Trek to Sinhagad Fort (2024)

Embark on a thrilling trek to Sinhagad Fort, a historic marvel nestled in the rugged hills surrounding Pune. This adventurous journey promises breathtaking views and a dose of adrenaline for avid trekkers. Discover the rich history enshrined in the fort’s ancient walls as you ascend through scenic trails.

The trek offers a perfect blend of nature and heritage, with each step unveiling the captivating stories of the past. Wear your trekking gear, feel the earth beneath your feet, and immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of Sinhagad Fort.

It’s worth noting that in India, even a hike is aptly referred to as a trek.

A friend based in Pune recommended the Sinhagad Fort trek, ensuring it would be a delightful experience. True to their words, the trek exceeded my expectations. The path presented a satisfying challenge, the scenic views were truly spectacular, and the fort itself proved to be a remarkable historical gem. As my friend suggested, the trek to Sinhagad Fort was a perfect blend of adventure and history, offering a glimpse into the fascinating legacy of the Maratha Empire.

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About Sinhagad Fort

Perched on an isolated cliff in the Sahyadri mountains, Sinhagad Fort, formerly known as Kondhana, is a testament to Pune’s history. This formidable fort has witnessed numerous battles, one of the most notable being the Battle of Sinhagad in 1670.

Led by Tanaji Malusare, a brave general of the Maratha Empire, the battle aimed to reclaim the fort from the Mughals. Despite the unfortunate loss of Tanaji during the fierce fight, the Marathas emerged victorious, marking Sinhagad as the first fort to be recaptured from the Mughals.

In a poignant tribute to Tanaji’s bravery, the fort was renamed Sinhagad, meaning Lion’s Fort, symbolizing the indomitable spirit and courage displayed by Tanaji in the face of adversity. This historical landmark echoes the stories of resilience and courage etched into the annals of the Maratha Empire.

Based on available information, it is indicated that Sinhagad Fort dates back around 2000 years. The fort holds significant landmarks, including a memorial for Tanaji and a tomb for Rajaram.

Sinhagad Fort holds a significant place in India’s struggle for independence. Bal Gandagdhar Tilak, recognized as “The Father of Indian Unrest,” utilized the fort as a summer retreat. It is historically believed that Mahatma Gandhi, often called “The Father of the Nation,” had a meaningful meeting with Tilak at this very location. The fort thus became a backdrop for pivotal discussions and gatherings during a crucial period in India’s quest for freedom.

Today, Sinhagad Fort is still a famous cultural site visited frequently on Independence Day on August 15th. It’s common for travellers to make an Independence Day poster or dress in the colours of the Indian flag when exploring this historic site on Independence Day.

Best Time To Trek To Sinhagarh Fort

For an optimal visit, the recommended times are winter (November, December, and January), spring (February and March), and autumn (September and October). Summers (April and May) bring scorching heat, while the rainy season (June to August) can make the trek challenging due to muddy paths.

Despite the trek’s difficulty in the monsoon season, the Sahyadri mountains showcase breathtaking beauty with lush greenery and refreshing breezes. This experience transcends description, offering a sensation that must be personally felt to be fully appreciated.

How to Get to the Starting Point of the Trek?

The most convenient approach to reach the fort is by car. Alternatively, driving directly to Sinhagad Fort is possible instead of trekking from Sinhagad Payatha.

• By Road – The mountain’s base is approximately 38 kilometres from Pune city. The optimal means of reaching is either by driving or hiring a taxi. In our case, we opted for an Ola Outstation cab, which amounted to around INR 2000.

• By Public Transport – Buses operate between Shaniwar Wada and Sinhagad Payatha. To get accurate information about bus stops and timings, consult with the locals or contact the Pune Municipal Corporation.
• Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) manages the bus service, precisely bus route number 50, connecting the two locations.

Trek to Sinhagad Fort

Sinhagad Fort is a highly sought-after hiking spot in Pune, drawing large crowds, especially on weekends. It qualifies as a moderate one-day trek, primarily due to the absence of defined steps, requiring trekkers to navigate a muddy path, adding difficulty to the journey.

Strategically positioned on a hill, Sinhagad Fort was ingeniously constructed to exploit the natural steep slopes, enhancing its defensive capabilities. The fort’s location showcases a thoughtful utilization of the terrain for added protection.

• Starting and finishing point: Sinhagad Payatha.
• Total distance: 4.4 kilometres return.
• Grade: Easy to Moderate.
  • The trail is well-marked, ensuring that trekkers won’t lose their way. The trek is categorized as moderate due to a few steep climbs and the necessity to traverse a muddy path.
  • Over a distance of 2.2 kilometres, trekkers ascend a notable 600 meters in elevation. The challenge is heightened during the rainy season, making the muddy path more demanding than usual.
• Suitable for: Beginners.
• Time taken: 3 to 4 hours return.
• Type of Trek: Return.
• Avoid littering on both the fort premises and the trail. Dispose of waste responsibly in the available rubbish bins strategically placed at every point.
• Ensure you wear comfortable and sturdy shoes for the trek, unlike my choice.
• Don’t forget to carry ample water to stay hydrated throughout the trail.

Eateries and Indian Snacks

Numerous street vendors can be found at the entrance of Sinhagad Fort and within its premises. The food offerings are not only incredibly affordable but also fresh and delicious. I highly recommend trying the various snacks and fritters (pakoras) available – a delightful treat for your taste buds.

At certain spots, you’ll witness the culinary magic happening right before your eyes. The paranthas, in particular, are an absolute delight. My friend and I found ourselves indulging in a gastronomic adventure, spending a significant amount of time savouring the delicious offerings.

Facilities

• Drinking Water – Shops around offer packaged and bottled drinking water for purchase. If you opt for tap water or water from a restaurant kitchen, treating the water before consumption is strongly advised. Prioritize safety by ensuring water is adequately treated before drinking.
• Toilets – Toilet facilities are available within the fort premises, with a nominal fee of INR 5. This small charge contributes to the regular maintenance and cleaning of the toilets, ensuring a hygienic environment for all visitors.

Forts in India
Rayadurga Fort (Andhra Pradesh)
Red Fort (Delhi)
Zorawar Fort (Ladakh)
Bangalore Fort (Karnataka)
Chitradurga Fort (Karnataka)
Gudibande Fort (Karnataka)
Ballalarayana Durga Fort (Karnataka)
Channarayana Durga Fort (Karnataka)
Panhala Fort (Maharashtra)
Sinhagad Fort (Maharashtra)
Palakkad Fort (Kerala)
Rayakottai Fort (Tamil Nadu)
Gingee/Senji Fort (Tamil Nadu)
Golconda Fort (Telangana)
Rani Durgavati Fort (Madhya Pradesh)

Is the Trek to Sinhagad Fort Safe for Solo Female Trekkers?

The trekking trail is frequently populated, making it a busy and generally safe track. However, exercising caution is advised, especially during the taxi ride to the trek’s base and after dark, when safety concerns may arise. In summary, it’s recommended to trek this trail with a buddy or in a group. Personally, I explored Sinhagad Fort with a companion, enhancing the overall sense of safety during the trek.

Closing Notes

I’ve heard that dedicating a minimum of 3 to 4 months is essential to thoroughly explore all the forts surrounding Pune, with Sinhagad Fort serving as the starting point for this exploration. I’m planning to return to the city, reside there for a few months, and immerse myself in the captivating beauty of these forts.

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