Fort Treks In Maharashtra For Adventurous Weekends

Rajmachi has two fortified peaks - Shrivardhan and Manaranjan. Half an hour climb from the base village Udhevadi leads to a plateau between the two peaks. Rajmachi Fort is a very famous attraction known for its ancient remains and strategic location. It lies at a distance of 15 kilometres from the hill stations of Khandala and Lonavala. It comprises of two fortresses namely Shrivardhan and Manaranjan and is surrounded by a vast plateau and can easily spot the Bor Ghat which was a significant trade route between Mumbai and Pune.

The Kalavantin Fort or Durg is found on the Old Mumbai and Pune route and it is just next to the Prabalgad Fort. In this route, you have to trek up the rock-cut steps in the mountain which zigzag their way up to the fort. The steps are exposed and you get to view the whole surroundings when you are climbing them. The fort is situated at the top of the mountain which is about 2,300 ft above the sea level. In the end, you reach the fort which is covered by greens and it provides you with one of the best views of the surroundings. It is best to avoid in monsoon season if you are willing to trek to this fort. 
Trekking Duration: 1 Day 
Difficulty level: Medium 
Trekking Distance: 8 Km

Korigad is a hill fort in Maharashtra. Situated in the district of Pune, the fort rises to a height of about 2800 feet from the ground. Though not much of the fortifications are intact, the entire wall of the fort is completely intact. One can choose to walk along its 2 kilometres long perimeter. There are caves and cisterns of water within the fort.
Trekking Duration: 1.5-2 hours
Difficulty level: Easy to Medium
Distance From Pune: 90 kms

Shivneri Fort is the place where Chatrapati Shivaji took birth in the year 1630, so it is quite important in the history of India. When you are trekking to the fort, you will need to pass 7 arches till you reach the final destination. Generally, your trek will begin from the Junnar Village. The trek starts once you reach the base of the fort. There are a lot of things to see in Shivneri Fort including temples, ponds and water springs. Proper steps are cut into the mountain which lets you climb to the fort while you have a look at the beautiful surroundings. 
Trekking Duration: 1 Day
Difficulty level: Medium

Nestled in the bosom of gently rolling hills, there is more than one route to reach the Lohagad Fort via trekking. The fastest and easiest route is driving up to the base village of Lohagadwadi, and then simply walk up the stone steps of the fort. Another one is from the village of Bhaje, which is about 5 - 6 kilometres from Malavali. From the village of Bhaje, a walk will lead you to Gaumukh Khand. This is the place where one might get confused. We need to take a right turn here as taking a left turn will direct us on the path of Visapur fort. After taking a left turn, we need to keep walking until the stairs to the fort come within your sight.
Trekking Duration: 3-4 hours
Difficulty level: Easy
Distance From Pune: 64 kms

The spot is famous for its spectacular trekking opportunities. Located at 3500 feet from the mean sea level, the Tikona fortress has the ideal altitude and atmosphere for beginners. The base camp for the trek is the village of Tikona Peth. Trekkers from different places gather here for yet another walk of 1.5 kilometres up to the actual starting point of the trek route. Picturesque view of the green slopes and serene valley accompanies the trekkers all along the uphill walk from the starting point right to the fort.
Trekking Duration: 1-2 hours
Difficulty level: Easy
Distance From Pune: 50 kms

Fortresses have been speaking of the grandeur of our country for several years. Situated near Pune, Rajgad fort is surrounded by Torna, Sinhgad and Purandar forts. It is symbolic of the victories and battles fought by the Maratha army and stands to glorify the feats of- famous Indian ruler, Chhatrapati Shivaji. The fort was built during the reign of Maratha rule and was earlier called Murumbdev. It was only when Chhatrapati Shivaji shifted his capital to Rajgad that he renovated and named this fort. Located approximately 60 km to the south-west of Pune, it is a magnificent monument. For all those who admire history, the Rajgad Fort is a must visit. It is also a popular trekking destination and is often combined with Torna Fort.
Trekking Duration: 4-5 hours
Difficulty level: Easy-Moderate
Distance From Pune: 60 kms

The natural rock formation has an emerging tip at the top known as 'Nedhe' or 'the eye of the needle'. There are many wells on the top each near the four gates of the fort - Ganesh, Hanuman, Konkan, Trimbak. The Fort at the top of hill provides its spectators a view of the Sahyadri range that can be compared to no other, a true paradise of the photographer. The trek is a stimulating one and will keep you on your toes throughout the journey while the surrounding scenes mesmerize you.
Trekking Duration: 1 hour 
Difficulty level: Moderate-Difficult

