How to Reach Korigad Fort from Mumbai – Travel Guide
Learn how to reach Korigad Fort from Mumbai by train, bus, car, or taxi with practical tips on routes, travel time, and local transport options.
Korigad Fort is located near Lonavala in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. It is a popular trekking and historical site known for its scenic views and ancient fortifications. Many travelers from Mumbai visit Korigad Fort for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
This guide explains the best ways to travel from Mumbai to Korigad Fort. You will learn about train, bus, car, and taxi options, along with practical travel tips and step-by-step plans to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.
Getting from Mumbai to Korigad Fort – Main Options
Train
Taking a train is a popular and economical way to reach near Korigad Fort. The nearest railway station is Lonavala, well connected to Mumbai by frequent trains.
Trains run regularly from Mumbai CST and Dadar stations to Lonavala, covering about 83 km in 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on the train type and stops.
Local trains (Mumbai suburban) are the cheapest option but can be crowded during peak hours; express trains offer more comfort and reserved seating.
From Lonavala station, Korigad Fort is about 12 km away, accessible by local taxis or buses; auto-rickshaws are also available but may not go all the way.
Train tickets can be booked via the IRCTC website or app; booking in advance is advised during weekends and holidays to avoid rush.
Monsoon season can cause delays due to fog or waterlogging on tracks, so check train status before travel.
Bus
Buses are a budget-friendly option for traveling from Mumbai to Lonavala, the base town for Korigad Fort. Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) operates frequent services.
MSRTC buses depart from Mumbai’s Dadar or Borivali bus depots to Lonavala every 30 minutes to 1 hour, with journey times around 2 to 3 hours depending on traffic.
Volvo and deluxe buses offer comfortable seating and air-conditioning but cost more than regular buses.
From Lonavala bus stand, shared taxis or local buses can take you closer to Korigad Fort’s base village, Tikona Wadi, about 10 km away.
Bus fares range from ₹100 to ₹300 depending on the bus type; tickets can be bought at depots or via MSRTC online portals.
During weekends and holidays, buses can be crowded; arriving early at the depot helps secure a seat.
Car / Self-Drive
Driving from Mumbai to Korigad Fort offers flexibility and comfort, especially if traveling in a group or with family. The route is scenic and well maintained.
The distance from Mumbai to Korigad Fort is approximately 95 km via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and NH48, taking about 2 to 3 hours depending on traffic.
Starting from Mumbai, take the Western Express Highway to join the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, then exit at Lonavala and follow local roads to Tikona Wadi village near the fort.
Toll plazas on the expressway charge around ₹150 to ₹200 one way; keep cash or FASTag ready to avoid delays.
Parking is available near the base village, but it can get crowded on weekends; arriving early is recommended.
Driving during monsoon requires caution due to slippery roads and fog; check weather conditions before starting.
Taxi / Cab
Hiring a taxi or cab from Mumbai to Korigad Fort is convenient for travelers who prefer door-to-door service without driving themselves.
Ola and Uber offer outstation rides from Mumbai to Lonavala or directly to Korigad Fort’s base village; fares typically range from ₹3000 to ₹4500 one way depending on car type.
Prepaid taxis are available at Mumbai airports and major railway stations; negotiate or confirm rates before starting.
Local taxis in Lonavala can take you from the station or bus stand to Tikona Wadi village; fares are usually ₹300 to ₹500 for this short trip.
Booking a round trip taxi for the day is common and convenient, allowing flexible stops and timing for trekking and sightseeing.
During peak tourist seasons, taxi availability may be limited; booking in advance is advisable.
Step-by-Step Travel Plan
This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Mumbai to Korigad Fort, focusing on ease and comfort.
Book your train or bus ticket online a day before your trip to avoid last-minute rush and secure your seat, especially on weekends and holidays.
Start early in the morning from Mumbai to avoid city traffic and reach Lonavala by mid-morning, giving you enough time for the trek and sightseeing.
From Lonavala station or bus stand, hire a local taxi or shared vehicle to Tikona Wadi village, the base for the fort trek; confirm the fare before boarding.
Wear comfortable trekking shoes and carry water and snacks, as local shops near the fort are limited and may be crowded.
After exploring the fort, return to Lonavala by taxi or bus and plan your return journey to Mumbai in the evening to avoid night travel on winding roads.
Practical Travel Tips
Carry a valid photo ID for train or bus ticket verification, and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded trains and buses.
Drink bottled water and avoid street food near transit points to prevent stomach issues; carry light snacks for the trek.
Book train tickets via IRCTC or bus tickets on MSRTC’s official site to avoid scams and ensure confirmed seats.
Use prepaid or app-based taxis like Ola and Uber in Mumbai and Lonavala for safe and transparent fares; avoid unlicensed cabs.
Pack light but include rain gear during monsoon months (June to September) as the region receives heavy rainfall and trails can be slippery.
Check weather forecasts and train/bus status before travel, especially during monsoon or winter fog seasons to avoid delays or cancellations.
Best Time & Travel Conditions
The best time to visit Korigad Fort is from October to February when the weather is cool and pleasant. The monsoon season offers lush greenery but can make trekking difficult and risky.
Planning your trip outside major festivals and weekends helps avoid crowding and high prices. Early morning departures usually provide smoother travel and better trekking conditions.
Avoid traveling during Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali festivals, as roads and trains are heavily crowded with local travelers.
Monsoon months (June to September) bring heavy rain and slippery trails; only experienced trekkers should attempt during this time.
Winter mornings can have fog on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway causing slow traffic; plan departures after 8 AM for safer driving.
Summer months (March to May) can be hot and humid; start early to avoid heat exhaustion during the trek.
Arrival at Korigad Fort & What to Expect
When you arrive at Tikona Wadi village, you will find parking areas and small shops selling refreshments. The trek to Korigad Fort takes about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on your pace.
Local transport options from Lonavala to the base village include shared jeeps and taxis. It is best to use prepaid or app-based cabs for safety and fair pricing. Accommodation options are limited near the fort, so staying in Lonavala town is recommended.
Conclusion
Planning your trip with advance bookings, starting early, and checking weather conditions will help you enjoy a safe and memorable visit to this historic fort. With these tips and options, you can confidently explore Korigad Fort from Mumbai and experience the beauty of the Western Ghats.