Top 5 easy treks near Lonavala, Their Distance, Location & accesibility from Mumbai, Pune & Lonavala.

 Hello All! welcome to 'My Everyday Space'. Being a localite of the hills, trekking is one of those things which I am fond of . I have hiked almost 9 to 10 forts and fortesses very often which are located near Lonavala. Just helping you out with 5 of these which are really easy treks and are worth the view.

1. Visapur Fort

Visapur Fort is located near Lonavala and is a popular historical attraction for all the trek lovers. It was built during the 17th century and has played a very significant role in various historical events. The fort was constructed by Balaji Vishwanath, the first Peshwa of the Maratha Empire, and then was later captured by the British while they ruled India.

Distance from Lonavala: 11 kilometers approx.

Accessibility from Lonavala: facilities like local cab, taking a private vehicle, or opting for a shared taxi are available from Lonavala. The base village for the trek is Malavli, which is well-connected to Lonavala by roadways and railways.

Accessibility from Mumbai: Visapur Fort is located about 95 kilometers from Mumbai. To reach here from Mumbai, you can take a train to Lonavala to Malavli and then follow the same route from Lonavala to the base village.

Accessibility from Pune: From Pune, Visapur Fort is situated approximately 65 kilometers away. You can drive to Lonavala and then continue the journey to the base village, Malavli, for commencing the trek.

                                                               

2. Lohagad Fort

Lohagad Fort is situated at an elevation of around 1,033 meters above sea level. It has a rich history dating back to the 18th century and has seen the rule of several dynasties, including the Marathas and the Mughals.

The fort's name, "Lohagad," comes from the iron content in its walls which makes it a symbol of strength and invincibility. Lohagad Fort was of strategic importance due to its vantage point and it also offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. It was used to store valuable treasures and hence played an important role during the maratha dynasty.

Distance from Lonavala: 9 kms.

Accessibility from Lonavala: Lohagad Fort can be easily accessed from Lonavala by road. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus to the base village of Lohagadwadi. Additionally, a popular trekking trail from the Bhaja Caves leads to the fort.

Accessibility from Mumbai: This Fort is located approximately 98 kilometers from Mumbai. You can take a normal train or local train to Lonavala or drive to Lonavala and then proceed to the base village, Lohagadwadi.

Accessibility from Pune: From Pune, Lohagad Fort is 70 kilometers away. One can drive to Lonavala or take the Pune Lonavala local train and reach to Malavali and then continue from there to reach Lohagadwadi, the base village for the trek.

3. Koraigad Fort

Koraigad Fort, also known as "Makrandgad," is perched atop a hill at an altitude of about 923 meters. This fort was built during the 15th century and has a unique history linked to various rulers, including the Marathas and the British.

The fort's strategic position allowed it to keep a watch over the nearby towns and trade routes. Koraigad Fort features well-preserved ramparts, bastions, and water tanks, offering insights into its glorious past.

Distance from Lonavala: 18 kilometers approx.

Accessibility from Lonavala: Koraigad Fort can be reached by road from Lonavala. You can hire a taxi or take a bus to the base village of Peth Shahapur. From there, a the trek to the fort is of moderate type.

Accessibility from Mumbai: Koraigad Fort is almost about 97 kilometers away from Mumbai. To reach the fort, you can take a train or drive to Lonavala and then proceed to the base village Peth Shahapur.

Accessibility from Pune: From Pune, Koraigad Fort is just 90 kilometers away. You can easily drive to Lonavala and then continue the journey to the base village, Peth Shahapur, followed by the trek.

                                                              

4. Tikona Fort

Tikona Fort, also known as "Vitandgad," is a hill fort located in the Maval region close to Lonavala. Its name "Tikona" relates to "Triangle," as the fort's shape resembles a triangular pyramid.

The fort played a crucial role during the Maratha Empire and was known for its strong defense system. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Pawna Lake and its valleys, which makes it a popular trekking destination.

Distance from Lonavala: Around 20 kms.

Accessibility from Lonavala: Tikona Fort can be accessed by road from Lonavala by hiring a taxi or private vehicle. Tikona Peth is the base village for this trek.

Accessibility from Mumbai: Tikona Fort is located about 120 kilometers from Mumbai. To reach the fort from Mumbai, one can take a train to Lonavala and then proceed by road to Tikona Peth.

Accessibility from Pune: From Pune, Tikona Fort is only 60 kilometers away. You can drive to Lonavala and then continue the journey to the base village of the trek i.e Tikona Peth.

                                                                    

5. Duke's Nose

Duke's Nose, also known as "Nagphani," is a cliff which is shaped like the nose of the Duke of Wellington, hence its name. It is not a fort but a cliff point located between Khandala and Lonavala. This unique rock formation of Duke's Nose offers a thrilling hiking experience to trekkers and adventure enthusiasts.

The hike to Duke's Nose involves trekking through dense forests and rocky areas. It is a moderate-level trek and is suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers alike. Trekkers can enjoy the thrill of navigating the steep slopes and rocky patches during the trek and reach the top of Duke's Nose and soak in the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

Distance from Lonavala: 12 kilometers approx.

Accessibility from Lonavala: Duke's Nose can be easily reached by road from Lonavala. A short drive or a cab ride will take you to the starting point of the hiking trail from the helipad area of old khandala.

Accessibility from Mumbai: Duke's Nose is located about 84 kilometers from Mumbai. To reach Duke's Nose from Mumbai, you can take a train or drive to Lonavala and then proceed to the starting point of the hiking trail.

Accessibility from Pune: Duke's Nose is situated at a distance of around 70 kilometers from Pune. You can drive to Lonavala and then continue to the starting point of the hiking trail for Duke's Nose.