Overview

Sondai Fort Trek

 

Sondai fort trek base village: Sondewadi village
sondai fort trek height: 365 meters
Sondai fort Trek distance: 5-6 km
Sondai fort Trek duration: 1-2 hours
Sondai fort trek difficulty level: Easy
Sondai fort trek endurance: Easy
Sondai fort distance from Mumbai: 60-70 km
Sondai fort distance from Pune: 100-110 km

Sondai fort is a hidden beauty of Karjat. It is not a popular destination but it will blow your mind for sure! This Fort is a part of the Matheran range. This is one of the best treks to visit during monsoons near Mumbai. From Sondewadi base village it takes 45-60 mins to reach the plateau. 2 adjoined cisterns reserve water. We can have a view of Gavari hill from here. After climbing the carved stairs one can see dried cistern also on the right side a ladder is available to ascend. After climbing the rock patch one can see 2 cisterns in which one huge pillar stands tall. The top view gives a splendid view of the Matheran Mountain range. Green landscapes and even foggy pinnacle during the monsoon!

Situated in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, India, Sondai Fort is a historical fortress positioned 1,482 feet above sea level, providing awe-inspiring views of the nearby mountain ranges. This destination appeals to nature enthusiasts, history aficionados, and adventure seekers alike.

The Sondai Fort trek is a popular activity for both locals and tourists, taking approximately 2-3 hours to complete and is considered easy -level difficulty. Beginning at the base village of Sondewadi, the trail is well-marked, winding through dense forests, rocky terrain, and steep inclines. The Western Ghats' scenic beauty and diverse wildlife make the journey even more remarkable.

Upon reaching the summit, trekkers can explore the fort ruins, including a small temple, water cisterns, and several dilapidated structures. The panoramic view from the top is spectacular, with the Sahyadri mountain range stretching as far as the eye can see. The descent is equally enjoyable, with ample opportunities to pause and appreciate the region's natural splendor.

All in all, Sondai Fort and its trek offer a distinctive blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty, making it a destination not to be missed when visiting Maharashtra.

 

Some interesting facts about Sondai Fort:

  1. Sondai Fort is situated at an altitude of about 1,482 feet above sea level.

  2. The fort was built during the 17th century by the Maratha ruler, Shivaji Maharaj.

  3. Sondai Fort is a popular trekking destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. The trek to the fort takes about 1-2 hours and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

  4. The fort has a strategic location and was used to keep a watch on the surrounding areas during wars.

  5. Sondai Fort has a small temple dedicated to Goddess Sondai at the top. The temple is visited by many devotees during festivals and special occasions.

  6. The fort has a few water tanks that were used to store water for the soldiers and residents.

  7. The fort is surrounded by dense forests and is home to a variety of flora and fauna.

  8. The trek to Sondai Fort is relatively easy and can be done by beginners as well. However, it is recommended to go with a guide or an experienced trekker.

  9. Sondai Fort is located about 60 km from Mumbai and can be easily accessed by road.

  10. The fort offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere, making it a perfect place for a weekend getaway.

Regenerate response

12 Hours Available on request Bhisegaon, Maharashtra
Itinerary

Day 1 

06:00 am: Catch the train from CST to Karjat (6:10am)
08:15 am: Meet the Trikon Team at Karjat Station
09:00 am: Reach base village Via Local transport and have breakfast with Introduction Round
10:00 am: Start the trek
12:00 pm: Reach the top and explore the fort
02:00 pm: Start descend
03:30 pm: Reach base village and have lunch (Veg Lunch)
04:30 pm: Start return journey
06:00 pm: Reach Karjat Station and Catch a Local Train to Mumbai
08:00 pm: Reach Mumbai

Train Details :

06:10 am: CSMT
06:18 am: Byculla
06:24 am: Dadar
06:31 am: Kurla
06:35 am: Ghatkopar
06:49 am: Thane
07:15 am: Kalyan
07:27 am: Ambernath
07:34 am: Badlapur
08:08 am: Karjat

Pune Participants will be catching SINHAGAD EXPRESS which leaves from Pune at 6.05 am

Train Schedule For Pune
(11010 Sinhagad Express)


