Why should you trek during the monsoon?

Trekking is a physically and mentally demanding activity. During monsoon weather is more relaxing, trekking will help you connect with nature. If you want to move away from the traffic and noisy bars head towards the mountains and waterfalls for the thrill of adventure.

Let us explore 5 popular trekking spots near Pune

Top 5 Weekend Treks near Pune

1. Sinhagad Trek

The Sinhagad trek in Pune is almost synonymous with Pune city. If you are looking at trekking near Pune within 50 km, Sinhagad is the most accessible trek for Punekars and is frequented by thousands of trekkers every week. Located only about 25 km from Pune, it is one of the must-do treks near Pune. It involves around 1.5 hours of trekking and can be done by all age groups.

Located around 36 km southwest of the city of Pune, Sinhagad Fort is built atop a cliff on the Bhuleshwar range of the Sahyadris. Translating to “Fort of the Lion”, Sinhagad Fort boasts of rich history. It was initially occupied by the Mughals until it came to be possessed by the Marathas.

Its elevation is 760 m and the trek duration would be about 1-2 hours.

Lately, it has become a popular source of tourism and is especially popular among trekkers in Pune and adventure enthusiasts.

2. Tikona Fort Trek

Tikona Fort, a dominant hill fortress is a popular one-day trek spot in the Pawana Maval region of the Konkan. The real Marathi name of the fort is Vitandgad, but it gets its more famous name from the triangular shape it is built in. Situated at a height of 3500 feet, the fort has high fortifications, large doorways, seven water tanks with clean water, and a spectacular view from its topmost bastion. This trekking place in Pune is just 50 km away from the city and is a fascinating one.

The trek from the village of Tikona Peth to the top of the hill is an ideal getaway for the adventurers at heart. After crossing several caves, temples, and water tanks, the route brings you to the edge of the extended parapet from where you can take in the fantastic beauty of the surroundings. The fortress and its pride are a paradise for photography lovers.

The trek is not very challenging, hence perfect for amateur adventure enthusiasts. It would take about 1-2 hours to witness breathtaking views.

Also check - Trek to Devkund Waterfall Near Pune this monsoon season

3. Andharban trek

Translating into the Dark Forest, the Andharban trek is a very popular trek around 55 km from Pune.

Andharban, itself means dense dark forest. Andharban is one of the most popular treks in the rainy season. The route of the Andharban trek is a pleasurable walk through a deep forest, crossing Streams, and waterfalls. Andharban trek starts with descending a Beautiful Valley which takes almost 5 hours to reach the ending point of the Trek. You can enjoy lots of waterfalls & cascades and an awesome view of Kundalika valley and Bhira Dam. Trekking through dense forest and with a number of a waterfall on the way will replenish you!!! One can surely enjoy this Adventurous trek in Monsoon.

The trail is about 14 km long and most of it is covered under dense forests. You may avoid the trek during peak monsoon as there are chances of landslides during that time. The elevation is 658 m and you will take around 5 hours to trek

4. Lohagad Fort

Lohagad Fort means Iron fort in Marathi, situated close to the hill station of Lonavala Khandala and 52 km northwest of Pune, Lohagad rises to an elevation of 1,033 meters or 3,389 feet above sea level. The Lohagad Killa is connected to the neighboring Visapur Fort which is on its eastern side by a small range. The range divides the basins of the Indrayani River and Pavana River rivers. Lohagad Pune overlooks the Pawna lake, located to the south of the mountain.

Total time required for climbing: 2 hours from Malavali and 40 minutes from Lohagad Wadi. The famous monsoon trek near Pune has a trekking distance of 5 km. The place is quite popular among trekkers who come here for one day tryst with nature and history. The trekking time is 3-4 hours.

5. Rajgad

This one exciting trek is devised to take you to the Rajgad fort, with an altitude of 4182 feet, and let you enjoy a delightful hiking session. This is located at a distance of 40 km away from Pune, the beauty of this fort offers a breathtaking view with an amazing trekking experience.

It’s a relatively easy trek and is recommended for all age groups. If you start your trek from the base village Gunjavne and you would move ahead traversing through the trails of rough terrains and lush greenery. This monsoon trek near Pune has a duration of 3-4 hours. The captivating beauty and history of the fort and the lush Sahyadri range surrounding it are worth every single aching muscle.

Know more - Monsoon Getaways – Top 7 Tourist Spots to Visit in Pune

Tips while trekking

• Do not trek alone in the monsoons. The trails are often slippery and you should always have friends or a group around you while trekking, especially in the monsoon.
• Avoid trekking in floaters and use shoes with a good grip. Trails are more slippery and shoes will protect from getting a twisted ankle or an injured toe.
• Check the weather forecast
• If very heavy rainfall is predicted avoid going for a trek. Heavy monsoon sometimes can cause a landslide or can result in the closing of a trekking route
• Pack extra clothes
• Keep hydrating yourself
• Keep safe, look out for each other, and always keep safety the priority, especially on monsoon treks. Keep to the main trails and don’t try new routes during the rainy season.

The Sahyadri range engulfing Pune has several ancient forts and hills, which provide not just a historic perspective, but also challenging trails.  This makes them the best monsoon weekend getaways. The proximity of these destinations is ideal for one-day treks or even a long weekend. So, pack your bags and get hiking!