Due to its unique geography and the long monsoon season, Maharashtra is one of the most suitable states in India for trekking. The state is home to the Sahyadri mountain range (or the Western Ghats), which is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its rich biodiversity. There are more than 300 known forts that were constructed here during the Maratha rule, and thus, most of the treks in Maharashtra are a mix of history and adventure.
Be it easy weekend hikes around Mumbai and Pune or challenging climbs such as Harishchandragad and Rajgad, there are options available for both amateur and professional trekkers in Maharashtra. Beautiful Valleys, waterfalls, ancient forts and majestic viewpoints are the features that make trekking here not only exciting but also rewarding. So choose the best Maharashtra tour packages and read on to know about the best treks that you can’t miss out on while being on a trip to this beautiful state!
Top 12 Treks in Maharashtra
Maharashtra offers an impressive variety of treks, ranging from easy fort climbs to demanding mountain trails. Below is a curated list of the best treks in Maharashtra that are well known among places to visit in Maharashtra for their scenic views, trail diversity as well as trekking appeal across different seasons.
1. Kalsubai Trek
Kalsubai Trek is marked as the highest trek in Maharashtra, popularly known as "the Everest of Maharashtra." It reaches a height of 1,646 m (5,400 ft) above sea level and offers wide views of the Sahyadri range and nearby forts such as Ratangad and Harishchandragad. The route combines ease with difficulty, having iron ladders and chains to climb over more steep sections. It is widely considered one of the top treks in Maharashtra, though in the rainy season, which extends from July to September, the route becomes green and misty with small waterfalls. Amateur trekkers with good fitness may find this route an interesting way to get started with Sahyadri trekking.
Base Point: Bari Village
Total Trek Distance: 6.6 km round trip
Altitude: 1,646 m (5,400 ft)
Trek difficulty: Easy- Moderate
Trek duration: 6 - 8 hours
2. Harishchandragad Trek
The Harishchandragad Trek forms one of the most loved heritage treks in Maharashtra, blending culture and history with nature and scenic beauty. This trek goes up to the ancient hill fort plateau at an elevation of around 1,424 m (4,670 ft) above sea level, hosting temples, caves and the famous Konkan Kada cliff with its panoramic views. Various paths are available, among which the Pachnai route is considered the easiest. The routes from Belpada or Khireshwar are longer and also tougher. It is one of the treks best enjoyed during monsoon, for the forests and waterfalls are lush green, but some paths can turn slippery.
Base Point: Pachnai / Khireshwar Village
Total Trek Distance: 4 - 10 km round trip (depends on route)
Altitude: 4,670 ft (1,424 m)
Trek difficulty: Moderate
Trek duration: 6 - 9 hours
3. Rajmachi Fort Trek
The Rajmachi Fort Trek is considered one of the easiest treks in Maharashtra, which is suitable for beginners and even families. It is close to Lonavala, and the trekking route contains open grassland trails, ruins of forts and views of the Udhawadi and Manaranjan forts. The trail is accessible for most of the year, but it is notably beautiful during the monsoon season when the plateau creates a stunning green backdrop with several small waterfalls. Not as strenuous as several other Sahyadri treks, Rajmachi combines history with relatively soft climbing and adds to its popularity as a weekend activity among the things to do in Maharashtra near Pune and Mumbai.
Base Point: Udhewadi Village
Total Trek Distance: 14 - 15 km round trip (via Tungarli route)
Altitude: 826 m (2,710 ft) for the twin forts area
Trek difficulty: Easy
Trek duration: 5 - 7 hours
4. Kalavantin Durg
Kalavantin Durg is widely regarded as the most dangerous trek in Maharashtra due to its steep rock steps and narrow ridges. It stands at an altitude of about 686 m (2,250 ft). This summit demands careful footing, especially in the wet monsoon season when the rock steps become slippery. The trail is short but exposed, often requiring caution and good footwear. Despite the risk factor, Kalavantin Durg is a favourite among experienced trekkers for the adrenaline rush and spectacular views of the Panvel valley and Prabalgad fort. Being the toughest trek in Maharashtra, it’s best done with a guide and outside peak rain.
Base Point: Thakurwadi Village
Total Trek Distance: 5.5 - 6 km round trip
Altitude: 686 m (2,250 ft)
Trek difficulty: Hard
Trek duration: 4 - 6 hours
5. Visapur Fort Trek
The Visapur Fort Trek is well known for its dramatic waterfall trail and the plateau at the summit that makes it one of the most popular monsoon treks in Maharashtra. The Visapur fort, which was of great strategic importance in earlier times, was built between 1713 and 1720 CE by Balaji Vishwanath, the first Peshwa of the Maratha Empire. The climb starts from the Bhaje village and initially follows a mud trail right through forest areas, followed by entry into the signature waterfall climb, where, during the monsoon, cascades of water come tumbling down the rocky faces. The summit presents a vast plateau surrounded by caves, water tanks, ruins, cannons and a Hanuman temple, bringing a historical context to the scenic views.
Base Point: Bhaje Village
Total Trek Distance: 6 km round trip
Altitude: 1,084 m (3,556 ft)
Trek difficulty: Moderate
Trek duration: 4 - 6 hours
6. Panhala-Pawankhind Trek
The Panhala-Pawankhind Trek is the longest trek in Maharashtra, stretching about 47–50 kilometres via historic paths that had once been used by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and his army during their escape from Panhala Fort. The route crosses forests, plateaus, small villages and agricultural fields, offering a unique mix of historical narration and nature. A lot of trekkers do this itinerary over two days, camping en route. The trail is more about endurance than steep ascents, hence finding appeal for adventure groups seeking to have a memorable multi-day trekking experience.
