• Maharashtra
  • Trekking
  • 2
  • ₹ 3300 - ₹ 3300

Rajgad Fort Trek TripsDone

Rajgad Trek+Camp+Rappel Adventure (Ex-Pune)
days 2

Rajgad Fort Trek

About Rajgad Fort trek

The trek to Rajgad Fort is spectacularly scenic. This place welcomes you with fresh, clean air and an abundance of greenery. Located at an elevation of 4600 feet above sea level, the Rajgad trek is glorious during the monsoon.

About Rajgad Fort

Rajgad is a fort situated on top of a hill called Murumbadevi Dongar lying on the outskirts of Pune city. Known as ‘The King of Forts’, the Rajgad fort is of great historical significance. It was the capital of the Maratha Empire under the rule of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj for almost three decades. Formerly known as Murumdev, the fort offers spectacular views of Sahyadri Mountains from atop. One can also catch breathtaking views of the Bhatghar Dam and spot the Sinhagad and Torna fort.

Camping at Rajgad Fort

Camping is extremely enjoyable at Rajgad fort. You can spend the night in tents, under starry skies at a beautiful campsite near the fort and enjoy barbeque and dinner. Another exciting option is the Padmavati temple, which has its doors open for those who do not have tents to camp in. You can also camp in Rameshwaram Temple which lies in the front yard of Padmavati temple. There are plenty of things to see and do. Hence, it’s always recommended to stay overnight to explore the fort the next morning. The sight of a beautiful golden sunrise is also an added bonus.

What you will see

You will see the Padmavatee Machee which was used as a stronghold to protect the fort during the Maratha rule. You will explore (and take shelter in) the Padmavati temple and the Rameshwaram Temple. You will also explore the ruins of Alu Darwaja, a door that used to go to Torna Fort, and Pali Darwaja, the main door of Rajgad which remains intact to this day. You will behold the Balekilla which is the topmost point of the fort and can be reached by climbing a steep route with the assistance of the railings. You will also glimpse stunning views of Torna Fort and Sinhagad Fort.

There are various routes to reach Rajgad. The Vajeghar-Pali route is the easiest but the longest. The Gunjawane route is a little tough. It leads you to the Chor Darwaja and takes around 2 to 3 hours of trekking. An unpopular route is the Bhor route, where you head from Bhor to Bhutonde village and trek for 3-4 hours to the Alu Darwaja of Rajgad.

Rajgad Trek Summary

  • State: Maharastra
  • Nearest city: Pune
  • Total days: 2 days
  • Grade: Moderately challenging
  • Max altitude: 4600 feet
  • Total trekking distance: 8 km
  • Season: July to march
  • Avg temperature: 12 to 37 degrees Celsius

Sketch itinerary:

Day 1: Trekking and camping

  • Total trekking distance: 8 kms
  • Total trekking time: 4 hrs
  • Overnight stay in tents

Day 2: Rappelling and return

  • Enjoy waterfall rappelling
  • Head back to Pune
Detailed itinerary:

Day 1: Trekking and camping

Your operator will pick you up from Bavdhan, Pune at 07:00 hrs and drive you to the Rajgad fort base. From there, you'll begin to ascend the spectacular Murumbadevi Dongar. After a few hours you'll reach the monumental Rajgad fort entrance. You’ll journey on inside the fort and explore its intricacy and learn about its historical significance.

You can then bask in the beauty of the fort and admire the magnificent views as you eat some healthy snacks atop the fort. After a little more exploration you will descend back to the base and be driven to the campsite. Once at the campsite you can enjoy delicious BBQ and dinner. Overnight in tents.

Day 2: Rappelling and return

Today, you'll wake up early in the morning and witness a breathtaking sunrise. It will freshen you up for the day's adventure activities. After breakfast, you'll engage in a thrilling rappelling session over a waterfall after which you'll head back to the campsite for lunch. You can then relax at the campsite taking in the beauty of Rajgad. You'll leave at about 15:00 hrs. and be driven back to Pune. Your trip ends here.

Inclusions:

Your Rajgad trek package includes all transport from Pune-Pune as per itinerary in a private vehicle with all entry fees. You’ll enjoy a guided informative tour at Rajgad fort. Accommodation for 1 night in twin-sharing tents, equipped with sleeping bags, mats and the use of 2 toilets, 1 bathroom will be arranged. Your package also includes the following meals: Snacks at the fort, BBQ (approximately 350 gms of veg/non-veg per person) on Day 1, Buffet dinner (veg/non-veg) on Day 1, Breakfast on Day 2 and Lunch on Day 2.

Some packages include a waterfall rappelling session, all equipment required for it and the services of a guide for the adventure activity. The package is all inclusive of taxes. Please check with the operator for details.

Exclusions:

Any meals or snacks, any adventure activities or anything not mentioned in the inclusions will be additional. Any kind of personal expenses and insurance are also not included.

Best time to go/Weather

The best time to undertake the Rajgad Fort Trek is between the months of July and March during the monsoon and winter seasons.

The intense heat of the summer really dries out the land. Once the rain showers its blessings, the whole place becomes a monsoon paradise with lush greenery all around. Trekking is beautiful and fantastic during the monsoon; however, pay heed to slippery grounds.

Winter season is cool, pleasant and extremely ideal for camping.

Rajgad Fort is located at a distance of around 208 kms from Mumbai and 65 kms from Pune. Pune is well connected to other parts of India by railways and roadways. Mumbaikars have to make their way to Pune to begin this trek. One can catch a train or bus going to Pune.

The operator will pick you up from Pune and arrange your transport to the starting point of the Rajgad trek.

While trekking, wear comfortable apparel such as track pants and t-shirts and a pair of good, sturdy shoes (preferably waterproof). Layer up with a warm jacket and windcheater to protect yourself from the cold and rain. Wear quick dry sports clothes for other activities.

All necessary trekking and camping equipment will be provided by your operator. Other than that, you will have to carry your personal toiletries, rainwear, extra clothes, sunglasses and sunscreen.

There are multiple trekking routes for Rajgad Fort Trek with varying levels of difficulty. Beginners can go for the easier route while adventure-seekers with some experience can take the longer, slightly difficult route. It is recommended that you maintain a fitness schedule so you don't tire easily.

Rajgad Fort Trek - Frequently Asked Questions

There are various trekking routes for Rajgad Fort Trek that vary with difficulty. Beginners can try the easier route while adventure-seekers with some experience can take the longer, slightly difficult route. It is recommended that you maintain a fitness schedule so you don't tire easily

Make sure you carry a sturdy pair of shoes that are comfortable. Pack a raincoat if you're going in the monsoon and a warm jacket if you're going during the winters. Always carry sunscreen, sunglasses, cap and insect repellent. You’ll find a complete packing list on our blog, What to Pack for Trekking in the Sahyadris.

If you enjoy the rains, you should go for a monsoon trek to Rajgad from July to September. The grey rain clouds, the white mist and the lush greenery of the Sahyadris are a perfect backdrop against the imposing fort. It's a truly scenic trek in Maharashtra.

This trek is not recommended for children below 15 years as some of the routes can get really steep and tricky. The trails are also super slippery during the monsoons. Hence, this trek would be dangerous and unsafe for kids.

The Rajgad trek is moderately challenging. The difficulty depends on the route you choose. It takes approximately 2 1/2 hours to reach to the top via Pali and 3 1/2 hours via Gunjawane. This route can get really tricky and requires an expert guide and some rock climbing.