rajgad fort trek map

Rajgad Trek

Trek to the King of Forts in Maharashtra

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The Complete Guide to Rajgad Trek

Rajgad trek is the most beautiful trek in Maharashtra. As the name suggests it is the king of forts. Because of the rich history and the mesmerizing architecture of the fort, it stands out among other forts in Western Ghats.

It is situated at an altitude of 4,514 ft near Pune. This fort was built on the hill Murumb Devacha Dongar, having a diameter of about 40 km. The huge size of the fort made it difficult to lay siege on it which helped the Marathas to make strategic decisions.

Rajgad was the capital of the Maratha emperor Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj for 26 years after which he shifted to Raigad. This is one of the reasons how the fort was built so beautifully.

Since Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj stayed for so long in this fort, it has significant historic events. Including the birth of his son Rajaram I to the death of his queen Saibai, Rajgad has witnessed many such events. It was also one of the 17 forts that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj kept when he signed the treaty of Purandar in 1665.

Trek to Rajgad offers the beauty of the Sahyadris as well as the fort. The fortification of the 3 Machis: Padmavati Machi, Suvela Machi, and Sanjivani Machi define the architectural creativity of that time. There are many temples, water cisterns, and ashrams that are very rich in architecture.

It also offers a splendid view of other surrounding forts like Torna, Lingana, Raigad, Sinhagad, Purandar, Mangalgad, Vajragad, Rohida, Raireshwar, Mahabaleshwar mountain range, Makarandgad, Pratapgad, Varandha Ghat, Kavlya fort, Mohangad, Gopya Ghat, Madhe Ghat, Raidand, Lohgad, Visapaur, Tung, and Tikona.

➤ Table Of Contents

Just like you, we love trekking! And this is a trek we've documented in great detail to help you do it on your own. Drop in comments at the end of the page if you need any help!  You will get all the information required to do the Rajgad trek on your own.

To navigate through the documentation easily, use this section of the table of contents

• What to Watch out for
• Trail Information of the Rajgad Trek
• Best Season to do the Rajgad Trek
• How to Reach the base of the Rajgad Trek
• Difficult Sections on the Rajgad Trek
• How To Get Fit for the Rajgad Trek
• Things to Take on the Rajgad Trek
• Permission, Water Sources and other finer details about the Rajgad Trek
• Nearby Places to Visit after the Rajgad Trek

A flag on the fort.

➤ What To Watch Out For

1. the high-class architecture of the fort .

Rajgad fort is one of the forts where Shivaji Maharaj has personally overseen the design and architecture of it. There are many things on the fort that define great architecture. 

There are long watchpoints (Machis) on the fort which is constructed like a snake. They were built using double fortified walls which is very interesting to see. 

There are also houses, temples, and small lakes that represent the rich history of the Marathas.

Double fortified wall of the Suvela machi. Picture by Nitesh Kumar

2. Astonishing Views from the Fort

The fort offers splendid views from the top in all seasons. You can see many forts like Torna, Lingana, Raigad, Sinhagad, and many more. 

Sunrise from the fort is one of the beautiful sights to witness. 

Sunrise as seen from the Rajgad fort. Picture by Nitesh Kumar

3. A Natural Hole Created in the Wall

On the Suvela Machi, there is a naturally created hole. This is called as Nedhe in Marathi which means hole. This hole is so big that you can spot it from the plateau as well as the distant places like Sinhagad fort. 

Natural hole -- Nedhe created on the wall of Suvela Machi. Picture by Nitesh Kumar

4. An Elephant Structure Created on a Rock on Suvela Machi 

There is a huge elephant-like structure created on a huge rock. You can see this while trekking in Suvela Machi on the wall where the natural hole is present.

Spot the elephant-like structure while exploring Suvela Machi. Picture by Nitesh Kumar

➤ Trail Information

Rajgad trek has many routes. In this exhaustive trek guide, we have covered one of the famous routes that start from Gunjavane village in detail. 

The trail from Gunjavane village can be divided into 3 sections.

• Gunjavane Village to the plateau: 30 minutes
• Plateau to the Chor Darwaza: 2 hours
• Historical places on the fort: Half a day

Trail Map of Rajgad Trek. Screenshot on Google Earth Pro

Section I: Gunjavane Village to the Plateau

Trek distance: 1 km Trek duration: 30 minutes GPS coordinates of Gunjavane village:   18°15'14.30"n 73°42'19.75"e GPS coordinates of the plateau:   18°15'26.27"n 73°41'57.91"e

Rajgad trek starts from Gunjavane village. It is a very small village with 4 to 5 hotels at the base and few houses. The trek starts from the road behind the hotel Suvela Garden. 

Take the road next to the hotel Suvela Garden. Picture by Nitesh Kumar

Once you cross this hotel after a 5-minute walk you get an entrance gate. Enter the gate to start the trek.

Entrance gate to the Rajgad fort. Picture by Nitesh Kumar

The trail from here is pretty straightforward. The chance of getting lost on this trail is very less. 

The initial trail goes through the field and wide mud trail. Continue on the same trail for another 15 to 20 minutes. 

Initial trail from the Gunjavane village. Picture by Nitesh Kumar

The trail gradually climbs uphill. Here, you constantly trek between the open area and forest section. The trail has a combination of mud and loose rocks. 

Waterfalls on the Rajgad fort walls during monsoon, be careful while traversing. Picture by Vishal M

Now, you will be trekking parallel to the Suvela Machi. After 20 minutes of trek, you reach a huge plateau. From here, you can see the Rajgad fort and Nedhe along with Suvela Machi. 

There is a small hut that serves snacks and water. Take a short break here and then continue towards the fort. 

Rajgad fort and Nedhe as seen from the plateau. Picture by Nitesh Kumar

Section II: Plateau to Chor Darwaza

Trek distance: 3 km Trek duration:   2.30 hours GPS coordinates of the plateau:   18°15'26.27"n 73°41'57.91"e GPS coordinates of the Chor Darwaza:   18°15'6.45"n 73°41'0.63"e

After the break, start the trek towards the fort. The initial trial has a gradual ascent. There is a proper trail up to the Chor Darwaza. 

Darwaza at the entrance of the Rajgad Fort. Picture by Vishal M

The trail continues to be like this for another 30 to 40 minutes. During the monsoon and post-monsoon season, you can see many flowers here. 

Now, the trail connects you to the ridge that directly goes to the fort. Follow the trail until you see a final rock patch. 

This section is pretty steep. Since it was the back door of the fort, there are no proper rock-cut steps. But now, to make the climb easier, there are railings till the entrance to Chor Darwaza. 

Fort walls leading to a scenic valley view. Picture by Vishal M

As soon as you reach the endpoint, you can see a small door. This is the Chor Darwaza. Watch your head while getting inside. 

The entrance of the Chor Darwaza taken from the inside. Picture by Nitesh Kumar

Once you exit the door, immediately there is a staircase that takes you to Padmavati Machi. As soon as you climb up, a clear view of the Sahyadris welcomes you with mind-blowing views. 

The exit point from Chor Darwaza. Observe the view of the Sahyadris. Picture by Nitesh Kumar

It will take around 2 and a half to 3 hours to reach the top from Gunjavane village. From here, after a few minutes of trek, you reach Padmavati Machi. You can see the amazing Sahyadris from here. 

Section III: Historical Places on the Top of Rajgad

On the top, starting from the entrance, you can see many small lakes, houses, and temples. 

