Lohagad Fort, located near Lonavala, Maharashtra, is one of the most well-preserved hill forts in India. Built in the Medieval Period, this fort played a crucial role in the Maratha Empire under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. With its majestic architecture, scenic trekking routes, and breathtaking views, Lohagad Fort is an ideal spot for history lovers and adventure seekers.

 

📜 1. History of Lohagad Fort

🏰 Early & Medieval History

• Lohagad Fort was built during the 12th century by the Satavahanas.
• Over the years, it was occupied by several dynasties, including the Rashtrakutas, Yadavas, Bahmani Sultanate, Nizamshahi, and Adilshahi rulers.

⚔️ Maratha & British Era

• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj captured Lohagad Fort in 1648 and later used it as a treasury.
• In 1665, under the Treaty of Purandar, the Mughals temporarily took control of Lohagad Fort.
• Shivaji Maharaj recaptured it in 1670 and continued using it as a key defense post.
• In 1818, the British conquered Lohagad Fort after defeating the Marathas.

🏛️ Current Status

• Lohagad Fort is one of the best-preserved forts in Maharashtra, attracting thousands of trekkers and history enthusiasts every year.
• The fort's massive walls, gates, bastions, and ancient water tanks remain intact.

---

🚗 2. How to Reach Lohagad Fort

📍 Nearest Cities & Distances

Location	Distance from Lohagad Fort	Approx. Travel Time
Lonavala	15 km	40 minutes
Pune	65 km	1.5 hours
Mumbai	100 km	2.5 hours

🚆 By Train

• Nearest Railway Station: Malavli (8 km) or Lonavala (15 km)
• From Malavli, you can walk or hire an auto-rickshaw to the base village.

🚌 By Bus

• MSRTC buses are available from Pune and Mumbai to Lonavala.
• From Lonavala, hire a shared jeep, taxi, or auto-rickshaw to reach the base village (Bhaje) of Lohagad Fort.

🚖 By Road (Best Option)

• From Pune: Take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, exit at Lonavala, and drive to Bhaje village.
• From Mumbai: Drive via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, exit at Malavli, and proceed to the trek start point.

---

🥾 3. Trekking to Lohagad Fort

🗺️ Trekking Routes & Difficulty

Route	Starting Point	Difficulty Level	Time Required
Malavli to Lohagad Fort	Malavli Station	Easy	2 - 2.5 hours
Bhaje Village to Lohagad Fort	Bhaje Village	Easy	1.5 - 2 hours
Lohagadwadi to Lohagad Fort	Lohagadwadi Base	Easiest	45 minutes

⏳ Best Time for Trekking

✅ Monsoon (June - September) – Best season for lush greenery & waterfalls 🌧️
✅ Winter (October - February) – Pleasant weather ❄️
❌ Avoid Summer (March - May) – Hot & dry 🔥

🔍 Trekking Tips

✔️ Start early (before 9 AM) to avoid crowds.
✔️ Carry at least 2 liters of water per person.
✔️ Wear good-quality trekking shoes.
✔️ Stick to designated trails – some sections are slippery.
✔️ Carry a raincoat if trekking during monsoon.

---

🤩 4. Why You Must Visit Lohagad Fort?

✅ Well-Preserved Fort Walls – Unlike many other forts, Lohagad remains intact and walkable.
✅ Scenic Views – Offers stunning views of Pawna Lake, Visapur Fort & Tung Fort.
✅ Easy Trek – Suitable for beginners, families, and kids.
✅ Historical Temples – Visit the Shiv Temple & Vinchu Kata (Scorpion Tail Ridge).
✅ Perfect Monsoon Destination – Experience waterfalls, misty trails & greenery.

---

🏰 5. Important Fort Details

🚪 Fort Gates (Darwazas)

Gate Name	Significance
Ganesh Darwaza	First entrance with a small temple.
Narayan Darwaza	Leads to the internal structures of the fort.
Maha Darwaza	Grand entrance, still intact.
Hanuman Darwaza	Named after Lord Hanuman, part of the fort defenses.

🛡️ Fort Towers & Structures

Structure	Significance
Vinchu Kata (Scorpion Tail)	A long ridge extending from the fort.
Water Tanks	Large reservoirs built for storage.
Bastions & Walls	Massive stone walls, still well-preserved.
Laxmi Kothi	Used for storing treasures & food supplies.

---

🚨 6. When to Avoid Visiting Lohagad Fort

❌ During Peak Monsoons (July-August) – Trails become slippery and risky.
❌ Late Evenings/Night – No proper lighting, unsafe for trekking.
❌ Hot Summers (March-May) – Dehydration risks due to extreme heat.

---

⚠️ 7. Who Should Avoid This Trek?

🚷 Elderly people with mobility issues – The trek involves steep steps.
🚷 People with breathing difficulties – Humidity in monsoon makes it tougher.
🚷 Young kids (under 6 years) – Unless they are experienced trekkers.

---

🎒 8. What to Carry for the Trek?

✔️ 2-3 liters of water per person.
✔️ Trekking shoes with a strong grip.
✔️ Cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen (for summer treks).
✔️ Raincoat/Poncho (for monsoon treks).
✔️ First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic, painkillers).
✔️ Energy bars & dry snacks.
✔️ Power bank & fully charged phone.

---

💭 Final Thoughts

Lohagad Fort is a perfect blend of history, adventure, and scenic beauty. Whether you are a trekker, photographer, or history enthusiast, Lohagad Fort offers something for everyone.

📍 Plan your trip wisely, respect nature, and enjoy your adventure! 🚶‍♂️🏰