Before the Heat Hits: 10 Beautiful Treks Near Mumbai You Should Do Right Now
There’s a brief window every year when the Sahyadris feel generous. The air is lighter, the rock faces haven’t begun to radiate heat, and the long climbs don’t feel punishing by mid-morning. It’s the stretch just before summer settles heavily over Maharashtra – and it’s the best time to plan the most scenic treks near Mumbai.
Within a two- to three-hour radius of the city, the landscape shifts quickly: forested trails in Malshej, fort ruins in Lonavala, exposed ridgelines near Karjat, and summit routes that test endurance without overwhelming first-timers. By April, many of these paths grow harsher under direct sun. Right now, they’re still balanced — clear skies, manageable temperatures, and views that stretch across layered Western Ghats.
If you’ve been postponing that sunrise climb or weekend fort trek, this is the moment to move. Here are ten routes worth doing before the heat changes the terrain entirely.
In this Blog
1. Karnala Fort Trek (Panvel)
An accessible day hike through Karnala Bird Sanctuary with a short climb to the old fort summit, offering 360° views of the Raigad hills. Ideal for beginners, this trail mixes nature and heritage within ~65 km of Mumbai.
An easy, forest-shaded climb inside Karnala Bird Sanctuary that reaches a historic hill fort at ~1,500 ft, with views over the surrounding sanctuary and plains. The trail is well-marked and suitable even for first-timers with basic fitness; explore ruins and panoramic viewpoints at the top. Typical ascent takes ~1–2 hours, descent ~0.5–1 hour
Approx distance: ~60–70 km from Mumbai
Best for: Beginners, families · History & nature views
2. Rajmachi Fort Trek (Lonavala–Karjat)
A classic day trek through verdant Sahyadri landscapes connecting the twin forts of Shrivardhan and Manaranjan. Monsoon and post-monsoon months bring lush valley views around the trail.
A classic Western Ghats trek linking the twin forts of Shrivardhan and Manaranjan through open grasslands, fire-lines, and forest patches. The total trek time is ~4–5 hours depending on route (Udhewadi side shorter; Karjat side longer and steeper). Trekkers are treated to valley views and occasional waterfalls in season.
Approx distance: ~100–120 km
Best for: Easy to moderate levels · Scenic views
3. Kothaligad (Peth Fort)
A short, moderately challenging trek near Karjat that rewards trekkers with panoramic views of the surrounding Sahyadri ranges. Route is often clear and suitable for half-day adventures.
Also called Peth Fort, this route begins through fields and forest before reaching rocky ridges and open summit platforms. At the top, look back at peaks like Prabalgad and
Approx distance: ~80–90 km
Best for: Easy–moderate · Panoramic hill views
4. Lohagad & Visapur Forts (Lonavala)
These twin forts provide two distinct experiences: Lohagad is an easy stepped climb with scenic plateau views, while Visapur offers a slightly longer and rockier ascent. Both are superb in cooler months.
Lohagad: A historic “Iron Fort” with stone steps and grassy slopes. Most groups summit and return in ~2–3 hours, adding the Vinchu Kata ridge about ~45 min extra.
Visapur: Linked to Lohagad, this fort involves a slightly longer walk (typically ~4–5 hours total) and fewer steps but more undulating plateau trails. Trails are clear and scenic year-round, especially in winter and early year.
Approx distance: ~95–105 km
Best for: Easy to moderate · Fort heritage
5. Kalsubai Peak (Ahmednagar)
The highest peak in Maharashtra, this route blends climbing thrill with expansive views across the western Ghats. It’s slightly farther but one of the most rewarding high-point treks near Mumbai.
At ~5,400 ft, Kalsubai is Maharashtra’s highest peak and offers a classic summit experience with iron ladders and steps near the top. Trekkers typically take ~3.5–4.5 hours to reach the summit from Bari village, with the return roughly similar; total trekking time ~7–9 hours for a full day. During pre-heat months, the trail is cooler with clear long-distance views.
Approx distance: ~150 km
Best for: Intermediate trekkers · Summit views
6. Harishchandragad (Malshej Ghat)
A Sahyadri classic with ancient temples, caves, waterfalls, and the famed Konkankada cliff viewpoint. Multiple routes exist, making it suitable for varying experience levels.
A heritage fort trek with cultural spots like Kedareshwar Cave and Konkan Kada, a dramatic cliff. Typical trek time varies by route: Pachnai trail (~3 hrs up, ~3 hrs down) and longer options via Tolar Khind or Nalichi Vaat add distance and challenge. Overall, most day trips allocate 6–8 hours total.
Approx distance: ~100–140 km
Best for: Intermediate · Historic sites · Cliff vistas
7. Tandulwadi Fort (Palghar)
A lesser-visited trek north of Mumbai offering wide horizon views, river confluence sights, and open plateau ridges. It’s a good choice for early-year or monsoon trekking away from crowds.
A relatively straightforward ascent to a flat summit with expansive panoramas of Vaitarna backwaters and surrounding peaks. Trekkers typically take ~1–1.5 hrs to reach the main plateau and another ~1–1.5 hrs to explore and descend. A good medium-effort morning trek ahead of rising temperatures.
Approx distance: ~100–110 km
Best for: Easy–moderate · Wide horizon views
8. Peb Fort / Vikatgad (Neral)
Accessible via Neral and Matheran, this trail blends old fort ruins with scenic ridgelines and forest patches — a popular day trek with varied terrain.
Known locally as Vikatgad, this trail from Anandwadi or Fanaswadi base spans ~7 km and takes ~2.5 hrs to ascend and ~2–3 hrs to return, with plateau exploration at the top adding time. The fort offers commanding views of the Matheran range.
Approx distance: ~60–80 km
Best for: Moderate · Hill range panoramas
9. Andharban Jungle Trek (Malshej)
A lush forest route with streams and shaded paths — perfect for early-season trekking before monsoon saturation. The trail’s greenery and soundscape make it distinct from simple fort hikes.
A forest descent trek from Pimpri through dense jungle, falls, and valley views ending near Bhira Dam; total distance ~13 km. Most groups plan ~5–7 hours of trekking time depending on breaks and terrain, as the trail includes steady descents and occasional water crossings.
Approx distance: ~120 km
Best for: Nature/forest lovers · Seasonal waterfalls
10. Garbett Plateau (Matheran)
A classic plateau walk with expansive views, lakes, and greenery that’s ideal in winter and early-monsoon months when trails are comfortable and scenic.
A leisurely route around the Garbett plateau offers extensive views of gorges and lush forests. Typical trek durations range ~3–4 hours including stops at key viewpoints and plateaus. It’s slightly less rugged than other climbs and works well as a gentle but satisfying outing.
Approx distance: ~75–85 km
Best for: Easy to moderate · Panorama + plateau walking
Trek Comparison: Difficulty & Type
| Trek Name | Difficulty | Type of Trail | Typical Trek Duration |
| Karnala Fort | Very Easy | Forest → Fort | ~1.5–3 hrs |
| Rajmachi Fort | Easy–Moderate | Fort & valley trail | ~4–6 hrs |
| Kothaligad | Easy–Moderate | Ridge/fort | ~3–4 hrs |
| Lohagad | Very Easy | Fort stairway | ~2–3 hrs |
| Visapur | Easy–Moderate | Fort & plateau | ~4–5 hrs |
| Kalsubai Peak | Moderate | Peak summit | ~7–9 hrs (full day) |
| Harishchandragad | Moderate | Plateau, caves, cliff | ~6–8 hrs |
| Tandulwadi Fort | Easy–Moderate | Plateau/fort | ~2–3 hrs |
| Peb Fort / Vikatgad | Moderate | Ridge | ~5–7 hrs |
| Andharban Jungle | Moderate | Forest stream trail | ~5–7 hrs |
| Garbett Plateau | Easy–Moderate | Plateau | ~3–4 hrs |
When is the best time to trek near Mumbai?
- January – March: cooler, dry conditions ideal before heat and humidity rise.
- Monsoon (June–September): lush green trails and waterfalls — bring rain gear and extra caution.
- October – February: clear post-monsoon skies and stable trails.
Places to Stay
Grams
FAQs
Which treks near Mumbai are easiest for beginners?
Karnala Fort, Lohagad Fort, and Peb/Vikatgad offer short, clear trails suitable for beginner trekkers.
How far are these treks from Mumbai by road or train?
Most listed treks are within 60–150 km of Mumbai, reachable by train to nearby stations (Panvel, Karjat, Lonavala) or by road in 2–4 hours.
Are these treks safe year-round?
Trails are safest in winter and early year; monsoon adds beauty but also slippery surfaces, so appropriate gear and caution are essential.
Do I need a guide or can I trek independently?
Easy hikes can be done independently; for jungles, ridgelines, or less-known routes, a guide or local contact improves safety and navigation.
What should I pack for these treks?
Pack trekking shoes with grip, hydration, sun protection, light snacks, a rain shell in monsoon, and a basic first-aid kit.
Can these treks be done in a single day?
Yes — most treks on this list are designed as day trips from Mumbai, though some like Kalsubai may require early starts for summit completion.
Banner Image Credit: Getty images via Unsplash
