Did you know that some of the most historically significant forts near Pune within 50 km once served as the capital of the Maratha Empire? Rajgad Fort, just a short drive from the city, actually served as Shivaji Maharaj’s capital for an impressive 26 years during his rule.
When we’re looking for weekend adventures, these ancient fortresses offer the perfect combination of history and outdoor activity. Surprisingly, many of these structures have stood for centuries – Sinhagad Fort, for instance, dates back an astounding 2000 years and now rests majestically atop a hill amid the Sahyadri Mountains. Additionally, places like Tikona Fort and Visapur Fort rank among the most engaging destinations near Pune within 50km, with enough activities to keep you busy for an entire day.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through 15 must-visit forts near Pune that combine fascinating history with exhilarating treks – all within a convenient 50km radius of the city.
Sinhagad Fort
Image Source: Outlook Traveler
Perched majestically atop an isolated cliff of the Bhuleswar range in the Sahyadri Mountains, Sinhagad Fort stands as a testament to Maharashtra’s glorious past. Originally known as Kondhana, this historic fortress is located approximately 28 km southwest of Pune city.
Sinhagad Fort historical significance
Sinhagad Fort, meaning “Lion’s Fort” in Marathi, has a rich history spanning over 2,000 years. The fort’s most famous chapter unfolded in 1670 during the Battle of Sinhagad when Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj orchestrated a daring mission to reclaim it from the Mughals. Led by the fearless Tanaji Malusare, Maratha forces scaled the steep cliffs using a monitor lizard named ‘Yashwanti’. Though Tanaji lost his life in the fierce battle that followed, his brother Suryaji captured the fort. Upon hearing of Tanaji’s sacrifice, Shivaji Maharaj famously remarked, “Gad ala, pan Sinha gela” (The fort is won, but the lion is lost), thereafter renaming Kondhana to Sinhagad.
Sinhagad Fort trek difficulty
The trek to Sinhagad is classified as easy-moderate grade. From Donje Gaon at 2,100 feet, trekkers gain another 2,100 feet in altitude. The path involves a one-way walk of 2.7 km over which you gain about 600 meters in elevation. Furthermore, the trek offers multiple route options:
- Donje village route: The easiest path with stone steps taking approximately 1.5-2 hours
- Katraj to Sinhagad trek: A more demanding night trek covering 14-16 km
Despite the continuous uphill stretch, the trek remains accessible for beginners who maintain an active lifestyle.
Best time to visit Sinhagad Fort
The ideal time to visit Sinhagad Fort depends on your preferences:
- Post-monsoon (October-February): Pleasant temperatures (20-28°C) with clear skies for panoramic views
- Monsoon (June-September): Lush greenery and waterfalls, though paths can be slippery
- Winter (November-February): Cool and pleasant weather, perfect for trekking and photography
Summer months (March-May) are best avoided due to temperatures rising up to 42°C.
Sinhagad Fort entry fees
Entrance fees for visitors are relatively modest. There is a per-person entry fee of INR 20. Additionally, vehicle parking charges apply: INR 50 for two-wheelers and INR 100 for four-wheelers. The fort is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM throughout the year.
Sinhagad Fort location & accessibility
Located at Sinhagad Ghat Road in the Thoptewadi region, the fort is easily accessible from Pune. Multiple transportation options include:
- By bus: Regular services from Swargate Bus Stand to Donje village
- By car/taxi: A drive of approximately 30-45 minutes from Pune
- By train: Reach Pune Junction, then take local transport
On clear days, other significant Maratha forts such as Rajgad, Purandar, and Torna are visible from Sinhagad, highlighting its strategic importance in the region.
Purandar Fort
Image Source: Trawell.in
Purandar Fort, historically celebrated as the birthplace of Sambhaji Maharaj, stands proudly at 4 4,472 feet above sea level. This magnificent military stronghold dates back to the 11th century during the Yadava dynasty. It is located approximately 50 km southeast of Pune.
Historical significance
Throughout centuries, Purandar Fort changed hands among various powers including the Yadavas, Bahmani Sultanate, and Adil Shahi dynasty. In 1646, a young Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj captured it. After an intense siege by Mirza Raja Jai Singh, the fort fell to the Mughals, leading to the Treaty of Purandar. Eventually, Shivaji recaptured this strategic bastion. Besides its military importance, Purandar holds immense cultural value as Sambhaji Maharaj’s birthplace.