Located around 36 kms southwest of the city of Pune, Sinhagad Fort is built atop a cliff on the Bhuleshwar range of the Sahyadris. Literally 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. Lately, it has become a popular source of tourism and is especially popular among trekkers in Pune and adventure enthusiasts.
Trekking Duration: 1 hour
Difficulty level: Easy
Distance From Pune: 37 kms

This trek is situated in the Sahyadri Range, so you are going to have a beautiful experience looking at nature. You will need to pass through a forest to reach at the top of the fort. The fort is near the Koyna Lake in Satara. It is best to visit the fort during the winter months when the weather is pleasant and there is no rainfall. The fort is 2957 feet above sea level, so you can imagine the view that you are going to get from the top. As you will be surrounded by forest cover, it is usual to see different animals and birds who live in the area. Do carry your own food and drinks along with you as it is deep into the forest. 
Trekking Duration: 1 Day
Difficulty level: Medium

The Irshalgad Fort trek is one of the most scenic treks that you can take in Maharashtra. The route provides you with an amazing view of the Morbe reservoir which looks exquisite during sunrise and sunsets. When you want to enjoy this trek, do try to visit during the monsoon season to get the best view and pleasant weather. The fort is situated between Panvel and Karjat, so you have to reach Chowk Town to start on the trek. The flat beginning of the trek leads to a zigzag path which continues to the top. You have to climb to the base of the Irshalgad pinnacle to get the best view. If you like rock climbing, then you may try to ascend the pinnacle, but avoid the monsoon season for doing that.
Trekking Duration: 1 Day
Difficulty level: Easy

The Raigad Fort is a beautiful structure nestled in forest cover and you can have a mesmerizing trek to the fort. The ruins of the fort look exquisite because of the green cover on them. The fort is situated in Mahad and it rises 2700 feet above the sea level. 1400 or more steps are carved into the mountain which helps you to trek to the fort. Once you reach the fort you can hire a guide who will tell you the history of the place. After you finish your tour, you have the option to descend via the ropeway. 
Trekking Duration: 1 Day
Difficulty level: Easy

The Kavlya fort is present near the Warandha Ghat and it is often done along with trekking the Mohangad Fort. The best time for trekking to the Kavlya fort is during the monsoon season when there is a lot of greenery. When you are trekking, you will have a beautiful view of the surrounding valleys which have extensive green shades. The elevation of the fort is at 2124 feet above sea level and from the top you get to have an amazing view of the mountains. 
Trekking Duration: 1 Day
Difficulty level: Easy
Trekking Distance: 4 Km

The Sondai Fort trek is yet another trek that is best to visit during the monsoon season to have a look at the greenery that covers the surroundings. The Sondai trek is yet to become popular, so the experience is going to be peaceful and serene. It is present near Karjat and provides a nice view of the Morbe dam and the Matheran range. While you are trekking to the fort, you can stop at the Sondewadi village to enjoy a cup of tea. You also get to see cisterns full of water during the trek and at the top there is an idol of Sondai Devi. 
Trekking Duration: 1 Day
Difficulty level: Easy

The interesting thing about Vikatgad Fort is that it used to be a place for storing grains in the time of Shivaji. It is a great place to have an adventure if you want to view the surrounding Matheran Ranges. You can of course trek at daytime, but it is also exciting to explore the Vikatgad trek at night. Another name for this fort is Peb which derives from the name of the Goddess Pebi. If you take the night trek you will be able to see the sunrise which makes the surroundings look exceptionally beautiful. 
Trekking Duration: 1 Day
Difficulty level: Medium

Pratapgad is a hill fort in Maharashtra. Situated close to the famous hill station of Mahabaleshwar in the district of Satara, the citadel rises to an elevation of about 3500 feet from the ground. Much of the fortifications are still intact, and the fort is a popular tourist destination. There are four lakes within the fort, many of which overflow during the monsoons. There is a watchtower just beside the Mahadarwaza, or the main entrance, at the end of the motorable road. There is a statue of Shivaji Maharaj in his full glory, which was installed about 60 years ago. There is a Bhawani temple at the top of the fort, and a cultural library showcasing the heritage of the fort. There is a handicrafts centre en route to Pratapgad from the base village, which draws a lot of tourists.

