Sinhagad Fort Trek - All You Need To Know 1
Being an avid trekker, scaling towering peaks is a fulfilling accomplishment for you. It is the sheer passion that drives empowers you to conquer colossal mountains. Have you scaled the Mount Everest of Maharashtra, Kalsubai?
If yes, then its time to overcome another one of such peaks that host a legendary hill fortress. It is none other than, Sinhagad Fort. Standing in the city of Pune, upon the steep slopes of Sahyadri Ranges, Sinhgad Fort is apt to challenge the rogue adventurer in you.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj captured this fort from the Adilshahi Sultanate with the help of Maratha Commander Tanaji Malusare. Since he valiantly laid down his life in the siege, the fort was named Sinhagad that translates to 'Lion Fort'.
Awe-inspiring panoramic views of the Western Ghats await your scale to reach the top of the fort. Thanks to its colossal height of 1312 meters above sea level, the trek to Sinhagad is one of its kind. But novices need not worry since it ranges amidst an easier difficulty level.
Tread upon its lush green trails, since the monsoon season is the best time to visit the Sinhagad Fort. It is ideal to have some sizzling Kanda bhajis and a hot cup of tea in the chilly rainy season. A visit to Pune city is incomplete without stopping by at this mindboggling fortress of Sinhagad.
About Sinhagad Fort and Information
Sinhagad, which roughly translates to Lion’s Fort, stands at about 30 kilometers away from Pune city. Formerly known as Kondana it was considered as an important military location, upon the dangerous cliffs of Bhuleswar range amidst the Sahyadri Mountains.
Towering about 1,312 meters above sea level, the optimum security of the fort is due to its very steep slopes. The forts of Torna, Rajgad, and Purandar are clearly from Sinhagad Fort.
The Battle of Sinhgad that was fought by Tanaji Malusare, right here on this historic site. He was a general of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj of the Maratha Empire who helped to recapture the fort.
After scaling the fort in the dead of the night, a fierce battle ensued between Tanaji’s army and the Mughal forces headed by Udaybhan Singh Rathod. Tanaji lost his life in the battle but ensured victory over the Mughals.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj grieved his death and martyrdom by saying, “Gad Aala, Pan Sinh Gela” which translates to ‘We won the fort but lost the lion’. Hence, the fortress was renamed as Sinhagad.
It is a popular trekking spot as a large number of tourists willingly climb this fortress. This majorly includes the native youths who look up to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as a source of inspiration and pride. Though the fort ruins, prominent bastions, and walls stand to date.
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How to reach Sinhagad Fort Pune
Sinhagad Fort is directly accessible by any mode of transport. You have to reach the city of Pune first to continue your journey further. Below we have listed the modes and means to reach Sinhagad Fort easily.
Reach Sinhagad by Bus
If you are traveling via bus from any other city of India, then you have to reach the Pune City Bus Stand.
If you are already in Pune, then board a bus to reach the Sinhagad Fort Bus Stand. It is a local bus stop that will take you near the Sinhagad Fort. It is also known as Aatekar Vasti.
Reach Sinhagad By Road
If you are driving, then you can use the major highways and expressways to reach Pune.
To reach Sinhagad from Mumbai, you have to take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. The total distance you have to cover is about 180 km and takes about 3 hours to reach.
If you are in Pune already, then to reach Sinhagad Fort, the distance of 30 km has to be covered. It usually takes an hour to reach the site.
Reach Sinhagad By Train
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus is the major railway station you can use to reach Pune. Shivajinagar Railway Station (SVJR) is a local train station where you can get off to proceed further.
Reaching Sinhagad by Air
- Pune International Airport (PNQ) is the nearest major international airport. You can hire a cab or take a local bus to Sinhagad Village to reach the fort. You can also reach Shanivar Wada and take a bus.
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Best Time To Visit Sinhagad Fort Pune
It is good news for trekkers that Sinhagad can be summited throughout the year. But if you wish to witness scenic views of lush greenery and nature all around, then the best time to visit Sinhagad is Monsoon season. It lies between the month of June and October.
The rain alleviates the beauty of the Sahyadri landscape, resembling a mesmerizing paradise. Trekkers crave for breathtaking panoramic views of the nearby topography once you reach the top of the fort.
