Greetings, fellow wanderers! I’m Dhanwant, a corporate employee from Pune who finds solace in escaping the daily grind through travel and adventure. On a vibrant Sunday, I set out with my friends Vedant, Ajay, and their friend Abhi now my friend too, because as the boys’ rule goes, “Dost ka dost, apna dost!” for an unforgettable trek to Torna Fort, also known as Prachandagad. Nestled in the Sahyadri Range, this historic fort, famously captured by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at age 16, promised a blend of history, nature, and spiritual rejuvenation. Join me as I share our soul stirring journey through the monsoon-kissed Western Ghats, a perfect escape from corporate life.
The Sacred Legacy of Torna Fort
Torna Fort, perched at 4,603 feet in Pune district, Maharashtra, holds a revered place in Maratha history as the first fort captured by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1646, marking the dawn of Swarajya. Originally built by the Shiva Panth in the 13th century, it was later seized by the Bahamani ruler Malik Ahmed in the late 1470s. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj renamed it Prachandagad, meaning “massive fort,” and unearthed buried gold during repairs, which he used to build Rajgad Fort. Briefly taken by the Mughals after Sambhaji’s assassination, it was renamed Futulgaib by Aurangzeb before being restored to the Marathas by the Treaty of Purandar. The fort’s Mengai Devi Temple, ancient water cisterns, and fortified bastions like Hanuman Buruj stand as testaments to its strategic and cultural significance, offering devotees and trekkers a glimpse into Maharashtra’s glorious past.
The Journey Begins: Riding Through the Monsoon
Our adventure began early in the morning, as we left Pune’s Wakad area at 6:30 AM on two bikes, navigating through heavy city traffic. The 66.6 km journey via NH48 to Torna Fort was a scenic delight, with the monsoon draping the Sahyadri hills in lush greens and misty veils. Around 7:30 AM, we stopped at Jogeshwari Misal for a spicy breakfast of tikhat rassa and misal, fueling up for the trek ahead. After a 30-minute break, we continued, reaching Pabe Ghat an hour later. The views from Pabe Ghat were nothing short of divine rolling hills cloaked in clouds, kissed by gentle rain. We paused for photos, soaking in the rain and the moment, before arriving at Velhe village, the base of Torna Fort, after another hour’s ride.
The Velhe Village Route: Our Path to Prachandagad
Torna Fort offers multiple routes, including the Velhe Village Route and the Rajgad Fort Ridge Route. We chose the well-marked Velhe Village Route, starting near the Velhe Police Station. After parking our bikes (₹20 per bike) at the base, we sipped hot tea (₹10 per cup) from a local stall, warming our rain-soaked bodies. The trek, covering 2.4-2.5 km from the plateau or 8 km from Velhe, began through fields and dense forests, leading to rocky patches and the steep Bini Darwaja, the fort’s main entrance. The final ascent, with a 60-70 degree incline and rock-cut steps, tested our endurance, especially under heavy rain and strong winds. After 2.5-3 hours of trekking, we reached the first gate around 10:30 AM, our spirits high despite the challenging climb.
Exploring Torna Fort: A Glimpse of Maratha Glory
Atop Torna Fort, we were enveloped by clouds and rain, creating a mystical ambiance as we explored its treasures for two hours. The fort’s highlights captivated us:
- Bini Darwaja: The grand stone gateway welcomed us, echoing its historical role as the main entrance.
- Budhla Machi: A crescent-shaped cliff with breathtaking views of Raigad, Lingana, and Rajgad, perfect for photos despite the misty rain.
- Kothi Darwaja: A smaller entrance showcasing the fort’s defensive design.
- Zunjar Machi: A fortified cliff with ruins and stunning valley views, steeped in Maratha legacy.
- Mengai Devi Temple: A sacred spot where we offered prayers, feeling the divine presence of Goddess Mengai.
- Toran Darwaja: An intricately crafted gate, reflecting the fort’s robust architecture.
- Water Cisterns and Tanks: Ancient systems near the temple, highlighting the fort’s self-sufficiency.
- Fortification Walls and Bastions: Hanuman Buruj and Radtondi Buruj stood tall, narrating tales of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj conquests.
- Sadarmachi and Konkan Darwaja: Fortified sections offering scenic viewpoints and historical insights.
- Scenic Vistas: At 4,603 feet, the summit’s panoramic views of the Western Ghats, shrouded in monsoon mist, were soul-healing.
Near the Torneshwar Temple, we savored local delicacies at a stall kanda bhaji and Maggi (₹60 per plate) and pithala bhakari (₹150 per plate)recharging us for the exploration.
The Descent: Healing the Soul
By 4 PM, we began our descent, our bodies weary but spirits soaring. The trek had drained us physically, yet the vibrant energy of Torna Fort its history, views, and connection to Swarajya rejuvenated our souls, offering relief from corporate stress. As a child, I read about Torna in history books, but standing on its ramparts, I felt the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. By 6 PM, we reached Velhe village, sipped hot tea at the same stall, and kicked off our bikes for the return journey. After a 4-hour ride through the evening, we reached Pune by 10 PM, hearts full and minds at peace.
How to Reach Torna Fort: Travel Options and Distances
Torna Fort, located 50-66.6 km from Pune, is accessible from major cities:
- From Pune (66.6 km): Drive via NH48 (2-2.5 hours) to Velhe village. MSRTC buses from Pune to Velhe (₹100-₹150, 2.5-3 hours) are available, or take a bus to Nasrapur (30 km from Velhe) and hire a taxi.
- From Mumbai (180-200 km): Drive via NH48 (4-5 hours) or take a bus/train to Pune, then continue to Velhe. Private taxis from Mumbai cost ₹3000-₹4000.
- From Nashik (200 km): Drive via NH60 and NH48 (4.5-5 hours) or take a bus to Pune, then transfer to Velhe.
- From Velhe: Park vehicles (₹20 per bike, ₹50 per car) and trek 2.4-2.5 km via the Velhe Village Route.
Tips for a Blessed Torna Trek
- Best Season: Monsoon (September-December) for lush views, but carry raincoats for wet trails.
- Trek Details: Moderate difficulty, 2-3 hours to summit, suitable for kids above 10 years.
- Budget: ₹800-₹1000 per person, including fuel, food, and parking.
- Essentials: Pack water, snacks, and sturdy shoes; no overnight stays allowed (leave by 5 PM).
- Avoid Crowds: Visit on weekdays to enjoy a quieter trek.
- Respect the Site: Focus on the fort’s spiritual essence.
A Journey of Heart and History
The Torna Fort trek is a divine escape, blending the thrill of adventure with the pride of Maratha heritage. From the misty Pabe Ghat to the sacred Mengai Devi Temple, every step heals the soul, offering respite from modern life’s chaos. Despite the shadow of minor exploitation, the fort’s legacy as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj first conquest inspires awe. This one-day trek, perfect for families and history enthusiasts, is a must-do in Maharashtra. May your journey to Prachandagad ignite your spirit and connect you to Swarajya’s eternal glory. Jai Shivaji, Jai Bhavani!
