9 Perfect treks near Lonavala for your next weekend getaway!

Thinking of heading to Lonavala but done with the usual Tiger Point and Maganlal Chikki stops? It’s time to ditch the crowds and take the scenic route— literally! There are so many thrilling treks near Lonavala, from easy climbs with dreamy views to steep ascents that will leave your legs sore but your heart happy! Whether you’re a first-timer looking for a chill hike or a seasoned trekker chasing an adrenaline rush, there's something for everyone in the majestic Sahyadris.

Enough talking, let’s dive straight into the easy treks near Lonavala!

1. Lohagad trek

Once a strategic stronghold of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, this fort stands at 1033m above sea level. It is one of the easiest and most scenic treks near Lonavala. The highlight of the Lohagad trek? Vinchu Kata—a scorpion-tail-shaped fortification offering breathtaking views of the Sahyadris.

• Trek distance: 2.5 km
• Trek duration: 1.5-2 hours
• Difficulty level: Easy, ideal for beginners
• Drive time from The Hosteller Lonavala, City Centre: Approximately 30 mins (16.1 km)

A view of the famous and super stunning Vinchu Kata 

2. Visapur trek

Though just 1.6 km away from Lohagad Fort, it was built much later by the first Peshwa of the Maratha Empire, Balaji Vishwanath. Unlike the Lohagad trek, the Visapur trek is steeper, rockier and packed with thrill. And let us tell you what a rewarding climb this is, with massive stone walls, ancient water tanks, and the iconic 'Devghar' (stone arch) at the top. Give it a try, it won’t disappoint you!

• Trek distance: 2.5-3 km
• Trek duration: 1.5-2 hours
• Difficulty level: Moderate
• Drive time from The Hosteller Lonavala, City Centre: Approximately 40 mins (17.6 km)

A view of the historic Visapur Fort known for its scenic views and slightly challenging trek

3. Korigad trek

Located south of Lonavala, Korigad stands tall at 923m above sea level. This beginner-friendly trek offers stunning views that will make you fall in love with the journey as much as the destination. At the top, you’ll find a temple dedicated to its patron goddess, Koraidevi. The fort’s towering walls and stunning views of Pawna Lake will leave you awestruck!

• Trek distance: 2-2.5 km
• Trek duration: 2-3 hours
• Difficulty level: Easy, ideal for beginners
• Drive time from The Hosteller Lonavala, City Centre: Approximately 42 mins (25.1 km)

Korigad, a majestic hill fort with an easy trek and stunning views | Credits: @rahulpr0

4. Morgiri trek

If you love challenging terrains and believe that “darr ke aage jeet hai” then this trek is made just for you! Once used as a watchtower to keep an eye on nearby forts, Morgiri Fort stands tall despite its small base. Located at an altitude of 917m above sea level, this lesser-known trek will take you through very dense forests, barren, rocky patches, and steep ascents.

• Trek distance: 3 km
• Trek duration: 2-2.5 hours
• Difficulty level: Difficult
• Drive time from The Hosteller Lonavala, City Centre: Approximately 34 mins (19.2 km)

A view of lesser-known Morgiri Fort | Credits- @imjagdishpatil, @sanskruti_maharashtrachi__ 

5. Tung trek

Situated at an elevation of 1075m above sea level, Tung Fort was yet another fort used as a strategic watchtower. The climb may be short, but don’t let that fool you! It's steep enough to give you an adrenaline rush! Along the way, you’ll come across an idol of Lord Hanuman, don’t forget to take his blessings before moving ahead. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with the majestic views of Pawna Dam along with glimpses of Tikona and Visapur forts standing in the distance.

• Trek distance: 2 km
• Trek duration: 1-1.5 hours
• Difficulty level: Moderate to difficult
• Drive time from The Hosteller Lonavala, City Centre: Approximately 44 mins (24.7 km)

Tung Fort trek that will reward you with stunning views of Pawna Lake 

6. Tikona trek

True to its name, Tikona is a triangular-shaped fort, standing tall at 1,060m just a little away from Lonavala. This easy trek near Lonavala is famous for its steep climbs and breathtaking panoramic views of Pawna Lake. While the trail is considerably short, the final ascent will test your endurance for sure! At the top do not, we repeat, DO NOT miss the mesmerising view of Pawna Lake. Tikona is an experience you simply cannot miss!

• Trek distance: 2 km
• Trek duration: 1-1.5 hours
• Difficulty level: Easy to Moderate
• Drive time from The Hosteller Lonavala, City Centre: Approximately 52 mins (28.9 km)

An aerial view of the magnificent Tikona fort

7. Kataldhar waterfalls trek

Tucked deep in the Sahyadris near Lonavala, Kataldhar Waterfall is a massive free-falling beauty that roars to life during the monsoons. True to its name, ‘waterfall over a rock,’ it gushes down a high cliff with breathtaking intensity! This one remains less crowded due to its tough terrain. The trek starts from Fanasrai village and takes you through dense forests, steep descents, and slippery trails, giving you pure jungle vibes. But trust us, the reward is worth it!

• Trek distance: 6 km
• Trek duration: 3-4 hours
• Difficulty level: Difficult
• Drive time from The Hosteller Lonavala, City Centre: Approximately 52 mins (15.2 km)

Kataldhar Waterfall, an open fall cascading down the rocky cliffs of the Sahyadris | Credits- @omkar.vilas.mhalaskar

8. Rajmachi trek

At 826m above sea level, this majestic fort sits proudly in the ever-stunning Sahyadri mountains. It consists of two forts—Shrivardhan and Manaranjan—which once served as Maratha watchtowers. The Rajmachi trek is best done overnight, allowing you to camp under the stars or start fresh in the morning for a daytime hike.

You have two options: take the long, scenic route from Lonavala or the shorter, easier one from Udhewadi. Either way, adventure is guaranteed! And once you’re on the top, the panoramic views of the Western Ghats are so good, you'll forget all about your tired legs.

• Trek distance: 16 km
• Trek duration: 5-6 hours
• Difficulty level: Moderate
• Drive time from The Hosteller Lonavala, City Centre: Approximately 57 mins (16.5 km)

Rajmachi Fort is a twin-fort trek with stunning valley views | Credit- @adventure_club_pune

9. Garbett Plateau trek

At an altitude of 800m above sea level, this trek will make your legs burn just the right amount. Starting from Diksal village, the trail takes you through tiny villages, green hills, the beautiful Dhom lake and paddy fields. And just when you think it can’t get any better, boom! The plateau opens up, offering mind-blowing views of Matheran and the surrounding valleys! The final stretch to Garbett Point is the toughest, with a steep climb that requires careful footing.

• Trek distance: 8 km
• Trek duration: 3-4 hours
• Difficulty level: Moderate
• Drive time from The Hosteller Lonavala, City Centre: Approximately 1 hour 12 mins (42.7 km)

A view of lush green Garbett Plateau in the monsoon | @ps_konghay

Conclusion

And when your legs don’t work like they used to before (yes, we just went full Ed Sheeran on you) from all that trekking, and all you want is a cosy spot to crash, we’ve got you covered! The Hosteller Lonavala, City Centre is all about laid-back vibes, vibrant spaces, and the perfect mix of adventure and chill. So, after conquering these epic treks, come hang out with us at the coolest backpacker hostel in town.

Did you book your stay and plan the thrilling trek yet?