Continue trekking on the Padmavati Machi. After 10 minutes, you reach Padmavati temple. There is also a Padmavati lake. You can camp here or stay inside the temple. 

Padmavati temple on the Padmavati Machi of Rajgad Fort. Picture by Nitesh Kumar

Explore the Padmavati Machi before proceeding to the other 2 Machis. There are some old canons, Saibai’s tomb, ‘Daru-gola (Kothar)’ (arms & weapons storehouse), ‘Sadar’ (the place of meetings of important people), a private chamber under Sadar, and a water cistern that contains potable water. 

At the end of Padmavati Machi, the trail splits into 3 sections. The trail in front of you takes you to Balekilla, the left one goes to Suvela Machi and the right one goes to Sanjivani Machi. 

Sanjivani Machi is 2.5 km long and has a double fortified wall. The architecture of the Machi is an interesting thing to witness.

The Sanjivani Machi of Rajgad Fort. Picture by Nitesh Kumar

While approaching towards the end of the Sanjivani Machi, there is a short descend heading towards Alu Darwaza. This is the exit point from Sanjivani Machi from Rajgad and connects to Torna fort ridge.

Alu Darwaza at the end of Sanjivani machi. It leads to the ridge of Rajgad and Torna fort. Picture by Nitesh Kumar

The trail to the Balekilla is steep. There are ropes tied for trekkers’ safety to negotiate a few rock patches. Make sure you take complete support of that while climbing. 

Notice the fort walls running through the mountains. Picture by Rajesh Chandra

After around 25 minutes of a climb just before the Balekilla, you come across a Maha Darwaza which is of 6-meter height.

Maha Darwaza, just before entering the Balekilla. Picture by Nitesh Kumar

After Maha Darwaza, you see a beautiful half-moon-shaped lake called Chandrakor pond. This name is because of its shape. 

Chandrakor pond, seen on the way to Balekilla. Picture by Nitesh Kumar

From Balekilla you can see Torna, Pratapgad, Tung, Lingana, Sinhagad, Visapur forts, and all the above-mentioned fort at a distance. You also get enchanting views of the Sahyadris, Mahabaleshwar range, and Raireshwar plateau.

While descending from Balekilla, you find a trail going towards the right. It directly takes you to Suvela Machi. The trail passes through thick shrubs and bushes. 

Suvela Machi as seen from Balekilla. Picture by Vishal M

After a 15-minute walk on the Suvela Machi, you come across a small Hanuman temple on your left. It has a small hanuman idol surrounded by stones. 

View from Ballekilla. Picture by Nishant Kajale

As you continue on the same trail, you see a tiny hidden door that leads to an underground passage. It has a hole at the end that was used as an entry and exit point to the 'Met' (security checkpoints).

A tiny door leads to the underground passage. Picture by Nitesh Kumar

After 15 minutes of the trek on the same trail, you come across steps that lead you to Chilkhati Buruj. Chilkat means ‘shield’ and Buruj means ‘bastion’. Here Chilkhati Buruj means that bastions that can bear cannon firings

Entrance of the Chilkhati Buruj. Picture by Nitesh Kumar

As you move ahead from the Buruj, you come across a gigantic narrow rock that resembles an elephant and hence it is called Hathi Prastar. 

It has a natural large round hole in the wall called the 'Nedhe' which can be seen from the plateau. You can climb up the rock to the hole for some marvelous views.

View of the Rajgad fortwalls & Maha Darwaza from a distance. Picture by Vishal Aranke

Proceed to the end of the Machi from where you get tremendous views of Bhatghar dam and the valley below. 

View from the end of Suvela machi. Spot the Bhatghar dam towards the left. Picture by Nitesh Kumar

After absorbing the views, return to hanuman temple. From here a trail takes you straight to Padmavati Machi through a small door in the rock.

After exploring the fort, rest for a while and proceed down the same route to Gunjavane village. You can also take the route that ends at Pali village.

If you want to cover Torna fort, proceed to Sanjivani Machi and start the trek towards the ridge that connects the fort.

➤ Best Season To Do The Rajgad Trek

One of the best things about Rajgad trek is you can do this in any season. It offers a variety of views in all seasons. 

If you are trekking in the monsoon season, you can see the lush green Sahyadris. The trail becomes exciting with many small stream crossings. You get to see blooming wildflowers throughout the trek.

Wildflowers spotted on the Rajgad fort in September. Picture by Nitesh Kumar

If you are trekking in the winter and summer, you can expect a clear view from the fort. you can spot many famous forts from Balekilla.

View from the Rajgad fort in February. Picture by Kartik Mehta

➤ How To Reach Rajgad Trek

Rajgad fort trek is situated 36km from pune .Rajgad trek has multiple routes as there are many entrances to this fort. However, 3 trails are very famous and easily accessible. They are:

• Gunjavane village route: via Chor Darwaza
• Pali village route: via Pali Darwaza
• Torna fort to Rajgad (Velhe village): via Alu Darwaza

All the villages are close to Pune and are easily accessible by public transport or private vehicle. 

To know detailed information about reaching the base village, go through the below section. 

Reaching the starting point by your vehicle

Both the villages mentioned above have roads wide enough to allow cars. use the links given below to help set up navigation in google maps. 

• Reaching Gunjavane village: It is closer to Pune than Mumbai. If you are traveling from Pune, use this link to reach the base. To travel from Mumbai, refer to this link .  
• Reaching Pali village: If you are traveling from Pune, use this link to reach Pali village. To travel from Mumbai, refer to this link . 

You can park your vehicle at the village and start the trek. There is enough space to park vehicles. 

Reaching the starting point by the Public Transport System

Reaching gunjavane village.

If you are traveling from Mumbai, reach Pune. There are many trains and buses that go to Pune from Mumbai. Get down at Swargate bus station, Pune. From here, catch a bus that goes to Gunjavane village. The trek starts on the trail behind the Suvela Hotel. 

There are multiple other options to reach Gunjavane village. 

• Get into a bus that goes to Velhe from Pune, and get down at Margasani. From here you can get many shared taxis that go to Gunjavane village. 
• From Swargate bus stand Pune, there are direct buses to Gunjavane village. The frequency of the buses may vary seasonally.
• Another option from Pune is to get into a bus that goes to Satara/Kolhapur or Bangalore. Get down at Nasrapur. From here, many local taxis or autos go to Gunjavane village. 

If you are starting the trek from Pali village, get into the shared taxi or auto from Margasani or Nasrapur. Ask the driver to drop you at Pali village, Rajgad trek entrance. 

Return option: You can follow the same route while returning. There are very few buses after 4 pm from both the villages. Make sure you reach by then.

Tip: If you are traveling in a group of 5 to 6 people, hire a cab from Pune. They might charge you around Rs 2000 for a round trip. But you don’t have to worry about catching a bus. 

Stay options: You can stay on the fort inside the Padmavati temple. There is enough space available for 50 people. You can also pitch tents near the temple or anywhere on the fort.  

Nearest Railway Station

Pune junction railway station: 61 km 

Nearest International and Domestic Airports

Pune International Airport: 68 km 

➤ How Difficult is Rajgad Trek

The difficulty level of Rajgad is of an Easy-Moderate level. There are no difficult sections as such on the Rajgad fort. However, a few sections need to be navigated carefully. Those are:

The final climb to the Chor Darwaza from Gunjavane village is steep. There is a railing given for support. However, place your foot very carefully while climbing.

