Hill Station

Situated at an altitude of 622 m in the Sahyadri Range, Lonavala is a beautiful hill station in the Pune district of Maharashtra. It is one of the top hill stations you must include in Maharashtra tour packages and among the best tourist places to visit near Mumbai & Pune. It is located about 67 km from Pune, and 95 km from Mumbai.

Lonavala has several tourist places in the form of caves, lakes, forts and waterfalls. Lohagad Fort, Rajmachi Point, Bhushi Dam, Kune Waterfalls, Karla Caves, Tikona Fort, Visapur Fort, Bedsa Caves and Tung Fort are some of the best places to include in Lonavala tour packages.

The twin hill stations of Lonavala and Khandala are the most popular monsoon getaways in India. The best time to visit Lonavala and Khandala is during the monsoon, between July - September when the scenic spots become lush green and the waterfalls are in full flow.

Distance from Pune: 67 Kms

Historical & Heritage

At a distance of 11 km from Lonavala, 59 km from Pune & 107 km from Mumbai, the Karla Caves or Karle Caves are a complex of ancient Indian Buddhist rock-cut cave temples located at Karli near Lonavala, Maharashtra. It is one of the best Lonavala tourist places and also among well known historical places to visit near Mumbai & Pune protected by Archaeological Survey of India.

Karla is one of the most famous centers of early rock-cut architecture in India. The caves are excavated nearly 100 m on a high spur of the chain of hills on the north flank of the Indrayani valley. These caves were developed over two periods - from 2nd century BC to 2nd Century AD and in 5th - 10th Century AD. The oldest of the cave shrines is believed to date back to 160 BC, having arisen near a major ancient trade route, running eastward from the Arabian Sea into the Deccan. These caves are among the must include places in Lonavala tour packages.

The Karla complex consists of 16 rock-cut excavations of which cave 8 is the chaityagriha. The complex of Karla Caves has its interior lighted by windows. The Karla Caves of rock excavations are not that elaborate when compared to its counterparts at Ajanta and Ellora. However, the grand chaityagriha of Karla is the grandest and the largest of all the chaityagrihas ...

Distance from Pune: 59 Kms

Historical & Heritage | Adventure / Trekking

At a distance of 11 km from Lonavala, 66 km from Pune & 114 km from Mumbai, the Lohagad Fort (Iron Fort) is a historical fort situated along the Sahyadri hills in the Lonavala region of Maharashtra. It is one of the best tourist places to visit in Lonavala and also one of the popular heritage in Maharashtra.

Perched atop a hillock at an altitude of 1050 m, the Lohagad Fort separates the Indrayani basin from the Pawna basin. It is also among the popular trekking places to visit near Pune & Mumbai. It is one of the most visited forts in Maharashtra as part of Lonavala tour packages. The fort was built by Guru Govind Singh in 1564 CE to serve as a prison. Shivaji Maharaj captured it in 1648 CE, but he was forced to surrender it to the Mughals in 1665 CE by the Treaty of Purandar. Shivaji Maharaj recaptured the fort in 1670 CE and used it for keeping his treasury. Later in Peshwa's time, Nana Phadnavis used this fort for living and built several structures in the fort such as a big tank and a step-well. Recently the fort has been declared as a protected monument by the government.

The hillfort is designed in the shape of the tail of a scorpion. The fort can be reached from any of its four entrances, namely Maha Darwaja, Ganesh ...

Distance from Pune: 66 Kms

Historical & Heritage | Adventure / Trekking

At a distance of 32 km from Pune Junction, Sinhagad or Sinhagarh means the Lion Fort, is a fortress located southwest of Pune City. Sinhagad Fort is one of the popular places of trekking in Maharashtra, and among the must include places in Pune packages

Previously called Kondana, the fort has been the site of many important battles, most notably the Battle of Sinhagad in 1671 CE. It is one of the top places to visit near Pune City. According to history, the fort was built 2,000 years ago and it is said that the name Kondana was derived from sage Kaundinya. Mohammed bin Tughalak captured the fort from the Koli tribal chieftain, Nag Naik in 1340 CE. And in 1496 CE, Malik Ahmad, the founder of the Nizam Shahi dynasty took control of the fort.