Harishchandragad is a hill fort in Maharashtra. It is situated at an elevation of about 4670 feet in the district of Ahmednagar. Within the fort there are several temples dedicated to Vishnu and Ganesh. The monument dates back to the 6th century and finds home at an altitude of 1424 meters and more often than not, given its altitude finds itself marked on a number of trekking trails in and around the area. Located at a distance of 170 kms from Pune, Harishchandragd Fort Trek is popular among the adventure buffs. The monument dates back to the 6th century and finds a home at an altitude of 1424 meters and more often than not, given its altitude finds itself marked on a number of trekking trails in and around the area.
Trekking Duration: 6 hours
Difficulty level: Moderate to Difficult
Distance From Pune: 171 kms

Situated at a distance of 56 km from Satara in Maharashtra, Vasota Fort is perched at a height of 1171 m near the village of Bamnoli. Considered to be a popular trekking spot, the fort is also known to be an ideal picnic spot in the region. It is enveloped in dense green forests and aside from the thrilling adventurous activity, you can also enjoy picturesque views of the valley amidst bounteous nature. Located on the banks of Shivsagar Lake, the picturesque fort is surrounded by water on all three sides. Once known to be a seat of royalty, the fort was built in a Maharashtrian style architecture but is currently in ruins. It has been divided into three sections and also houses two temples.

The Tringalwadi Fort is present in the Igatpuri region. This is a location of Thal Ghat which is an ancient trading route. You can start trekking to the fort via the Igatpuri town or through the Ghoti Village. The Tringalwadi fort rests on a mesa rock formation. There are caves at the foothills of the trek and you will also find caves along the way. It is said that the fort was built in the 10th century. You will get to see the Bhawani Mata temple when you reach the top. The fort is at a height of 3238 feet above sea level, so remain ready to get an amazing view of the surroundings. 
Trekking Duration: 1 Day
Difficulty level: Medium

Harihar Fort is another good trekking spot situated in the Igatpuri region. The fort appears rectangular from the base and the resting rock of the fort is triangular in shape. The walls of the trekking way are vertical and steps have been carved into the rock. It is preferable to explore the trek during the monsoon season, but you should have a professional guide with you. There is a temple at the top and you will get to have an amazing view of the environment and surroundings when you are trekking to the top. 
Trekking Duration: 1 Day
Difficulty level: Medium to Hard

The Takmak Fort is situated at the confluence of the rivers, Tansa and Vaitarna. It is about 2000 feet above sea level and provides an amazing view of the valley and the forest cover. If you have a guide, they will be able to tell the amazing story of the fort. The place also has a nice wildlife cover and it is wonderful to see them. The fort is a 12th-century structure built by King Bheemdev and it was later captured by the Marathas and then by the Portuguese. You will need to reach the Shakaswar village to start on your trek to the fort. It is a good option for exploration in the weekends. 
Trekking Duration: 1 Day
Difficulty level: Medium

Alang is regarded as the most difficult trek in the Sahyadri Range. You will need to have some time in your hands if you want to reach the Alang fort. It is present in the Kalsubai range present Nashik. The forest cover makes the trek quite difficult. You can add Madangad and Kulang to the trip to make it more adventurous. To reach the Alang fort you have to climb 4852 feet above Sea Level. Along with just trekking, you will also need to rapple and rock climb to reach the top destination. You will be rewarded with the amazing view of the surroundings from the top of the fort. 
Trekking Duration: 2 Days
Difficulty level: Difficult

The Jivdhan Fort trek is a popular trek present in the Naneghat area and it is a place full of history and stories of the past. It is especially popular among rock climbers who want to ascend the Nana Cha Angatha. You have to visit the town of Ghatghar to begin on this trek. The elevation of the fort is 3735 feet above Sea Level. The forest cover makes it discover the right paths, so a guide is useful in this trek. Water cisterns and kothis will be historical attractions for you when you reach the fort. Try to visit the fort during the monsoon region to get the best view of the surroundings from the fort. This trek is not for novice trekkers. 
Trekking Duration: 1 Day
Difficulty level: Difficult

Torna Fort was the first fort that was captured by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and that also during his teenage years. Hence, it is recognised as a significant historical monument. Like most Maratha forts, this fort is also located in the Western Ghats of India and at present, it is also identified as the fort located on the highest point in Pune district and a famous tourist attraction. Although the attraction is open for visitors in all seasons, monsoons are deemed perfect to explore the fort. Also known as Prachandagad due to its gigantic size, Torna Fort is the tallest fort of Pune. Although in ruins, the fort stands tall as a testimony to the battles of the bygone era. Nestled in between mesmerizing surrounding, the fort has one of the most beautiful locales in the region and is a popular trekking spot.
Trekking Duration: 2 hours
Difficulty level: Moderate
Distance From Pune: 63 kms