Koraigad Trek

Korigad Fort Trek, tailored for eco-adventure tourism and beginner-friendly exploration:

🏰 Korigad Fort Trek: A Gateway to History, Hills & Heavenly Views

Welcome to the Korigad Fort Trek — a perfect blend of history, nature, and panoramic beauty. Whether you're a first-time trekker, a family with kids, or a seasoned explorer looking for a relaxed day out, this trek offers a rewarding experience with minimal effort.

📍 About Korigad Fort

Also known as Koraigad, Koarigad, or Kumwarigad, this ancient hill fort stands proudly at an altitude of 923 meters (3,028 feet) above sea level — towering over 200 meters above the surrounding valleys. Located just 20 km from Lonavala, near Peth Shahpur village, it’s easily accessible from both Mumbai and Pune.

🥾 Trek Overview

Feature

Details

Trek Grade

Easy (Beginner-friendly, suitable for children and senior citizens)

Duration

1 to 1.5 hours ascent, <1 hour descent, plus fort exploration

Total Distance

Approx. 1.5 km one way

Total Trek Time

Around 3 hours

Best Season

Monsoon & Winter (also pleasant year-round)

Trek Timing Options

Daytime, Evening, or Night Trek

🌄 What to Expect

  • Bird’s Eye View of Aamby Valley: A stunning model township nestled in the valley below
  • Ancient Fort Exploration: Discover old ramparts, bastions, and temple complexes steeped in history
  • Seasonal Ponds: During monsoon and early winter, small ponds form atop the fort — perfect for reflection (literally!)
  • Rural Charm: Enjoy the scenic countryside en route, with glimpses of village life and lush greenery
  • Bonus Stop: On the return journey, we’ll visit the iconic Tiger’s Leap Hill for one last breathtaking view

🌱 Eco-Adventure & Responsible Tourism

We believe in travel that respects nature and culture. Our treks follow the principles of:

  • Eco-Adventure Tourism: Take only memories, leave only footprints
  • Responsible Travel: Better for the world, more meaningful for you

Let’s preserve the beauty of Korigad for generations to come.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Who Is This Trek For?

  • Families with kids looking for a safe and scenic outdoor experience
  • Individuals seeking a peaceful nature escape
  • Senior citizens ready to dip their toes into trekking
  • First-time trekkers who want a gentle introduction to hill forts

🕒 Trip Duration

This is a one-day trek from Mumbai or Pune — ideal for a weekend escape or a spontaneous adventure.

 
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Inclusions:

  • Event Management
  • Mountain Guide/s
  • Basic First Aid

 

Exclusions:

  • Stay (We can organize stay at Resorts/ Villas / Glamping / Farm Stay / Camping)
  • Meals (Village Meals or Packed Meals or Custom Meal Experience).
  • Bottled water/ beverages.
  • Any kind of insurance
  • Tips etc.
  • Un-utilized resources will not be refunded.
  • Anything that is not included is excluded.
  • Travel budget (by private transport - ask for quote).



Note: We can organize stays (Villas and Farm Stay; Camping and Glamping; Resorts and Hotels); transport; "meals for your trek"; "Group or Corporate Events with games, activities, and adventures"; we can customize the whole event to match your requirements.

Note: Adventure sports should always be done under strict supervision of professionals who are experienced and have standard based equipment's to support the activities. We will be happy to help. 
Experiences:

Easy Trek, Ancient Fort Exploration and Exploring Rural Countryside, Amazing landscapes, flora with amazing birdlife and insect life.


Contact: 9619182010 for Inquiries and Booking

asif@natureknights.net / natureknights@gmail.com





Night Trek


A Bit of Historic Exploration:

🏰 The Legacy of Korigad Fort: A Timeless Sentinel of the Sahyadris

Perched high in the Maval region, just 20 km south of Lonavala, the majestic Korigad Fort (also known as Koraigad, Koarigad, or Kumwarigad) stands as a proud relic of Maharashtra’s rich Maratha heritage. Rising to an altitude of 3,028 feet (923 meters) above sea level, the fort offers sweeping views of both the Deccan Plateau and the Konkan region, making it a strategic and scenic marvel.

🛡️ Historical Significance

  • Captured by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1657, Korigad was part of a strategic cluster of forts including Lohagad, Visapur, Tung, and Tikona — all vital to the defense of the Maratha Empire.
  • In March 1818, during the Third Anglo-Maratha War, Colonel Prother of the British forces laid siege to the fort. Despite days of resistance, the fort held strong until March 14, when a cannonball ignited stored ammunition, leading to its capture.

🧭 The Trek to the Fort

To reach Korigad, travelers take the INS Shivaji Road from Lonavala, passing through Ghusalkhamb, Peth-Shahpur, and Ambavane — the base village nestled at the foothills. From Peth-Shahpur, the fort rises like a sheer wall, with a climb of about 800–1,000 feet through a moderately dense forest.

  • The trail begins on a flat plain before entering the forest, where trekkers encounter a variety of native trees like fig, mango, bamboo, kokum, hirda, and nirgudi.
  • Wildlife sightings may include barking deer, wild boars, peacocks, and doves.
  • Midway, a Ganpati idol carved into rock marks a spiritual pause, followed by a cool water tank near the main entrance.

🏯 Exploring the Fort

Once inside, Korigad reveals its layered history and architectural charm:

  • Ganesh Gate: The main gateway, flanked by a cannon and offering views of Duke’s Nose, INS Shivaji, and the Jambhuli mountain range.
  • Koraidevi Temple: Dedicated to the fort’s patron goddess, this temple has been lovingly restored with a new roof and features a 4-foot idol and stone lamps.
  • Ambavane Gateway: A well-fortified southern entrance with views of Mulshi Lake, Bhamburda Mountain, and Durga Hill.
  • Vishnu Caves: Located on the western side, these caves house an idol of Vishnu and offer a quiet retreat.
  • Panoramic Views: From the northern bastion, gaze across the vast Konkan landscape.

🔍 Unique Features

  • Intact Fort Walls: A rare feature — you can walk the entire 2 km perimeter of the fort’s ramparts.
  • Ancient Temples: Besides Koraidevi, there are smaller shrines to Vishnu and Shiva, including a 3-foot Deepmala (lamp tower).
  • Historic Cannons: Six cannons remain, the largest being the Laxmi Toph, located near the Koraidevi temple.
  • Seasonal Lakes: During monsoon and early winter, two serene lakes form atop the fort, often visited by hovering vultures.

🌿 A Living Monument

Korigad is more than just a trek — it’s a journey into the heart of Maratha history, surrounded by nature’s bounty. Whether you're exploring its ramparts, meditating by its temples, or simply soaking in the views, the fort offers a timeless experience.

Eco-Adventure Tip: Respect the fort and its surroundings. Carry your waste back, avoid loud noises, and let nature thrive undisturbed.


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