Raigad Fort is a historic hill fort located in the Sahyadri mountain range of Maharashtra. It served as the capital of the Maratha Empire under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and is a popular destination for history lovers and trekkers.

This guide explains the best ways to reach Raigad Fort from nearby cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Panvel. You will learn about train, bus, car, and trekking options, along with practical travel advice to plan your visit confidently.

Getting from Mumbai, Pune, or Panvel to Raigad Fort – Main Options

Train

Train travel is suitable for those coming from Mumbai, Pune, or Panvel who want an economical and comfortable journey close to Raigad Fort. The nearest railway stations are Panvel and Roha.

• Panvel Railway Station is about 40 km from Raigad Fort and well connected to Mumbai and Pune via frequent local and express trains, making it a convenient railhead for travelers.

• Roha Railway Station lies approximately 30 km from Raigad Fort and is accessible via Konkan Railway trains from Mumbai and Goa, offering scenic travel but fewer daily trains.

• From either station, you will need to hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the base village of Raigad Fort, which can take 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Train fares from Mumbai to Panvel range from ₹50 to ₹150 for local trains, while express trains to Roha cost ₹100 to ₹300, offering budget-friendly options for most travelers.

• During monsoon season, train delays are common on the Konkan route, so plan extra travel time and check IRCTC updates before booking your tickets.

Bus

Buses are a popular choice for budget travelers and locals. Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) operates buses from Mumbai, Pune, and Panvel to towns near Raigad Fort.

• MSRTC buses run regularly from Panvel Bus Depot to villages near Raigad Fort such as Pratapgad and Rajmachi, with travel times of about 1.5 to 2 hours covering 40 to 50 km.

• From Mumbai and Pune, direct buses to Panvel or Roha are frequent; you can then switch to local buses or shared taxis to reach the fort base.

• Bus fares from Panvel to Raigad Fort area typically range from ₹50 to ₹100, making it an affordable way to reach the fort’s foothills.

• During weekends and holidays, buses can be crowded, so it is advisable to arrive early at the bus station or book tickets in advance where possible.

• Road conditions on the National Highway 66 and connecting state highways are generally good, but monsoon rains can cause occasional delays and slippery roads.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Raigad Fort is ideal for travelers who prefer flexibility and comfort. The fort is accessible via well-maintained highways and roads from Mumbai, Pune, and Panvel.

• The route from Mumbai to Raigad Fort covers about 120 km via NH66 and SH60, taking approximately 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic and stops along the way.

• From Pune, the distance is roughly 110 km via NH48 and NH66, with travel time around 3.5 to 4 hours, passing through scenic Western Ghats areas.

• There are toll plazas on NH66, so keep cash or FASTag ready; toll charges can range from ₹50 to ₹150 depending on the route segment.

• Parking is available near the fort base villages like Raigadwadi, but it can get crowded during peak tourist seasons and weekends, so arrive early to secure a spot.

• Driving during the monsoon requires caution due to slippery roads and occasional landslides; avoid night driving in this region for safety.

Trek

Trekking is the most adventurous and rewarding way to reach Raigad Fort. The fort stands 820 meters above sea level and offers several trekking routes suitable for different fitness levels.

• The popular trekking route starts from the village of Raigadwadi, about 15 km from Panvel, and takes 2 to 3 hours to reach the fort summit, passing through dense forests and historic gates.

• Another route begins at Kondhane village, which is longer and more challenging, taking 4 to 5 hours, ideal for experienced trekkers seeking solitude and nature.

• Trekking permits are required and can be obtained from the forest department office in Raigadwadi or online; carrying ID and paying a small fee is mandatory.

• Carry sufficient water, snacks, and rain gear during monsoon months, as the trail can be slippery and there are limited food options on the way.

• Local guides are available at the base villages and can enhance your experience by sharing historical insights and ensuring safety on the trail.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers to Raigad Fort to make the journey smooth and enjoyable.

• Book your train or bus tickets to Panvel or Roha in advance through IRCTC or MSRTC websites to avoid last-minute hassles, especially on weekends and holidays.

• From the railway station or bus depot, hire a prepaid taxi or use app-based cabs like Ola or Uber to reach the base village of Raigad Fort, ensuring fair pricing and safety.

• Arrange your trekking permits ahead of time either online or at the forest office to avoid delays at the entry point of the fort.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water bottles, energy snacks, comfortable trekking shoes, and rain protection if traveling during the monsoon season.

• Start your trek early in the morning to avoid afternoon heat and crowds, and to have ample daylight for the return journey.

• After exploring the fort, plan your return transport in advance, as public transport options reduce in the evening; pre-book taxis or check bus timings carefully.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water near the fort area to prevent stomach issues; local shops sell packaged water and snacks near the base villages.

• Wear sturdy shoes with good grip for trekking, as the fort paths are uneven and can be slippery, especially during monsoon months.

• Use prepaid taxi services or trusted app-based cabs for local travel to avoid overcharging and ensure safety, particularly if traveling alone or in small groups.

• Book train and bus tickets online in advance during festival seasons like Ganesh Chaturthi or Diwali, when travel demand spikes and availability reduces.

• Carry a small first aid kit with basic medicines for headaches, insect bites, and minor cuts, as medical facilities near the fort are limited.

• Keep your belongings secure and avoid carrying large amounts of cash; use digital payments where possible in nearby towns and villages.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Raigad Fort is from October to February when the weather is cool and pleasant. Avoid the peak summer months of March to June due to high temperatures and heat.

The monsoon season from June to September transforms the fort and surrounding forests into lush green landscapes but also brings heavy rains, slippery trails, and occasional roadblocks.

• Avoid visiting during major festivals or weekends if you prefer less crowded conditions, as local tourists flock to the fort during these times.

• Fog and mist are common in early mornings during winter, which can reduce visibility on the trekking paths, so plan your trek accordingly.

• Start your journey early in the day to avoid afternoon rains during monsoon and to ensure you have enough daylight for trekking and returning safely.

Arrival at Raigad Fort & What to Expect

When you arrive at the base village near Raigad Fort, you will find basic amenities like small eateries, shops, and parking areas. The entry point to the fort is well marked and staffed by forest officials.

Local transport options include shared jeeps and taxis that can take you closer to the fort entrance if you prefer to avoid trekking. Many travelers choose to stay overnight in nearby towns like Panvel or Poladpur for better accommodation and food options.

Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs are available at Panvel and Roha stations, providing safe and reliable last-mile connectivity. Walking from the village to the fort entrance involves uphill paths, so be prepared for a moderate climb.

Conclusion

Traveling to Raigad Fort is a rewarding experience combining history, nature, and adventure. The most efficient way to reach the fort depends on your preferences: trains to Panvel or Roha followed by local transport offer budget-friendly options, while self-drive provides flexibility and comfort.

Planning ahead by booking tickets, arranging permits, and preparing for the trek ensures a smooth visit. With the right timing and practical travel tips, you can enjoy the scenic beauty and historic significance of Raigad Fort confidently and safely.