The final climb to Chor Darwaza. Picture by Nitesh Kumar

The trail to the Balekilla on the fort climbs to 500 ft. Some patches are very steep and there are no proper steps to negotiate. However, ropes are given for trekkers’ safety. Make complete use of them.

The steep climb up to the Balekilla. Picture by Nitesh Kumar

➤ How To Get Fit For Rajgad Trek

The Rajgad trek is classified as an Easy-Moderate grade trek. From the base, you will gain approximately 2000 feet in altitude till the top of the fort.

The trail is pretty steep from the plateau up to the Chor Darwaza. This requires good stamina and endurance.

Here’s a guide to help you get fit for the trek in 4 weeks:

➤ Cardiovascular Endurance

In case you’re just starting with a fitness routine, start slow and increase your pace every day in the following manner –

• Target completing a jog of 5 km in 45 minutes when you begin.
• Gradually increase your pace by running 5 km, 4 times a week.
• As you become more comfortable, introduce another day of running in your routine. 
• Progressively increase the distance you run in a workout until you can complete 5 km in 40 mins.
• If you prefer cycling over running, target covering 15 km in 60 minutes when you begin.
• Progressively increase your pace to cover 20 km in one hour.

➤ Strength Training

This is an important area you need to work on.

Strength training is equally important to trek comfortably. Work on your glutes, calves and knees. Additionally, work on strengthening your core.

You must strengthen your core muscles. For strengthening your core muscles, holding a plank and it’s variations (elbow, side planks) are the best exercises to go about doing it.

Also, try these exercises for strength:

Target 4 sets of squats with 20 in each set.

– Squats (mix it up with sumo squats)

– Lunges (forward, backward and lateral lunges)

➤ Flexibility

Flexibility determines the amount of movement your bones can make in any direction around joints such as shoulders, elbows, hips and knees.

It is an aspect that will help you trek comfortably. Carrying a backpack, however light, can become a strain. Stretching your hamstrings, quadriceps, hip flexors and lower back muscles regularly, promotes relaxation in the tissues reducing the strain on your back.

If you can’t go out and jog because of time and space constraints, here’s a video you can use to work out indoors

Click here to go back to the table of contents.

➤ What To Pack For Rajgad Trek

• Basic First Aid kit*
• Identity Card
• Cap/ Scarf/ Bandana & Sunglasses
• Water (Minimum two litres)
• Lemon and salt OR Electrolyte Powder/Drink (Electral/Gatorade/Glucon D, etc.)
• High-calorie snacks (Nuts & dry fruits, home-baked cake, etc.)
• Safety Pins, Rubber bands & Whistle (Useful in emergencies.)
• Quick Dry T-shirts are preferable over cotton tees.
• A warm layer (Pullover, sweater or a jacket)
• Poncho, only during post-monsoons
• Plastic sheet to wrap electronic devices, only during monsoons
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
• Trekking poles
• Tent (3-Person or 2-Person - Depending on the number of people sharing)
• Sleeping Bag

First aid kit:

• Band-aids (Regular & Waterproof)
• Analgesic spray (Relispray, Volini, etc.)
• Antiseptic Liquid (Savlon, Dettol etc.)
• Antiseptic powder (Povidone-Iodine based powders like Cipladine, Savlon, etc.)
• Cotton roll & Bandage
• Crepe Bandage
• 1-inch wide medical tape (paper or cloth.)
• Micropore tape
• Tablet for motion sickness (Avomine), Acidity (Gelusil, Digene, etc.).
• Mild pain relief tablet (Crocin)

| Note: Always consult a doctor before taking any medicine.

➤ Frequently Asked Questions About Rajgad Trek

1. do i need permission to do rajgad trek.

Rajgad trek does not require permission from the forest department. You can do this trek on your own without any permission. 

2. Can we stay on Rajgad Fort?

There are no restrictions on camping. You can camp near the Padmavati temple on the fort. If you do not have a tent, you can also stay in the temple. It can accommodate a maximum of 50 people. 

3. Are there any food and water sources available on Rajgad Trek?

Rajgad trek starts from small villages. And these villages have many small food stalls where you get food. You find many such stalls on the top as well. They serve decent food. Carry your tiffin box with some dry fruits on the trek. 

There are few hotels that can provide food as well as tents for rent. Here are the contact details:

Gunjavane village :- Rasal :- 7776099165,  7218486356

Pali village :-  Subhash Jadhav: 8847767041

                         Sangita Debe: 9921797611

There is a well in Gunjavane village where you can fill the water bottle. If you are trekking in the monsoon season, you find a lot of small streams on the trail which are potable. On the top, there is also another well near Padmavati temple where you can fill your water bottles.

Make sure you carry a minimum of 2 liters of water along with you.

Tip: If you are not comfortable with having water from outside carry purification tablets or life straw bottles to purify the water.

4. Who can do the Rajgad Trek?

Rajgad trek has multiple routes with varying difficulty levels. 

The trail from Pali village is pretty easy compared to the Gunjavane route. So a beginner can attempt this route. 

The trail from Gunjavane village is of moderate difficulty. However, there are no technical sections on this route. Hence, a fit beginner can attempt this route. 

5. What is the ideal time to start Rajgad Trek?

Rajgad trek can be done in one day or two days. You need a minimum of 3 hours to explore half of the fort.

If you are planning to complete the trek in one day, start late at night from Mumbai on the previous day. Reach the base village before sunrise and start the trek immediately. You will reach the fort by 10 am. You can return from the top after having lunch. 

If you are planning to do this trek for 2 days, leave Mumbai on a Saturday late morning. Reach the base village by 4 pm. You will need 2:30 to 3 hours to reach the top. Camp there near the Padmavati temple. The next day, explore the fort completely and return.

If you are depending on public transport, make sure you reach the base village before 4 pm. There are very few buses after that. 

6. Is Rajgad one day trek?

Yes. Rajgad Fort Trek can be done in either one or two days. But if you are planning for a one day trek, make sure you reach Gunjavani village a night before and start your trek early in the morning, latest by 6 am.

7. How long does it take to Rajgad fort?

Rajgad fort trek takes around 2.5 to 3 hours to reach the top of the fort. There are 3 Machis - Padmavati Machi, Suvela Machi and Sanjeevani Machi. Further time that you take depends on how long you explore these. But you keep a minimum of 5 hours for the whole trek.

8. How long is Rajgad Fort trek?

Trek to the top of Rajgad Fort is 4 km long from Gunjavane village. Exploring the various Machis might add a couple of more kilometres to your entire trek distance.

9. Is Rajgad trek easy?

Rajgad is an Easy-Moderate trek. This means that it can be done by both fit beginners and experienced trekkers.

10. Why is Rajgad Fort famous?

The Rajgad Fort is famous for it's architecture and the history that dates back to the times of Chatrapathi Shivaji Maharaj. The fort has witnessed many significant historical events from the birth of Shivaji Maharaj's son Rajaram I to the death of his queen Saibai.

Apart from the rich history, the Rajgad Fort trek is extremely beautiful. If you trek here during monsoon, the lush greenery of the whole place is mind blowing. You get stunning views of the Sahyadris from the top.

Emergency contact for Rajgad Trek 

Hospital: Primary Health Center, Velhe is the nearest hospital to Rajgad trek. It is 20 km away from Gunjavane village and 14 km from Pali village. 

police station: Khed Shivapur police station is the nearest police station to Gunjavane or Pali village.

