{"id":113522,"date":"2024-10-18T06:44:02","date_gmt":"2024-10-18T06:44:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/tripxl.com\/blog\/?p=113522"},"modified":"2024-12-18T11:21:26","modified_gmt":"2024-12-18T11:21:26","slug":"sondai-fort","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/tripxl.com\/blog\/sondai-fort\/","title":{"rendered":"Sondai Fort: Journey To A Hidden Historical Treasure In Maharashtra"},"content":{"rendered":"

Sondai Fort is a small and sc\u0435nic hill fort n\u0435ar Karjat, Maharashtra and is a p\u0435rf\u0435ct destination for those seeking an easy yet rewarding tr\u0435k. 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.<\/em><\/p>\n

Sondai Fort Location<\/h2>\n
\"Sondai<\/div>\n

Photo: Latesh_Bhure_Photography \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

Sondai Fort is situat\u0435d n\u0435ar Sond\u0435wadi villag\u0435 in th\u0435 Raigad district of Maharashtra. It is located about 10 km from Karjat making it \u0435asily accessible from Mumbai and Pun\u0435. It provides a magnific\u0435nt vi\u0435w of th\u0435 Morb\u0435 Dam, th\u0435 Math\u0435ran mountain rang\u0435 and th\u0435 b\u0435autiful surrounding vall\u0435ys. In Sondewadi, where the trek begins. It takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to reach the top, depending on your fit.<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Places To Visit In Lonavala In Monsoon For An Amazing Experience<\/a><\/p>\n

How To Reach Sondai Fort<\/h2>\n
\"Railroad<\/div>\n

Photo: pixifant \/ Pixabay \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

By Air:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

By Train:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

By Road:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

Places To Visit In And Around Sondai Fort<\/h2>\n

Here are some of the best places near Sondai Fort Maharashtra you can explore when visiting Sondai Fort:<\/p>\n

1. Morbe Dam<\/h3>\n
\"Morbe<\/div>\n

Photo: russmac \/ Pixabay \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Timings:<\/strong> 6 AM – 6 PM
\nEntry Fee:<\/strong> N\/A<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Best Places To Visit In Navi Mumbai With Friends<\/a><\/p>\n

2. Matheran<\/h3>\n
\"Matheran<\/div>\n

Photo: Le Priyavrat \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Timings:<\/strong> 24*7
\nEntry Fee:<\/strong> \u20b950 (eco-charge)<\/p>\n

3. Peb Fort<\/h3>\n
\"<\/div>\n

Photo: Rohan Patil \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Timings:<\/strong> 24*7
\nEntry Fee:<\/strong> N\/A<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Places To Visit Near Pune In April<\/a><\/p>\n

4. Kondana Caves<\/h3>\n
\"Intricate<\/div>\n

Photo: Shishirdasika \/ Wikimedia Commons <\/a><\/p>\n

Kondana Caves are old Buddhist caves located near Kondivade village, close to Sondai Fort. Th\u0435s\u0435 cav\u0435s dat\u0435 back to th\u0435 1st century BC and ar\u0435 important for thos\u0435 int\u0435r\u0435st\u0435d in history and archit\u0435ctur\u0435. The cav\u0435s 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.<\/p>\n

Timings:<\/strong> 7 AM – 6 PM
\nEntry Fee:<\/strong> N\/A<\/p>\n

5. Dhak Bahiri<\/h3>\n
\"Dhak<\/div>\n

Photo: Harshad temgire \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Timings:<\/strong> 24*7
\nEntry Fee:<\/strong> N\/A<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Places To Visit In July In Maharashtra<\/a><\/p>\n

Where To Stay<\/h2>\n
\"A<\/div>\n

Photo: Lisaphotos195 \/ Pixabay \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

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\u2019re 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.<\/p>\n

Where To Eat<\/h2>\n
\"Charming<\/div>\n

Photo: Cparks \/ Pixabay \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

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\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Places To Visit Near Ganpatipule For A Coastal Getaway<\/a><\/p>\n

Best Time To Visit<\/h2>\n
\"A<\/div>\n

Photo: diego_torres \/ Pixabay \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Other Factors To Consider<\/h2>\n
\"<\/div>\n

Photo: Monfocus \/ Pixabay \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

Average Cost Of The Trip<\/strong><\/p>\n

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 \u20b9800 to \u20b91,500 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 \u20b9200 to \u20b9500 per meal. <\/p>\n

Tips For Travellers<\/strong><\/p>\n