If you live in Pune, you’re lucky. Within a few hours, the city fades away and the Sahyadris open up — misty trails, ancient forts, waterfalls, and views that reset your mind.
If you’re new to trekking and wondering “Can I do this?” — the answer is yes. You don’t need gym-level fitness or fancy gear. You just need the right trek.
Here are the best weekend treks near Pune, specially curated for beginners and first-time trekkers.
1. Sinhagad Fort Trek
📍 Distance from Pune: ~30 km
⏱️ Trek Duration: 2–3 hours
📈 Difficulty Level: Easy (Beginner-friendly)
Sinhagad Fort is often called the gateway trek for Pune trekkers, and for good reason. The trail is wide, well-marked, and safe even for people with zero trekking experience. You’ll walk through scenic paths with gradual inclines rather than steep climbs, making it comfortable for beginners and families.
At the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of the Pune city skyline, especially stunning during early mornings and post-monsoon seasons. Small food stalls selling pithla-bhakri, curd, and lemon water add to the local charm.
Best season: Monsoon & winter
Best for: First-time trekkers, families, short weekend outings
Why choose this trek: Easy access, safety, local culture, and great views
2. Tikona Fort Trek
📍 Location: Near Kamshet
⏱️ Trek Duration: 3–4 hours
📈 Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Tikona Fort gets its name from its triangular (tikona) shape and is one of the most scenic easy treks near Pune. The trail includes a few rocky patches but overall remains manageable for beginners with basic fitness.
What makes Tikona special is the stunning view of Pawna Lake from the top — especially during sunrise and monsoon clouds. The fort also has ancient caves, water tanks, and a peaceful atmosphere away from city crowds.
Best season: Monsoon, winter
Best for: Beginners looking for a slightly adventurous trek, photography lovers
Why choose this trek: Scenic views, calm environment, historical ruins
3. Lohagad Fort Trek
📍 Location: Lonavala
⏱️ Trek Duration: Around 3 hours
📈 Difficulty Level: Easy
Lohagad is one of the most popular weekend treks from Pune, especially during monsoon. The trail is mostly stone steps, making it safe and comfortable even for beginners.
During the rainy season, the surroundings turn lush green with waterfalls flowing along the fort walls. The fort’s iconic Vinchu Kata (Scorpion’s Tail) is a major highlight and a favourite photography spot.
Best season: Monsoon & winter
Best for: Group treks, beginners, nature lovers
Why choose this trek: Safe trail, dramatic monsoon views, rich history
4. Visapur Fort Trek
📍 Location: Near Lohagad
⏱️ Trek Duration: 4 hours
📈 Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Visapur Fort is taller and wider than Lohagad and offers a slightly longer trekking experience. While still beginner-friendly, it requires better stamina due to its length.
Monsoons transform Visapur into a waterfall paradise, with streams flowing across the trail. The fort’s vast plateau gives you a feeling of openness and freedom, perfect for slow exploration.
Best season: Monsoon
Best for: Beginners ready to push a little more, nature lovers
Why choose this trek: Long scenic trail, waterfalls, open landscapes
5. Rajmachi Fort Trek
📍 Location: Between Lonavala & Karjat
⏱️ Trek Duration: Overnight trek
📈 Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Rajmachi is ideal if you want to experience your first overnight trek or camping trip. The trail itself is not very steep and can be done comfortably with basic fitness.
Camping near the fort under the stars, waking up to misty valleys, and exploring Shrivardhan & Manaranjan forts make this trek a memorable experience.
Best season: Winter & monsoon
Best for: Beginners, couples, first-time campers
Why choose this trek: Night trekking experience, camping, peaceful vibes
6. Andharban Forest Trek
📍 Location: Tamhini Ghat
⏱️ Trek Duration: 5–6 hours (mostly descending)
📈 Difficulty Level: Easy
Andharban literally means “dark forest”, and this trek is a magical walk through dense greenery rather than a climb. Since the trail is mostly downhill, it is suitable even for beginners.
Expect forest trails, waterfalls, birds, and misty surroundings. A local guide is highly recommended due to forest routes and changing weather.
Best season: Monsoon
Best for: Nature lovers, beginners, peaceful trekking
Why choose this trek: Forest experience, minimal climbing, scenic beauty
7. Devkund Waterfall Trek
📍 Location: Bhira
⏱️ Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
📈 Difficulty Level: Moderate (guided trek recommended)
Devkund is famous for its crystal-clear plunge waterfall, making it one of the most Instagrammable treks near Pune. The trail includes river crossings and forest paths, so going with a professional trekking group is important.
Despite moderate difficulty, beginners can do this trek with guidance and proper planning.
Best season: Monsoon & post-monsoon
Best for: Waterfall lovers, adventure seekers
Why choose this trek: Stunning waterfall, adventure, raw nature
8. Korigad Fort Trek
📍 Location: Near Amby Valley
⏱️ Trek Duration: 2–3 hours
📈 Difficulty Level: Very Easy
Korigad Fort is one of the easiest fort treks near Pune, thanks to well-built stone steps almost throughout the route. It’s ideal for families and people trekking for the first time.
The fort offers calm surroundings and wide fort walls perfect for relaxed walks and photos.
Best season: All year (avoid peak summer afternoons)
Best for: Beginners, families, relaxed treks
Why choose this trek: Safe steps, peaceful environment
9. Torna Fort (Base Exploration)
📍 Location: Velhe
⏱️ Trek Duration: Short trail option
📈 Difficulty Level: Easy (base area)
Torna Fort is Maharashtra’s highest fort, but beginners can explore the base region and nearby trails without attempting the full summit.
This gives a feel of high-altitude trekking while staying within comfortable limits.
Best season: Winter
Best for: Beginners wanting a taste of challenging treks
Why choose this trek: Intro to high-altitude forts, scenic base trails
10. Garbett Plateau Trek
📍 Location: Matheran region
⏱️ Trek Duration: 3–4 hours
📈 Difficulty Level: Easy
Garbett Plateau offers wide open trails, grasslands, and stunning valley views. Unlike fort treks, this route feels open and spacious, making it less intimidating for beginners.
Sunsets here are particularly beautiful, with views stretching across the Western Ghats.
Best season: Post-monsoon & winter
Best for: Beginners, photographers, peaceful treks
Why choose this trek: Open landscapes, minimal difficulty, scenic sunsets
Essential Tips for First-Time Trekkers
- Wear comfortable sports or trekking shoes
- Carry at least 2 litres of water
- Avoid trekking alone
- Start early to avoid heat & crowds
- Always check weather conditions
Plan Your Trek with Outdoor Ventures
At Outdoor Ventures (Pune), we specialise in safe, beginner-friendly weekend treks near Pune. Our treks include:
- Experienced trek leaders
- Proper planning & safety
- Group coordination & support
📩 Join Outdoor Ventures and start your trekking journey with confidence.