Nearly 200 years later, the Maratha leader Shahaji Bhonsale captured the fort. In 1647 CE, Shivaji held the stronghold and renamed it Sinhagad. In 1665 CE, as per the Treaty of Purandar, Shivaji handed over Sinhagad to the Mughals and again captured it in 1670 CE, under the direction of Tanaji who was Shivaji's favorite general. Aurangzeb laid siege to Sinhagad in 1701- 03 CE, but could not hold it for long. Finally the British seized the fort from the Marathas in 1818 AD. The fort was later used as a retreat for many European residents of Pune.

Counted ...

Distance from Pune: 32 Kms

Historical & Heritage

At a distance of 5 km from Lohagad Fort, 15 km from Lonavala, 71 km from Pune & 119 km from Mumbai, Bhaja Caves are one of the popular Buddhist caves of Hinayana faith in Maharashtra. These caves are one of the top places to visit in Lonavala and among the well known tourist places to visit near Pune & Mumbai. These caves are well known historical places near Pune protected as National Monument by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Bhaja Caves or Bhaje caves are a group of 22 rock-cut caves dating back to the 2nd century BC. The caves are 400 feet above the village of Bhaja on an ancient trade route, which extends from the eastern side of the Arabian Sea towards the Deccan.

The Bhaja Caves are similar to the Karla Caves in style and architectural designs. The most prominent among the excavations is the chaityagriha (Cave 12). The chaityagriha is considered to be the earliest of its kind. It consists of a large apsidal hall and is divided into a central nave and side aisles by 27 pillars. The ceiling of the nave is vaulted and original wooden beams are fixed. Chaitya contains stupa at its far end with a hole in the top for wooden umbrella.

Cave 18 is a monastery and consists of a rectangular hall with a front pillared verandah. Depictions of the Sun God Surya and Lord Indra are present ...

Distance from Pune: 71 Kms

Waterfall

At a distance of 2 km from Khandala Railway Station, 3.5 km from Lonavala Railway Station, 94 km from Mumbai & 70 km from Pune, Kune Falls is a scenic waterfall situated near Kune village in Pune district of Maharashtra. It is one of the famous waterfalls not to miss in a Maharashtra tour and also one of the best places to visit in Lonavala.

Kune Falls lies at an altitude of 622 m set against the stunning backdrop of the famous Sahyadri Mountains. It is a three-tiered waterfall cascading down from a height of 200 m and is a must include tourist place in Lonavala tour packages. The waterfall is divided into 2 sections and the highest drop at this three-tier waterfall is of about 100 m. The place is completely surrounded by lush green vegetation and provides a great visual experience.

The falls attracts tourists in large numbers during the rainy season when the waterfall is in its peak form and flows down with a huge gush. Bathing and swimming are popular activities in the waterfalls. The water that flows through the valley runs for many days even after the monsoon season is over.

The Kune Church is located within the close proximity of Kune Waterfalls and serves as a landmark to reach the waterfalls. From the church, it takes just a short walk to reach Kune falls. The ...

Distance from Pune: 70 Kms

Adventure / Trekking | Historical & Heritage

At a distance of 15 km from Lonavala, 15 km from Khandala, 82 km from Mumbai & 82 km from Pune, Rajmachi Fort is an ancient fort situated in Pune district of Maharashtra. It is one of the popular tourist places near Mumbai for trekking and also among the best places to visit in Lonavala. This famous fort in Maharashtra lies at an altitude of 2710 feet. This is a protected monument and is among the most popular attraction not to miss in a Lonavala tour packages.

Historically, Rajmachi fort was a strategic fort to control Bor Ghat (between Khopoli and Khandala on Mumbai-Pune route) which was a historical trade route. It is one of the ideal one day trip near Mumbai. The fort complex was originally constructed by the Satavahanas. In 1657 CE, Shivaji Maharaj captured this fort along with other neighbouring forts from the Adilshahi ruler of Bijapur. In 1704 CE, the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb captured the fort from the Marathas. However, the Marathas regained its control in 1705 CE. In 1713 CE, Shahu Maharaj handed over Rajmachi fort to Kanhoji Angre. Eventually in 1818 CE with the downfall of the Marathas, the British took over the Rajmachi Fort.

