Ghangad Fort
Historic hill fort near Lonavala
Trek Difficulty
Easy
Trek Duration
1-2 Hours
Suitable for
12 to 60 Years (Fit Individuals)
Trek Distance
4-5 Km
Base Camp
Ekole
Best Season
Post Monsoon
Ghangad Fort: A historic hill fort near Lonavala
Ghangad Fort is located about 30–35 km from Lonavala and approximately 100 km from Pune in Maharashtra, India.The base village for the trek is Ekole, which can be reached via Tamhini Ghat Road or from Lonavala by cab, local bus, or shared jeep. The trekking path from Ekole is safe, well-marked, and passes through a dense forest, taking roughly one hour to reach the fort entrance.The fort is approachable in all seasons, with the best time to visit being June to March.
Historical Significance:
Ghangad Fort was originally built during the 12th century by the Bhoj dynasty and later came under the Maratha Empire. It served as a prison fort and a watchtower to monitor trade routes between Konkan and Pune. After the fall of Korigad in March 1818, the fort was surrendered to the British forces. Restoration work has been carried out by the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Trail group with local villagers, preserving the fort walls, main entrance, and water tank.
Trek Highlights & Must-See Attractions:
- Forest section: A dense evergreen forest provides shade and a refreshing experience.
- Boulder and cave formations: A massive triangular boulder forms a natural shelter near the fort.
- Steep metal ladder: Installed to aid climbers in the rock section, making the trek accessible to more people.
- Tail Baila walls: Two massive walls (200–250 feet) visible from the summit, popular for rock climbing and rappelling.
- 360-degree views: The fort offers panoramic views of surrounding mountains and nearby forts like Korigad, Sudhagad, and Sarasgad.
Ghangad Fort: A historic hill fort near Lonavala
Located about 35 km from Lonavala and 100 km from Pune, Ghangad Fort is a thrilling mix of history and nature. Starting from the base village of Ekole, this trek takes you through a safe, well-marked path nestled in a dense evergreen forest. Originally built in the 12th century by the Bhoj dynasty and later serving as a Maratha watchtower and prison fort, it was recently beautifully restored by local conservation groups. Taking roughly one hour to climb, this trek is approachable in all seasons and offers an unforgettable adventure.
Trek Highlights & Must-See Attractions:
- Dense Forest Trail: Enjoy a refreshing walk through a beautiful evergreen forest that provides ample shade along the route.
- Cave & Boulder Formations: Marvel at a massive triangular boulder that forms a unique natural shelter near the fort.
- The Thrilling Ladder Climb: Safely navigate the steep rocky section using a securely installed metal ladder, making the summit accessible to all climbers.
- Tail Baila Views: Witness the massive 200–250 feet walls of Tail Baila, famous for rock climbing and rappelling, right from the top.
- 360-Degree Panoramas: Soak in spectacular, uninterrupted views of the surrounding mountains and nearby forts like Korigad, Sudhagad, and Sarasgad.
Itinerary
Day 1
- Reach the base village (8 AM)
- Freshen up and start trekking
- Reach temple/cave and explore.
- Reach top and enjoy the beautiful view.
- Click photographs and videos with 360 degree view.
- Have fun with your friends and family at majestic waterfalls
- Lunch at base village (12-1 PM)
- Return journey starts (2 PM)
- Reach Pune 8 PM (Tentatively).
Includes
- Outdoor Expertise charges
- All meals during the carnival (Breakfast and Lunch)
- Pune to Pune Private transport
- Guide
- Entry Fee
Excludes
- Mineral Water/Cold drinks, day two dinner, etc
- Camera & Coolie charges
- Personal expenditure of any kind
- Medical expenses other than “First aid”
- Any other charges not mentioned i n “Fees Include”.
| Departure Location | Event Fees |
|---|---|
| From Pune - Veg/Non-Veg | ₹1,299/1399 |
| From Base - Veg/Non-Veg | ₹699/799 |
Pickup Points with Map Location
Things to Carry
- Aadhar card (Soft Copy/Mobile Copy)
- Single backpack (avoid trolley bags)
- Personal medicines (if any)
- 2 litres of water per person
- Good Trekking shoes
- Extra pair of clothes as well as footwear
- Toiletries
- Wind cheater/Jacket (If required)
- Torch/Head Torch
- Dry Snacks (Dry Fruits, Fruits, Nuts)
Things to Carry
- Aadhar card (Soft Copy/Mobile Copy)
- Single backpack (avoid trolley bags)
- Personal medicines (if any)
- 2 litres of water per person
- Good Trekking shoes
- Extra pair of clothes as well as footwear
- Toiletries
- Wind cheater/Jacket (If required)
- Torch/Head Torch
- Dry Snacks (Dry Fruits, Fruits, Nuts)
Image Gallery and Reels
Kalsubai Trek From Pune FAQs
How many days are required to complete this trek?
For Kalsubai Trek, we have to travel 5-6 hours from Pune which we cover over night and early morning we start the trek. Trek is completed by afternoon post which we have lunch and leave for Pune.
Are there any hotels near kalsubai peak?
What is the height of the trek?
- Kalsubai trek is said to be the highest trek in Maharashtra. It is 5400 ft ASL.
- It is also known as the “Everest” of Maharashtra.
Confirmation Policy
- Upon booking, you will receive a confirmation via call or WhatsApp message..
- In the special cases of slots not being available, feasible alternatives will be provided to the customer, in regards to the customer’s preference. In such cases, a new voucher would be sent via email, consisting of the new travel details.
Refund Policy
- Any refund applicable will be processed within 3 business days.
Cancellation Policy
- Any cancellation made 3 days prior to the date of departure, would be eligible for 100% refund.
- Any cancellation made within 1-3 days prior to the date of departure, would be eligible for carry forward payment for upcoming trek.
- Any cancellation made within 0-1 days prior to the date of departure, would levy a 100% of total tour cost as cancellation charges.
- Due to any restrictions such as sudden government policies or regulations, health hazards, medical emergencies, or unprecedented weather conditions, activities and tours may be nonoperational and be cancelled. In cases such as these, operators will attempt to cater to the traveller an alternate, which is feasible in nature. However, any refund would not be catered.
Terms and Conditions
- Smoking or spraying deodorants or use of any scented lotion is strictly prohibited as it my attract insects.
- Drinking alcohol is strictly prohibited. If found will be expelled from the group, participant will be responsible for their travel arrangements beyond that point.
- The leader's decision will be final and binding.
- Banjara Outdoors team reserves the right to change/deviate/cancel the plans without prior notice.
- Telephonic confirmation for booking is mandatory; if unable to contact us, then send a text/WhatsApp message and we will call you back.
- Please do not carry handbags, jholas, or sling bags on treks.
- Please do not carry or wear any valuables, ornaments, jewelry, etc. If carried, then we do not take any liability for the same.
- We serve locally made food to give you a homely experience, so please do not expect luxurious arrangements.
- Limited washrooms are available as we are travelling to Village area
- We Need at Least 12 Travellers to Manage our Trip, Banjara Outdoors Reserves The Rights to Cancel the Trip if the Minimum Batch size does not suffice!
- Starts: 699
- Duration: 1N/1D
- Type: Waterfall Trek