Needless to state, how the greenery of hills near Mumbai and Pune keep its admirers in complete awe. These cities are blessed with Mother Nature’s bountiful forests, waterfalls, green pastures, freshness and a lot of scope for holidaying. One of the favorite activities to venture oneself is trekking. The best season for trekking is the monsoon.
Enthusiasts who binge on trekking will agree that one of the best trekking experiences is the Rajmachi Fort situated at the height of 2700 ft. Maharashtra has been known to be a good host for its tourists. Apart from forts, now trekkers are also exploring jungle treks like Andharban and floral wonders like Kaas Plateau near Satara, which blooms with hundreds of species of flowers from August to October. Amboli, also called the Cherrapunji of Maharashtra, is now gaining attention for its biodiversity and waterfalls.
There are many trekking places in Maharashtra. It offers the best scenes and varied adventure activities. Maharashtra is sanctified with all types of trekking expeditions from amateur trekkers to pro ones. Travel experts also suggest combining treks with scenic drives, like Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar or Pune to Bhandardara, where you can enjoy waterfalls, valleys and reverse waterfalls on the way.
Top 17 Trekking Destinations Near Mumbai and Pune:
The following are the trekking spots near Mumbai and Pune that a trekking zealot mustn’t miss.
1. Lohagad Fort:
Lohagad Fort is situated approx. 96 km from Mumbai and 64 km from Pune, this ‘Iron Fort’ as the meaning of the name suggests, sits covered with clouds in the Lonavala region. The fort has great historical importance as this fort was used by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. It is also considered one of the most popular Pune trekking places because of its proximity to the city and rich history. One can drive to the base village and do the trekking, which is easy, till the Lohagad. During the rains, the plateau of the place becomes misty and cold, thus calling all the trekking sprees to enjoy the lush green carpet.
| Timings | 9:00 am to 6:00 pm |
| Height | 3400 feet |
| Trek Duration | 3-4 Hours |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Trek Starting Point | Malavali Village |
| How to Reach | You can take a train to Lonavala and then local transport or drive by car. Parking is available at Malavali village. |
| Best Time | June to September for lush greenery. |
| Stay and Food | Local homestays and dhabas are available. Carry snacks and water. |
| Tips | Carry raincoat and trekking shoes. Mobile network is available but weak at some spots. |
2. Ratangad Fort:
Take a four-hour drive to one of the best trekking and adventurous place near Mumbai, the Ratangad Fort situated at the Ratanwadi village. A drive of 185 km from Mumbai and 205 km from Pune, trekking freaks can enjoy the tranquility of the 400 years old fort.
The fort was captured by Shivaji Maharaja and trekkers with minimum experience can venture this out as the trekking difficulty is medium.
| Height | 4250 feet |
| Trek Duration | 4-5 Hours |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate |
| Trek Start Point | Ratanwadi village |
| How to Reach | Best to drive or hire a taxi. Nearest railway station is Igatpuri. |
| Entry and Permission | No fee but forest officials sometimes check. |
| Stay and Food | Basic food at local homes, carry extra water. |
| Safety | Climb carefully on ladders, one person at a time. |
3. Rajmachi Fort:
One of the exquisite and breath-taking experiences is the Rajmachi Fort that is situated at a height of 2700 ft. During pre-monsoon nights, the area glows with fireflies, making it very popular for night treks and photography.
The fort is amidst the Sahyadri and remains a popular trekking destination it is located in the mid of the Mumbai-Pune route. This makes it one of the best trekking places near Pune for adventure enthusiasts who wish to enjoy nature and history together. It is 95 km from Mumbai and 80 km from Pune. Even an amateur trekker can take the plunge of hiking as solo trekking at Rajmachi fort is easy.
| Timings | 9:00 am to 6:00 pm |
| Trek Duration | 4-5 Hours |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Trek Start Point | Fanasrai village |
| Best Time | Monsoon and pre-monsoon nights have fireflies. |
| Stay and Food | Camping is allowed, carry tents. Villagers provide food on prior request. |
| How to Reach | Can drive till Udhewadi or take a trek from Lonavala. |
4. Tikona Fort:
Tikona fort essentially means Triangle Fort that is situated near Kamshet village and Pawna Dam. It takes approximately 2 hours to reach the fort from its base. Many travelers looking for trekking spots near Pune often choose Tikona fort because of its accessibility and scenic beauty.