Rajmachi Fort consists of two citadels namely Shrivardhan and Manaranjan Forts. It is a very famous ...

Distance from Pune: 82 Kms

Adventure / Trekking | Historical & Heritage

At a distance of 54 km from Pune, Rajgad is an ancient hill fort situated in the Pune district of Maharashtra. It is one of the top tourist places in Pune and also one of the popular places of trekking in Maharashtra.

Rajgad Fort is one of the grand forts of the Sahaydris and lies at an altitude of 1400 m (4, 600 feet). Formerly known as Murumdev, Rajgad Fort was the capital of the Maratha Empire during the rule of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj for 25 years, before moving the capital to Raigad Fort. The Rajgad Fort was built with the treasure found on the adjacent Torna Fort. This was one of the favourite forts of Shivaji Maharaj and he stayed the most in this fort. Many historical events took place in this fort, such as the birth of Shivaji's son, Rajaram Chhatrapati, his queen, Saibai's death and Afzal Khan's head is buried in the fort.

The fort is divided into four parts, Padmavati Machi, Suvela Machi, Sanjeevani Machi, and Balekilla (small fort). The fort is an example of splendid design and construction. The diameter of the fort at the base is 40 km making it difficult for anybody to lay siege to it.
? Sanjeevani Machi: The three layer fortification of Sanjeevani Machi is simply a marvel and is located on the southwest end. This extends approximately for 2.5 km along with many cisterns. The lower layers of the fort were separated by fortified bastion along with gate in order to defend independently. There is also an underground escape route which leads directly ...

Distance from Pune: 54 Kms

Adventure / Trekking | Historical & Heritage

At a distance of 94 km from Pune Junction, Shivneri Fort is an ancient fort situated near Junnar in Pune district of Maharashtra. Shivneri Fort is one of the most magnificent as well as historically rich forts of India. It is a famous trekking destination and also a popular weekend picnic destination near Pune. It is also one of the top tourist places in Pune visiting.

The Shivneri Fort was built during the time of Satavahanas. After the Satavahanas, the Shivneri Fort was occupied by the Shilaharas, the Yadavas, and the Bahamanis. In 1599 AD the hill fort was granted to Shivaji's grandfather, Maloji Bhosale and passed down to Shahaji. Jijabai (Shivaji's mother) spent the days of her pregnancy here and this was the birth place of Shivaji, the famous Maratha warrior who was born in 1630 AD. Shivaji spent his childhood in Shivneri Fort and also undertook his military training here.

Shivneri is a triangular shape hill fort and has its entrance from the South-West side of the hill. Apart from the main gate there is an entrance to the fort from Eastern side called locally as the chain gate, where in one has to hold chains to climb up to the fort gate. The fort extends up to 1 mi with seven spiral well-defended gates. There are mud walls all around the fort. The fort also exhibits a small water pond named Badami Talav, located in the center of the fort. Close to the pond lies the idol of Jijabai along with her son Shivaji. Shiv Janmasthan, Ambarkhana, Kadelot Point, Ganga ...

Distance from Pune: 94 Kms

Pilgrimage

At a distance of 48 km from Pune Junction, Jejuri is a town and municipality situated to the southeast of the Pune city. The town of Jejuri is renowned for one of the most pious temples in Maharashtra known as Khandoba Temple and is one of the popular tourist places in Pune.

Jejuri Khandoba Temple is dedicated to Khandoba, who is also known as Mhalsakant or Malhari Martand in the region. Khandoba is the important god worshipped by Dhangar, the oldest tribes in Maharashtra. It is believed that Khandoba is a god of Sakamabhakti, the god who fulfills all the desires of his devotees. Jejuri is popular for its old Deep Mala.

