Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Lonavala

Arrival in Lonavala: Arrive in Lonavala by train or car from your starting location. Lonavala is well-connected by road and rail, making it an easy destination to reach. Check-in at your pre-booked hotel in Lonavala. Some recommended hotels include:

• Fariyas Resort
• Della Resorts
• The Machan

Local Sightseeing in Lonavala: After freshening up, begin your exploration of Lonavala.

• Karla Caves: Start with a visit to these ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves, known for their intricate carvings.
• Bhushi Dam: Enjoy the natural beauty and relax by the dam.
• Lonavala Lake: Spend the evening by the lake, soaking in the serene atmosphere. Return to your hotel for dinner and rest.

ALSO READ: Experiencing Lonavala in the Monsoon A Guide to the Perfect Trip.

Day 2: Trek to Korigad Fort

Early Morning Start: Have an early breakfast at the hotel and set out for Korigad Fort, located about 20 km from Lonavala. You can hire a taxi or drive to the base village, Peth Shahpur.

• Trek to the Fort The trek to Korigad Fort is moderately easy and takes about 1-2 hours to reach the top. The trail is well-marked, with some steep sections. Along the way, enjoy the lush greenery, and take breaks to capture the scenic beauty.
• Exploration of Korigad Fort: Once at the top, explore the ancient fort structures, including the massive gates, fort walls, and the Koraigad Lake.
  1. Visit the temples of Goddess Korai Devi and Lord Ganesh inside the fort.
  2. Walk along the fort’s perimeter for breathtaking views of Aamby Valley and the surrounding Sahyadri ranges.
  3. Have a packed lunch on the fort and relax before descending.
• Return to Lonavala: After descending, return to your hotel in Lonavala. Spend the evening at leisure, exploring local markets or enjoying the hotel’s amenities.

 Day 3: Visit to Aamby Valley and Relaxation

Aamby Valley Visit: After breakfast, take a trip to Aamby Valley, located near Korigad Fort. The valley is a planned township known for its luxury and scenic landscapes. Spend the morning exploring the area, visiting the man-made lakes, and enjoying some water sports or a boat ride.

• Relaxation and Spa: Return to your hotel in Lonavala for a relaxing afternoon. Opt for a spa treatment or a leisurely swim to unwind.
• Evening at Sunset Point: Visit Sunset Point or Lion’s Point in the evening to witness a stunning sunset over the hills. Return to the hotel for dinner.

 Day 4: Departure

Morning Relaxation: Spend your last morning in Lonavala at leisure. You could take a final stroll around the town, visit the Lonavala Wax Museum, or buy some local chikki as souvenirs.

• Check-out: Check out from your hotel and start your journey back home, carrying memories of your adventure to Korigad Fort.

Package Price Overview

The total cost of this 3-day, 4-night trip, including accommodation, meals, transportation, and guided activities, is approximately ₹15,000 – ₹25,000 per person. Prices may vary based on the season, accommodation type, and personal preferences.

Inclusions

• 3 Nights’ accommodation in Lonavala
• Daily breakfast and dinner at the hotel
• Transportation to and from Korigad Fort and Aamby Valley
• Entry fees to Karla Caves and Aamby Valley
• Guided trek to Korigad Fort (optional)
• Taxes and service charges

Exclusions

• Travel to and from Lonavala
• Lunches (except for the packed lunch on the trek)
• Personal expenses such as souvenirs, spa treatments, and additional activities
• Travel insurance

Additional Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Korigad Fort is during the monsoon (June to September) and winter (October to February) when the weather is pleasant and the surroundings are lush green.
• Packing Essentials: Carry comfortable trekking shoes, rain gear (if visiting during monsoon), a water bottle, snacks, and a first-aid kit.
• Travel Arrangements: Ensure your transport to and from Lonavala is pre-arranged, especially during weekends and holidays when it can get crowded.
• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying local Maharashtrian cuisine, especially Misal Pav, Vada Pav, and the famous Lonavala chikki.

Book Your Trip by Yourself, A Complete Guide with NGU Travel Team.

This itinerary allows you to explore Korigad Fort and the beautiful region of Lonavala at a relaxed pace, offering a blend of adventure, nature, and leisure.

FAQ

What is the best time to visit Korigad Fort?

• Answer: The best time to visit Korigad Fort is during the monsoon season (June to September) when the landscape is lush green and the weather is pleasant. The winter season (October to February) is also ideal, with cool and comfortable temperatures for trekking.

2. How difficult is the trek to Korigad Fort?

• Answer: The trek to Korigad Fort is considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for beginners as well as experienced trekkers. The trek takes about 1-2 hours to reach the top, with well-marked trails and some steep sections.

3. What should I pack for the trek?

• Answer: Essential items to pack include:
  • Comfortable trekking shoes
  • Rain gear (if visiting during monsoon)
  • A water bottle and snacks
  • Sunscreen and a hat
  • A small first-aid kit
  • A flashlight or headlamp (for early morning or late evening treks)

4. Are there any entry fees for Korigad Fort?

• Answer: There are no entry fees for visiting Korigad Fort. However, if you hire a local guide, there may be an additional fee of ₹1,000 – ₹2,000 for the group.

5. Can I visit Korigad Fort with kids or elderly people?

• Answer: Yes, the trek to Korigad Fort is relatively easy and can be done by children and elderly people in good health. However, it’s important to take breaks and ensure that everyone is comfortable with the pace of the trek.

6. What are the accommodation options in Lonavala?

• Answer: Lonavala offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Some popular choices include:
  • Budget: ₹2,000 – ₹3,000 per night
  • Mid-range: ₹5,000 – ₹7,000 per night
  • Luxury: ₹10,000 – ₹15,000 per night

7. How do I reach Lonavala from Mumbai or Pune?

• Answer: Lonavala is well-connected by road and rail from both Mumbai and Pune.
  • By Train: Regular trains run from Mumbai and Pune to Lonavala.
  • By Car/Taxi: Lonavala is about a 2-hour drive from both cities.
  • By Bus: Several private and state buses operate between these cities and Lonavala.

8. Is there mobile network coverage at Korigad Fort?

• Answer: Mobile network coverage is available at Korigad Fort, but it may be weak or intermittent in some areas. It’s advisable to inform someone of your trekking plans before starting.

9. Are there any food or water facilities at Korigad Fort?

• Answer: There are no food or water facilities at the fort, so it’s important to carry sufficient water and snacks for the trek. You can purchase these items in the base village before starting your ascent.

10. What are the local sightseeing options in Lonavala?

• Answer: Lonavala offers several attractions, including:
  • Karla Caves: Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves
  • Bhushi Dam: A popular spot for picnics and relaxation
  • Lonavala Lake: A peaceful spot to enjoy nature
  • Sunset Point/Lion’s Point: For stunning views of the sunset over the hills

11. Is a guided tour necessary for Korigad Fort?

• Answer: A guided tour is not necessary but can enhance your experience, especially if you’re interested in the history of the fort and the surrounding area. Local guides are available for hire at the base village.

12. Can I include additional activities or destinations in the package?

• Answer: Yes, the package is customizable. You can include additional activities like a visit to Aamby Valley, water sports, or a spa treatment. Discuss your preferences with the travel agent to tailor the itinerary to your needs.