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Sondai Fort is a small and scеnic hill fort nеar Karjat, Maharashtra and is a pеrfеct destination for those seeking an easy yet rewarding trеk. Sondai Fort is known for its stunning views of the surrounding area and is less crowded than other famous forts in Maharashtra, making it an excellent place for nature lovers and trekkers. The fort is named after the local goddess Sondai Devi. While it doesn’t have much importance in history, its natural beauty and expansive views of the Matheran range attract many visitors.
Sondai Fort Location
Photo: Latesh_Bhure_Photography / Wikimedia Commons
Sondai Fort is situatеd nеar Sondеwadi villagе in thе Raigad district of Maharashtra. It is located about 10 km from Karjat making it еasily accessible from Mumbai and Punе. It provides a magnificеnt viеw of thе Morbе Dam, thе Mathеran mountain rangе and thе bеautiful surrounding vallеys. In Sondewadi, where the trek begins. It takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to reach the top, depending on your fit.
How To Reach Sondai Fort
Photo: pixifant / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
By Air: The nearest airport is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai, about 90 km away. You can hire a taxi from the airport or take public transport to Karjat and then proceed to Sondewadi.
By Train: The closest railway station is Karjat Railway Station, located about 12 km from the base village of Sondewadi. You can take a local train from Mumbai or Pune to Karjat and hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach Sondewadi.
By Road: Sondewadi is well connected by road. From Mumbai, you can drive via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway to Karjat, and from there, take the Karjat-Khopoli road to reach Sondewadi. The total distance is about 70 km.
Places To Visit In And Around Sondai Fort
Here are some of the best places near Sondai Fort Maharashtra you can explore when visiting Sondai Fort:
1. Morbe Dam
Photo: russmac / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Morbe Dam is a beautiful spot located close to Sondai Fort. This dam, built on the Dharavi River, is the primary source of water supply for the nearby regions. Green hills surround it and offer a peaceful setting, perfect for a quiet retreat amidst nature. You can enjoy the sight of the calm water body with hills reflecting on its surface, making it an ideal spot for photography or a brief rest after your trek to Sondai Fort. It is also a great location for picnics, with its peaceful ambience adding to the experience.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: N/A
2. Matheran
Photo: Le Priyavrat / Wikimedia Commons
Matheran is a popular hill station near Karjat and is well-known for its cool climate, dense forests, and wonderful viewpoints. The Panorama Point, Monkey Point, and Echo Point are major attractions offering spectacular views of the surrounding valleys. Matheran is also famous for being an eco-sensitive region, with no vehicles allowed inside the hill station, making it a peaceful and pollution-free destination. If you’re visiting Sondai Fort, a day trip to Matheran is highly recommended for its scenic beauty and refreshing atmosphere.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: ₹50 (eco-charge)
3. Peb Fort
Photo: Rohan Patil / Wikimedia Commons
A great trekking spot near Karjat is Peb Fort, also called Vikatgad Fort. It’s named after the local goddess Pebi Devi, and the hike to the top is both challenging and exciting for adventure lovers. The fort provides panoramic views of the Matheran range, Panvel, and the surrounding valleys. The path to Peb Fort passes through dense forests, streams, and rocky patches, making it a thrilling trek. The fort’s ruins and the mesmerising views from the top make it a famous place near Sondai Fort, a spot for trekkers who enjoy historical sites combined with natural beauty.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: N/A
4. Kondana Caves
Photo: Shishirdasika / Wikimedia Commons
Kondana Caves are old Buddhist caves located near Kondivade village, close to Sondai Fort. Thеsе cavеs datе back to thе 1st century BC and arе important for thosе intеrеstеd in history and architеcturе. The cavеs feature intricately carved sculptures, stupas and vihara halls. The path to the caves is a short trek through a forest, which makes the journey even more delightful, making it one of the best places near Sondai Fort. The surrounding greenery, along with the ancient architecture of the caves, offers a calming and spiritual experience.
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: N/A
5. Dhak Bahiri
Photo: Harshad temgire / Wikimedia Commons
Dhak Bahiri is a cave temple near Dhak village known for its challenging and adventurous trekking. The cave is perched high on a vertical cliff and offers spectacular views of the Sahyadri ranges. The trek to Dhak Bahiri is considered one of the most difficult treks in Maharashtra due to its steep and rocky terrain. This is a great place for thrill-seekers to visit if they want to combine adventure with spirituality. The temple inside the cave is dedicated to Lord Bahiri, attracting devotees and trekkers alike.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: N/A
Where To Stay
Photo: Lisaphotos195 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
For those planning to stay near Sondai Fort, several accommodation options are available in Karjat and the surrounding areas. One popular choice is the Modi’s Resort, located near Khopoli, offering luxurious rooms and modern amenities like a swimming pool and a spa. Karjat Heritage Resort is a great place for those seeking a more budget-friendly option, offering basic yet comfortable rooms with beautiful surroundings. If you’re up for an adventure, camping near the village or the fort itself is a great option, allowing you to immerse yourself in the area’s natural beauty.
Where To Eat
Photo: Cparks / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
After a refreshing trek, you’ll find several eateries and dhabas near Karjat that serve authentic Maharashtrian food. Shri Krishna Restaurant in Karjat is a well-known spot that offers delicious thalis and local dishes. For those who prefer a more relaxed dining experience, Dada’s Grill serves various Indian and continental dishes. Try local Maharashtrian delicacies like Misal Pav, Vada Pav, and Bhakri with Pithla. Some small food stalls near the base village also provide basic snacks and drinks to replenish your energy after the trek.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: diego_torres / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The best time to visit Sondai Fort is during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, between June and February. During this period, the fort and the surrounding region are lush with greenery, and the weather is cool and pleasant, perfect for trekking. The rainy season enhances the beauty of the landscape, with waterfalls and streams adding to the region’s charm. However, it is essential to exercise caution while trekking during the monsoon due to slippery trails. Winters are also ideal, as the temperatures remain moderate, making the hike more comfortable and enjoyable.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Monfocus / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
The trip cost to Sondai Fort is quite affordable, making it a budget-friendly trekking destination. If you’re travelling from Mumbai or Pune, your average expenses will range from ₹800 to ₹1,500 per person. This includes transportation, food, and incidental expenses like entry fees to nearby attractions. Meals at local eateries are reasonably priced, with an average cost of ₹200 to ₹500 per meal.
Tips For Travellers
- Comfortable, sturdy shoes are essential for the trek due to the rocky and uneven terrain.
- There are limited food options near the fort, so pack your supplies and essentials.
- Start your trek early to avoid the midday heat and ensure a more comfortable climb.
- Avoid littering and be mindful of the environment to help preserve the area’s natural beauty.
- Carry a good-quality camera to capture amazing Sondai Fort pictures from the top.
- Check weather conditions before planning your trip, especially during the monsoon.
Sondai Fort is a perfect destination for those who want to experience a blend of history, nature, and adventure. The trek is easy to moderate, making it accessible to beginners and seasoned trekkers. With its panoramic views of the Matheran range, Morbe Dam, and the surrounding landscapes, Sondai Fort offers an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit with TripXL, and let us take care of your journey to this beautiful destination.
Cover Photo: Latesh_Bhure_Photography / Wikimedia Commons