The Khandoba temple in Jejuri is built on a hill and offers good views all around. One has to climb a series of almost 200 steps to reach the sanctum sanctorum. There are various stone images of elephants on either sides of the main gateway of the temple. The entire flat plateau above the hill is surrounded by a stone pavement in the center, of which stands the Khandoba shrine. The whole courtyard is surrounded by arched aisles on sides, from which highly ornate balconies with cypress pillars and cusped arches project out. This enclosure has three gateways and the temple faces east. The outermost portion is an arched portico- consisting of a square mandapa and a garbhagriha.

The idol of Sri Khandoba enshrined inside the temple is simply beautiful. There are three weapons housed in Jejuri Temple, a sword, a damaru and a paral. They are very ...

Distance from Pune: 48 Kms

Historical & Heritage | Pilgrimage

At a distance of 52 km from Pune and 11 km from Yavat, Bhuleshwar is an ancient Hindu temple situated on a hill near Malshiras in Pune district of Maharashtra. It has been declared as a protected monument and is maintained by Archeological Survey of India.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and was built in 13th century during Yadava Rulers. It is believed that the temple was ruined by Muslim invaders and reconstructed later because the entrance of the temple is hidden like Gaimukhi Buruj construction of Shivaji's time. The fort on which the temple is situated is called as Daulat Mangalgad Fort.

The temple is unique because of its architecture. Black basalt rock was brought to construct this temple which is different as compared to surrounding brownish color basalt rock. From outside it appears to more as a mosque than a temple due to its resemblance to Islamic architecture like circular domes and minarets. There are classical carvings on the walls.

The temple contains five Shivlingas in its sanctum. Owing to their being hidden in a trench, these Shiva Lingams can be seen in light. Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Vishnu and Lord Mahadev are also housed in this temple. The temple also has an idol of Ganesh in female attire and is popularly called as Ganeshwari or Lambodari or Ganeshyani.

This temple gets huge crowds during Mahashivratri. There is a local belief, when a bowl of sweet is offered to Lord Shiva, one or more of the sweets disappear. A little further ...

Distance from Pune: 52 Kms

Pilgrimage

At a distance of 50 km from Pune, Sri Maha Ganapati Temple is situated at Ranjangaon in Shirur Taluk of Pune district. This is one among the Ashtavinayak temples in Maharashtra and also one of the popular places to visit in Pune.

The stone pillars of the temple indicate that the temple was built during the 9th or 10th century during the rule of Peshwas. Madhavrao Peshwa made a room in the basement of the temple to keep the idol of Lord Ganesh. Later on Sardar Kibe of Indore renovated it. Nagarkhana is situated above the entrance gate. According to the legend, the village Ranjangaon is considered to be the place where Shiva himself sought the blessings of Ganesh and ultimately destroyed Tripurasur.

The temple faces east and has an imposing main gate which is guarded by two statues of Jaya and Vijay. The temple is designed in such a way that during Dakshinayan, the rays of the sun fall directly on the idol. The idol of Lord Ganesh is seated on a lotus with his consorts Siddhi and Riddhi on both sides. He is facing east in a cross legged sitting posture with broad forehead and the trunk turned towards the left. It is said that the original idol is hidden in the basement, having 10 trunks and 20 hands and is called Mahotkat. However, the temple authorities deny existence of any such idol.

The temple celebrates a special 6 day festival on the occasion of Ganesh Chathurti, during which Mahabhog is offered to the temple deity on the fifth day. During this festival, ...

Distance from Pune: 50 Kms

Historical & Heritage

At a distance of 96 km from Pune, Junnar Caves are ancient rock cut caves situated at Junnar in Pune district of Maharashtra. Junnar has the largest and longest cave excavations in India. These are the ASI protected monuments and also one of the popular Pune tourist places.

Junnar has over 200 independent excavations spread over four hills. All the excavations belong to the Hinayana phase and are datable from mid-3rd century BC to late 3rd century AD. The presence of largest number of rock cut excavations and a large number of inscriptions enabling a paleographical study makes Junnar a prominent site for the study of rock cut architecture. Here there are 24 inscriptions, which provide useful paleographical data for the relative dating of the caves.