ERSS: For any kind of emergency help, you can contact the pan-India emergency response support system (ERSS) number- 112

ATMs and Network on the Rajgad Trek

ATMs: Nasrapur is the nearest ATM to gunjavane village which is 22 km away. However, Pune is the nearest place where you can find reliable ATMs. 

Make sure you carry a minimum of Rs 2000 from your starting location.

Mobile Networks: There are networks at the base village. Some network providers like Jio, Airtel do catch signals while on the trek but very poor signal. 

On the top of the Balekilla, you get the network. Most of the network providers catch the signal there.

➤ Places To Visit After Rajgad Trek

Rajgad fort has many things to offer on the top. You need a complete day to explore the entire fort. Apart from that, there are some places you can cover after the trek. 

Torna fort can be done from Rajgad fort. You can continue the trek from Rajgad to Torna trek and end it from there. 

This trail requires good stamina, as it is a very long trail. There are a few steep sections as well. So if you have prior experience, you can attempt this trial. 

Sinhagad fort

This is one of the closest fort ones can attempt. One can start the trek from Torna, reach Rajgad, and then end the trek from Sinhagad. it will take 2 days to complete. 

Raigad fort

This was the capital of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj after he moved from Rajgad. This is very rich in history. There is a statue of Shivaji’s pet dog which was re-installed Shri Shivaji Raigad Smarak Samiti in 2012. 

➤ Trek Contribution

Trek done and documented by Nitesh Kumar, Saini Krishnamurthy and Prabhuraj Kore

Special thanks to Nitesh Kumar and Kartik Mehta, Vishal M, Vishal Aranke, Prathamesh Kulkarni for the pictures

Banner Image by Nitesh Kumar

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Rajgad Trek – How To Do It On Your Own

• Trekking Destinations

If you want to do the Rajgad Fort Trek on your own, keep a few things in mind. First, this trek is moderately difficult and requires a good amount of stamina and strength. The second is that it takes approximately 5-6 hours to complete the trek & explore the fort, so be prepared for a long journey.

However, the final goal of this hike is definitely worth the effort, as you will experience some of the most beautiful scenery in Maharashtra & explore one of the enormous forts in the western ghats. 

Read the entire article to find out more information about the trek.

• Max Altitude:  4,593 Ft.
• Distance: 10kms
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: 5-6 Hours
• Ideal For: Beginners & Intermediate Trekkers
• Best Season: October - February
• Region: Maharashtra

Table of Contents

Why Should You Do The Rajgad Fort Trek?

It is said that the Rajgad Fort Trek is one of the most picturesque trekking routes in Maharashtra. It begins at Gunjavane Village in the Pune district and ends at the fort, which is 1400m above sea level. This trek offers stunning panoramas of the Sahyadri Mountains. In addition to providing an incredible view, The trail is a  favorite among intermediate trekkers .

The route allows you to trek to Rajgad Fort and then back on the same day, making it a p erfect weekend getaway  for active people.

Although Rajgad Fort is a must-see, you can explore the fort within a single day, and the ideal time to visit is based on your individual preferences. In the monsoon, you can expect slippery and muddy paths. The perfect time to go is between October & February. Fort Garrison is an  excellent spot for camping , and you’ll need to plan your trip for this period.

How To Reach Rajgad Fort?

Rajgad Fort is located inside the Sahyadri mountain range, approximately 60 kilometers from Pune. The fort is situated on the crest of a mountain at an elevation of 1,400 meters (4,593 feet). It is possible to reach by taxi, bus, or personal vehicle. The most popular trail towards the fort starts from Gunjavane village.

Public Transport:

From Mumbai, one can take a bus/train to Pune. From the Swargate Pune bus stand, many buses leave for Gunjavane village; you can board the bus and reach the base village in 2-2.5 hours.

Private Transport:

Trekking driving from  Mumbai  can take the Mumba-Pune Expressway and reach Kothrud; from there, go towards Nasrapur taking the road towards Margasani, approximately 7 kms from Gunjavane village.

The  distance  is around  202 kms  and will take  4-5 hours  to reach.

Click here  to get directions for the route.

From  Pune , the  distance  is approximately  60 kms , and it will take around  1.5 – 2 hours  to reach the base village.  Get Directions .

What Is The Trek Route & Difficulty Level?

The trek begins from Gunjavane village and finishes at the Rajgad Fort, which is more than 1400m above sea level. This trek is ideal for those who are beginners & intermediates.

The trekkers have the option of choosing from  two distinct routes . The first one  (the most accessible)  starts at Pali village and takes you through a muddy field. From there, the hike takes you through wildflowers and forests. 

The  most popular route  starts in  Gunjavane village and goes towards the Chor Darwaza. 

The trek  distance  is about  5 kms one way  and can take around  3-3.5 hours  to reach the  top of the fort .

We recommend this trek in 2 days and camping overnight at the fort and enjoying the night sky.

The hike from this route is challenging, but it is rewarding. When you are at the summit, you’ll be able to observe the fort and the natural vegetation surrounding it. If you’re in the mood to do so, you could hike down and return the next day. If you start with a good breakfast, you’ll have the entire time to discover the region.

The trail is well laid out from the base village, and the chances of getting lost are significantly less. After 30-40 mins, you will reach the plateau, where you can get a clear view of the Rajgad fort. This section is mostly a wide and muddy trail. 

From the plateau, you start a gradual ascent toward the fort. The distance is around 2-2.5 kms, and once you reach the top, it will take you to the entrance of the Chor Darwaza. This patch will take around 2.5 hours to reach as the entire stretch is a gradual climb to the entrance of the Chor Darwaza.

Rajgad Fort Details

The fort is divided into four significant sections: Padmavati Machi, Suvela Machi, Sanjeevani Machi, and Balekilla (the highest point of the fort).

It will take the remaining part of your day to explore the entire top of the fort; hence, camp overnight at the fort, Padmavati Machi being the best location to camp.

Padmavati Machi:  This part of the fort was the military/residential area. There is a temple, a garrison & a lake here.

Suvela Machi:  The most picturesque part of the fort, Suvela Machi, is a long, narrow strip from which you can get amazing views of the surrounding regions. There is also a Nedhe (naturally formed hole in the wall).

Ballekilla:  This is a small fort on top of the fort and the highest point. The entrance to this fort is called Mahadarwaza. From Ballekilla, you can get stunning views of the Torna, Tung, Sinhagad, and many other forts in the region.

Sanjeevani Machi:  It is 2.5 km long and has a double-fortified wall & an architectural marvel. 

Additional Information & Interesting Facts

• Which time of the year is ideal for the Rajgad fort trek?  The best time to go is during the rainy season or winter. It’s cool and feels terrific during monsoon season. However, there is a possibility of muddy terrain and slippery trails. Winter is also the perfect time to stay at the fort. In winter, the temperature drops to single digits, which makes the bonfire-based camping site an ideal scenario.
• This hill fort was built by the Maratha emperor Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. It was the capital of the Maratha Empire for 26 years.
• Find the GPX file for the trek route on  Ramblr . 

