Adventure Junkies, Go On These Night Treks Near Pune This Summer

Considered as one of the best forts in Satara, Ajinkyatara Fort is about 115 km from Pune. Perched at a height of 3,300 feet, the night trek to this fort is pretty easy and is perfect for novice trekkers. The approximate trekking time is about an hour from the base village of Ajinkyatara. You can stay at the Hanuman Temple which is located at the top of the fort. We hear the temple can accommodate around 12 to 15 people with ease.

Unconventional and with a different vibe, Raireshwar is a destination situated amongst hills and fort of Kenjalgad in Bhor Taluka, which is approximately 82 km away from Pune. This place is excellent for night treks as this place is ideal for night camping and star-gazing. Pack your binoculars and witness the beauty of the universe.

Located at an altitude of 2,100 feet, the trek to Vikatgad Fort requires a lot of stamina. The base village is Anandwadi and takes almost 4 hours to complete the trek. The trail is full of waterfalls, dense forests and walking up and down crooked mountain ridges. If you want to stay the night, there’s a cavern at the top of the fort which can house 8 to 10 people at a time.

Perched at a height of 4,603 feet above sea level, Torna is definitely the highest fort in and around Pune district. The trek starts from the base village of Velhe and the trail is fairly simple and takes about three hours to reach the top. Once you’re there, you can pitch your tents and spend the night. Must carry water, food and a first aid kit.

Located near Bhor, Kenjalgad is a beautiful fort, perfect for a night trek that passes through dense forests and rock-cut steps. The base of the fort is at the village of Ghera Kenjal and takes about half-an-hour to reach the top from there. There’s a small temple in the village which is often used by trekkers to spend the night. But before you head here, remember to carry adequate food and water because it’s almost impossible to find any out here.

One of the best and the most challenging of the night treks, scale this hill fort to see the scenic, breathtaking views from the Kokan Kada or Cobra's Hood. It offers a breathtaking view of the sunset. The fort is huge and a spectacular view even as you escalate it. The trail going through rocky patches, steep inclinations and some scary drops, it will for sure push you to test your stamina and your patience during the pitch dark night. You can see the beautiful Saptatirtha Lake and the intricately structured Kedareshwar temple. Stay in the tents at night with the beautiful stars accompanying you.

Kalsubai with the height of 1,646 meters is famous for being one of the highest peaks in Maharashtra. Known as the Everest of Maharashtra, Kalsubai lies in the Sahyadri mountain range and commands a beautiful view. Since it's a famous venue for treks, it's an easier climb with the help of steel railings, chains and ladders at places where it is difficult to climb. Kalsubai temple is located at the topmost summit. At the summit there is a plain ground with a small temple of Kalsubai, a local deity. A traditional prayer (pooja) service is held every Tuesday and Thursday by a local priest.

Located at the quaint village of Bhira in Maharashtra, just a two-hour drive away from Pune, plan a trek to the enticing crystal-clear Devkund waterfall, surrounded by green fields and hill ranges. You can either opt to go for the trek by yourself or go through travel groups such as Giridarshan Trekking Club in the Deccan, the Vatsaru Trekkers in Erandwane and Adventures365 at Katraj. The approximate cost of the trek is between INR 2,100 and INR 2,500. The trek is easy -  just 4.5 km - which has a hike alongside the Bhira dam, patches of forest cover, a small water stream, and open fields. With no steep descends, the trek can be undertaken by even amateurs.

Katraj To Sinhgad: Conquer over 14 hills within 9-10 hours at this K2S night trek.  Let the magnificent view of the city lights, valleys in all possible shades and hues and nature at its best be your companions and you climb up hills over hills in this popular night trek. 16 km in length, it is not for the faint hearted. Boost up your stamina and your will power to take up the mountains of the great Sahyadri range. It’s a testing time for your fitness and endurance.

The highest point in the Sahyadri ranges, this fort attains a towering height of 2969 ft, climbing it adventurous but challenging at the same time. One needs to have prior experience in climbing. One of the most sought-after trekking destinations, the trail takes 5-6 hours of tough climbing, but all the effort is worth it. The end summit point will reward you with one of the most enthralling, spectacular and stunning views. You can also enjoy rappelling and rock climbing, of course, only after the sunrise.