Ghangad fort is a lovely 300-year-old structure located near Tamini Ghat and Mulshi. Though there isn't much history available on it, we hear it was used by the Peshwas to keep prisoners - and also as a watchtower over the Pune - Konkan trade route.
This 300-Year-Old Fort Is The Perfect Trek To Try Before Monsoon Ends
The information in this post might be outdated
Shortcut
What Makes It Awesome?
Ghanghad fort is located around 2.5hrs away from Pune by car - if you head towards Tamini Ghat via Mulshi. Alternatively, you can take the train/bus to Lonavala, followed by a local bus to Bhaburde village, after which you'll have to walk 25 mins to Ekole village - at the base of Ghanghad fort.
The trek shouldn't take more than 1 hour to get to the middle of the fort, and then another 30 minutes if you want to climb to the top. Ghangad fort is a popular camping spot among trekkers, because of the caves and open space (which is ideal for open-air cooking) - but camping is not recommended during the monsoon season.
Points of interest here are the temple of the Goddess 'Garjai', a stone-cut water cistern, the original fortifications, and the caves. From this fort, you'll be able to enjoy stunning views of the backwaters of Mulshi dam, and as far as Korigad and Sudhagad forts.
What Could Be Better?
This is a moderate trek through the dense jungle - but might be a bit of a challenge for novice trekkers, as some parts of the climb are quite tricky. Carry your own food supplies, drinking water, and camping gear (if needed) as there aren't any places to acquire these nearby.
Pro Tip
If you're new to trekking, we recommend you do a guided trek with a group like PuneTrekkers or through Thrillophilia.