Junnar Caves are classified into various groups depending upon the location of these excavations. They are Tulja Caves, Manmodi Group of Caves, Shivneri Group of Caves and Lenyadri or Ganesh Lena Caves. The Lenyadri or Ganesh Lena Group is the main group and located 6 km north of Junnar across the River Kukdi. The hill is variously known as Sulaiman Pahar and Ganesh Pahar. There are nearly 40 caves in this group of which the main group of 30 caves are located in a line and stretch from east to west, all facing south and overlooking the Valley of Kukdi River. Among them Cave 6 and 14 are chaityagrihas and the remaining are viharas. Of which Cave 7 is the largest and also houses the image of Ganesh. It is one of the Ashtavinayak ...

Distance from Pune: 96 Kms

Lake & Backwater

At a distance of 53 km from Pune Junction Railway Station and 46 km from Lonavala, Mulshi is the name of a major dam built across the Mula River located in Mulshi Taluk of Pune district in Maharashtra. Flanked by the deep forests of Sahyadri ranges, Mulshi Dam is among the most visited places near Pune.

The dam was constructed in 1927 AD, however, commercialization of the place has been done recently. The water from Mulshi Dam is used to produce electricity at the Bhira Hydroelectric plant, operated by Tata Power. Mulshi Dam is one of the most important electricity generating plants in Maharashtra. It is indeed the source which supplies the maximum electric power to Mumbai. Water from this dam is even used for irrigation purposes.

Mulshi Lake is formed in the catchment area of Mulshi dam and is primarily a tourist attraction near Pune. It attracts several visitors during monsoon season. The lake offers different activities like camping, bird-watching, trekking and photography. There are several farm houses in the area and a resort has been developed for the convenience of the visitors. The beauty of Mulshi Lake and Dam can also be well observed from a nearby village called Valanewadi, which is 6 km away from Mulshi.

The Dam is a perfect spot for picnics, with its scenic surroundings, unexploited Sahyadri hills, lush green forests & some ancient forts like Koraigadh and Dhangad in the vicinity. The Raigad Fort is another major attraction near Mulshi Dam. There ...

Distance from Pune: 53 Kms

Lake & Backwater

At a distance of 45 km from Pune, Panshet Dam, also called Tanaji Sagar Dam, is an earthen dam built across Ambi River at Panshet in Pune district of Maharashtra. This is one of the most popular places to visit near Pune.

The dam was constructed in late 1950s for irrigation purpose and it supplies drinking water to Pune city. The height of the dam above its lowest foundation is 63.56 m while the length is 1,039 m. The volume content is 4,190 km3 and gross storage capacity is 303,000 m3. Panshet Dam burst in its first year of storing water on 12th July 1961, when the dam wall burst, causing massive flooding in Pune.

Panshet Dam is nestled in the lap of Sahyadri mountain ranges and is surrounded by lush green hills streaked with numerous waterfalls. Panshet, one of the famous picnic spots near Pune, attracts many visitors from Mumbai. Water sports are the primary attraction in Panshet apart from trekking. There are facilities for kayaking, boating and few rides like banana ride and water scooters. Camping can also be enjoyed in the adjoining areas of Panshet Reservoir.

Varasgaon dam is another dam located near Panshet Dam. Built on the Mose River Varasgaon dam is also called Veer Pasalkar dam. Panshet and Varasgaon together with Khadakwasla form the major water reservoirs near Pune supplying water to the city. Sinhagad Fort is located at an altitude of 1316 m and is considered as one of the chief attractions of Panshet.

Boating Charges: Motor Boat- Rs. ...

Distance from Pune: 45 Kms

Pilgrimage

At a distance of 17 km from Jejuri and 65 km from Pune, Sri Moreshwar temple, also known as Sri Mayureshwar Temple, is a Hindu temple located at Moregaon in Pune district of Maharashtra. This temple is considered to be the first temple among the Ashta Vinayak temples of Lord Ganesha and also one of the popular places of pilgrimage in Pune.

