Sinhgad trekking is one of the most popular and exciting treks near Pune, Maharashtra. Situated about 30 km from Pune, the Sinhgad fort stands atop a hill, providing spectacular views and peeks into the history of the place. It offers the perfect blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty for all adventurers, whether beginners or seasoned trekkers. The Sinhgad trek has always been known to be moderately easy and goes through several very beautiful landscapes that also have ancient ruins that you’d get to explore.
Location
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Sinhgad Trek is located at Sinhgad Fort, which lies about 30 km southwest of Pune, Maharashtra. Situated on a hilltop with about 1300 metres of elevation, the fort provides wonderful views of the surrounding scenery consisting of valleys, hills, and lush vegetation. Beauty and closeness to the city make Sinhgad the perfect destination for nature lovers and a trekker together on their weekends.
How To Reach
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By various means of transport, Sinhgad is easily accessible from Pune.
By Road: The best way to reach Sinhgad is by road. Bus or drive from Pune to the base of the fort. The car ride consumes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
By Taxi: Taxis or cabs are available if you want a comfortable ride, it costs around Rs 600-800.
By Road: 30 km away from Pune on the route of Pune-Sinhgad Road.
Places To Visit Near Sinhgad Trekking
1. Sinhgad Fort Summit
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The Sinhgad Fort Top is certainly one of the most popular attractions while trekking and climbing. The hike to the top of the fort is moderately tough but quite worth it when you view the top. Moving around on the top, you see the ruins forming the fort, including old cannons, bastions, and temples of Lord Shiva and Goddess Kaalbhairav. Historic Significance: This fort holds strategic importance as it is a part of the Maratha Kingdom and offers panoramic views of the valleys and hill stations.
Entry Fee: Free
Location: On top of the Sinhgad Fort
Best Time To Visit: June to September, October to February
2. Tanaji Malusare Memorial
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The Tanaji Malusare Memorial is dedicated to the very brave Maratha warrior, Tanaji, who was an important part of the Battle of Sinhgad in the year 1670. The memorial is at a calm and historical place near the gate of the fort where trekking people can spend some time thinking about the heroism of Tanaji Malusare. So, in terms of the significance of Sinhgad Fort in Maratha’s history, this memorial adds much depth to it.
Entry Fee: Free
Location: Near the bottom of Sinhgad Fort
Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year
3. Kondana Caves
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Kondana Caves is a series of ancient Buddhist caves on the trek to Sinhgad Fort. Dating back to 1st BC, it is a sequence of rock-cut caves used by the Buddhist monks as a meditation place and even offers some quiet resting time when trekking and a glimpse into ancient architecture, carvings, and inscriptions. What makes trekkers feel history, spirituality, and nature?
Entry Fee: Free
Location: On Sinhgad Trekking trail, before the fort.
Best Time To Visit: Monsoons, June-September
4. Devil’s Point
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Devil’s Point is the thrilling point on the Sinhgad Trek trail, which promises breathtaking and awe-stricken views. This point provides an opportunity to stand at the edge of a sheer cliff overlooking the breathtaking panoramic views of valleys and hills down below. Devil’s Point is famous for its height and sheer drop; thus, everyone who’s an adventure lover loves taking a spree here. Although this might not be the best for people who are afraid of heights, the view makes it worthy of being visited by the more adventurous sorts of trekkers.
Entry Fee: Free
Location: Sinhgad Fort, near the summit
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or late afternoon
Where To Stay
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Kailas Mangal Karyalay and Hotel Sheetal in the village close to the Sinhgad Trekking site also provide accommodation for those planning to stay around the trekking site. These establishments have very few facilities but are within trekking distance. A much more primitive experience awaits you at Sinhgad Fort’s guest house, which will also stay in your memory due to its views. All this ensures convenience for an early start or extended exploration when you go on Sinhgad Trekking.
Where To Eat
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Shree Sinhgad Dhaba and Tandoor Restaurant are some of the popular restaurants near your Sinhgad Trekking route. These restaurants offer mouth-watering local Maharashtrian cuisine. Pithla-bhakar and sabudana khichdi, among many other delectable items on their menu, will sustain you well after a long day of trekking to the Sinhgad Fort. Remember several street vendors who sell chips and chai at the base of the fort, giving you the option to sample the most authentic flavours in this Sinhgad Trekking expedition.
Best Time To Visit
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The best time for trekking in Sinhgad is from October to March when the weather is cool. The temperature varies from 15°C to 30°C. Monsoon is also a good time from June to September if you enjoy seeing the greenery. However, the path might be slippery and difficult to navigate many times. The summer months, especially April-May, are quite hot and unsafe for trekking at many places.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of The Trek
The total cost for a Sinhgad trek may vary, but on average, transport cost is ₹500-1000, Food cost is ₹200-500 and entry fee is ₹25 (Indian) or ₹100 (Foreign) makes it a total Approximate Cost of ₹INR 800 – 2000 ($10 – 25)
Cash Payment: Carry cash since there are few ATMs at the destination. Any food joint or small shop accepts only cash; thus, carry enough for your trip.
Tips For Travellers
Trekking advice to have a safe and enjoyable Sinhgad tour, including carrying water and proper shoes
- Trek in good grip footwear.
- Carry enough water and snacks along with you.
- Carry along a hat, sunscreen and sunglasses to keep you from the sun.
- You can carry a camera along to bring home wonderful scenery.
- It is essential to hike as early as one can so that no one has to be stuck in the sweltering heat of the afternoon or the crowds that throng this site during weekends.
Sinhgad Trekking is history mixed up with natural beauty and adventure to make it the most famous trekking in Sinhgad, a must-do activity for any nature lover. It’s an excellent trek for all types of trekkers because it is accessible yet rewarding. Whether you are an amateur or an experienced trekker, Sinhgad Trekking ensures that it will be a journey you will never forget. Book your tour with us today, immerse yourself in this pivotal destination, and experience the grandeur and heritage of Sinhgad.
Cover Photo: DesiBoy101 / Wikimedia Commons