There are primarily two trekking routes from Lonavala to Rajmachi Fort, each offering different experiences in terms of difficulty, scenery, and duration. Here’s a breakdown of each:
1. Via Tungarli Lake and Fanasrai:
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Starting Point: Tungarli Lake, which you can reach by auto or taxi from Lonavala station.
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Route Description:
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Tungarli Lake to Fanasrai: Start by walking around Tungarli Lake, then continue on a gradual ascent towards Fanasrai village. This part is relatively easy with some road walking.
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Fanasrai to Udhewadi: From Fanasrai, you’ll take a forest trail through lush greenery. There’s a moderate climb, which gets steeper as you approach Udhewadi village. This section is known for its beautiful landscapes and occasional streams.
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Udhewadi to Rajmachi Fort: From Udhewadi, the final ascent to Rajmachi involves a more strenuous climb but is rewarding with panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
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Distance: Approximately 15 km one way.
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Duration: Can take about 4-5 hours one way for an average trekker, depending on breaks and pace.
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Difficulty: Moderate, especially due to the climb from Udhewadi to the fort.
2. Via Kurvande Village:
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Starting Point: Kurvande village, which is further from Lonavala compared to Tungarli, requiring a bit more travel to reach.
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Route Description:
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Lonavala to Kurvande: First, you need to get to Kurvande, either by hiring transport from Lonavala or by walking an additional distance from Tungarli or Lonavala itself.
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Kurvande to Rajmachi: The path from Kurvande leads through dense forests, offering a less trodden and more scenic route. This route has a mix of flat paths and some steep sections, especially as you near the fort.
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Distance: Around 17 km one way if you start from Kurvande.
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Duration: Takes roughly 5-6 hours one way, considering the trek starts further away.
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Difficulty: This route can be considered slightly more challenging due to its length and less maintained paths.
Common Points for Both Routes:
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Water Points: There are few natural water points along the way, so carrying enough water is advisable.
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Rest Points: Udhewadi village acts as a natural rest point for both routes where you can refill water, eat, or even stay overnight if you plan to camp or stay at a homestay.
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Navigation: Both routes are generally well-marked, but having a map or GPS can be beneficial, especially on less traveled paths like the Kurvande route.
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Safety: Always trek in groups, inform someone about your trek plan, and carry basic first aid. Be prepared for weather changes, especially during monsoon.
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Return: You can return via the same route or, if you’re feeling adventurous, take the other route back for a different experience (though this requires logistics for transport or an extra day of trekking).
Tips:
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Best Time: Post-monsoon to early summer is ideal for clearer views and less mud, but the monsoon season brings its own charm with greenery and waterfalls.
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Local Guide: While not strictly necessary, a local guide can enhance your experience with insights into the area’s history, flora, fauna, and ensure you don’t miss out on hidden scenic spots.
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Transport: Pre-arrange your return transport, especially if you’re trekking during peak times or planning to return late in the day.