The fort is 125 km from Mumbai and 60 km from Pune and is best enjoyed during the monsoon season. It is perfect spot for one day trek near Pune. The trekking difficulty is easy and this is the reason families too come for trekking expeditions. Visitors often combine Tikona with nearby Pawna Lake camping or paragliding at Kamshet for an adventure-packed day.
| Height | 3580 feet |
| Trek Duration | 1-2 Hours |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Trek Start Point | Tikona Peth |
| How to Reach | Local trains to Kamshet and rickshaws to base. Parking is available. |
| Stay and Food | Homestays nearby. Carry water. |
| Special Attraction | Beautiful view of Pawna Dam. |
Call it Pratapgad or Pratapgarh; the 16th-century Pratapgad fort built by Shivaji Maharaja on the Pratapgad hills gains much historic importance. It is said that all the main strategies and planning were done on this fort by Shivaji Maharaja.
The fort is located in the Satara district and is 20 km from Mahabaleshwar, 221 km from Mumbai and 140 km from Pune. People come to visit the dynasty of Shivaji and have become a popular tourist destination as the trekking part is easy to perform.
| Height | 3547 feet |
| Timings | 6:00 am to 7:00 pm |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Trek Duration | 2-3 Hours |
| How to Reach | Buses and taxis available from Mahabaleshwar. |
| Stay and Food | Hotels in Mahabaleshwar. |
| Tips | Combine with Mahabaleshwar sightseeing. |
6. Garbett Point:
If you wish to get mesmerized by the view of waterfalls and mountains, Garbett Point near Matheran is perfect for hiking. Among many trekking sites near Mumbai, this one stands out for its serenity and natural charm. The region is untouched and has ample opportunities to explore as it is less crowded.
The distance from Mumbai is 80 km and from Pune is 118 km. The trekking difficulty level is medium. One has to trek 2625 ft. above sea level to reach Garbett Point and enjoy its beautiful scenic view around.
| Trek Duration | 2-3 Hours |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate |
| Trek Start Point | Dhom Dam Lake |
| How to Reach | Karjat is the nearest railway station. Trek starts from Bhivpuri. |
| Stay and Food | Limited options. Carry food. |
| Tips | No vehicles allowed inside Matheran, so walking is needed. |
7. Vasota Fort:
Vasota fort trekking is the perfect trekking destination for those who wish to experience the jungle trek in Maharashtra. The trekking level is extremely difficult and demands pros at trekking to be a part of this spree. It is about 280 km from Mumbai and 265 km from Pune.
The fort situated on the Vasota hills on the banks of Shivsagar Lake remains the favorite of many as there is Konya Wild Life Sanctuary to witness.
| Height | 3814 feet |
| Timings | 8:00 am to 5:00 pm |
| Trek Duration | 2-3 Hours |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate |
| Trek Start Point | Bamnoli |
| How to Reach | Best via Satara. Need boat ride from Bamnoli to base. |
| Entry | Forest permit needed. Carry ID. |
| Stay | No stay on fort, camp at Bamnoli. |
| Tips | Good fitness required. |
8. Rajgad Fort:
Rajgad Fort is said to be one of the grand forts of the Sahyadri. It is situated at a height of 4600 ft. but the trekking difficulty level remains moderate. It is also counted among the best trekking destinations near Pune, attracting many adventure lovers. It is easy to reach from Pune as it is 65 km but from Mumbai, it is 208 km. However, trekkers from Mumbai come to experience the serenity of the place.
| Trek Duration | 2-3 Hours |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate |
| Trek Start Point | Gunjavane Village |
| Stay | Homestays at base. Camping allowed. |
| Best Time | Post-monsoon. |
| How to Reach | Drive via Pune-Bangalore Highway. |
9. Harishchandragad Fort:
Harishchandragad trekking destination offers not only hiking excursions but also a range of activities like rock climbing, valley crossing, and tourists come for camping too. There are total of 9 caves to explore and this can be done easily as the trekking difficulty level is moderate.
