Excellent choice! The second weekend of October is a fantastic time for trekking in Maharashtra. The monsoon has just receded, leaving the hills lush green, the waterfalls are still flowing, and the weather is pleasant and clear.
Since 11th and 12th October (Friday and Saturday) form a weekend, many popular treks will have organized groups heading out. Here is a curated list of treks, categorized by difficulty, perfect for that weekend.
🟢 Easy & Ideal for Beginners
Perfect for first-timers, families, or if you’re looking for a relaxed outing with stunning views.
1. Lohagad Fort
Why it’s great: One of the easiest and most rewarding forts. The climb is a well-paved stone path for most of the way.
Highlights: The famous ‘Vinchu Kata’ (Scorpion’s Tail) fortification, panoramic views of the Pawana Lake, and the massive gates.
Location: Near Lonavala.
2. Tikona Fort
Why it’s great: A short and steep climb that gets you to the top quickly. The views from the summit are breathtaking.
Highlights: 360-degree views of Pawana Lake, Tung, and Lohagad forts. The large entrance dome and the Trimbak Darwaja are impressive.
Location: Near Lonavala / Kamshet.
3. Korigad Fort
Why it’s great: You can drive almost all the way to the top! The final climb is a short 20-30 minute walk.
Highlights: Massive, intact fort walls, beautiful temples, and a huge plateau at the top. Perfect for a picnic.
Location: Near Lonavala / Aamby Valley.
🟡 Moderate & Popular (The Best of Both Worlds)
These require a bit more effort but offer a fantastic sense of achievement and spectacular scenery.
1. Rajmachi Fort (Shrivardhan & Manranjan)
Why it’s great: A classic trek that can be done via two routes: a simpler one from Kondivade village or a more adventurous one from Lonavala (the famous Tungarli route).
Highlights: The ancient Shrivardhan and Manranjan forts, the beautiful Kal Bhairav temple, and the serene Rajmachi Lake. Staying overnight in the village at the base is a unique experience.
Location: Near Lonavala.
2. Visapur Fort
Why it’s great: The twin of Lohagad, but a more challenging climb with rocky patches and a more “jungle” feel.
Highlights: Stunning views of Lohagad and the Pawana valley. The fort is known for its huge walls, old houses, and a beautiful Mahadev temple.
Location: Near Lonavala.
3. Ratangad Fort
Why it’s great: A beautiful trek through dense forests, culminating in a stunning fort with a unique natural rock formation.
Highlights: The famous ‘Nedhe’ or ‘Needle Hole’ point, the four gates (Ganesh, Hanuman, Konkan, Trimbak), and breathtaking views of the surrounding Sahyadris. Often combined with a stay at the base village Ratanwadi.
Location: Near Bhandardara / Igatpuri.
🔴 Challenging & Thrilling
For seasoned trekkers looking for an adrenaline rush and a true test of endurance.
1. Harishchandragad
Why it’s great: A trekker’s paradise. It’s known for its tough climb, ancient history, and one of the most famous cliffs in the Sahyadris.
Highlights: The breathtaking Konkan Kada (a concave cliff face), the ancient Kedareshwar cave with a Shivling, and the Taramati peak (the highest point on the fort). A night camping under the stars here is unforgettable.
Location: Near Malshej Ghat.
2. Alang, Madan, and Kulang (AMK) Trek
Why it’s great: Considered one of the toughest treks in Maharashtra. It involves traversing three massive forts and is a true endurance test, usually done over 2-3 days.
Highlights: The ultimate sense of adventure, rock climbing patches (requires technical knowledge or an expert group), and unparalleled views from the top. Only for highly experienced trekkers with proper gear and guidance.
Location: Near Igatpuri / Nashik.
3. Kalsubai Peak
Why it’s great: The highest peak in Maharashtra (5400 ft). The climb is strenuous but non-technical, with iron ladders and railings to help in the steep sections.
Highlights: The pride of conquering the “Everest of Maharashtra,” a small temple at the summit, and a 360-degree panoramic view of the entire Sahyadri range.
Location: Near Bhandardara.
Crucial Planning & Booking Information for 11th-12th Oct
Since it’s a weekend, you must plan in advance.
How to Book Your Trek:
Join a Trekking Group (Recommended for most people):
This is the easiest and safest option. They handle transport (from Mumbai/Pune), guides, food, and sometimes camping gear.
Popular Groups: Search for Trek Mates India, Trekdi, Indiahikes, Wandering Souls, Mumbai Travellers on Facebook or Google.
Action: Go to their websites or social media pages right now and look for events scheduled for the weekend of 11th-12th October. Most of them will have batches for Lohagad, Rajmachi, Kalsubai, and Harishchandragad.
Plan Your Own Trek:
Transport: Use local trains to reach the nearest station (e.g., Lonavala for Lohagad, Kasara for Harishchandragad) and then take a local tum-tum (shared jeep) or state transport bus to the base village.
Guide: It’s highly recommended to hire a local guide from the base village. They know the paths well and share interesting stories.
Food & Water: Carry enough water (at least 2-3 litres) and some snacks. You can get simple local food at the base village.
What to Carry:
Good Quality Trekking Shoes (with grip) – Most Important!
Backpack (20-30 litres)
At least 2 litres of water
Raincoat/Poncho (October can have unexpected showers)
Energy-rich snacks (Protein bars, fruits, chikki)
Cap/Hat and Sunscreen
First-aid kit (with band-aids, antiseptic, personal medications)
Extra pair of clothes
Torch/Headlamp (essential if you plan to start early or stay late)
A light jacket for the evening/morning
Enjoy your trek! The Sahyadris are calling, and that weekend is the perfect time to answer.