Lonavala, with its mist-laden hills and lush green trails, is a trekker's dream. But you don't need to be a seasoned mountaineer to experience its magic. The region is dotted with numerous trails that are perfect for beginners—offering breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment without an overwhelming challenge.
Especially now, in the glorious late-July monsoon, these trails are at their most beautiful, draped in vibrant green and cooled by a gentle drizzle. If you've been waiting to take your first step into the world of trekking, here are 5 easy and rewarding treks in Lonavala perfect for you.
1. Lohagad Fort: The Iconic 'Iron Fort'
Lohagad is arguably the best trek for a first-timer. The path is well-defined, with long sections of stone steps that make the climb straightforward. As you ascend, you're treated to spectacular views of the Pawna reservoir. During the monsoon, the trail becomes even more enchanting with small streams flowing down the steps. The fort itself is a historical marvel with massive gates and a vast plateau to explore, including the famous 'Vinchu Kata' (Scorpion's Tail) viewpoint.
- Trek Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours to ascend
- Why it's Easy: Clear, paved path and gentle incline.
- Highlights: Rich history, stunning valley views, and the Vinchu Kata.
- How to Reach: The trek starts from Lohagadwadi village, easily reached by auto from Malavli station.
2. Korigad Fort: The 360-Degree Meadow
Korigad is another fantastic option for beginners. The trek is relatively short and the path, which includes both forest trails and stone steps, is easy to navigate. The real reward is the summit—a massive, flat plateau encircled by a 2 km long wall. You can walk along the entire perimeter of the fort, enjoying stunning 360-degree views of the Aamby Valley city and the surrounding landscape. The fort also has two large ponds and several small temples.
- Trek Duration: About 1 hour to ascend
- Why it's Easy: Short duration and a well-marked trail.
- Highlights: The walk along the fort wall, large ponds on top, and views of Aamby Valley.
- How to Reach: The trek starts from Peth Shahapur village, which is about 25 km from Lonavala.
3. Bedse Caves: A Walk Back in Time
If you're looking for a mix of nature and ancient history, the trek to Bedse Caves is perfect. This trail leads to a lesser-known complex of Buddhist rock-cut caves dating back to the 1st century BC. The climb involves around 400 well-laid steps that take you through a beautiful, green landscape. The caves themselves, with their grand stupa and intricately carved pillars, are incredibly serene. It’s less of a rugged trek and more of a scenic, historical walk.
- Trek Duration: 45 minutes to ascend
- Why it's Easy: Consists entirely of stone steps and is very short.
- Highlights: Beautiful and less-crowded ancient caves, peaceful atmosphere.
- How to Reach: The caves are located near Bedse village, accessible via the Kamshet-Pawna road.
4. Duke's Nose (from Kurvande Village)
While the full trek to Duke's Nose can be moderately challenging, the shorter route from Kurvande village is perfect for beginners. The trail is a gentle walk through lush fields and forests, leading to the base of the iconic cliff. From here, a small, final climb brings you to the "nose" itself. The panoramic view of the Khandala ghat, the expressway, and the surrounding plains from the top is absolutely spectacular.
- Trek Duration: 1 hour to the summit from Kurvande village
- Why it's Easy: The shorter route is a gentle walk with a final, small rocky patch.
- Highlights: The iconic cliff shape and breathtaking panoramic views.
- How to Reach: Drive to Kurvande village, which is about 7 km from Lonavala.
5. Tung Fort (Tungi): The Lake View Trek
Tung Fort, also known as 'Kathin' (difficult) due to its steep final climb, might seem like an odd choice. However, the trek to the fort's base and lower sections is quite easy and offers some of the best views of Pawna Lake. Beginners can hike up the initial grassy slopes and enjoy the magnificent scenery without attempting the final, more technical ascent to the very top. The trail is short and offers a huge scenic payoff from the start.
- Trek Duration: 45 minutes to the lower sections
- Why it's Easy: The initial part of the trek is a simple walk on a grassy ridge.
- Highlights: Unbeatable, close-up views of Pawna Lake and the surrounding forts.
- How to Reach: The trek starts from Tungi village, located on the southern side of Pawna Lake.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Beginner Trekkers
1. What should I wear for a monsoon trek in Lonavala? Opt for lightweight, quick-drying clothes (like polyester or nylon). Avoid cotton as it gets heavy when wet. Wear trekking shoes with a good grip. A light raincoat or poncho is essential.
2. Is it safe for beginners to trek in Lonavala during the monsoon? Yes, the treks listed above are generally safe. However, always check the weather forecast, be cautious on slippery paths, and avoid trekking during extremely heavy rain or thunderstorms. It's always best to go in a group.
3. Do I need to hire a guide for these easy treks? For these 5 treks, a guide is not usually necessary as the paths are well-marked and frequented by other trekkers. However, if you are unsure or trekking solo for the first time, hiring a local guide can provide extra safety and enrich the experience.
4. What are the essential items to pack for a one-day trek? Carry a small backpack with at least 2 litres of water, some high-energy snacks (like trail mix, fruit, energy bars), a basic first-aid kit, a fully charged phone, and a waterproof cover for your bag and electronics.
5. What is the best time of year to trek in Lonavala? The monsoon season (June to September) is the most beautiful, with lush greenery and active waterfalls. The post-monsoon and winter months (October to February) offer pleasant weather and clearer views.
Your Reward After the Climb
Completing your first trek is an exhilarating feeling. The perfect way to celebrate this achievement is to relax and unwind in a comfortable space. After a day on the trails, retreat to a cozy corner where you can put your feet up and relive the day's adventure. Whether you are looking for a weekend staycation in lonavla to explore more trails or a charming homestey in lonavla to recover in style, Retrofusion provides the perfect haven for budding adventurers.