Situated Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra is 225 km from Mumbai and 165 km from Pune, this quaint sleepy region attracts its admirers for scenic beauty and appreciates the medieval period of architecture.
| Height | 4665 feet |
| Trek Duration | 3-4 Hours |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate |
| Trek Start Point | Pachnai |
| How to Reach | Buses available till Khireshwar or Pachnai. |
| Stay | Camping is popular. |
| Special Attraction | Konkan Kada viewpoint. |
10. Kalsubai Peak Trek:
If you are a trekking zealot, your trekking album isn’t complete if you haven’t hiked on the highest peak of Sahyadri, the Kalsubai Peak in the Nagar district. It is best to trek during the monsoon as one can enjoy the beautiful view of the Harihargad, Harishchandragad, Ratangad, and Alang-Madan-Kulang forts. Trekking on Kalsubai Peak isn’t taxing. The trekking difficulty level is moderate. It is 155 km from Mumbai and 175 km from Pune, the drive is beautiful.
| Height | 5400 feet |
| Trek Duration | 3-4 Hours |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate |
| Trek Start Point | Valhalla |
| How to Reach | Train till Igatpuri or Kasara, then local jeeps. |
| Stay | Basic accommodation at base. |
| Tips | Start early to avoid sun. |
11. Irshalgad Trek:
Irshalgad trek is considered as one of the unique and iconic treks which revolve around the boat-shaped hill. The area is especially famous for trekking and camping. It can be easily distinguished from a faraway place. This trek near Irshalgad fort will test your strength through the trek. It is a perfect place for one day trek near Mumbai. It is 56 km from Mumbai and 107 km from Pune.
| Height | 3700 feet |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Trek Duration | 2-3 Hours |
| Trek Start Point | Nanivali village |
| How to Reach | Trains till Karjat, then shared autos. |
| Stay | Limited camping space. |
| Tips | Carry plenty of water. |
12. Andharban Trek:
The Andharban forest trek is another beautiful trek that is generally preferred during the monsoons. It is considered one of the best most refreshing and thrilling treks in the Sahyadri region which leads through the dense shaded cover of the forest. It is 133 km away from Mumbai and 70 km away from Pune. Recently, forest officials have started online bookings and daily limits for trekkers to maintain safety and reduce crowding. It is better to carry leech protection during monsoon.
| Height | 2160 feet |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate |
| Trek Duration | Full Day |
| Trek Start Point | Pimpri village |
| How to Reach | Buses and private vehicles. Start early morning. |
| Stay | Not available on trail. Carry lunch. |
| Tips | Leech protection needed in monsoon. |
13. Rohida Fort or Vichitragad Trek:
Rohida (Vichitragad) fort is the finest trekking spot near Pune. The fort is mostly flat and barren, but the best point is its amazing view and various checkout points located near it like Rohideshwar Mandir, Water Reservoirs, Bastion on the fort, Main door, and Water Cisterns. It is 210 km away from Mumbai and 68 km away from Pune.
| Height | 3660 feet |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Trek Duration | 4-5 Hours |
| Trek Start Point | Bajarwadi |
| How to Reach | Easy drive from Pune. Parking available at base village. |
| Stay | Local homestays available. Carry your own snacks. |
| Best Time | Monsoon and winter. |
| Safety Tips | Check route with locals to avoid confusion. |
14. Kenjalgad Fort:
Kenjalgad is one of the attractive forts found near the south of Pune. The trek is believed to be quite simple. But you have to take care not to misguide on the route because there are other routes which look similar and are mostly used by local people for a different purpose. The trek is very easy and it takes only half an hour to reach the top of the fort. It is 229 km away from Mumbai and 86 km away from Pune.
| Height | 4273 feet |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Trek Start Point | Ghera Kenjal |
| How to Reach | Best to travel by private vehicle. Roads are narrow but scenic. |
| Stay and Food | No stay options, day trek recommended. Carry food and water. |
| Best Time | Monsoon and winter months for cool weather. |
| Safety | Confirm correct trail as there are confusing paths. |
15. Panchgani:
Panchgani is a well-known destination among tourists for its natural beauty. During British time, it was treated as a summer retreat. This trek is not very difficult like others. Monsoon in Panchgani starts during the month of June and lasts till September which is considered as the best time to see the beauty of hills when the entire valleys and mountains turn green. It is 241 km away from Mumbai and 101 km away from Pune.