Purandar Fort trek difficulty
Rated as medium difficulty, the trek to the fort takes approximately 2 hours one way from the base village of Narayanpur. However, the trekking path from Narayanpur village has been closed by the army. Visitors can drive up a motorable tar road to the parking lot on the lower part of the fort (Machi). From there, it’s a walk of around 1.5 to 2 hours to the top of the fort.
Best time to visit Purandar Fort
October through March is ideal. Winter provides cool, pleasant weather with clear skies. Monsoon transforms the fort into a lush green paradise with misty walls, though paths can be slippery.
Purandar Fort entry fees and restrictions
Entry is free, yet visitors must present identification. The fort welcomes visitors from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM daily, with trek entry allowed only until 2:30 PM.
Purandar Fort location and accessibility
Located near Narayanpur village, Purandar is accessible from Pune International Airport (approximately 48.4 km) and Pune Junction railway station (around 40-41.4 km). From these points, visitors can hire taxis or use public transportation to reach Narayanpur.
Malhargad Fort
Image Source: Tripadvisor
Malhargad Fort, marking the final chapter in Maratha fort architecture, sits proudly at 3,300 feet in the Sahyadri range, approximately 30 kilometers from Pune near Saswad. Built between 1757 and 1760, this historic structure is often called Sonori Fort after the village at its base.
Historical significance
Malhargad holds the distinction of being the last fort built by the Maratha Empire. Constructed by Bhivrao Yashvant and Krishnaji Madhavrao Panse, a Peshwa Sardar who led the Tofkhana (artillery department), the fort primarily served as a strategic watchpoint overlooking Dive Ghat along the Pune-Saswad route. In addition, the fort features two temples built side-by-side—one dedicated to Lord Malhar (Khandoba) and another to Lord Mahadeva (Shiva).
Malhargad Fort Trek
The trek is classified as easy grade, taking merely 30-45 minutes to complete. Currently, there are two routes to reach the summit: through Zendewadi village, a 30-minute climb from a cleft beyond the village, and through Sonori village, an ascent along the hill ridge. It’s important to note that the road from the base to the entrance of the fort can be a rough Kuccha road with large potholes, so high-clearance vehicles are recommended if driving closer to the fort gate. Some individuals may prefer to park at the base and trek the entire way.
Best time to visit Malhargad Fort
Winter months (November-February) offer pleasant temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. At the same time, the monsoon season (June-September) transforms the area into a lush green paradise, although trails may become slippery. Summer months (March-May) can be very hot and lack shade on the fort, making them less ideal for family visits, especially with young children.
Malhargad Fort entry fees and facilities
There is no entry fee per person for visitors to Malhargad Fort. However, there is a vehicle entry fee of INR 20 for two-wheelers and INR 50 for four-wheelers. These fees help maintain the fort and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
It is recommended that visitors carry their own food and drinking water, as facilities are limited on the fort. There is a small snack center run by a villager on the fort that offers snacks like pohe, wadapav, and hot tea.
Malhargad Fort location & accessibility
Located approximately 30 kilometers from Pune near Saswad, Malhargad Fort is easily accessible via the Pune-Saswad Road through Dive Ghat. Since it’s relatively close to the city, Malhargad makes for a perfect day trip among forts near Pune within 50 km. Public transportation options are available, with daily buses running from Saswad to Sonori village. From the top of the fort, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Purandar Fort and Vajragad Fort, as well as the surrounding landscape.
Conclusion
The historical significance of these structures cannot be overstated. Many served as vital strongholds during Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s reign, with Rajgad actually functioning as the Maratha capital for 26 years. After all, these aren’t merely hiking destinations—they’re living museums where you can walk the same paths as legendary historical figures.
Before planning your weekend trek, check the specific fort details regarding difficulty level, estimated time required, and facilities available. Proper footwear, sufficient water, and basic first aid supplies should accompany you regardless of which fort you choose to explore.
The forts near Pune stand as magnificent testaments to Maharashtra’s rich cultural heritage, waiting to be discovered just a short drive from the city. Your next weekend adventure through history awaits—which fort will you conquer first?