A trek through beautiful forest & mountains with flowing waterfalls yet a difficult trek in monsoon.

The Sudhagad fort is located about 60 kms from Lonavala city. Follow the map directions, but use the road via Pali and Khopoli as the other route that maps will show has the worst roads and is deserted as it passes through fields and small villages.

The trek to the fort starts from the village at the base of the hill. The pathway starts between the houses and eventually reaches into a muddy path that treads through a forest. After reaching a height, you will find a watchtower that is made. Climb up the same as it gives you a fantastic view of the natural surroundings. If you visit during the rainy season, you will see the valley filled with clouds and numerous small and large waterfalls flowing down the mountains from the top of the watchtower.

Also, beware that where the watchtower is made is open ground, and in case of rain, it tends to get extremely windy to the point you might need to take cover, too. However, this point is where the actual trek starts. The slopes are steep, and climbing can be challenging in this case. Since it is red mud, it becomes sticky and exceptionally slippery. We almost slipped twice or thrice. Hence, wearing big trekking shoes and having proper trekking gear is recommended. Many people also took the help of sticks, which could help them climb.

However, after climbing for about 3 kms, we realized that we might not have carried the proper gear, so it would be best to return. Thus, we could not reach the top of the fort. But from the bottom, we saw the fort and the steel stairs made for climbing. And for sure, it would have been a fantastic view from the top during the rain. Thus, while the trek is unique, it becomes extremely difficult during the monsoon—a path that must be walked cautiously.