Even the winter season is the ideal time to trek Sinhagad. Between the months of November and March, a chilly breeze sweeps across the steep slopes of Sinhagad. This only increases the will of avid trekkers who eagerly beat the cold. Have a hot cup of tea and kanda bhajis on the top of the peak for a thrilling experience.
Route of Sinhagad Fort Trek
Sinhagad Trek is moderately easy and can be carried out by novices as well. There are two routes you could take to reach the Sinhagad Fort. The first one is the Pune Darwaza (Pune Door), while the second one is the Kalyan Darwaza (Kalyan Door)
** Pune Darwaja Route For Sinhagad Trek**
Near the Sinhagad Village, you reach the Sinhagad Parking by car/ cab. If you are traveling by bus then you will reach the Sinhagad Bus Stand that is located nearby.
Once you reach the Sinhagad Parking near the Sunrise Point, the motorable road ends. From this point onwards your trek starts. The entry fees are INR 20 for all. The price may vary according to the season.
It will take you around 15 minutes to reach the Pune Door from Sinhagad Parking. Explore further as you climb high and discover the rugged interiors of the fort.
This is the easiest route to take located in the North-east. It will take you around 1.5 hours to reach the top of the fort.
Kalyan Darwaja Route for Sinhagad Trek
If you are up for a challenge then take the longer route starting from the Kalyan Darwaja. It is located in the South-east of the Sinhagad Fort owing to its strategic spot if compared with the Pune Darwaja.
Pass through rough terrains and fading basalt steps to reach the top of the Sinhagad Killa (Fort). This is a windy uneven route and you will come across sprawling open terrains.
Find huts, temples, and local sheds selling local produce along the way. This is ideal since you might go hungry and try local food such as Pithala Bhakri. You have to reach Sinhagad Horse stable and take a right to trek further to reach the top.
Avid trekkers choose this route to scale the fortress whereas novices go for the Pune Darwaja.
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Things To Note On Sinhagad Fort Trek
Both the routes of Sinhagad trek are full of signboards that ensure you don’t lose track of the trail. Even if you do wander off the route, make sure you ask for directions.
Don’t forget to take a camera along with you on the trek. Once you reach the top of the fort, you will be treated mesmerizing views of the Western Ghats as well as the Pune City. It is ideal to click as many pictures to make it memorable.
Carry lots of water along with you to keep yourself hydrated. Even if you run out of the water, the local vendors provide Lemon Juice and Buttermilk that are great sources of hydration.
Grab a bite of the local Maharashtrian cuisine. Trekking might make you hungry and hence it is must taste the local food available here that includes Bhakri Pitla And Curd. It namely consists of flatbreads, spicy onion chutney, and delicious curd mix.
Enjoy the fresh produce sold all over on the fort which includes freshly picked karwandas (berries), sliced Kairi(raw mango) spiced with special masala, salted steamed groundnuts, and crunchy cucumbers.**
Don’t forget to pay your respects to the Tahnaji Malusare Samadhi. The memorial of the martyred Maratha Commander consists of a bust of Malusare which is hard to miss.
Witness the marks of history at the Top Khana (Cannon Storehouse) which was used in those days to store all the weaponry.
A natural water spring runs along with the Sinhagad Fort. This is a pure water source that provides potable drinking water. You can refill your water bottles right here.
Avoid carrying too much weight in your backpack before trekking. It may make it difficult to climb.
There is no electricity available upon the fort, so make sure your electronic items are well charged. Carry a power bank as a backup.
Mobile connectivity works fine everywhere except once you reach the dense regions or on the top of the fort.
There are no ATMs beyond Sinhagad Parking and so it is advisable to carry lots of cash to pay for meals, food and entry fees.
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What to Pack and Things to Carry On Sinhagad Fort Trek
Sinhagad trek should go without any impending issues and therefore don’t forget to follow this list of Things to carry:
Luggage with trekking sack
Drinking water bottles
Spare clothes along with woolen clothes.
Sweater and other clothes as per the climate
Sunglasses, cap, sunscreen lotion, mosquito repellent, and moisturizer
A torch
Camera and binoculars (for pictures and sightseeing)
Rehydration powders, energy powders, and energy bars along with personal medicine
First-aid kit
Trekking shoes
Any Identity proof
Napkins, facewash, and tissue papers, etc.
Powerbank and spare batteries.