Pune treks
6 forts near Pune you must climb
From an easy first trek to the king of forts.
Photo: Suraj Digrase / CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
UNESCO
3 World Heritage forts in Pune district
Shivneri, Rajgad and Lohagad are part of the Maratha Military Landscapes of India, inscribed in July 2025.
Sinhagad · 30 km
The fort every Punekar climbs
Easy to moderate, 1 to 1.5 hours from Atkarwadi. Do not skip pithla bhakri at the top.
Photo: Suraj Digrase / CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Rajgad · 60 km
The king of forts
The first Maratha capital for almost 26 years. A 2.5 to 3.5 hour climb, moderate to hard.
Photo: Cj.samson / CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Torna · 1,403 m
The first fort of Swarajya
Captured by a 16-year-old Shivaji in 1646. The highest hill fort in Pune district.
Photo: Rhushiraj Patil (rishanimates) / CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Lohagad · 52 km
The monsoon favourite
An easy climb near Lonavala. Take the local train to Malavli and look for the Vinchu Kata spur.
Photo: Rangan Datta Wiki / CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Shivneri · Junnar
Birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj
Born here on 19 February 1630. A short climb through seven gates; Lenyadri caves are 2 km away.
Photo: Bajirao / CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Purandar · Saswad
A half-day trip
Birthplace of Sambhaji Maharaj. Part of it is an Army area, so carry photo ID and check entry before you go.
Best season
October to February
- Start early and carry water
- Respect closing times
- Never litter or deface walls
- Check crowd rules at Sinhagad
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Complete guide to forts near Pune
Routes, difficulty and a beginner plan.
Photo: Cj.samson / CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons