Overview
Sondai Fort, located near Karjat in Maharashtra’s Raigad district, is a lesser-known gem ideal for a quick monsoon getaway. Standing at approximately 365 meters (1,482 feet) above sea level, this fort offers panoramic views of the Matheran mountain range and surrounding valleys. The trek begins from Sondewadi village and is considered easy in terms of both difficulty and endurance, taking about 1–2 hours to complete. The well-marked trail passes through lush forests, rocky patches, and carved stone steps, eventually leading to the summit, which features ancient cisterns, a ladder climb, and a small temple dedicated to Goddess Sondai. Built during the Maratha era under Shivaji Maharaj, the fort once served as a watchpoint and now attracts nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure seekers alike. With its serene atmosphere, scenic landscapes, and accessibility from both Mumbai (60–70 km) and Pune (100–110 km), Sondai Fort makes for a perfect short trek in the Sahyadris.
Tour Highlights
- Explore 3–4 ancient water cisterns atop the fort
- Visit the Sondai Devi statue and carved idols under a sacred tree
- Enjoy panoramic views of the majestic Matheran mountain range
- Witness the scenic beauty of Morbe Dam, especially in monsoon
- Capture breathtaking views of Vavarle Dam surrounded by lush greenery
Inclusions/Exclusions
The day begins early with participants boarding the 6:10 AM local train from CSMT to Karjat, with scheduled halts at Byculla (6:18 AM), Dadar (6:24 AM), Kurla (6:31 AM), Ghatkopar (6:35 AM), Thane (6:49 AM), Kalyan (7:15 AM), Ambernath (7:27 AM), and Badlapur (7:34 AM), before reaching Karjat at 8:08 AM. Upon arrival, the Trikon Team will meet participants at Karjat Station by 8:15 AM. From there, the group will travel to the base village by local transport and enjoy breakfast along with a brief introduction session by 9:00 AM.
The trek to Sondai Fort will begin at 10:00 AM, leading through scenic trails and offering lush monsoon views. The group is expected to reach the summit by 12:00 PM, where they can explore the fort, its cisterns, temple, and panoramic views. After spending some time at the top, the descent will begin around 2:00 PM, reaching the base village by 3:30 PM, followed by a wholesome veg lunch.
The return journey will commence at 4:30 PM, reaching Karjat Station by 6:00 PM, where participants will board a local train back to Mumbai. The day concludes with an expected arrival in Mumbai around 8:00 PM, wrapping up a refreshing and enriching one-day trek.
Participants traveling from Pune will board the Sinhagad Express (Train No. 11010), which departs from Pune Junction at 6:05 AM. The train halts at Shivajinagar (6:10 AM), Khadki (6:18 AM), Pimpri (6:18 AM), Chinchwad (6:31 AM), Lonavala (6:33 AM), and Khandala (7:13 AM) before arriving at Karjat Station at 7:58 AM. Upon arrival, Pune participants will join the main group at Karjat and proceed together toward the base village for the trek.
Tour Duration
- 1D
Medicine, cash, toiletries, trekking shoes, water bottle, ID card, power bank, torch, blanket, warm clothes, moisturizers.
Cancellations received less than 45 days prior to departure will be subject to the following forfeit | Before 45 days: 25% of tour cost | 45 - 30 days: 50 % of tour cost | 30 - 20 days: 75% of tour cost | Within 20 days: 100% of tour cost | No exception to this policy can be made for any reason.
46 Days or more before date of departure: 25% of total cost. | 31 - 45 Days before date of departure: 50% of total cost. | 30 days before date of departure: 100% of total cost.
Any increase in cost because of change in the itinerary due to reasons beyond our control (force majeure) like landslides, riots, traffic jams etc. | Any dispute is subject to Delhi jurisdiction only.
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