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Songiri Fort, a hidden gem for history buffs and thrill-seekers, is nestled in the Sahyadri mountain region of Maharashtra, India. This historic fort dates to the Maratha era and provides stunning panoramic views of the lush foliage while giving a window into the region’s rich past. Its strategic location made it an important military station throughout history. The walk to Songiri Fort is relatively tricky, making it suitable for nature lovers and adventure seekers eager to discover a lesser-known yet fascinating piece of Maharashtra’s history.
Location
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Songiri Fort is located in the Sahyadri mountain range of Maharashtra, India, near Karjat in the Raigad district. It is located around 70 kilometres from Mumbai and 100 kilometres from Pune, making it an ideal weekend escape location. The fort’s hilltop position provides breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys, woods, and walking paths.
How To Reach Songiri Fort
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By Road: Songiri Fort can be reached from major cities like Pune and Mumbai because of its excellent road connections. Take the Mumbai-Pune Motorway from Mumbai (70 kilometres) or Pune (100 km) and exit at the Karjat interchange. The fort is located around 15 km from Karjat. Hire a cab or drive to Thakurwadi, the base hamlet, from whence the hike to Songiri Fort begins.
By Train: Karjat is the nearest railway station connecting Mumbai and Pune on the Central Railway line. To reach Thakurwadi village, the trek’s starting point, use a local cab or a state transit bus from Karjat station.
By Air: The nearest airport is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai, approximately 80 km from Karjat. After arriving in Mumbai, you may travel by car or train to Karjat before continuing to Thakurwadi.
Places To Visit Near Songiri Fort
Explore exciting places near Songiri Fort, which is ideal for history enthusiasts and environment lovers:
1. Karjat
Photo: Amit Jha / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Karjat is a lovely town in Maharashtra’s Raigad district, famous for its lush flora, gorgeous scenery, and rich history. It is located along the Ulhas River and is a starting point for various hiking routes, including Songiri Fort, Kondana Caves, and Peth Fort. Karjat is a favourite weekend destination for Mumbai and Pune, providing a peaceful vacation with activities such as trekking, river rafting, and visiting old caves.
Timings: Accessible year-round
Entry Fee:None; charges for specific activities like trekking or rafting may apply
2. Kondana Caves
Photo: Kevin Standage / Wikimedia Commons
The Kondana caves near Karjat in Maharashtra are a fantastic collection of ancient rock-cut caverns dating back to the first century BCE. Carved into the hills, these caverns have elaborate sculptures, chaityas (prayer halls), and viharas (monasteries) representing the region’s rich Buddhist past. The main cave has a giant stupa and magnificent sculptures, making it an important historical landmark. Surrounded by rich flora, the caverns provide a peaceful setting for exploration and meditation.
Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee:None, but a nominal fee may be charged for parking
3. Bhivpuri Waterfalls
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The Bhivpuri Waterfalls, in the town of Bhivpuri in Maharashtra’s Karjat area, are a breathtaking natural attraction, particularly during the monsoon season. Surrounded by rich foliage and spectacular scenery, the waterfalls rush down cliffs, producing a stunning spectacle and calming melody. The region is renowned for hiking, picnics, and photography, making it a favourite among nature enthusiasts and adventurers.
Best Time To Visit: Monsoon season
Entry Fee:None; charges may apply for parking
4. Peth Fort (Kothaligad)
Photo: Ankit Patel / Wikimedia Commons
Peth Fort, sometimes called Kothaligad, is a mediaeval hill fort in Maharashtra close to Karjat. Built in the 18th century, this fort is noted for its strategic location and breathtaking views of the neighbouring Sahyadri mountain range. The journey to Peth Fort is relatively tricky, making it popular with adventure seekers and trekking groups. The fort has ancient constructions, including rock-cut cisterns, a temple, and fragments of its fortress walls.
Timings: Open year-round
Entry Fee: None
5. Matheran Hill Station
Photo: Naveenjain431 / Wikimedia Commons
Matheran Hill Station, located in Maharashtra’s Western Ghats, is a lovely destination known for its breathtaking vistas, temperate atmosphere, and abundant foliage. Matheran, situated around 90 kilometres from Mumbai and 120 kilometres from Pune, is Asia’s only automobile-free hill station, offering a peaceful getaway from city life. The hill station has various overlooks, including Panorama Point and Echo Point, that provide beautiful views of the surrounding valleys and hills.
Major Attractions: Panorama point, Echo Point
Entry Fee: None; however, there is a charge for the toy train and parking
Where To Stay
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Visitors to Songiri Fort can discover a variety of hotel alternatives that suit their interests and budget. Karjat, just a short drive away, has cosy homestays and resorts like Durshet Forest Lodge and SaffronStays that combine nature and luxury. For a more adventurous experience, consider camping near the fort or staying at eco-friendly resorts where you can immerse yourself in nature. Matheran is another neighbouring alternative, with lovely hotels such as The Verandah in the Forest. Regardless of your preference, these lodgings offer a peaceful retreat and convenient access to the breathtaking scenery that surrounds Songiri Fort.
Where To Eat
Photo: Samdhal / Wikimedia Commons
Foodies may savour a range of gastronomic pleasures near Songiri Fort. Chhatrapati Restaurant, which specialises in North Indian food. Durshet Forest Lodge offers a unique dining experience with delicious meals made from locally available products. If you’re visiting Matheran, prominent restaurants like The Matheran Dining Room provide a variety of Indian and continental meals in a relaxing atmosphere. Roadside kiosks offer local delicacies for fast food, giving you many alternatives for refuelling after a day of touring.
Best Time To Visit
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The best time to visit Songiri Fort is in the winter, from October to February when the weather is nice and suitable for trekking. Temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C at this time, making it possible to explore the fort and its surroundings in relative comfort. The monsoon season, which runs from June to September, is trendy because the environment changes into a lush green paradise, with waterfalls and breathtaking views at their best.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of The Trip:
The typical trip cost to Songiri Fort varies depending on transportation, accommodations, and activities. A day excursion from Mumbai or Pune costs around ₹1,500 to ₹2,500 per person, which includes transportation, lunch and any entry fees or local guides. If staying overnight, consider an extra ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 for lodging. Weekend trips typically cost between ₹3,000 and ₹5,500, depending on personal preferences and travel options.
Tips For Travellers:
- Bring strong hiking shoes for improved grip and support.
- Stay hydrated throughout your walk. Carry plenty of water to avoid dehydration, especially in the warmer months.
- Bring some energy-boosting foods, such as almonds, energy bars or fruits, to keep you going during the trip.
- To escape the heat and catch the dawn, begin your trip early in the morning. This also provides a more serene feeling.
- Follow local standards to help maintain the area’s natural beauty. Avoid trash and keep to designated walkways.
- Review the weather forecast before your trip. The monsoon season may make trekking more complex, so prepare appropriately.
Songiri Fort is an excellent weekend getaway location since it combines adventure, history, and natural beauty. Whether walking to the fort, touring surrounding sights, or simply admiring the breathtaking scenery, the experience is highly gratifying. Book your trip with TripXL, where you can get customised travel packages and recommendations that will help make your vacation to Maharashtra even more memorable!
Cover Photo: Gonzalo Moreira / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
