Do you want to enjoy nature’s beauty? Presenting now is a Sudhagad fort located in Maharashtra, India. Seeing the Sudhagad Fort is a wonderful opportunity to take in the natural beauty. Sudhagad is a popular trekking destination. The trek to the fort is doable as a one-day trip, but many choose to extend it to two days with overnight camping.
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Quick Facts of Sudhagad Fort
- Location: Maharashtra, India, about 53 kilometers west of Pune, 26 kilometers south of Lonavla, and 11 kilometers east of Pali in Raigad District.
- Elevation: 620 meters (2,030 feet) above sea level.
- Other Name: Bhorapgad
- Current Use: Popular trekking destination.
- Trekking Difficulty: Easy, with a total distance of around 3.5 kilometers and an ascent time of 2-2.5 hours.
- Best Time to Visit: June to September
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How Difficult is Sudhagad Fort
The difficulty of the Sudhagad Fort trek varies depending on who you ask and your fitness level. Here’s a summary of what different sources say:
- Easy to moderate: Many sources, including Indiahikes, Nomads of India, and Pune Trekkers, rate the trek as easy to moderate. They mention the trail is well-defined, with a mix of flat walks and ascents, and the total distance is around 3.5 km, which can be completed in 2-3 hours with breaks.
- Medium: Some sources, like Treks and Trails India, consider it a medium-difficulty trek due to the endurance required. They mention the elevation gain is around 700 meters, which can be challenging for beginners.
Here are some factors to consider when determining the difficulty for yourself:
- Your fitness level: If you’re an experienced hiker in good physical condition, you’ll likely find the trek easy. However, if you’re a beginner or not very active, you might find it more challenging.
- The time of year: The trek can be more difficult during the monsoon season when the trails are muddy and slippery. It’s also best to avoid the hottest months of the year.
- The route you take: There are two main routes to the top, one from Thakurwadi village and the other from Dhondse village. The Thakurwadi route is generally considered easier.
Best Time To Visit Sudhagad Fort
The best time to visit Sudhagad Fort depends on what you’re looking for in your experience. The advantages and disadvantages of each season are broken down here:
Monsoon (July to September): The fort comes alive during the monsoon season, with lush greenery, waterfalls, and streams. The views are also more dramatic, as the clouds often hang low over the surrounding hills. However, the trails can be slippery and muddy, so be sure to wear proper footwear. Keep in mind that due to landslides during the monsoon, the fort authorities might close the trek for safety reasons.
Winter (November to February): This is the most popular time to visit Sudhagad Fort, as the weather is pleasant and sunny. The skies are clear, making for stunning views of the surrounding countryside. However, it can get crowded during this time, especially on weekends.
Summer (March to May): The weather is hot and dry during the summer, and the trails can be dusty. However, there are fewer crowds, and you may be able to get some good deals on accommodation. If you do decide to visit during the summer, be sure to start your trek early in the morning to avoid the heat.
2 Days at Sudhagad Fort Itinerary
Day – 1
Sudhagad Fort
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to Sudhagad Fort. The fort is located about 20 km from Mahad, and it takes about 1-2 hours to reach by car.
- Afternoon: After exploring the fort, head to the nearby village of Pali. Pali is known for its beautiful waterfalls, and several hiking trails lead to them. The most popular waterfall is Chikali Falls.
- Evening: In the evening, you can relax at your hotel or homestay in Mahad. There are several restaurants and cafes in Mahad, where you can enjoy a delicious meal.
- Night: If you are interested in nightlife, there are a few bars and clubs in Mahad. However, the nightlife scene is not very interesting,
Day – 2
Takmak Fort
- Morning: On your second day, you can visit the Takmak Fort. Takmak Fort is located about 30 km from Mahad, and it takes about 1-2 hours to reach by car.
- Afternoon: After exploring the fort, head to the nearby beach of Kashid. Kashid is a beautiful beach with white sand and clear waters.
- Evening: In the evening, you can enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the many restaurants on Kashid Beach.