Base Point: Panhala Fort
Total Trek Distance: 47 - 50 km
Altitude: 850 - 900 m (varies along trail)
Trek difficulty: Moderate- Challenging
Trek duration: 2 days
7. Ratangad Fort Trek
Ratangad Fort is considered one of the most famous treks in Maharashtra. Over four hundred years old, it is known to house broad plateau viewpoints. It lies at an altitude of about 4,250 feet. The trek offers breathtaking views of Bhandardara, misty valleys and seasonal waterfalls. While exciting throughout the year, Ratangad becomes especially photogenic during winter treks in Maharashtra (November - February), when the atmosphere is clear, and temperatures are cooler, which makes exploring the places to visit in Bhandardara comfortable. The route comprises exposed rock patches and forested areas, offering variety and extended views into nearby forts in Maharashtra, such as Alang and Kulang.
Base Point: Ratanwadi Village
Total Trek Distance: 12 - 16 km round trip
Altitude: 4,250 ft
Trek difficulty: Moderate
Trek duration: 8 - 10 hours
8. Korigad Fort Trek
Due to the gentle climb, well-metalled roads and historical importance, Korigad Fort is often considered one of the top spots when it comes to the best fort to trek in Maharashtra. Situated in Pune District, the fort stands approximately 3,050 feet above sea level and commands a view of two lakes and the village of Peth down below. The route is pretty accessible throughout the year and its gradual slope makes it an ideal destination for newbies for winter treks. Ancient temples and fortifications add to the fun and make exploring treks in Maharashtra after the climb.
Base Point: Ambavne / Peth Shahpur
Total Trek Distance: 5 - 6 km round trip
Altitude: 3,050 ft
Trek difficulty: Easy- Moderate
Trek duration: 4 - 6 hours
9. Tikona Fort Trek
Tikona Fort, also called Vitandgad, is a pyramid-shaped hill fort close to the Kamshet region. It is one of the popular destinations among places to trek in Mumbai and for both winter treks in Maharashtra and best night treks in Maharashtra, combined with camping or sunrise viewing. The climb includes rock-cut steps, seven water tanks and a temple, ending at an outstanding view at the summit of Pawna Lake. The surrounding fortifications form a natural circular promenade with a 360° panorama of the adjacent forts such as Lohagad and Tung, making the trek rewarding and scenically compelling.
Base Point: Tikona Peth
Total Trek Distance: 5 - 6 km round trip
Altitude: 3,500 ft
Trek difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Trek duration: 3 - 5 hours
10. Kohoj Fort Night Trek
Kohoj Fort is one of the most accessible treks near Mumbai and is considered among the best night treks in Maharashtra for beginners and groups. Starting from the Waghote village, the path goes upwards through mildly sloped greens towards a summit that overlooks a heart-shaped saline lake and hills in the surroundings. Many trekking groups start late at night for a summit arrival at sunrise, and this offers a serene atmosphere to enjoy fresh air, scenic views and a moderate climb that does not have very steep inclines.
Base Point: Waghote Village
Total Trek Distance: 6 - 8 km round trip
Altitude: 786 m (2,575 - 2,600 ft) (approx)
Trek difficulty: Easy
Trek duration: 5 - 7 hours
11. Vasota Fort Trek
The Vasota Fort Trek is unique as it cuts through the interior of the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary in the Satara district. Many trekkers link this trek to camping treks in Maharashtra due to the jungle atmosphere and lakeside views that make for a perfect overnight experience. The fort is at an elevation of about 3,842 feet or 1,171 meters above sea level; one needs to have decent fitness levels because the area is partly covered with forests, occasional wild animals and is on a remote trail. A short boat ride across Shivsagar Lake from Bamnoli village precedes a walk through the forest to the base of the fort, a bonus to the adventure. This nature-based, solitary trek is ideal for a historical context and prolonged outdoor stay.
Base Point: Bamnoli Village
Total Trek Distance: 10 - 14 km round trip (varies by route)
Altitude: 3,842 ft (1,171 m)
Trek difficulty: Moderate
Trek duration: 1 - 2 days (with camping)
12. Vikatgad (Peb Fort) Trek
The Vikatgad Trek, also referred to as the Peb Fort Trek, ranks as one of the more exciting climbs near Karjat and is a great choice for those seeking a picturesque day outing with less time spent travelling to get there. Situated at 2,100 feet or 640 meters above sea level, the fort is positioned in the Matheran Hill Range. Along the way, it cuts through deep ravines, narrow passages and rock faces at intervals, eventually opening up to panoramic valley views. Its closeness to Neral and Matheran makes it one of the famous treks in Maharashtra for weekend adventurers. The fort’s ruins, as well as viewpoints, reward trekkers with peaceful sunset views.
Base Point: Neral / Karjat
Total Trek Distance: 6 - 8 km round trip
Altitude: 2,100 ft (640 m)
Trek difficulty: Moderate
Trek duration: 4 - 6 hours
Conclusion
Trekking in Maharashtra provides a perfect combination of history, adventure and nature. Whether it is the top of Kalsubai, which is the highest peak, or the exciting forts such as Harihar and Visapur, each of the treks in Maharashtra has something special to offer. The Sahyadri ranges are laden with picturesque trails, old forts, forests and picturesque waterfalls that change colours with the seasons. These hikes are ideal for beginners, serious trekkers, as well as for those who want to have a weekend off the hectic life in the city. The weather is also very beautiful during the monsoon and winter, and one can see pretty misty scenes along with flowing streams. With proper planning, safety and the right season in mind, trekking in Maharashtra promises unforgettable memories as well as experiences that stay with you for a long time.
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