Lohagad Fort
An easy fort trek near Lonavala, with steps all the way and the long "scorpion tail" ridge. A UNESCO World Heritage fort since 2025.
Quick facts
- Location:
- Near Malavli, Maval taluka
- Distance:
- About 65 km from Pune
- Twin fort:
- Visapur
- World Heritage:
- Yes, since 2025
- Timings:
- Check before visiting
History
Lohagad, the iron fort, guarded the old trade route through the Sahyadri. It changed hands many times between the Marathas and the Mughals. In the Peshwa period Nana Phadnavis used it as a safe place for treasure. In 2025 Lohagad became part of the UNESCO World Heritage site "Maratha Military Landscapes of India".
What you can see today
- Four large gates, one after the other, on a stepped path.
- Vinchu Kata, the scorpion's tail: a long narrow ridge running out from the fort.
- Old water tanks and a view of Pawna lake.
How to reach
Take a local train or drive to Malavli, near Lonavala. From there a road climbs to Lohagadwadi village at the base of the fort, and steps lead to the top.
Tips for visitors
- One of the easiest forts for families and first-time trekkers.
- Very crowded on monsoon weekends. Go on a weekday if you can.
- Combine with the Bhaja caves or Visapur fort nearby.
More in Forts
- Sinhagad Fort The fort of Tanaji Malusare, south-west of Pune. The most visited fort near the city, famous for its history, its views and its kanda bhaji.
- Rajgad Fort The first capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and one of the biggest hill forts of the Sahyadri. A UNESCO World Heritage fort since 2025.
- Torna Fort The first fort taken by young Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, which gave the Maratha kingdom its start. The highest fort in Pune district.
- Shivneri Fort The birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, above the town of Junnar. A UNESCO World Heritage fort since 2025.
- Purandar Fort A large twin fort near Saswad, linked with the birth of Sambhaji Maharaj, the heroism of Murarbaji Deshpande and the Treaty of Purandar.
- Visapur Fort The big twin of Lohagad, with a wide plateau, old cannons and monsoon streams flowing down its steps.
Questions and answers
Is Lohagad trek easy?
Yes. The path has steps almost all the way, so it suits families and beginners.
Which railway station is near Lohagad?
Malavli, on the Pune Lonavala local train line.
Sources: Written by PuneDiary. Facts checked 10 October 2026.