Essential Things to Carry for the Trek

Packaging wisely is essential to make the most of your Rajgad Fort trekking experience. Here are some must-have items for your backpack:

• Sturdy trekking shoes for a comfortable and safe trek
• Ample water and energy drinks to stay hydrated
• Snacks and energy bars to keep you fueled
• Sunscreen, cap, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun
• First aid kit with essential medications and bandages
• A camera to capture the stunning vistas along the way
• A light backpack to carry your essentials without weighing you down

Safety Precautions and Tips

While embarking on the Rajgad fort trek, it is crucial to prioritize your safety. Here are some essential safety precautions and tips to keep in mind:

• Trek with a certified guide who is familiar with the route and terrain.
• Wear appropriate trekking gear and clothing to protect yourself from injuries and harsh weather conditions.
• Stay hydrated throughout the trek by drinking water at regular intervals.
• Pace yourself and take breaks whenever needed to avoid exhaustion.
• Do not litter; respect the natural environment by carrying back all your waste.
• Follow instructions from the guide and stay on the designated path.
• In case of any emergency or discomfort, inform the guide immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Rajgad Fort Trek is a moderately difficult trek and a beginner as a well as intermediate trekkers can do this trek.
• It takes around 3-3.5 hours to reach the top of Rajgad fort from the Gunjavane village.
• It is is one of the biggest forts in Maharashtra and acted as the capital of the Maratha kingdom for 26 years making it one of the most famous forts.
• The Britishers destroyed the Rajgad fort after taking control over the entire country and winning the battles against the Marathas.

Video About The Trek

In conclusion, if you are interested in Trekking the Rajgad Trail yourself, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, be sure to follow the trek route carefully. 

Additionally, it can be difficult to find specific information about trekking the trail on your own, so it is important to read this complete guide and save it offline on your browser for further reference. 

Finally, always remember that Trekking is an adventure – enjoy every step!

Dhodap Fort  |  Nanemachi waterfall  | Harishchandragad  |  Karnala Fort  | Peb Fort  | Jivdhan Fort  | Mahuli Fort | Irshalgad  | Sondai Fort  | Salher Fort  | Aadrai Jungle Trek  | Ganpati Gadad  | Korigad Fort  | Tandulwadi  | Garbett Plateau  | Sudhagad Fort  | Kataldhar Waterfall  | Plus Valley  | Mangi Tungi  | Malanggad  | Gorakhgad  | Bhairavgad  | Kohoj Fort | Ratangad | Bhimashankar Trek | Visapur Fort | Kalsubai Trek | Tikona Fort | Rajmachi Fort | Sandhan Valley | Kalavantin Durg | Andharban Trek | Harihar Fort | Kalu Waterfall

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Rajgad Fort Trek – 10 Spots Which Will Ease For Better Explore

Same as you, we also love Trekking and Travelling! This trek info we’ve Arranged and Guided in great detail to help you to do it on your own. You will get all the information and guidance required to do the Rajgad fort trek solely.

To navigate the details easily, use the below section of the table of contents

1. History of Rajgad Fort

2. how difficult is rajgad trek, 3. how to reach rajgad fort , 4. spots to visit on the fort, 5. is rajgad fort open everyday, 6. camping is available on rajgad fort , 7. best time to visit :, 8. is food and water available on rajgad fort, 9. what to pack and carry for rajgad fort trek, 11.1 rajgad fort trek vlog, share this:, ➤ lets know about rajgad fort trek in detail :, things you should know before visiting or rajgad fort for trek, step by step guide :.

Rajgad is an Huge and wide spread hill fort situated in the Pune district of Maharashtra, India. Rajgad means the King of all forts. Formerly known as Murumdev Dongar (Mountain of the Goddess Murumba), under the rule of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj the fort was the capital of the Maratha Empire for almost 26 years, after which the capital was shifted to the Raigad Fort. Treasures discovered from an nearby fort were used to completely build and fortify the Rajgad.

Rajgad is located in the south-west direction aprox 60 Kms from Pune. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj spent half of his life time on this fort close to 25 to 26 years. Rajgad is famous for its wide spread constructional layout. This fort can be divided into four parts based on the natural aspects and fortification. There are 3 sub plateau which is also known as Machi, namely Sanjevani Machi, Padmavati Machi, Suvela Machi, and at the centre of all this machi’s the Balle killa is located. 

As you choose this exciting trek located in Pune, while visit we can see the Padmavati temple, the Ancient Fort ruins, Remains of the Kings Palace, Water Tanks, Caves and many more. Rajgad Fort Trek is a average level trek that starts from the Gunjavane Village in Pune District of Maharashtra and ends at the Rajgad Fort Balle Killa Top. Rajgad is truly the King of all forts. It is famous for its structure, constructional layouts. Rajgad Fort is surrounded by some famous forts like Torna, Sinhagad, Mangalgad and Purandar.

Rajgad Fort is Popular in Maharashtra for trekking and weekend destination from Pune or Mumbai. Rajgad, lies at a distance of about 65 Km from Pune and 166 km from Mumbai. Many advanced trekkers covers Rajgad fort to Torna fort trail which is famous and takes almost 2 days to explore both the forts.

The fort has witness to many significant historical events which includes the birth of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s son Rajaram I, the death of Chhatrapati Shivaji’s wife Saibai, the burial of Afzal Khan’s head in the Mahadarwaja walls of Balle Killa, the return of Shivaji Maaraj from Agra, the strict words of Sonopant Dabir to Shivaji. The Rajgad Fort was one of the 12 forts that Shivaji Maharaj kept when he signed the Treaty of Purandar in 1665, with the Mughal Sardar Mirja Raja Jai Singh I, leader of the Mughal forces. Under this Treaty of Purandar, 23 forts were handed over to the Mughals by Shivaji Maharaj.

The Rajgad trek is classified as an Easy – Moderate level trek.

Rajgad is 60 Km from Pune. The Way to rajgad is via Nasraour Phata which is about 15-20Kms from Katraj Tunnel. If you are coming from mumbai you can reach pune by railway or by road ways which is almost 166 km. Nearest airport is Pune Interntional Airport from where you can hire a cab which will droup at the base village of the fort. From the base village you can reach through 3 routes. From Gunjawane, Pali and from the Bhor route it totally depends on you which you wants to select. most famouse route is Gunjawane & Pali.

• Ruins of the Kings Palace

• Chor Darwaja

• Balle Killa

• Padmavati Lake

• Brahmeshwar Temple

• Rameshwar Temple
• Padmavati Machi

• Sanjivani Machi

• Suvela Machi

• Alu Darwaja

Yes the fort is open everyday depends upon the government restrictions. So it is better to check before you visit.

After lockdown the government have changed their rules and regulation so the answer is No you cannot camp without proper permission from the officials.

You can visit this fort in any season as the fort shows it’s beauiful view in every season. The best season to visit Rajgad is during the monsoons and the winter season i.e. from July to February . Trekking feels fantastic during the monsoons but trekkers should take precautions as the route gets very slippery. The winter season is ideal for trekking on the Fort as it won’t exhaust you.

Rajgad Fort Trek starts from smaller villages, these villages have lot of small food stalls where you get snacks, lime Juice, water & some other eatables. Also there are many small stalls on the top as well, They serve decent food. You will found some water tanks as well where you can refill ur water bottles. It is best if you Carry your on tiffin, water battles & some dry fruits while trekking. 

• Basic First Aid kit
• Identity Card
• Water Bottle (Minimum 3 -4 litres)
• High Calorie Snacks (dry fruits, Nuts, Banana, etc.)
• Trail / region map
• Cap/ Scarf/ Sunglasses
• Electrolyte Powder/Drink (Glucose D, Gatorade, etc)
• Multi Tool Kit/ Swiss Army Knife
• Torch/ Head-lamp with spare batteries (If ur doing night trek)
• Powerbank (To charge mobile phone or batteries)
• Whistle, Safety Pins, Rubber bands, etc (useful in emergency.)