The exact date of construction of the temple is unknown, though the Ganapatya saint Morya Gosavi is known to be associated with it. The temple flourished due to the patronage of the Peshwa rulers and descendants of Morya Gosavi. The temple is built with black-stone and has four gates. The temple has four minarets and a 50 feet tall wall around it.

The presiding deity of this temple is Lord Mayureshwar (Lord Ganesha) also called as Lord Moreshwar, made of alloy of five metals, with his trunk towards left. Ganesha is depicted armed with a spear, while a cobra encircles his head. Lord Ganesha is flanked by his consorts Riddhi, and Goddess Siddhi. The other important deities of this temple are Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Lord Vishnu, Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, Lord Vignesha, Chintamani, Lord Brahma, Nagna-Bhairava and Nandi. The entrance of the temple contains a 6 feet mouse, the vehicle of Lord Ganesha and the temple also houses the image of peacock. The assembly hall of this temple contains 23 idols of Lord Ganesha, each depicting different forms of Lord.

Timings: 5 AM to 10 PM.

Distance from Pune: 65 Kms

Lake & Backwater

At a distance of 21 km from Panchgani & 97 km from Pune, Dhom Dam is an earth fill and gravity dam situated near Wai in the Satara district of Maharashtra. It is one of the popular places to visit as part of Panchgani tour packages, and among the well-known places to visit near Pune for one day trip.

Built on the Krishna River, the construction of the dam was started in 1976 and completed in 1982. It is one of the largest civil engineering projects in India at that time and also the first dam to be built on the Krishna River in Maharashtra. The main purpose of the construction of the Dhom dam was to ensure adequate water supply for industries in the region, for agricultural activities and to supply potable drinking water to the populace of Panchgani, Mahabaleshwar, and Wai regions. The dam is also the chief source of water supply for farmers of Koregaon, Javli, and Khandala taluks of Satara. It is one of the popular places to visit in Panchgani.

The Dhom dam stands 50 feet tall from the lowest foundation and runs a length of 2,478 m. The water capacity of the lake is 14 TMC while the basement electricity house of the dam is designed to generate 4 MG of electricity. The Dhom Lake is formed by the backwaters of the dam and is about 20 km in length. The Dhom dam attracts tourists in large numbers ...

Distance from Pune: 97 Kms

Pilgrimage

At a distance of 13 km from Panchgani, 35 km from Satara & 88 km from Pune, Wai is a small town situated on the banks of Krishna River in Satara district of Maharashtra. It is one of the ideal places for one day trip near Pune.

Wai has some historical prominence; two important Maratha Brahmin queens Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi and Rani Gopikabai, wife of Nanasaheb Peshwa were born here. Wai is the place referred to as Charanpur in the hit film Swades.

Wai is famed for its seven Ghats, including Gangapuri, Madhi Aali, Ganpati Aali, Dharmapuri, Brahmanshahi, Ramdoh and Bhimkund. It is also known for numerous beautiful temples near the ghats. Brahmanshahi ghat contains several temples including Kaunteshwar, Chakreshwar, Kaleshwar and Chimneshwar. Menavali ghat is the most popular sightseeing destination in Wai apart from the backwaters of Dhom dam and the famous Dholya Ganpati temple.

The temple of Dholya Ganapati, built in 1762 by Raja Bhoja, is located on the banks of Krishna River. The temple is made out of finished stone with a spacious inner sanctum and a huge hall in the front. The idol of the deity in the temple is carved out of a monolith, and is about 10 feet tall and 8 feet wide. The deity acquired its name Dholya Ganapati from its sheer massive size.

The temple of Mandhradevi Kalubai, Mahalaxmi temple in Dharmapuri and Pandavgadh Fort are the other popular attractions in Wai. Besides being ...

Distance from Pune: 88 Kms

Adventure / Trekking | Historical & Heritage

At a distance of 18 km from Lohagad Fort (3 km by Walk) and 24 km from Lonavala Railway Station, Visapur Fort or Visapoor Fort is a hill fort near Visapur village in Pune district of Maharashtra. It is part of the Lohagad-Visapur fortification. It is one of the popular trekking places in Lonavala and also one of the important places of interest in Lonavala.

