If you're the kind who would prefer to pick up a backpack and head out of the city on holidays and weekends. Maharashtra is an authentic paradise for you. This state has a varied terrain, which makes backpacking and trekking here one of the most enriching experiences you could come across. These top 7 trekker's favourite places near Pune will make you fall in love with trekking and travelling, and give you the best travel experience.
7 Trekker's Favourite Places
1. Malshej Ghat
Malshej Ghat is one of the most popular mountain passes in the ranges of the western ghats. You can find Malshej ghat in between the route of Thane to Ahmadnagar. Malshej Ghat is nestled in the tall rugged hills of the Western Ghats. Malshej is the shelter of hundreds of distinct kinds of flora and fauna exceptionally the avian population such as Quails, Rails, Flamingos, Cuckoo, and Crakes. This is the most amazing thing about Malshej Ghat.
Things to do: There are many trekking trails in the surrounding hills. For the nature lover, there are flowing waterfalls and the green verdure and fauna to be enjoyed, and bird lovers will be excited at the sight. Ideal place for wildlife photographers.
Best time to go: Malshej Ghat is in North of Pune around 120 KM. There are various valleys around the Malshej Ghat which brings many trekkers and travellers. Good season to visit Malshej Ghat is in monsoon months of August to September.
2. Tamhini Ghat
Tamhini Ghat is on the top list of my favourite places in India. This is a mountain passage situated between Tamhini and Mulshi. Pass is settled on the pinnacle of the Western Ghats mountain ranges, Tamhini mountain pass is known for its lush greenery comprising dramatic waterfalls, lakes and dense forests. Mountain pass Tamhini starts from Mulshi Dam and ends at the Orchard Cafe.
Tamhini ghat stretches nearly 15 KM. Throughout the rainy season, the area converts into a green patch with numerous waterfalls and tiny beautiful streams.
Most Suitable Time to Visit: Monsoon season is the ideal time to visit Tamhini ghat.
3. Harishchandragad
Harishchandragad is one of the magnificent and highest forts near Pune, Maharashtra. This fort having strong walls and multiple entry routes. Such as the Sadhale Ghat, Junnar Gate, Indore Waat, and Nalichi Waat.
Carving art on the cave of Kedareshwar, Harishchandreshwar temple, and Nageshwar temple proves that the fort belongs to the medieval period since it is related to Shaiva, Naath or Shakta. Later the Harishchandragad was under the control of Moghuls. It is captured in 1747 by Marathas.
Top Attractions on the Fort: Kedareshwar Cave, Konkan Kada, Taramati peak, Sapta Tirta Pushkarini and Temple of Harishchandreshwar.
Way to reach Harishchandragad: Way from Khireshwar Village, Way from Belpada, Way from Kothale.
4. Lohagad Fort
Lohagad is one of the most mighty and forts in Maharashtra which attracts the many trekkers and backpackers. Lohgad is located on the higher elevation of the Western Ghats, near to the Lonavala hill station, and 52 km North-West of Pune. This is a twin fort of Visapur and Lohagad are part of the Visapur-Lohagad fortification. The hill-forts were under the Maratha empire for the majority of the time, Nearby attractions include Bhaja and Karla Caves, Aamby Valley City and Lonavala hill Station.
5. Sinhagad Fort
Sinhagad is the nearest place near Pune located at around 25 KM South-West of the city. Some of the data available at Sinhagad fort advise that the fort could have been created two thousand years ago. The caves and the carvings in the "Kaundinyeshwar temple" stand as evidence for the same.
The Sinhagad Fort is a famous weekend destination in Pune for most of the citizens of Pune. Trekking lovers start to trek from the bottom of the Sinhgad village to the top of the fort. The trek includes a one-way walk of two to three KiloMeters. At the top of the fort, you can find some food provider. They offer you authentic Maharashtrian food like Pithla Bhakri, Thecha, Kanda Bhaji (Onion Pakoda), with Curd.
6. Kalsubai Peak
Kalsubai is the highest mountain peak in the Maharashtra which earns the honoured title of the 'Everest of Maharashtra.' This mountain peak Kalsubai is in the Western Ghats. Summit of the Kalsubai peak is situated at an elevation of 5400 Feet (1646 Meters) from the sea level.
As it is known as the highest peak in Maharashtra, lots of trekkers and devotees determined to climb the peak. To reach the summit, there are well-designated trekking routes. The most favourite path is through the Eastern mountain face taking off from the base Bari village.
Best Time to Climb Kalsubai Peak - Monsoon Trek - June to August, Flowers trek - September to October, Night Trek - November to May.
7. Rajmachi Fort
Rajmachi Fort is a preferred destination for wildlife lovers, trekkers and backpacker. In monsoon, this region is covered by lots of clouds, waterfalls, streams, growing green forests, and lush green shrubs. Local families welcome you at Udhewadi on Fort Rajmachi. The local families provide Maharashtrian meals and camping services to the sightseers.
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