The Lesser Known Fort Treks of Maharashtra

One can visit this scintillating fort trek in Pune district situated 20 km from Lonavala throughout the year. There are two distinct routes to reach the top - one is from the Ambavne village while the other starts from the Peth Shahpur village. Both routes are quite hospitable and upon reaching the top one can enjoy near the two lakes which are present there. There is also a central temple of Korai Devi, the patron goddess of the place in addition to smaller temples of Vishnu and Shiva. Walking around the entire boundary of the fort can also be quite breathtaking due to the view which can be enjoyed from there. 
 

The Tikona trek is situated at a distance of 60 km from Pune near Kamshet. The hill fort is in a pyramid-shaped structure at a staggering height of about 3,500 feet from the sea level. However, the fort trek to the place is easy and can be completed within a day. It has some Satvahan Caves, few large doors along with the Trimbakeshwar Mahadev temple and seven water tanks. 

There is also a spectacular lake at the top and one can get a scenic view of the Pawna Dam from this place. This fort trek can be quite easy while at the same time there can be moments of sheer thrill.  
 

This fort trek in Lonavla at an altitude of 3,450 feet above sea level was made during the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and it seats on the side of the Sahyadri mountain ranges. It cuts into half the basins of the Pavna and Indranayi so that while climbing up, a tourist can feel the freshness of the place in ample measure. Sufficient greenery is there all around and the two-and-half to three-hour trek can also be quite easy for every visitor. One can see the four gigantic gates of the Lohagarh Fort that are preserved to this day. Along with it, one can also see the Hanuman Darwaja, Ganesh Darwaja as well as the Narayan Darwaja over here.
 

This fort trek is only 4-km from the Nerul station and offers considerable excitement for trekkers especially during the monsoon season. It is a medium difficulty level trek at an altitude of 2,100 feet from the sea level and interspersed with rocky paths, caves, and moist forest all through its route. The name "Vikatgad" comes from its resemblance to Lord Ganesha although the name is taken from Goddess Pebi. Legend has it that the caves of the fort were used by Chattrapati Shivaji Maharaj to store grains and foodstuffs during the time. 
 

The Ratangad fort is at a massive height of 4,250 feet above sea-level and presents interested tourists with an amazing opportunity for trekking a medium difficulty path. The remains of this old fort are there in the forest of the Bhandardara Hills and the stone walls of the fort can be quite inspiring telling the tale of those times while one climbs up. The picturesque Sahyadri ranges can be seen from its natural rock peak in all its glory. There is also an interesting depression on the top of the peak that is known as the "Nedhe" or "Eye of the Needle".

Fort treks are very popular in Maharashtra and there are many popular ones too that people like to participate especially during the monsoon season. The ones mentioned here may not be as popular as the others but for every adrenaline junkie, they can provide the needed kick that is required for going on any trekking expedition. The best part of all of it is that these treks are comparatively easier so that children and senior citizens can also participate in them. So, what are you waiting for? Make a plan and hit the road with your team!