One of the best pastimes people in a city like Mumbai will enjoy is trekking. Take a break from the bustle and dust of the crowded streets to walk in pristine purity of gushing streams and lonely peaks, and revel in the wonderful exercise of walking through the day.
Wonderful fort sites to explore
Perhaps the best plans to relax will fail but those you set aside for your treks will definitely come true.
Prabalgad Fort: One of the nearest forts, Prabalgad fort is located at an altitude of 2300 feet between Panvel and Matheran. The distance from Mumbai is 62 km and from Pune is 118 km. Built during the rule of the Bahmani Sultanate, this historical and heritage site is worth a visit if not for the view of the old stones, but only for the splendid view of nature all around.
Karnala Bird Sanctuary: This is a mere 66 km from Mumbai Central. This picnic spot is very close to Panvel (13 km) and has plenty of visitors during the monsoon season. Situated at an altitude of 2100 feet, the pleasant climate lures many trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers. The fort is named after the goddess Pebi.
Lohagad Fort: Lohagad fort (the iron fort) is situated near Lonavala (114 km from Mumbai, 11 km from Lonavala) and is popular among visitors and trekkers. It lies between the Indrayani basin and the Pawna basin. It is a popular heritage site.
A few more sites for trekkers
Rajmachi Trek: This is also near Lonavala and 82 km from both Mumbai and Pune. It lies at an altitude of 2710 feet and is renowned for being a popular trekking spot. This strategic fort played a significant role in the historical times in the way the rulers used it to keep control of Bhor Ghat.
Vikatgad: Vikatgad is 13 km from Matheran and its distance from Mumbai is 88 km. Popular among monsoon trekkers, it offers splendid views of nature and scenic camping spots. This hill station is at a height of 2100 feet and attracts lots of tourist during the season time.
Easy treks for beginners
Mahuli Fort: This fort is situated on the west side of the Sahyadri mountains and offers wonderful camping sites and trekking near mumbai. The sight of the hill top at sunrise can be awe inspiring. This is a trek even beginners can undertake. You can finish the trek in a single day. It is 92 km distance from Mumbai.
Rigad Trek: Rigad fort is at an elevation of 3050 feet and the main attraction of this place is the numerous caves. You have to travel 110 km from Mumbai or 90 km from Pune to reach this place. At the site, you find tow large caves and two large ponds that is the centre of tourist attraction. This is also an easy trek and you can finish it in one day.
Plan the trek well in advance for you never know how things will change. But, the thrill of the trek will remain for a long time. Get the advice of the locals to explore the nooks and crannies of the places you visit.