Optional: Camera, Video Cam, Rope

10. Forts Nearby Rajgad

Rajgad Fort is surrounded by some famous forts like Torna, Sinhagad, Mangalgad and Purandar.

11. Below Is the Video Content Which Can Help You

You can see our trek at Rajgad Fort in the below video which is divided into 2 parts. Video language is in Maharashtras local language but you can also find subtitles on that video in English. Also if you like the video so do share, comment & like our video which encourages us to make such contents and work harder.

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Keep it up guys nice content for exploration

🚩 perfect information for new explorer🤝

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Rajgad Fort Trek: Majestic Journey to Pinnacle of Maharashtra's Heritage

The Rajgad Fort , once the fortified bastion of the Maratha Empire , stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit and architectural prowess of a bygone era. This majestic mountain fortress, perched atop a sheer cliff in the Western Ghats , has witnessed countless battles and sieges, leaving behind a rich tapestry of history and legend.

Table of contents:

Trekking to the Pinnacle

Exploring the fort.

Embark on a thrilling trek to the Rajgad Fort , a journey that promises breathtaking views and a profound connection to the past. The trek begins at the base village of Gunjavane and winds through lush forests, past shimmering streams, and up towering rock faces. There are multiple routes to the fort, each offering its unique challenges and rewards.

The Pali Darwaza route is considered the easiest, suitable for trekkers of all levels. It takes approximately 2.5 hours to ascend the 5 km trail , which features a gradual incline and well-defined steps.

For a more challenging adventure, take the Chor Darwaza route, a steeper and narrower path that rewards with panoramic vistas. This route is recommended for experienced trekkers and requires a higher level of fitness.

As you reach the fort's summit, you will be greeted by stunning panoramas that stretch across the surrounding countryside. Admire the majestic Bala Killa , the innermost citadel, where the Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj once resided.

Explore the numerous ruins within the fort, including the remnants of palaces, temples, and granaries. Each structure whispers tales of the battles fought and the lives lived within these ancient walls.

1. Is the Rajgad Fort Trek difficult?

The difficulty level of Rajgad Fort Trek ranges from easy to moderate, depending on the route chosen. The Pali Darwaza route is suitable for beginners, while the Chor Darwaza route is more challenging and requires a higher level of fitness.

2. How long does it take to trek to Rajgad Fort?

The trek duration varies depending on the route and pace. The Pali Darwaza route takes approximately 2.5 hours to ascend, while the Chor Darwaza route can take up to 4 hours.

3. Can we reach Rajgad Fort by car?

Yes, it is possible to reach the base village of Gunjavane by car. However, from there, the trek to the fort must be completed on foot.

4. How many steps are there in the Rajgad Fort Trek?

The Pali Darwaza route has approximately 1,737 steps leading to the fort. The Chor Darwaza route has a similar number of steps, but they are steeper and more challenging.

5. What is the maximum height of Rajgad Fort?

The Rajgad Fort is situated at an elevation of 1,356 meters (4,449 feet) above sea level, offering stunning views of the surrounding Sahyadri mountain range.

Conclusion:

The Rajgad Fort trek is an extraordinary journey that immerses you in Maharashtra's rich heritage and offers breathtaking vistas. As you conquer the challenging ascent, uncover the historical tapestry woven into every stone and ruin.

Respect the fort's legacy and embark on this adventure with a spirit of discovery and a keen appreciation for the indomitable spirit of the Marathas. May your trek to Rajgad Fort be an unforgettable experience, leaving you with memories and insights that will forever enrich your understanding of Maharashtra's glorious past.

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• India Trekking

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Rajgad Fort Trek – An exciting one-day trek near Pune/Mumbai (INR 200)

“All power is within you; you can do anything and everything.” – Swami Vivekananda. I could always sense a boundary around me and I did my best not to step over the line but eventually I did because that’s how much I thrive for adventures. Well, this time my thirst for adventure led me to the Rajgad Fort trek . Abhi, isn’t exploring nature is a kind of glory? Yeah, of course, after all, you always take those mini holidays when you feel restless and come to the lap of mother nature.

Wild Flowers as seen on Rajgad Fort trek

Enjoying Sunset at Sanjivani Machi Rajgad Fort

Places, food, adventure and much more, Pune is a treasure trove for all the tourists, and to be the cherry on the cake, it has The King of Forts i.e. the “Rajgad Fort”. Situated around 65 kms from the Pune City, and standing at an elevation of 1400 meter above sea level, Rajgad Fort was the capital of the  Maratha Empire  for almost three decades.

Rajgad Fort trek route

Rajgad fort view from Pali Darwaja route

Lying at the outskirts of Pune, this place will welcome you with fresh air and greenery.  From the top of Rajgad Fort, one can enjoy the breathtaking views of the  Bhatghar Dam  along with the Torna and Sinhagad Fort in the vicinity.

Bhatghar Dam as seen from Balekilla on Rajgad Fort Trek

Young kid showing Onacheaptrip badge

With Pune city as my current city of residence, it’s pretty rare to witness stars in the sky. Pollution has taken away this beauty. I was missing the views of the stars which I used to witness while travelling in the Himalayan region. I wanted to experience a sky full of stars and that was the primary reason why I decided on the Rajgad Fort night trek.

Stars as seen en-route to Rajgad fort trek base village

Rajgad fort near Pune

How to reach Rajgad Fort Trek

Rajgad Fort Trek base village ( Pali/ Gunjavane ) is located around 208 kms from Mumbai and 65 kms from Pune. Mumbai and Pune are well connected to other parts of the country by railways and roadways. From Mumbai, one can catch a train or a bus to Pune. For train bookings visit IRCTC , for bus booking visit MakeMyTrip .

Wildflowers en-route to Rajgad Fort

From Swargate bus stand(Pune) , one can catch a state transport bus directly for Gunjavane which is the base village of Rajgad Fort Trek. But the frequency of buses is quite low, so check accordingly. Another option is to take a bus going toward Velhe, get down at Margasani and try to hitchhike till Gunjavane (6.7 kms) or Pali (12.8 kms). Also, from Nasrapur bypass (falls en-route to Rajgad), minivans and jeeps ply to and from Gunjavane village. You can reach Nasrapur by any bus plying towards  Satara /Kolhapur/Bangalore.

What I will suggest is to hire a bike from Pune (INR 300-400) and explore Rajgad Fort on a road trip as the landscape views from Nasrapur all the way up to Gunjavane/Pali are quite spectacular. For bike rentals, you can compare prices at various bikes rental websites like Royal Brothers , wheelstreet , sabrentkaro , and rentrip .

Balekilla on Rajgad Fort

Various trekking routes for Rajgad Fort Trek and their difficulty level

There are many trekking routes options available to reach the top of Rajgad Fort.

• The Pali Darwaja route : It is the easiest route amongst all the routes to reach the Fort. The 3-4 kms long trail is known by name “ Raajmarg ” and connects the Dardige Wadi village to the fort. It generally takes around 2 hours to reach the top from this route. For beginners, I would highly recommend this route. Just type Pali Entrance gate no 2 on Gmaps to reach the exact location. In monsoon, there may be chances that you will only be able to take a bike till Dardige Wadi.