The fort has an elevation of 1084 m above sea level. It was built during 1713-1720 CE by Balaji Vishwanath, the first Peshwa of Maratha Empire. Visapur fort was built to guard the Lohagad Fort and it has an impressive fortification and plateau at its top. Making use of its higher elevation and proximity to Lohagad, the British troops set up their cannons on Visapur and bombarded Lohagad, forcing the Marathas to flee. Thus, in 1818, Lohagad and Visapur were taken over by the British.

Visapur Fort is larger and at a higher elevation than Lohagad fort. The fort is famous for its protective walls and intricate designs. The fort has several structures like caves, cisterns of water and the ruins of a large stone built house known as the Peshwa's palace. In addition to a huge carving of Hanuman, and several temples scattered all over the place. Hanuman was likely the patron deity of Visapur fort. Presently the fort is in ruins and not many structures left in the fort. The scenic surroundings ...

Distance from Pune: 69 Kms

Adventure / Trekking | Historical & Heritage

At a distance of 21 km from Lohagad Fort, 25 km from Lonavala, 53 km from Pune, 135 km from Mumbai and 22 km from Tung Fort, Tikona Fort, also known as Triangle Fort, is a dominant hill fort located in the Maval region of Lonavala in Maharashtra. The fort is one of the top places for trekking near Pune and also one of the popular tourist places near Pune & Mumbai for day trip. Renowned as Vitandgad Fort, Tikona Fort is located at an altitude of 3633 feet above sea level.

This mighty Fort lacks historical information unlike the many other forts present in the state. The Nizam Shahi dynasty conquered the fort in 1585 AD and annexed it to the Nizam territory. In 1657 AD, Shivaji Maharaj brought the whole of Konkan, which had been Nizam territory, under his control when he conquered Tikona along with the forts of Karnala, Lohagad, Mahuli, Songad, Tala, and Visapur. Tikona fort was surrendered to the Mughals according to the Treaty of Purandar signed on 12th June 1665 AD, but it was later recaptured by the Shivaji Maharaj in 1670 AD.

Built in a triangular shape, the fort is small and is located near Pawna dam. The fort comprises of numerous tanks and lakes, which served as the main source of water in earlier days. The fort also encloses within it the famous Trimbakeshwar Mahadev temple along with enchanting Buddhist and Satvahan caves.

Tikona Peth is the nearest ...

Distance from Pune: 53 Kms

Adventure / Trekking | Historical & Heritage

At a distance of 24 km from Lonavala, 67 km from Pune, 121 km from Mumbai and 31 km from Lohagad Fort, Tung Fort is an ancient hill fort situated near Pawna dam in Pune district of Maharashtra. It lies at an altitude of 1075 m and is one of the best Lonavala attractions. It is also among well known Pune places to visit.

Tung fort is also named as Kathingad fort. It is one of the well known forts around Pune. The word Kathin in Marathi means difficult. While climbing, one can experience the difficult challenge of reaching this fort. Tung Fort was built by the rulers of the Adilshahi dynasty before 1600 CE. However it was later occupied by Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj of the Maratha Empire. It is a small fortification and supported around 200 soldiers only. This fort served as a watchtower in the past because the site offers a panoramic view of the Maval region of Pawna and Mulshi valley. The Dhamale family, one of the Deshmukhs from the Maval region, was charged with ensuring the security of Tung Fort. During invasion, it served to provide a temporary distraction for invaders. Thus, the major forts of Visapur and Lohagad would have time to prepare themselves to meet the invading army.

The fort is conical and consists of strongly fortified walls, ramparts and also has several bastions. It ...

Distance from Pune: 67 Kms

Adventure / Trekking | Historical & Heritage

At a distance of 16 km from Tung Fort, 25 km from Lonavala and 32 km from Lohagad Fort, Korigad, also called Koraigad, is a hill fort in Pune district of Maharashtra. Situated at an altitude of 929 m, Korigad is one of the popular forts near Lonavala and also one of the famous weekend getaways from Pune and Mumbai, well known for trekking.

