Torna Fort is a large fort located in Pune district and is historically significant because it was the first fort captured by Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1646 at the tender age of 16. The hill has an elevation of 1,403m above sea level, making it the highest hill fort in the district. Its alternative name of “prachandagad” derives from the Marathi language where “prachanda” means huge or big and “gad” means fort.
The fort is a popular destination for trekkers especially after the monsoon season from September to February. The total time to reach the fort is approximately 2-3 hours. At the top, visitors can check out a water tank (called “khokad taake” in Marathi) and a doorway called the "Konkan Darwaja"; temples like the Toranji Devi Temple and Menghai Devi Temple; and cliffs like Budhla Machi, Zunjar Machi, and Hanuman Buruj from where you can soak in the loveliness of the landscape. Bulbuls, butterflies and views of the Western Ghats make people want to come back here again and again.
Here’s what you need to know about doing the Torna Fort trek.
The trek is divided into two parts: the first is from Velhe village to a plateau and then from the plateau to Torna Fort.
Start hiking from the road next to the Velhe police station. You will come across a small bridge from where you should turn left in the direction of a marked trail. Signposts will handily guide you to the plateau, which is about 20 minutes away. You will come across dazzling flowers and a landscape refreshed from the rains.
Once you reach the plateau, climb towards a ridge and cross the stream. You will enter a dense jungle full of plants, shrubs and trees. After an hour of trekking the ridge will come into view. Follow the defined trail which will become steep around this time. As you come level with Torna Fort’s walls, go gently and place your feet cautiously as the rocky patches and slippery surface can trip you up. Look back frequently for breathtaking views of the Sahyadris.
Rock-cut steps will soon come into view. Follow them up and enter the first gate called "Bini Darwaja." Keep going and you will enter the main entrance to Torna Fort called the "Kothi Darwaja."
Now that you’re here, eat food and rest for a while. Follow the trail signs to Budhla Machi, Zunjar Machi, Dhaalkathi, Hanuman Buruj and the Radtondi Buruj, the latter of which connects Torna Fort to Rajgad Fort. You can hike to the Rajgad Fort if you wish to continue this magical monsoonal adventure.
1. Proper footwear and researching the route prior to attempting it is crucial for not getting injured or lost in the forests.
2. People can camp at Torna Fort for the night to catch the spectacular sunsets and sunrises of the place.
3. There are no water sources at the fort so carry adequate water and food with you.
Disembark at Pune’s railway station or airport and drive the 47km to Velhe village.