Lohagad Fort (Iron Fort) is one of the most iconic and beginner-friendly treks in the Sahyadri range, located near Lonavala in Maharashtra. Perched at 3,400 feet above sea level, Lohagad offers a mix of history, nature, and adventure with panoramic views of the Pawna Lake, lush green hills, and the famous “Vinchu Kata” (Scorpion tail) fortification.
📍 Location & Map
- District: Pune, Maharashtra
- Base Village: Malavli
- Nearest Cities: Lonavala (11 km), Pune (65 km), Mumbai (95 km)
- Google Maps (Base): Malavli Station – Lohagad Fort
🛤️ How to Reach Lohagad Fort
🚆 By Train:- Take a local train on the Lonavala–Pune route and get down at Malavli Station.
- From the station, it’s a 2.5–3 km walk or drive to Bhaje village (base of the trek).
- You can also take an auto from Malavli to Bhaje.
- From Lonavala, drive via Bhaja Caves Road to Lohagadwadi.
- Parking is available at the base if you’re driving your own car or two-wheeler.
🥾 Trek Trail & Difficulty
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Starting Point | Bhaje or Lohagadwadi village |
| Trek Duration | ~1.5 to 2 hours (one way) |
| Difficulty | Easy (Beginner-friendly) |
| Elevation | ~3,400 ft (1,036 m) |
| Trail Type | Steps + Stone paths + Rocky trail |
The trail includes a well-marked route with stone steps, a forest patch, and scenic views throughout. During monsoon, expect fog, slippery surfaces, and flowing water along the path.
🌦️ Best Time to Visit
| Season | Experience |
|---|---|
| Monsoon (June–Sept) | Waterfalls, misty valleys, lush greenery |
| Post-Monsoon (Oct–Feb) | Clear views, pleasant climate, ideal for photos |
| Avoid Summer (Mar–May) | Hot and dry with little shade |
📸 Things to Do at Lohagad Fort
- Explore the massive fort gates and bastions.
- Walk along the Vinchu Kata ridge – shaped like a scorpion’s tail.
- Visit ancient water tanks and cannons.
- Enjoy panoramic views of Pawna Lake and Visapur Fort.
- Great spot for sunset photography during post-monsoon.
🗺️ Nearby Attractions
- Bhaje Caves: Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves just below the fort trail.
- Visapur Fort: A tougher trek that starts from the same base as Lohagad.
- Pawna Lake: Great for camping, just 15–20 km away.
- Lonavala City: Famous for chikki, viewpoints, and food spots.
- Karla Caves: Another Buddhist heritage site, ~12 km from Malavli.
🧑🏫 Trek Tips & Essentials
- Wear good trekking shoes, especially during monsoon.
- Carry water, snacks, and rain gear.
- No guide is needed—well-marked and beginner-friendly.
- Toilets and stalls are available at Lohagadwadi.
- Go early morning to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
🧭 Suggested Itinerary (1 Day)
- Reach Malavli by 8 AM
- Start trek by 8:30 AM
- Explore fort & Vinchu Kata till noon
- Lunch at Lohagadwadi or Bhaje
- Optional: visit Bhaje Caves on return
- Depart by 3–4 PM
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