Korigad Fort is a popular hill fort located near Lonavala in Maharashtra. It is a favored destination for trekkers and history lovers who want to explore the scenic Western Ghats. Lonavala Station serves as the main gateway for visitors traveling to Korigad Fort.

This guide explains the best ways to reach Korigad Fort from Lonavala Station using different transport modes. You will find detailed travel options, step-by-step plans, and practical tips to make your trip hassle-free and enjoyable.

Getting from Lonavala Station to Korigad Fort – Main Options

Train

While Lonavala Station is well connected by train, there is no direct train to Korigad Fort. Train travel is mainly used to reach Lonavala from nearby cities before continuing by other means.

• Lonavala Station lies on the Mumbai-Pune railway route, making it accessible from major cities like Mumbai and Pune with frequent trains throughout the day.

• Trains from Mumbai to Lonavala take about 1.5 to 2 hours, with fares ranging from ₹50 to ₹150 depending on the class and train type.

• From Lonavala Station, you need to use road transport to reach Korigad Fort as there is no rail link beyond this point.

• Train travel is comfortable and cost-effective but plan your arrival time to match local transport availability to the fort.

Bus

Buses are a common way to reach areas near Korigad Fort from Lonavala, especially for budget travelers. However, direct buses to the fort are limited, so you may need to combine bus and walking or taxi rides.

• State transport buses operated by MSRTC run from Lonavala Bus Stand to nearby villages like Tikona or Tungar, which are close to Korigad Fort.

• The bus journey takes around 30 to 45 minutes and costs between ₹20 and ₹50 depending on the route and bus type.

• Buses can be crowded during weekends and holidays, so plan accordingly and avoid peak hours for a comfortable ride.

• From the bus stop, you will need to trek or hire a local taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the fort entrance.

• Bus frequency may reduce during monsoon season due to slippery roads and safety concerns, so check local schedules before traveling.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Lonavala Station to Korigad Fort is one of the most convenient options, offering flexibility and comfort. The route is scenic but involves some narrow and hilly roads near the fort.

• The distance from Lonavala Station to Korigad Fort is approximately 15 kilometers, taking about 40 to 50 minutes by car via NH48 and local village roads.

• Private cars or self-drive vehicles can be hired from Lonavala town or booked in advance through rental services.

• The route includes toll plazas on NH48, so keep cash or digital payment methods ready for toll charges.

• Parking is available near the base village of the fort, but it can get crowded during weekends and festival seasons.

• Driving during the monsoon requires caution due to slippery roads and occasional landslides in the Western Ghats.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or app-based cab from Lonavala Station to Korigad Fort is a popular choice for those seeking convenience without driving themselves. This option provides door-to-door service and local knowledge.

• Ola and Uber operate in Lonavala, allowing you to book a cab directly from the station to the fort area with fares typically ranging from ₹400 to ₹700 one way.

• Local taxi drivers often offer round-trip packages including waiting time, which can be economical if you plan to spend several hours at the fort.

• Taxis provide flexibility to stop at viewpoints or local eateries on the way, enhancing your travel experience.

• Booking a taxi in advance during weekends or holidays is recommended to avoid last-minute price surges or unavailability.

• Ensure the driver is aware of the exact drop-off point near the fort base village to avoid confusion on narrow roads.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Lonavala Station to Korigad Fort, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Step 1: Arrive at Lonavala Station by train or road. This is the main hub for travelers heading to Korigad Fort and nearby attractions. Booking train tickets via IRCTC in advance helps avoid last-minute hassles.

• Step 2: Choose your onward transport mode—taxi, bus, or self-drive car—based on your budget, comfort, and group size. Booking a taxi through Ola or Uber apps offers convenience and fixed fares.

• Step 3: Travel from Lonavala Station to the base village near Korigad Fort, such as Tikona or Tungar. This journey takes about 40 to 50 minutes by road and involves some hilly terrain.

• Step 4: Park your vehicle or get off at the bus stop, then prepare for the trek to the fort entrance. Carry water and snacks, as local food options are limited on the trail.

• Step 5: Trek to Korigad Fort, which takes around 30 to 45 minutes depending on your pace. Wear comfortable shoes and check weather conditions before starting.

• Step 6: After exploring the fort, return to your vehicle or bus stop and plan your return trip to Lonavala Station accordingly. Booking return transport in advance is advisable during peak seasons.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry sufficient drinking water and light snacks, as food stalls near Korigad Fort are scarce and may close early, especially during off-season.

• Use prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs from Lonavala Station to avoid overcharging by local drivers unfamiliar with standard rates.

• Wear sturdy trekking shoes and carry rain gear during monsoon months, as the trail can become slippery and challenging.

• Keep your belongings secure and avoid traveling alone on less crowded trails to ensure safety in remote areas around the fort.

• Book train tickets to Lonavala well in advance via IRCTC during weekends and holidays to secure seats and avoid last-minute cancellations.

• Local buses may not run late in the evening, so plan your return trip accordingly or arrange for a taxi to avoid being stranded.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Korigad Fort is during the cooler months from October to February when the weather is pleasant and trekking conditions are ideal. Avoid the peak summer months due to heat and dehydration risks.

Monsoon season from June to September offers lush green views but can make the trek slippery and risky. Travelers should take extra precautions or consider postponing visits during heavy rains.

• Avoid weekends and major festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali when the fort and Lonavala get crowded, leading to traffic jams and limited accommodation availability.

• Early morning departures from Lonavala Station help you avoid traffic and enjoy cooler temperatures on the trek.

• Fog and mist are common in early winter mornings, which may reduce visibility on the trail, so plan your trek timing accordingly.

• During monsoon, check local weather updates and road conditions before traveling to avoid landslides or road closures.

Arrival at Korigad Fort & What to Expect

Upon arrival near Korigad Fort, you will find a small parking area or bus stop at the base village. The fort entrance is accessible by a moderate trek through forested paths and rocky terrain.

Local transport options from Lonavala Station include prepaid taxis, Ola/Uber cabs, and MSRTC buses to nearby villages. It is advisable to use prepaid or app-based cabs to avoid bargaining and ensure safety.

Accommodation options are limited near the fort, so most visitors stay in Lonavala town, which offers a wide range of hotels, guesthouses, and eateries. Local buses and taxis connect Lonavala to the fort base.

After your trek, you can relax at local tea stalls near the fort base or explore nearby attractions like Tung Fort or Lohagad Fort, which are also accessible from Lonavala.

Conclusion

Traveling from Lonavala Station to Korigad Fort is straightforward with multiple transport options to suit different budgets and preferences. Taking a taxi or self-driving offers the most convenience and flexibility, while buses provide an economical alternative for budget travelers.

Planning your journey by booking train tickets early, choosing the right transport mode, and preparing for the trek will ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to Korigad Fort. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip and experience the natural beauty and history of this scenic hill fort near Lonavala.