A Guide To Visapur Fort, Lonavala

Things to do

Hitch the fort trek

This is among the most popular activities tourists go in for. The trek is not all that difficult but might be slightly challenging (and slippery) if the weather isn’t agreeable. Although monsoons may be the time the trek is most risky, it is also the most rewarding time to catch scintillating views of the panorama as well as verdant greenery throughout the route. Just make sure you’re equipped properly and there’ll be nothing stopping you from making it a wonderful activity for yourself. These are guided, group treks and tourists have to carry their own snacks and water. We suggest you start this trek as early in the day as possible.

Stop by the Pawna Lake

It will fall en route the trek to the fort and is an absolutely stunning sight. You can stop here for pictures or a short snack break!

Soak in superb views

Once at the fort, you can walk along its perimeter and look out for some fabulous views. The wall is not all that high, so tourists are easily able to catch views and click tons of pictures. Remember that it’s quite a huge fort, so a walk along the entire perimeter may take about two hours.

Admire the fort's history

Visapur Fort screams history, so if you’re interested in finding out anything about that, walk around the fort complex and check out the ancient water storage cisterns, arches, and other little buildings that served various purposes during the time the fort was in use. There’s also a well, housed within the fort complex, which is believed to have been built by the Pandavas (from the Hindu epic tale, Mahabharata).

Travelers tips

Maintain safety

As mentioned earlier, while monsoons are considered to be the best time to hitch the fort trek, it is also quite risky. Go fully prepared, wear proper clothes and carry all essentials, such as umbrellas, raincoats, sunglasses, etc. Opt for footwear that provides proper traction. Do watch out for algae- or moss-strewn rocks – these can be especially slippery and downright dangerous.

Carry all essentials and water

Remember that there are no stalls or vendors along the way or at the fort itself, so we strongly suggest you carry along with everything you think you’re likely to need. Plus, ample of water. Carrying some nibbles and snacks might also be a good idea since the walk up might get you peckish.

Pack light, but smart

You’ll have to carry your bag, so choose wisely what all you’ll carry. We recommend packing in an extra pair of clothes, especially socks and lowers, since most of the route is a waterfall trail. Carrying along some first-aid items (band-aids, antiseptic liquid, bandages, etc.) might also be a good idea.

Trek down the same day

Since there are no overnight stay or camping facilities at the fort, tourists have to trek down the same day. This is why it is recommended that you start the trek as early in the day as possible, to make the best of your time in daylight.

How to get there

Air

The closest airport to the fort will be the one in Pune, which is about 60 km (40 mi) from Visapur. Once in Pune, you can hitch a bus or car ride to Lonavala. If you’re going in for a bus journey, you’ll have to hail a cab from Lonavala bus station to Visapur Fort. Else, a car or cab will take you there directly. There are plenty of cab services and buses available at Pune Airport. The total road journey from the Pune Airport to the fort can take anywhere between an hour to an hour and a half, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Train

Direct trains from several stations ply to and from Lonavala, and you can catch one of these to head to the fort. From the Lonavala Railway Station, the fort is only about 15 km (10 mi), which can be easily covered by a cab or car.

Car/cab

The fort sees many tourists reaching by cars. So, if you’re not interested in trekking or walking it up to the fort, you can zoom to the fort’s entrance by car.

Visapur Fort information

Visapur Fort

Address: Malavli, Maharashtra 410406

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Department of tourism: Maharashtra tourism