Korigad Fort is a popular trekking destination near Lonavala, Maharashtra. Located at an altitude of around 920 meters above sea level, Korigad offers a perfect blend of history, adventure, and panoramic views of the Western Ghats and Aamby Valley. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned trekker, Korigad is an ideal weekend getaway from Mumbai and Pune.
· Easy to moderate trek – suitable for all age groups
· Historic fort walls still intact, dating back to the 15th century
· Spectacular views of Aamby Valley and surrounding valleys
·A serene and less crowded alternative to other Lonavala treks
District: Pune
Nearest Town: Lonavala (approx. 20 km away)
Base Village: Peth Shahpur
Best Time to Start: Early morning (between 6 AM to 8 AM)
Trek Duration: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours (one way)
Difficulty Level: Easy
Total Distance (one way): ~2 km from Peth Shahpur
There’s no entry fee or restriction on timing, but it's advisable to descend before dark as there is no lighting or commercial activity on the fort.
· Monsoon (June to September): Lush greenery, misty views, small waterfalls – the most beautiful time for the trek.
· Post-monsoon/Winter (October to February): Clear skies and pleasant weather – ideal for photography and fort exploration.
· Avoid summer (March to May) due to heat and dryness.
· Take a ST (State Transport) bus from Lonavala Bus Stand towards Aamby Valley.
· Get down at Peth Shahpur village (you may need to inform the conductor).
· From there, the trek begins just 10-15 minutes of walk from the bus stop.
⏱ Bus frequency is limited, so check timings at Lonavala ST Depot before starting.
- Board a local or express train to Lonavala Station.
- From Mumbai: Approx. 2.5 hours
- From Pune: Approx. 1.5 hours
- From Lonavala, take:
- A shared cab, auto, or private jeep to Peth Shahpur (20 km, ~45 mins) or, take an ST bus as mentioned above
· From Mumbai: Take Mumbai-Pune Expressway → Exit at Lonavala → Head towards Aamby Valley → Reach Peth Shahpur (~110 km, 2.5 to 3 hours)
· From Pune: Take Pune-Mumbai Expressway → Exit at Lonavala → Head towards Aamby Valley → Reach base (~85 km, 2 to 2.5 hours)
Parking: Available at the base village, locals usually allow parking near homes or designated spots for a small fee.
Perfect for weekend riders!
· Follow the same routes as above via Expressway bypass (not allowed for bikes) or via Old Mumbai-Pune Highway (NH4).
· Enjoy the scenic ride through the ghats and forest stretches.
· Carry enough water and snacks – no shops on the fort
·Wear good trekking shoes – the stone steps can be slippery in monsoon
· Carry a raincoat or poncho during the rainy season
· Avoid trekking after sunset
· Large fort walls with bastions
· Ganesh temple at the entrance
· Two beautiful lakes on top
· Panoramic view of Aamby Valley
· Ancient cannons and fort structures
The Korigad Trek near Lonavala is an enriching experience packed with nature, history, and adventure. Its accessibility, beginner-friendly terrain, and year-round charm make it one of the most visited trekking spots near Mumbai and Pune. Plan a day trip with friends or family and enjoy this gem nestled in the Sahyadri ranges.
Food Options Near Korigad Trek, Lonavala – A Complete Guide for Trekkers & Bike Riders , Travelers
Are you planning a trek to Korigad Fort near Lonavala and wondering about the best food options nearby? Whether you're a first-time trekker or a seasoned adventurer, it's important to know where and what you can eat during your Korigad trekking experience. This guide highlights the best food options near Korigad Trek, including pre-trek snacks, on-fort food stalls, and nearby restaurants in Lonavala.
Before you begin your ascent to Korigad Fort, you'll find a few small food stalls and local homes offering basic refreshments in Peth Shahapur. Here's what you can expect:
· Snacks and Beverages: Maggi noodles, vada pav, poha, tea, coffee, and lemon juice.
· Timings: Most stalls are open from early morning until late afternoon, especially on weekends.
· Pricing: Budget-friendly, though prices can increase slightly during peak trekking seasons.
Tip: Start your trek early in the morning and enjoy a light breakfast at Peth Shahapur before heading up.
Food Options on Korigad Fort
While Korigad Fort itself doesn’t have permanent food stalls, during weekends and peak monsoon months, temporary vendors set up shop at the top:
· Popular Items: Instant noodles, tea, corn, and biscuits.
· Availability: Mainly on weekends and public holidays.
· Prices: Typically 2x to 3x higher than base village rates due to transportation and demand.
Since food availability is not guaranteed, it’s always best to carry your own snacks and water when trekking to Korigad.
To stay energized and hydrated, consider packing the following:
· Energy bars and protein snacks
· Dry fruits, nuts, and biscuits
· 2-3 liters of water per person
· ORS sachets or electrolyte drinks
Stay Hydrated: Carry enough water, especially if you're trekking in the summer or during dry spells.
Once you're done exploring Korigad, head back to Lonavala for a proper meal. Here are some popular dining spots:
·Cuisine: North Indian, Maharashtrian
·Famous for: Butter chicken, tandoori dishes, and thalis
· Cuisine: Multi-cuisine (veg & non-veg)
· Popular for: South Indian breakfast and family meals
· Cuisine: Continental, Italian
· Known for: Pancakes, sandwiches, smoothies, and bakery items
· Cuisine: Traditional Maharashtrian and Punjabi
· Features: Village-style décor, great for groups
· Always carry your own water and a few energy snacks.
· Relying solely on food stalls can be risky due to their inconsistent availability.
· Explore Lonavala’s food scene post-trek for a satisfying meal and rest.
Korigad Trek is a must-do for nature lovers and adventure seekers visiting Lonavala. While food options are limited around the fort, proper planning and knowledge can make your experience enjoyable and safe. Whether you snack at the base village, pack your own lunch, or enjoy a hearty meal in Lonavala after your trek, there’s something for every trekker’s taste.
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