Bhaja Caves to Lohagad Fort Trek: Discover Lonavala’s Most Scenic Walk

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The Bhaja Caves to Lohagad Fort trek might seem like a stretch, but we’re glad we took the chance. This scenic route is one of Maharashtra’s most underrated hikes, revealing the raw, untouched beauty of the Sahyadris. Mostly flat, the trail lets you walk at your pace — with just enough rugged corners to test your stamina.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a weekend traveller looking for something beyond the usual tourist spots, this short hike offers a rewarding experience. With every step, you move through layers of history and landscape. This trek allows you to move from ancient Buddhist caves to a towering Maratha hill fort.

The route is quiet and scenic making it perfect for those craving solitude and slow travel. Plus, hiking outdoors boosts both mood and metabolism, so it’s a win for body and mind.

The best part about the Bhaja Caves to Lohagad Fort trek is that it fits beautifully into any Lonavala getaway. The trek takes just about 90 minutes or slightly more if you linger with your camera, and starts right where the Bhaja Caves trail ends.

This means you won’t need extra transport, guides, or planning. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a weekend, adding this trail gives your itinerary a sense of adventure.

Route Overview: What to Expect on the Trail

This trail isn’t about speed—it’s about soaking in the Sahyadris one step at a time. The route from Bhaja Caves to Lohagad Fort covers around 4 kilometres and takes 90 to 120 minutes to cover. With all the photography stops and water breaks, we were able to complete this trek in 120 minutes.

The terrain is a mix of rocky patches, grassy slopes, and shaded village paths. You’ll descend from the caves onto a natural trail that eventually merges with the main Lohagad-Visapur trek road. This road further guides you toward the fort’s base village.

During the monsoon season, you may want to avoid taking the risk of descending via this muddy, unpaved slope. Instead, take the stone steps back down from Bhaja Caves to reconnect with the main Lohagad-Visapur trek road.

While the main trek road is paved for light vehicle traffic, it provides more grip and stability in the rain. Best of all, it leads you directly to the Lohagad base village— so no chance of getting lost.

The Descent: Connecting to the Lohagad-Visapur Trek Road

Now that we were done exploring Bhaja Caves, Sarah and I were in no mood to retrace our steps down the stone stairway. We both were focused on the time we had and the determination to reach the fort as quickly as possible.

We followed a few trekkers who veered off the main path, taking a rugged, unpaved trail that dipped into the hills. It felt spontaneous and slightly risky, perhaps—but the weather was on our side.

Monsoon clouds hovered overhead, teasing us with the promise of rain, while bright sunlight filtered through, casting dramatic shadows on the landscape. We both were dearly missing our sunscreen lotion then.

The descent led us to the main Lohagad–Visapur Trek road—a paved path often used by hikers and the occasional vehicle. It felt like we had stumbled onto a lesser-known backdoor trail into the heart of the Sahyadris.

Midway, we paused near a bend where a group of hikers had settled in a green space by the roadside. We joined them briefly, refilled our bottles, enjoyed the panoramic views and caught our breath.

From there, the trail teased us with distant views of Lohagad’s bastions – fort walls rising like sentinels in the mist—yet the fort itself still felt a world away.

However, both Sarah and I kept walking, having our conversations which made the journey easier. The road offered more than just a path forward—it gifted us postcard-perfect moments.

We saw cattle grazing freely on the hillsides, birds singing in hidden trees, and now and then, a car would go past, reminding us we weren’t entirely off the grid.

Khind Rasta Walk: A Trail Through Lush Green Silence

Just as we neared the Khind Rasta—a mountain pass that gently curves through the Sahyadris—the landscape subtly shifted. The greenery deepened, the road narrowed, and a hush seemed to fall over the trail.

Both Sarah and I enjoyed our first glimpse of the mighty Visapur Fort in the distance, its silhouette etched against the sky.

A certain stretch of the road felt particularly secluded, hemmed in by dense foliage on both sides. For a moment, the closeness of the jungle made the path feel a bit uncertain, almost too quiet.

But just as quickly, the trail opened up again, offering a welcome view near the base of Visapur Fort. Some of the hikers ahead of us broke away from the road, and took the Visapur Fort road.

However, for us, the path continued straight, quieter now, with cows and ponies grazing lazily, unfazed by the passing hikers. The breeze picked up, rustling the tall grasses and carrying with it the earthy scent of monsoon-soaked soil.

Arrival at Lohagad Base Village: The Fort’s Majestic Welcome

After weaving through the shaded Khind stretch, the landscape opened and we enjoyed the first commanding view of the Lohagad Fort. It was quite a scenic route with the triangular Visapur Fort rising behind us and the majestic Lohagad Fort standing tall in front.

The contrast of these two historic giants—one receding into the distance, the other looming ahead—framed the perfect finale of our hike.

The village at the base had a quiet rhythm of its own. A few modest stalls offered lemon juice, soft drinks, water bottles, and the traditional vada pav and corn on the cob (bhutta) – simple comforts for weary hikers.

Troops of monkeys appeared, going about their chaotic daily business. Some casually swinging through trees, others boldly attempting to snatch snacks from unsuspecting hikers. It added a dose of wild unpredictability to the otherwise peaceful setting.

There are toilets available for both male and female hikers at the Lohagad Fort village. So, we would recommend that you take your time to freshen up and refuel your energy at the base village, before you start climbing the Lohagad Fort.

At the base of Lohagad, history reveals itself casually. Within the first few steps of the climb, we noticed small cannons and scattered relics. These were the silent reminders of the fort’s military past. These artefacts, resting against moss-covered walls, offered a teaser of what lay ahead.

Scaling Lohagad Fort: The Grand Finale Awaits

For those feeling the fatigue of this nearly 4-kilometre hike, the base village offers a natural pause. However, in reality, arriving here is only the beginning of the final and most thrilling chapter of this journey.

If hiking isn’t your thing, that’s fine, this entire route can be done by car. The road from Bhaja Caves Lonavala to Lohagad Fort is motorable, and there’s a parking area near the base village.

But whether you arrive on foot or by vehicle, Lohagad still demands one last push—an uphill climb that’s steep, scenic, and worth the effort.

Want to complete the journey? Don’t miss our Lohagad Fort trek experience – where we share our insights, images and details to help you plan yours.

Conclusion: A Journey Worth Every Step

The Bhaja Caves to Lohagad Fort trek offers more than just an adventure; it immerses you in the raw, untouched beauty of the Sahyadris, blending history, nature, and a personal journey into one.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone looking for a peaceful escape into nature, this hike promises a lovely adventure for sure. With its easily accessible route and minimal time commitment, it’s an ideal addition to any Lonavala itinerary.

So, lace up your hiking boots, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and embark on an unforgettable journey across this scenic landscape.