Its date of construction is not known but likely predates 1500 AD. This fort was taken over into his kingdom by Chhatrapati Shivaji along with the forts of Lohagad, Visapur, Tung and Tikona in 1657 AD. Later in 1818 AD this fort went under the British reign. The fort is in good condition and well maintained. There are many cannons, temples and small caves on the fort.

On the top of the fort is a huge plateau. There is temple of Goddess Korai Devi on the fort and the idol of Korai Devi is around 4 feet. This temple has been renovated recently. There are many bastions on the Southern side of the fort. There are 6 cannons and two more temples on this fort. Of these, the biggest cannon named Laxmi lies next to the Korai Devi temple. There are also two lakes on the top of the fort and ahead of them are two caves. Here visitors can see the idol of lord Vishnu holding the Conch, Discus, Mace and Lotus flower. One can enjoy beautiful view of Aamby Valley city developed by Sahara Group from the fort.

The base village of the fort is Peth Shahpur or Ambivali, which is about 1 km north ...

Distance from Pune: 90 Kms

Hill Station

At a distance of 5 km from Lonavala Railway Station, 93 km from Mumbai & 71 km from Pune, Khandala is a hill station situated in Western Ghats of Pune district in Maharashtra. It lies at an altitude of 625 m at one end of the Bhor Ghat, a major ghat on the road link between the Deccan Plateau and the Konkan plain. Khandala is among popular weekend getaways from Mumbai & Pune and also one of the best hill stations near Pune & Mumbai.

Lonavala and Khandala are the twin hill stations located near to each other and are very popular monsoon getaways in India. Lord Elphinstone, who was the Governor of the Bombay Presidency, developed Khandala along with Lonavala in 1871.There is no reliable historical evidence to suggest the origin of this place and the founding fathers. However, it is well known that Khandala was ruled by Chatrapathi Shivaji and subsequently by the Peshwa rulers, until it was taken over by the British.

Khandala is known for its panoramic beauty, deep valleys, lush greenery, waterfalls and lakes. It is situated at the end of the Bhor Valley and serves as a popular hiking destination. Duke's Nose, Rajmachi Fort, Visapur Fort, Korigad Fort, Tung Fort, and Tikona Fort are the major trekking places in Khandala. Amrutanjan Point, Ryewood Park, the Bushy dam, Valvan dam, Kune Falls and Rajmachi Point are the some other tourist places in Khandala.

It is also well known for various cave temples like Bhaja ...

Distance from Pune: 71 Kms

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Most Asked Questions on Pune Getaways


  • What are the top places to visit near Pune?

    Pune is a travellers delight because of the marvellous weekend destinations easily accessible from the city. One can plan so many trips around Pune to take a quick weekend break. Ensure to cover most important places to visit near Pune like Mahabaleshwar, Lonavala, Panchgani, Alibaug, Shirdi, Nashik, Aurangabad, Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves, Matheran, etc.

  • What are the popular hill stations near Pune?

    Pune is surrounded by many beautiful hill stations, so it is not difficult to make plans for a weekend getaway. Some of the most popular hill stations near Pune are Mahabaleshwar, Lonavala, Panchgani, Matheran, Bhandardara and Igatpuri.

  • What are the best beaches to visit near Pune?

    There are many popular beaches near Pune that are perfect for those who want to relax and rejuvenate mind and body at the beach. Alibaug, Ganpatipule and Ratnagiri are some of the popular beach destinations nearest to Pune.

  • Best places to spend 2 days around Pune?

    There are numerous excellent places to visit near Pune within 300 kms for 2 days weekend trip. Some of the best recommended places are Mahabaleshwar(123 km), Lonavala(67 km), Alibaug(143 km), Shirdi(180 km), Nashik(211 km), Aurangabad(232 km) and Matheran(122 km).

  • Are there any offbeat getaways near Pune?

    People who want to spend some quality time away from the maddening tourist crowds, there is no dreath of offbeat places near Pune. Most popular offbeat tours near Pune are Kas Pathar in Satara, trekking and camping at Sinhagad, Rajmachi and Panshet, River Rafting in Kolad, etc.

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