Maharashtra boasts a plethora of hill stations, making it an ideal destination for trekking enthusiasts. Some of these trekking routes take you through breathtaking landscapes, while others lead you past ancient historical sites.
Trekking in Maharashtra serves various purposes, including seeking an adrenaline rush, connecting with nature, shedding excess weight, or indulging in quiet contemplation.
# Matheran TrekMatheran, known for its pleasant climate and a variety of trekking paths, draws tourists throughout the year. There are nearly 28 viewpoints scattered across the area, with One Tree Hill being one of them.
Among the numerous trekking routes, the Garbert Plateau trail stands out as one of the most renowned. Additionally, embarking on a trek to the Chanderi caves offers its own adventurous experience. For those seeking to explore a fort at the summit, the Kalavantin Pinnacle Trek is a must-try option.
# Kalsubai TrekStanding at an elevation of 5,400 feet, Kalsubai holds the distinction of being the tallest peak in the Sahyadri mountain ranges. Additionally, it is a part of the Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary, which stretches from Kalsubai to Harishchandragad. The best time to experience trekking in this region is during the rainy season.
During this season, trekkers encounter lush green valleys, refreshing breezes, drifting clouds, and cascading waterfalls. From the summit, one can also catch glimpses of places such as Ahivant, Saptashrungi Gad, Markindya, and others.
# Korigad Fort TrekSituated approximately 20 kilometers from Lonavala in the Pune district, the magnificent Korigad Fort is a renowned trekking destination in Maharashtra. The Korigad Fort Trek offers two distinct routes to reach the summit, one originating from Peth Shahpur village and the other from Ambavne village.
Upon reaching the fort's pinnacle, visitors will discover two lakes. Additionally, there is a temple dedicated to the patron goddess Korai Devi, along with smaller shrines honoring Shiva and Vishnu. Furthermore, one can explore the entire perimeter of the fort's walls.
# Lohagarh Trek
Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj gained renown for his numerous forts strategically positioned throughout Maharashtra, and among them is the Lohagarh Iron Fort. Perched on a solitary ridge of the Sahyadris, it demarcates the Indranayi and Pavna basins.
Even after the passage of many years, the four substantial gates of Lohagarh Fort remain in remarkable condition. Additional attractions within the fort include The Ganesh Darwaja, The Narayan Darwaja, and The Hanuman Darwaja.
# Tikona TrekTikona, alternatively known as Vitandgad, is situated in close proximity to Kamshet, approximately 60 kilometers away from Pune. This imposing hill fort is a prominent landmark in Maval, Western India, with an elevation reaching 3,500 feet. Its name is derived from the distinctive pyramidal shape of the hill.
This trekking destination is celebrated for its spacious entrances, seven water reservoirs, the revered 'Trimbakeshwar Mahadev' temple, and a collection of Satvahan Caves. At its summit, one can encounter the scenic Pawana Lake, offering stunning vistas of the Pawna dam.
# Rajmachi TrekRajmachi, positioned approximately 15 kilometers from Lonavala, stands as a highly sought-after trekking spot in India. Within its vicinity lie two forts, Shrivardhan and Manaranjan, both situated on a historical trade route and offering captivating vistas of the valley.
The entire path is surrounded by lush forests on either side, and there are two approaches to reach this location, one from Karjat and the other from Lonavala.
# Ratangad TrekRatangad offers breathtaking vistas of the Sahyadri Ranges in the vicinity of Bhandardara Lake. Nestled within the Bhandardara hills amidst a forested landscape, it retains the remnants of a fortress, complete with bastions and stone walls.
This location also features a natural rock pinnacle with a hollow at its summit, known as the Nedhe or the Eye of the Needle. The village base, Ratanwadi, can be reached by a boat journey from Bhandardara.
# Peb Vikatgad TrekThe Peb Vikatgad Trek offers an exhilarating monsoon trekking experience. Despite its association with the Goddess Pebi, it has been dubbed Vikatgad due to its likeness to Lord Ganesh, the elephant-headed deity. Vikatgad Fort is conveniently located just 4 kilometers from Neral station.
This trek route offers a blend of rocky trails, wooded areas, caves, and ladders, making it a highly thrilling and adventurous journey. Historically, it is believed that Shivaji Maharaj utilized the fort's caves as granaries for grain storage.