- Night: After dinner, you can take a night safari at the nearby Alibaug Rewas Wildlife Sanctuary.
How To Reach Sudhagad Fort
There are two main ways to reach Sudhagad Fort: by public transport or by private vehicle.
By Public Transport:
- From Pune: Take a bus from Pune to Pali (111 km). From Pali, you can take another bus to Thakurwadi (the base village of Sudhagad Fort, 13 km). The buses are not very frequent, so you may need to wait for a while. Alternatively, you can hire a private taxi from Pali to Thakurwadi.
- From Mumbai: Take a train from Mumbai to Khopoli (60 km). From Khopoli, take a bus to Pali (38 km). From Pali, you can take another bus to Thakurwadi (13 km), or hire a private taxi.
By Private Vehicle:
The easiest way to reach Sudhagad Fort is by private vehicle. The fort is located about 120 km from both Pune and Mumbai. The roads are in good condition, and the drive takes about 3-3.5 hours.
Once you reach Thakurwadi, you will need to trek up the hill to the fort. The trek is about 2 km long and takes about 1-2 hours to complete. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, but it can be slippery in the monsoon season. It is advisable to wear good shoes and carry plenty of water.
Tips for Sudhagad Fort Visitors
- Decide how you will get to the fort, what time of day you want to visit, and how much time you want to spend there. The fort is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and it is best to avoid visiting during the hottest part of the day.
- There is a lot of hiking involved because the fort is built on a hill. You will want to wear shoes that are comfortable for walking on uneven surfaces.
- The sun can be very strong in Maharashtra, so be sure to protect yourself from the sun
- Dress modestly and avoid making loud noises.
- The fort is located in a remote area, so be sure to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against wildlife.
- Help keep the fort clean by disposing of your trash properly.
- The walls of the fort are old and fragile, and climbing on them could damage them.
- Don’t take photos of people without their permission, and be respectful of the privacy of others.
- The weather in Maharashtra can change quickly, so be sure to check the forecast before you go and dress accordingly.
- There is a lot to see at Sudhagad Fort, so take your time and explore all the different areas.
- The fort offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, so take a moment to relax and enjoy the scenery.
FAQ’s Of Sudhagad Fort
Where is Sudhagad Fort located?
Sudhagad Fort is located in the Western Ghats, near the village of Borivli in Maharashtra, India.
What is the historical significance of the Sudhagad Fort?
The fort was built in the 16th century by the Shilahara dynasty and later came under the control of the Maratha Empire. It played a strategic role in controlling the trade routes between the Konkan coast and the Deccan plateau.
What is the difficulty level of the trek to Sudhagad Fort?
The trek to Sudhagad Fort is moderate, with a well-defined trail and some steep sections. It takes about 2-3 hours to reach the top.
What is the best time to visit Sudhagad Fort?
The best time to go will depend on what you like. Winter (November to February) offers pleasant weather and clear skies, while the monsoon (July to September) provides lush greenery and waterfalls. Summer (March to June) can be hot and dry.
Can I camp overnight at Sudhagad Fort?
Yes, camping is allowed at the fort, but make sure to follow responsible camping practices and leave no trace.
What facilities are available at Sudhagad Fort?
There are basic facilities like toilets and water points available at the fort. However, it’s recommended to bring your food and water, as there are no restaurants or shops nearby.
Is it safe to visit Sudhagad Fort alone?
While it’s generally safe to visit Sudhagad Fort alone, it’s always advisable to go with a friend or group, especially if you’re not familiar with the area.
Are there any nearby attractions worth visiting?
Yes, there are several other forts and natural attractions in the vicinity of Sudhagad Fort, such as Purandar Fort, Rajgad Fort, and Sinhagad Fort.
How can I get to Sudhagad Fort?
The nearest railway station is Khopoli, from where you can take a local bus or taxi to the village of Borivli. From there, you can start the trek to the fort.
Is there a guide available for the trek?
While there are no official guides available, you can find local guides at the base of the fort who can offer assistance for a fee.