How to Reach Sondai Fort, Karjat – Complete Travel & Trekking Guide

📍 Location: Sondai Fort, Karjat – Maharashtra

Sondai Fort is a short yet scenic hill fort located near Karjat, Maharashtra. Though small in size, it offers a rewarding trek with panoramic views of Morbe Dam, Matheran hills, and lush green valleys. A favorite among beginner trekkers, monsoon lovers, and photography enthusiasts, the fort is named after the local deity Sondai Devi whose temple sits at the top.


🗺️ Google Map Location:

📍 Open Sondai Fort in Google Maps
📍Sondai Fort Trek Start Point


🛣️ How to Reach Sondai Fort, Karjat

🚆 By Train:

  • Nearest Station: Karjat Railway Station (Central Railway – Mumbai–Pune route)
  • From Karjat station: Hire a rickshaw or local taxi to Sondewadi Village (base village – ~10 km)
  • Travel time: 20–25 minutes
  • Rickshaw fare: ₹200–₹300 approx.🚗 By Road:

  • From Mumbai:Route: Mumbai → Panvel → Chowk → Karjat → Sondewadi Village

Distance: ~75 km | Time: ~2 hours

  • From Pune:

Route: Pune → Lonavala → Karjat → Sondewadi
Distance: ~105 km | Time: ~2.5 to 3 hours

  • Parking: Available near Sondewadi village; safe for bikes and cars.


🥾 Trek Info

  • Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
  • Trek Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour from base village
  • Highlights:
Rock-cut steps near summit
Iron ladders installed for safe climbing
Sondai Devi Temple at the top
Breathtaking views of Morbe Dam, Irshalgad, Matheran, and Karjat plains


🏞️ Nearby Places to Visit

  1. Morbe Dam – Visible from top, and a scenic detour by vehicle
  2. Irshalgad Fort – Challenging trek for seasoned hikers
  3. Matheran Hill Station – Perfect for an extended trip
  4. Bhivpuri Waterfall – Great for monsoon fun and rappelling
  5. Kondana Caves – Buddhist caves with waterfall backdrop in monsoon


🕰️ Best Time to Visit

  • Monsoon (June to September): Greenery at its peak, cloudy views, refreshing climate
  • Winter (October to February): Clear skies, cool breeze – best for sunrise treks
  • Avoid Summer (March to May): Hot, dry trail with little shade


🚰 Water & Food Availability

  • Water:
No permanent water source on the fort.
Carry 2 liters of drinking water per person
  • Food:
No food stalls on the trail or summit.
Local villagers may offer poha, tea, or lunch (on pre-request).
Better to pack snacks or eat in Karjat before/after trek.


⚠️ Trekking Tips:

  • Wear non-slip trekking shoes, especially in monsoon.
  • Early morning or late afternoon treks are best.
  • Ladders can be slippery during rains – use handrails and go slow.
  • Avoid trekking after dark – no lighting or support infrastructure.


🧘 What Makes Sondai Fort Special:

  • Ideal for beginners and families
  • Perfect one-day monsoon trek from Mumbai or Pune
  • Lesser crowd than popular forts
  • Spectacular valley views and spiritual vibes at the top


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