A Trek to the Lohagad Fort

Lohagad fort near Pune is stunning. Beautiful location, good roads that can take you to the base, and an easy climb for trekkers, are the main reasons why it has become so popular as a weekend destination. Thankfully however, not too many people visit the fort. This means that it remains clean, and the condition is relatively good. We certainly cannot say this about many forts in our country. To this day, you will find that many structures remain intact. Lohagad was once a part of three forts. But today, just this one fort remains – the other two are in complete ruins.

There is a lot of history of this fort. It dates back to 2500 years when it was constructed by the Satwaahan dynasty. Subsequently it changed hands quite a few times. Shivaji Maharaj took control in 1648, but subsequently lost it to Mirza Raja Jaysingh in 1665. However he was able to take it back 5 years later. Finally the British took control of the fort in 1818.

Visiting the Fort

The best way to reach the fort is by trekking to it. The climb is an easy one. The Lohagad trek has become very popular for residents of Mumbai and Pune because of its easy accessibility, the easy hike and the lush greenery found everywhere. Of course the view from the top is incredible too. It’s virtually a 360 degrees view from the top. You will see the backwaters of the Pavna Dam as you climb. For much of the climb, you will be able to see the Visapur fort at a distance. You will also be able to see the Tung fort, which is in ruins, sometimes as you climb to the top. The trek starts from the Lohagadwadi village. You can reach the village easily.

There are no steps that lead to the top. That’s good for nature lovers. You will get the feeling that you are climbing to the fort, and not just traversing the concrete steps.

Spending Time at the Top

You will just need about two hours to completely explore the Lohagad fort. You can carry your lunch and have it inside a cave within the compound. The main thing to see on top is the fortification that is known as Vinchu kata. It looks like the tail of a scorpion. Reach its edge and you are awarded with incredible views of the surrounding region. It’s a complete panorama from up here. Visit the dargah too before returning. You will find this close to the entrance.