Lohagad Fort is a popular hill fort located near Lonavala in Maharashtra. It is famous for its scenic views and historical significance. Many travelers visit Lohagad Fort as a day trip from Lonavala, which is a well-known hill station on the Mumbai-Pune route.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Lohagad Fort from Lonavala. You will learn about different transport options, travel times, and useful tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Lonavala to Lohagad Fort – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a unique and scenic way to reach Lohagad Fort from Lonavala. The fort is close to the Lohagad railway station on the Mumbai-Pune railway line, making it accessible by local trains and slow passenger trains.

• The nearest railway station to Lohagad Fort is Lohagad station, about 2 km from the fort entrance, reachable by a short walk or local transport from Lonavala station.

• Local trains from Lonavala to Lohagad take around 10 to 15 minutes and run frequently during the day, with fares typically under ₹20 per person.

• Trains can be crowded during weekends and holidays, so it is best to travel early morning or late afternoon to avoid rush hours and secure a seat.

• The railway route offers beautiful views of the Western Ghats, but monsoon rains can cause occasional delays and slippery platforms, so caution is advised during June to September.

• From Lohagad station, you can hire a local auto-rickshaw or walk to the fort base, which takes about 30 minutes uphill on a well-marked trail.

Bus

Buses are a budget-friendly option for traveling from Lonavala to the base of Lohagad Fort. However, direct buses to the fort are limited, so you may need to combine bus travel with walking or local transport.

• State transport buses operated by MSRTC run regularly between Lonavala bus stand and nearby villages like Tungarli or Malavli, which are close to the fort entrance.

• The bus journey takes around 20 to 30 minutes depending on the route and traffic, with fares ranging from ₹15 to ₹30 per person.

• During peak tourist seasons, buses can be crowded and less frequent, so check the latest schedules at the Lonavala bus stand or online MSRTC portals.

• From the bus stop near the fort, you will need to walk or hire a local auto-rickshaw for the last 1 to 2 km uphill to the fort entrance.

• Buses run mostly during daylight hours; avoid traveling late evening due to limited services and safety concerns on hilly roads.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Lonavala to Lohagad Fort is convenient and flexible, especially if you want to explore the area at your own pace. The route is short and well-maintained, suitable for all types of vehicles.

• The distance from Lonavala town center to Lohagad Fort is about 8 km via the Tungarli-Lohagad road, taking roughly 20 to 30 minutes by car depending on traffic.

• The route follows the NH48 highway initially, then turns onto local roads leading to the fort base, with clear signboards along the way.

• Parking is available near the fort entrance, but it can get crowded during weekends and holidays, so arriving early is recommended to secure a spot.

• Toll plazas on NH48 may apply if you take the highway route; toll charges are minimal but keep cash handy for smooth passage.

• During monsoon season, roads can be slippery and narrow, so drive carefully and avoid night driving on the winding hill roads.

On Foot / Trekking

For adventure lovers, trekking from Lonavala to Lohagad Fort is a popular option. The trail is well-marked and offers stunning views of the Western Ghats, especially during the monsoon season.

• The trek starts near Lonavala railway station or Tungarli village and covers approximately 8 to 10 km, taking 2 to 3 hours depending on your pace.

• The path is moderately steep with some rocky sections, suitable for beginners with basic fitness and proper footwear.

• During the monsoon (June to September), the trail becomes slippery and crowded, so trekking early morning is safer and more enjoyable.

• Carry water, snacks, and rain gear, as there are limited food stalls on the way, and weather can change quickly in the hills.

• Local guides are available near Lonavala for hire if you prefer company or need assistance navigating the trail.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Lonavala to Lohagad Fort. It covers key actions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

• Start by checking the weather forecast and local transport schedules to pick the best day and time for your visit, avoiding heavy rains or foggy mornings common in monsoon.

• Book your train or bus tickets in advance if traveling on weekends or holidays, using IRCTC for trains or MSRTC online portals for buses to avoid last-minute hassles.

• If driving, plan your route using GPS apps like Google Maps and check for any road closures or toll charges on NH48 and local roads near the fort.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to trek from Lonavala to the fort.

• On arrival at Lonavala station or bus stand, confirm local transport options such as auto-rickshaws or shared taxis for the last mile to the fort base, negotiating fares beforehand.

• Start your ascent to Lohagad Fort early in the day to avoid afternoon heat and crowds, and carry a mobile phone with a local SIM for navigation and emergencies.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety is important on the hill roads and trekking trails; avoid traveling alone after dark and inform someone about your itinerary before starting the trek.

• Drink only bottled or purified water during your trip to prevent stomach issues common in hill stations and rural areas.

• Book tickets for trains and buses online in advance during peak seasons to ensure availability and avoid standing in long queues at stations.

• Use app-based cabs like Ola or Uber in Lonavala for reliable and metered local transport, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area.

• Carry minimal luggage and use a backpack for the trek or walk to the fort, as vehicles cannot go beyond certain points near the fort entrance.

• During monsoon, carry raincoats and waterproof covers for your belongings; slippery paths require sturdy shoes with good grip for safe trekking.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Lohagad Fort from Lonavala is during the cooler months from October to February. The weather is pleasant and ideal for trekking and sightseeing.

Monsoon season from June to September brings lush greenery and waterfalls but also slippery trails and occasional travel delays. Summer months can be hot and less comfortable for outdoor activities.

• Avoid weekends and festival periods like Diwali and New Year when Lonavala and Lohagad get very crowded, leading to traffic jams and accommodation shortages.

• Monsoon rains can cause slippery roads and trail closures, so check local weather updates before planning your trip during June to September.

• Early morning departures are best to avoid afternoon heat and heavy tourist crowds, especially during peak season.

• Winter mornings can be foggy, causing reduced visibility on roads and railway tracks, so allow extra travel time during December and January.

Arrival at Lohagad Fort & What to Expect

When you arrive at Lohagad Fort, you will find a well-maintained entrance with ticket counters and basic facilities. The fort area is popular among trekkers and history enthusiasts, so expect a lively atmosphere during peak times.

Local transport options include auto-rickshaws and shared jeeps from nearby villages to the fort base. Many visitors prefer to walk up the final stretch to enjoy the natural surroundings and panoramic views.

Accommodation options are limited near the fort itself, so most travelers stay in Lonavala town, which offers a wide range of hotels, guesthouses, and homestays. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are easily available in Lonavala for convenient local travel.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Lohagad Fort from Lonavala depends on your preferences. If you want a quick and scenic trip, taking a local train to Lohagad station followed by a short walk is ideal. For budget travelers, buses combined with walking or autos work well. Self-driving offers flexibility and comfort, especially for groups or families.

Planning ahead by checking transport schedules, weather conditions, and packing essentials will make your visit to Lohagad Fort smooth and enjoyable. With clear routes and multiple options, you can confidently plan your trip and experience the beauty and history of this iconic Maharashtra fort.