| Height | 4550 feet |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Trek Duration | 1-2 Hours |
| How to Reach | Regular buses and private cars are available from Pune and Mumbai. |
| Stay | Many hotels, resorts and homestays. Food options are plenty. |
| Special Attraction | Famous for strawberry farms, viewpoints, and table land. Ideal for family and group outings. |
| Best Season | June to September for greenery. |
16. Harihar Fort:
Harihar Fort is one of the most thrilling treks in Maharashtra because of its unique vertical staircase carved in stone. It gives an adventurous experience as the steps are very steep, almost at a 70-degree angle, but the view from the top is worth the effort. From the fort, you can see beautiful valleys and nearby peaks like Brahmagiri and Basgad.
The fort is located in the Nashik district and is about 190 km from Mumbai and 160 km from Pune. It is best enjoyed during the monsoon and winter season.
| Height | 3676 feet |
| Trek Duration | 3-4 Hours |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate to Difficult |
| Trek Start Point | Nirgudpada or Harshewadi village |
| How to Reach | Buses and private vehicles available till Nirgudpada; nearest railway station is Igatpuri. |
| Stay | Basic camping and homestays available in nearby villages. |
| Special Attraction | The almost-vertical rock-cut steps and panoramic view of the surrounding Sahyadris. |
17. Matheran:
Matheran is a very popular hill station and trekking spot, famous for its pollution-free environment as vehicles are not allowed inside. The trekking route takes you through dense forest paths, red mud trails, and small viewpoints. Matheran has more than 30 viewpoints like Panorama Point, Echo Point, and Charlotte Lake.
It is a perfect weekend getaway and is located about 80 km from Mumbai and 120 km from Pune. Trekking here is easy and can be done by families and beginners.
| Height | 2625 feet |
| Trek Duration | 2-3 Hours |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Trek Start Point | Neral or Dasturi Naka |
| How to Reach | Local trains available till Neral; toy train or walk to Dasturi Naka; shared taxis also available. |
| Stay | Many resorts, hotels, and homestays available in Matheran town. |
| Special Attraction | Vehicle-free hill station with scenic viewpoints, beautiful sunrises, and toy train ride. |
Things to Carry on the Trek:
- Water bottles 2-3 litre
- Trekking Shoes
- Torch
- Snacks
- First – Aid kit
- Raincoat or extra pair of clothes and cap
Conclusion:
Pack your backpacks and plan a weekend for trekking location near Mumbai and Pune now. The best season for trekking is the monsoon as it brings greenery and lowers the surrounding temperature. Have a happy weekend on treks.
FAQs about Trekking Places near Mumbai and Pune:
June to September is the monsoon window, with greenery and waterfalls at their best. Avoid days with very heavy rain/IMD alerts; early mornings usually give safer weather and fewer crowds.
Lohagad, Tikona, Rajmachi, Irshalgad and Matheran are generally easy and well-trodden. Trails are straightforward, with plenty of people around and quick exits if weather turns.
Harihar (steep rock-cut stairs), Harishchandragad (longer climbs/exposed sections depending on route), Kalsubai (endurance), Vasota (jungle + logistics) are tougher. Do these with proper gear, fitness, and ideally a local guide.
2–3 litres of water, ORS/electrolytes, raincoat/poncho, cap, quick-dry clothes, spare tee/socks in a zip bag, light snacks, basic first-aid, torch/headlamp, power bank, and ID. A backpack rain cover and a small trash bag are musts.
It’s safer to trek with at least one buddy in monsoon due to slips, stream crossings, and fog. If solo, stick to popular trails, start early, and inform the base village or a friend about your expected return.
prasant bhatt
August 25, 2018 at 8:56 pm
Hello Jignesh
Thanks for this informative blog about Mumbai and Pune. The forts and lakes you described above are really amazing. I am now planning to travel for one month in Mumbai and Pune and visit these all destination. Your blog inspire me a lot and keep moving further to see this beautiful planet,
TheIndia
August 28, 2018 at 12:43 pm
Thank you Prasan for your feedback about this blog post.
Do share your experience once you complete your one month trip to Mumbai, Pune and nearby places. We would love to feature your post here at TheIndia.