History, Views & a Quick Trek: Why Korigad Fort Fits Your Road Trip

There is a moment on the road to Korigad when the traffic thins, the honking subsides, the air cools down, and the hills begin to welcome you. The fort is tucked in the winding stretch towards a hill that has watched over the Sahyadris for centuries.

From a distance, Korigad sits low and steady against the skyline at 923m above sea level. Yet, as you climb its stone steps and walk along its fort walls, the landscape suddenly opens up with valleys, lakes, and rolling green slopes stretching far beyond. The trek uncovers a secret that has been waiting patiently.

Table of Contents

• Korigad Fort: History
• The Trek Route: What to Expect?
• Exploring the Fort Top
• Best Time to Visit Korigad Fort
• Travel Tips for Korigad Fort Trek
• Wrapping Up

Korigad Fort: History

Korigad Fort has a rich history. It was built in the 15th century, and in 1657, it became part of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s kingdom.

In those days, these stone structures on hills served as protectors against enemies. Korigad kept an eye on the trade routes that connected the Konkan coast to the Deccan plateau.

From its high walls, soldiers could spot movement from far away and send warnings if danger approached. Still, in 1818, during the British expansion in India, the fort was taken over after a battle, just like many other Maratha forts of that time.

Even today, when you walk along the fort walls, you can see old cannons resting in place, as if they have simply been left there after duty. The Koraidevi temple is a spiritual place where visitors can pay their devotion. 

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The Trek Route: What to Expect?

The Korigad trek begins from the small village of Peth Shahpur, which is easily accessible if you’re travelling by road by booking a Pune to Mumbai taxi. Treks are always associated with rugged forest trails, but it is much of a relief that Korigad’s route is made of neatly laid stone steps.

The first stretch is fairly easy, giving you time to settle into the climb without feeling rushed. As you gain height, the steps turn slightly steeper, adding a bit of effort.

The full ascent usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace and the number of photo pauses you make along the way. Even first-time trekkers and families generally find the climb comfortable and doable.

Exploring the Fort Top

Reaching the summit of Korigad is a satisfying moment. Many hill forts become narrow at the summit, but at Korigad, it opens up into a broad expanse.

Two large freshwater ponds can be seen on the plateau, which were used for storing water for the fort’s residents.  They mirror in themselves the sky and the surrounding stone ruins.

A walk along the outer ramparts is one of the highlights of the entire trek. Along the way, you’ll come across small temples, broken walls, and traces of old structures that hint at life once lived here.

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There’s enough open space to sit down, unpack a homely meal, and enjoy the silence away from the bustle of Pune city before beginning your descent. Many visitors also make a plan to visit the nearby attractions like Lion’s Point, Rajmachi Fort, or Bhushi Dam to complete their weekend outing by hiring a Pune to Mumbai taxi.

Best Time to Visit Korigad Fort

Korigad has a charm in it that switches every season.

• In the monsoon (June to September), everything turns green, clouds roll over the fort walls, and the air feels fresh after the rain. Watch your step, as the stones can be slippery.
• Winter (October to February) is all about clear skies, long valley views, and comfortable trekking weather, with sunsets that are worth sticking around for.
• Summer (March to May) is warmer and drier, so early mornings are your best bet if you want fewer people and a chill climb before the heat kicks in.

Since the Korigad trek begins in Peth Shahpur village, booking a trustedcar rental service in Pune makes the overall travel experience more relaxed.

Travel Tips for Korigad Fort Trek

Weekends attract a large flock of visitors during the monsoon or winter when the weather is comfortable. Beginning your trek in the morning helps you avoid the rush and climb in cooler weather.

• Wear proper trekking shoes: The stone steps are steady but can become slippery during rain. Footwear with good grip makes the ascent and descent much safer.
• Carry water and light snacks: The food options at the top are limited, so carry water and other fluids to keep yourself hydrated. Pack energy bars to keep yourself fueled.
• Keep the surroundings clean: Carry all the plastic waste along to keep the trail to Korigad to keep it free from garbage.

Wrapping Up

Korigad gives you a break from the everyday rush, and you don't even need a long holiday for it. You climb at your own pace, take in the open views, and spend a few quiet hours above the noise of the city.

When you plan your road trip with a travel partner like Savaari Car Rentals, getting to Korigad Fort becomes a cakewalk. With the largest chauffeur-driven car rental company in India by your side, you can completely focus on the experience rather than the logistics.