Pali Darwaja trek Route

Pali Darwaja Entrance gate

• The Gunjavane route : It is the most popular route among the trekkers. These route passes through Chor Darwaja and further to the Padmavati Maachi and takes around 2-3 hours to reach the same. It is comparatively tougher when compared to the Pali route. There is another route from Gunjavane that enters the Rajgad fort through the Gunjavane Darwaja . Remember, this route is a bit tricky as it involves rock climbing. Just type Gunjavane on Gmaps to reach the base village.

Great architecture at Rajgad Fort

Enjoying views of Suvela Machi from Balekila

• Bhutonde village route : It is quite an unpopular route but if you are looking to try something different, you can give it a try. A 3-4 hours’ trek will take you to the Alu Darwaja of the Rajgad Fort. 

Suvela Maachi as seen from Balekilla 

• Torna Fort to Rajgad Fort : Another interesting route is from Torna Fort to Rajgad fort.

Torna Fort to Rajgad fort trek route

My journey to Rajgad Fort Trek from Pune

Owing to experience a sky full of stars and the sunrise from Rajgad Fort top, I along with my few friends started from Pune around 3:00 am. With no moon in the sky helped our cause and we could see a drastic increase in the count of stars as we approached Nasrapur. The decrease in pollution and the intensity of the city lights were the prime reason we could experience this beauty.

With friends at Rajgad Fort

At Sanjivani Machi Rajgad Fort trek

On my previous visit to Rajgad Fort, I did a complete night trek (started from Pune around 9:00 PM) and took the Gunjavane route to reach the top. This time due to some personal reasons, I couldn’t start that early. Anyways, I wanted to experience reaching the fort through the Pali Darwaja route which is the easiest one.

Balekilla as seen from Padmavati Maachi

With beautiful road journey amidst a sky full of stars, we made it to the base village around 5:00 am. Without wasting any time, we started with the trek keeping in view that we wanted to make it to the top before the sunrise. The trail is well marked via this route with just a few difficult patches to climb. A beginner in trekking will be able to make it to the top with just a bit effort.

Padmavati Maachi Rajgad Fort

With Kids at Rajgad Fort trek

It took us around one and a half around to make it to the top (just 10 minutes before sunrise time). The other best thing that came after stars were the twilight. What to say? I was spellbound by its beauty. It energized me, gave me strength and a message that all the efforts were worth it. And then came the beautiful sunrise!!

Sunrise as seen on Rajgad Fort Trek

Enroute to Pali,  base village of Rajgad Fort

The topmost point of the fort is the Balekilla and the route which leads to it is quite steep. One can take the assistance of the railings to reach the top. If you are fainthearted, I would advise skipping this part of the fort.

P.S. I have seen many old age people doing it so easily!!

Tough route to reach Balekilla top

Young trekkers on Rajgad Fort trek

Compared to the other Forts in Maharashtra, it is one of the rare forts which has quite a few of structures still intact and one can spend 1-2 days to explore the fort to its fullest. The Fort is surrounded on 3 sides by fortified Maachi’s- Sanjivani Maachi, the Padmavati Maachi, and the Suvela Maachi.

Sunset at Sanjivani Machi Rajgad Fort

Sunrise view of Bhatghar lake from the Suvela Maachi is just outstanding. Sunset view from Sanjivani Machi is magical. Also don’t forget to take blessings at the Padmavati temple.

Sunrise view from Suvela Machi

Best time to visit Rajgad Fort Trek

The best time to visit the fort totally depends on an individual what exactly he wants to experience. In rainy months of  July, August and September , one can experience the foggy conditions and if lucky, the lush green surroundings. But one needs to be extra careful as the trail becomes quite slippery.

Zunjar Buruj Rajgad Fort

October to February will be the perfect time to do the Rajgad fort trek as the climate is pleasant and you can enjoy the breathtaking view of the surrounding regions. Remember, still it becomes hot in the afternoon, so try to complete your trek as early as possible. Check for moon status online if you want to experience stars. On a no moon day the stars are visible to their brightest.

Stay and food options at Rajgad Fort trek

There is plenty to be explored on the Rajgad fort which cannot be done on a one-day trek, hence staying overnight would be a great option. Padmavati temple at the top can accommodate around 50 persons. There are a few small temples and caves where you can take a shelter. If you have your own tent, you can pitch it anywhere as safety is not an issue at all (a lot of people stay overnight at the fort on weekends).

Padmavati temple Rajgad Fort

Onacheaptrip organized event to Rajgad Fort near Pune #1

The tent that I carry during the treks is Quechua Arpenaz 2 Tent . It has enough space for 2 people.

Misal Pav we ate on way back to pune

Hotel Rajgad Nivara near Rajgad

I am never the same when I see the sunset on the other side of the world. Those wildflowers, that touch of mist on my skin, that ruff bricks of the fort that speaks with pride about the glory of Shivaji Maharaj and moreover the clouds that surrounded fort as if claiming it to be the most pious land where fighters from our Indian history gave their flesh and blood to create a legacy. Everything will remain in my heart. I am taking memories and leaving only footprints.

Enjoying Sunset at Sanjivani machi Rajgad Fort

For more details, you can also check out my latest vlog on Rajgad Fort trek. If you find the video helpful do like, share and subscribe to my channel 🙂

Are you looking for some essential travel gear? Check out my blog post on What’s in my Backpack .

Looking for more weekend gateway options near Pune and Mumbai? Check out these blog posts:

• A cycle trip to Lavasa city from Pune (INR 100)
• Andharban jungle and Devkund Waterfall Trek – Time to get lost in the dense forest
• Satara – A road trip to the Maharashtra’s Valley of Flowers from Pune (INR 800)
• Tikona Fort Trek and Pawna Lake – One day trip near Pune (INR 250)
• A two-day trip to Torna Fort and Madhe Ghat Waterfall(INR 400)
• Matheran – Asia’s only automobile free hill station
• Daman – A Glimpse of Portugal Heritage
• A road trip to Harihareshwar, Shrivardhan and Diveagar Beach from Pune (INR 1200)
• Kalsubai Peak – Trek to the highest peak of Maharashtra (INR 600)
• Korigad Fort Trek – Exciting one day trek near Pune Mumbai (INR 300)
• Bendewadi, Laalwadi and Jagtap waterfalls – Go get lost in the land of waterfalls!! (INR 300)
• Experience the sunrise from Lohagad Fort near Pune/Mumbai (INR 150)
• Visapur Fort Trek – Thrilling one day trek near Pune Mumbai (INR 200)
• Rajmachi Fort Trek, adventurous one day trip near Mumbai and Pune (INR 350)
• 12-hours monsoon road trip exploring Tamhini Ghat (INR 300)
• An exciting road trip to Purandar Fort from Pune (INR 300)
• Tung Fort Trek – A journey through the clouds (INR 250)
• Nashik City – An exciting two day trip from Pune/Mumbai/Surat (INR 1500)

Hope you have enjoyed reading this blog post/ travel guide on Rajgad Fort Trek. To get regular updates on upcoming budget blog posts from  On a Cheap Trip , please subscribe by entering your name and E-mail address in the Newsletter below. You can follow me on  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  Pinterest  as well as on  Twitter .

6 thoughts on “ Rajgad Fort Trek – An exciting one-day trek near Pune/Mumbai (INR 200) ”

Is it safe to start the trek midnight? Are busses available at night from pune to pali?

Is there any need to take permission for staying overnight?

No permission is needed!!

How much fare it takes by bus to go at pali {Rajgad Fort} from pune junction

It is around 120 INR.

Can’t be any better story of Rajgarh! Keep going on Iron man.