06:05 am Pune Junction (PUNE)
06:10 am Sivajinagar (SVJR)
06:18 am Khadki (KK)
06:18 am Pimpri (PMP)
06:31 am Chinchvad (CCH)
06:33 am Lonavala (LNL)
07:13 am Khandala (KAD)
07:58 am Karjat

Inclusions/Exclusions

What is included in the tour

  • Travelling from Karjat to Sondai and Sondai to to Karjat
  • Food: Breakfast and Lunch (Veg Lunch)
  • Trikon Trekking Expertise Charges
  • 5% GST

What is NOT included in the tour

  • Train Travel from Mumbai to Karjat
  • Any personal expenses such as soft drinks etc.
  • Anything other than above mentioned inclusion
Highlights
  • 3-4 Cisterns which hold water.
  • Sondai Devi Statue and 2-3 carved idols which are kept under a tree.
  • Beautiful and enormous Matheran Mountain Range which is heaven to witness during monsoons!
  • Morbe Dam which gives an amazing view during monsoons.
  • The breathtaking view of Vavarle Dam holding the monsoon rain water.
FAQs

Q: Is Sondai Fort Trek difficult?

A: Sondai Fort Trek is considered to be an easy trek suitable for beginners. The trail is well-marked, and the ascent is not too steep, but there are some rocky patches that require careful footing.

Q: How long does it take to climb Sondai fort?

A: The trek to the top of Sondai Fort takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your fitness level and pace.

Q: How do you trek the Sondai fort?

A: To trek to Sondai Fort, you can start by reaching the base village of Sondewadi in Karjat. From there, the trail starts near the village temple and ascends gradually through the forest. Along the way, you will cross a few streams and rocky patches before reaching the fort.

Q: How far is Sondai Fort Trek from Mumbai?

A: Sondai Fort Trek is approximately 60-70 km away from Mumbai, and it takes around 2.5 hours to reach the base village of Sondewadi by road.

Q: What is the best time to do Sondai Fort Trek?

A: The best time to do Sondai Fort Trek is during the monsoon season (June to September), when the hills are lush green and the waterfall near the base of the fort is in full flow. However, the trek can be done throughout the year.

Q: What should I carry for Sondai Fort Trek?

A: Some essentials to carry for Sondai Fort Trek are: comfortable trekking shoes, a water bottle, a cap/hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, snacks, and a first aid kit.

Q: Is camping allowed at Sondai Fort?

A: No, camping is not allowed at Sondai Fort. It is a day trek and trekkers are expected to return to the base village by evening.

Q: Is there any permission required for Sondai Fort Trek?

A: No permission is required for Sondai Fort Trek. However, it is always advisable to inform the local authorities or a trekking group before embarking on the trek.

Q: Are there any washroom facilities available on Sondai Fort Trek?

A: There are no washroom facilities available on the trek. Trekkers are advised to use the washroom facilities at the base village before starting the trek.

Things to carry
  • Identity Card
  • 2 ltrs water
  • Trekking Shoes
  • Enerzyl powder or Glucon D powder
  • Snacks & biscuits
  • Extra pair of clothes
  • Clean napkin or towel
  • Haversack or backpack (No sling bags)
  • Camera (optional)
  • Please carry personal medicines if any
  • Hand Sanitizer

IMPORTANT:

  • Avoid wearing precious Jewelry while trekking, as Trikon won’t be responsible for any losses for the same.
  • Consuming liquor or any kind of Alcoholic substance is prohibited. Carrying any kind of substance that’s illegal is not allowed. Smoking is strictly not allowed. Anybody found smoking or consuming alcoholic drinks will be expelled from the event without refund.
  • Dear Trikoners, always remember SHOES are your best companion on a trek! Please wear a good pair of TREKKING SHOES and not sports or running shoes. Make sure they are durable and firm enough to withstand tough conditions. You can carry floaters to wear only after the trek is completed. Feel free to contact Trikoner buddies prior to the trek in case of any confusion.
  • Fitness & Health:

    Though trekking is a fun-filled activity, it demands good amount of physical fitness. If you are under medication, please carry your medicines. During the trek, leaders will have over the counter medication for temporary treatment, so do give a heads up to them if you need any medical assistance.

    Pickup point
    Karjat Station Bus Stop, Bhisegaon, Karjat, Maharashtra, India View on Map