Most suited for those who love to trek and have a penchant for history. Torna fort also called Prachandagad (huge/massive fort). It is historically significant because it is the first fort captured by Shivaji Maharaj in 1643, at the age of 16. This fort is around 65km from Pune city and is one of the tallest forts in the Pune district. Composition of long stretched open lands with rocky parts to climb with extreme precision. There are stretches where you have deep valleys on both sides of the cliff.
There are many places to see on the fort. You can see Bini Darwaaja (Main entrance) Temple of goddess Mengai, Budhla machi from Konkan darvaja side, Zunjar Machi on the left side of the fort, Kothi Darwaaja and excellent view of Gunjavne dam & its river from front side of the fort. In the last leg of the trek there is a very steep climb with 2 small rock patches to negotiate. There is protective railing in all the difficult locations, this makes the entire hike very safe. The view, at the top is awesome and rewarding for the long climb.
The views from the top are amazing. On a clear day, you will see the twin fort of Rajgad and the majestic Bale Killa. You can see the outlines of Lingana pinnacle and Raigad fort on the opposite side, Sinhagad. From the top when there is clear visibility you can see Purandar fort and Pratapgadh fort.
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Type: Hill Fort
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Region: Pune
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Distance: 60KM from Mumbai
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Difficulty Level: Moderate
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Trekking distance: 10KM approx.
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Altitude: 4600ft (1403m)
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Base village: Velhe
5.30AM Start from Pune by private vehicle
7.00AM Breakfast on the way
9.20AM Reach base village of Velhe
9.30AM Briefing and start the trek
11.00AM Reach and Explore the fort
13.00PM Start descent from fort
14.00PM Have Lunch
15.00PM Start return journey to Mumbai / Pune
19.00PM Reach Pune
What is included in the tour
- Private Non-AC Transportation
- Breakfast & Tea
- Lunch (Vegetarian)
- Basic First Aid
- Necessary equipment for trek
- Instructor
What is NOT included in the tour
- Any kind of personal expenses
- Id Proof compulsory
- Water bottles (2 litters compulsory)
- Trekking shoes compulsory (good grip one)
- Hat/Cap, Goggles, Sunscreen, odomos etc
- Personal Medication
- Rainwear (as per season)
- Energy Bar, Dry fruits, Glucose
- Rucksack (to carry all the things)
- Extra pair of clothes
- Camera (optional)
- Masks, Gloves, Hand Sanitizers