Naneghat Fort Trek

Naneghat Fort is atop a mountain pass in the Western Ghats and was once used to connect seaports in the west coast to the interiors. The pass is rocky, with high stone walls and a boulder-strewn trail that leads up to the Naneghat Plateau. There is also a man-made cave at the top, with inscriptions inside. Naneghat Pass is closer to Pune than Mumbai and is about 120 km from Pune and 160 km from Mumbai.

About the Naneghat trek:

The Naneghat trek is moderate challenging and is suitable for trekkers who have some experience or very fit first-timers. This is because you will experience strong winds on the climb and in the past, and will have to negotiate slippery patches while scrambling over boulders.

During monsoon, you might have to trek through gushing water that runs down from the pass. With an elevation of 2460 feet, the views from the top make the Naneghat trek worthwhile.

Route for the Naneghat trek:

Most trekking groups assemble at Kalyan railway station before heading out to the Naneghat trek. After a short round of introductions, and a briefing by the trek leaders, you’ll set off towards Naneghat. You may choose to eat breakfast here because the start point of the trek is about an hour’s ride away from Kalyan railway station. From here, you'll begin your trek to Naneghat.

The trek takes about 2-3 hours one way, and you’ll have time to explore the top and eat lunch here. You’ll descend after lunch, and will return to Kalyan railway station to begin the return journey to Mumbai or Pune.

Best time to visit Naneghat:

Monsoon treks to Naneghat Fort are great fun! The route is lush and green, and you’ll have cool weather for the trek. From the top, you’ll see the rolling Sahyadris, with dramatic monsoon skies above. However, be prepared to get soaked and muddy! You can also do the Naneghat trek in the winter, but make sure you start early as the sun can get warm even in winter

Naneghat fort trek summary

• State: Maharashtra
• Nearest city: Mumbai, Pune
• Total days: 1-2 days
• Grade: Easy
• Total trekking distance: 9 km
• Season: Monsoon/ All year around
• Avg temperature: 15 to 30 degrees Celsius

Best time to go/Weather

Naneghat Fort is open all year round. The most popular time for the majority of the treks in Maharashtra are the monsoons. The Sahyadris are flowing with plenty of waterfalls and swollen rivers and streams all across. The greenery has carpeted the hills and valleys. The birds and insects create a cacophony of sounds. Of course, the trails are a bit more challenging and tricky as they become slippery due to the rains.

These treks are also a great option to be done in winter as the weather is very cool and pleasant and a perfect opportunity for bonfires.

Summers are pretty hot in Maharashtra; however, the night treks in summer are a perfect escape away from the city heat.