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Rajgad - Torna Fort Trek

Maharashtra • 2 days.

MAX ALTITUDE

₹ 3500 + 5% GST

Pune to Pune

Available Batches

Brief description.

The Rajgad Torna trek is a weekend trek near Pune. We do the crossover trek in an unconventional way combining the two treks to maximize the return on your efforts! It is a two-day trek that can be done by beginners as well as experienced trekkers. The top of the Torna Fort and Rajgad Fort offers exceptional views of the Sahyadri mountains. The trail of the trek is mostly green with some rocky patches. Located in the Pune district, Rajgad Fort means King of all forts where Shivaji Maharaj had spent a significant amount of time. Famously known for its sophisticated construction layout, the Rajgad Fort can be divided into 4 parts based on terrain and fortification. The Torna Fort is the highest point in the Pune district. Also known as Prachangad, the Torna Fort is rich in history and has a temple at the top. The entire experience is a treat to any adventure and nature lover who wishes to explore the lush green mountains while witnessing local heritage. Stay on this page for more information on this trek - FAQs, Itinerary, etc.

Starting point of the trek - Gunjavane Village

Sunrise witnessed en-route

Flower-laden trail

After a gradual ascent, you reach a flat trail and that's when Rajgadh Fort becomes visible

Closer look of the Rajgadh Fort

Lush green western ghats - always a delight!

Inside the fort walls, right outside a temple devoted to Padmavati Devi

Inside the temple

Rajgadh fort sits atop a mountain where three ridges meet

The fort is seemingly endless in each direction!

Best be careful with your belongings on the trail

To the top of the fort that served as the capital for the the Maratha Empire for 26 years

View from the top

On the way to Torna Fort

Torna fort was the first fort captured by Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at the age of 16

Closer look at the fort

Route to get to the top of Torna Fort

Once you reach the ridge of Torna, you can clearly see the route you took from Rajgadh (top left corner)

On top of Torna at an elevation of 1,403m - the highest point in Pune district

Entrance to Torna Fort

A local herdsman going about his business

Sunset witnessed close to the end of the trek

Drive from Pune to Gunjavane Village. Trek to Rajgad Fort.

We will pick you from Pune by 12pm and drive to Gunjavane village. Reach by 2pm and have lunch. We will start the trek by 3pm and reach Padmati Temple by 5pm. have tea, leave your bags and explore Rajgad fort. Have dinner and overnight stay in tents or the temple.

Trek to Torna Fort. Velhe to Pune drive.

After tea and breakfast, we will trek to Torna fort. It's an easy 4 hours trek and have packed lunch by 1 pm. We will spend a couple of hours exploring the fort and start our descend by 4pm. We will trek to Velhe village. Our vehicles will pick you and drive to Pune. Reach by 8pm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pick your question, eligibility: experience required.

Since it is a beginner’s trek, you need no special prior experience. Although one is required to have mental preparedness and stamina before he begins the trek. Running exercise is recommended.

Eligibility: Fitness benchmark

1. Jog/Run for 3 Kms in 30 mins and 2. Hold your breath for 20 seconds If you are not meeting these benchmarks, please use the preparation schedule to improve your fitness till you achieve the above benchmarks.

Eligibility: Requisite Skills

1. How to choose a right rucksack: It is essential that you choose a right rucksack for the trek since you are going to carry it all the time while trekking. Make sure you don’t make these common mistakes while buying a rucksack. 2. How to pack a rucksack: Trekking in mountains become more fun when your rucksack is well-organized. It also makes it easier for you to carry without being much load on your shoulders. Follow the guidelines on how to pack a rucksack.

About the activity: Why should I go for this trek?

Packing list: what to pack.

Packing List: How should I pack my rucksack?

Packing List: How should I select my trekking shoe?

Connectivity: How to Reach the base of the trek & how to go back from the end point?

The base of the trek is the Gunjavane Village located 58 km from Pune and 194 km from Mumbai. Both are well connected by regular trains and buses. One can hire a private taxi to reach Gunjavane as well.

Connectivity: What is the cellular network connectivity for this trek?

Intermittent cellular network on trekking days.

Nearby attraction: What are the nearby attractions that I can explore?

The minimum age limit is 9 years. However, minors aged between 9 to 17 should be accompanied with their parents or guardians. If you are above the age of 60, kindly carry a medical certificate from your doctor that deem you fit for adventure activities like trekking.

Accommodation: What will be the accommodation type in this trek?

Accommodation on trek days is in tents on a twin/triple sharing basis.

Equipment and facilities: What kind of tents and sleeping bags will be provided to us?

We use four-season Gipfel tents and sleeping bags. If you carry your own sleeping bag, you will get a cashback reward, provided that you inform us as soon as you have booked your trek.

Equipment and facilities: Are there any washroom/toilet facilities on the trek?

Toilet tents will be provided to you on the trek.These are portable toilets tents where a deep pit will be dug. A shovel will be provided inside the tent to cover the waste after you have made your business. You can take a toilet roll inside. Make sure you dig used toilet paper along with the waste. Though water is recommended in place of toilet paper. Please refrain from using wet wipes as they are non-biodegradable. There will be no facility for bathing on the trek. Go through our blog section for tips on how to maintain personal hygiene on treks.

Equipment and facilities: If we trek in snow, what equipment will you provide?

There will be no snow no this trek.

Equipment and facilities: What kind of food will be provided for the trek?

Vegetarian food will be served throughout the trek. The only non-vegetarian item served on our treks are eggs. Our kitchen staff follows a proper menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner which has been designed in order to fulfil the nutritional requirements of the participants. There will be milk, poha, eggs, muesli/corn flakes, bread and butter served for breakfast. Rice or simple roti sabzi will be packed for lunch. In dinner, you will have dal, egg curry or any other vegetarian dish along with rice, roti, and a dessert item. Packed lunch will be provided to you on the days you are trekking. You are requested to carry your own tiffin box and a mug to consume food. The meals consumed on journey and arrival day are not included in our cost.

Equipment and facilities: What equipment can I rent from you?

You can rent the following items from us- Trekking Pole, Trekking Shoes, Fleece Jacket, Rucksack

Weather conditions: What will the temperatures be like during this trek?

Monsoon season will see a significant amount of rainfall with temperatures ranging from 30 to 20 degree celsius. Winter months will be much cooler with temperatures dropping down to as low as 10 degrees at night.

Weather conditions: When will there be snow on this trek?

No, there will be no snow on this trek.

Miscellaneous : Is there an option to offload my backpack?

No, there is no option to offload your backpack.

Miscellaneous : Who will lead us on the trek?

A team of participant will be led by a course certified trek leader and a local guide. All participants are requested to abide by what their leader says. There will also be a team of kitchen staff and porters on the trek. We maintain 1:8 ratio of trek leader and participants. All our trek leaders and staff have a certified training in first-aid and rescue operation.

Miscellaneous : Is the trekking pole necessary?

No, trekking pole is not necessary.

Miscellaneous : Are there any local stores/shops from where I can shop trekking necessities?

It is recommended that you come prepared with all the stuff. Please do not leave anything for last-minute buying.

Miscellaneous : Is it safe for a solo woman traveller to trek in Fixed departures?

Yes, it is absolutely safe for solo woman to travel in fix departures. Women on the trek will be sharing tent with each other. In case you are the only woman on the trek, you will be given a separate tent.

Miscellaneous : Will you give certificates on completion of trek?

Yes, e-certificates will be given at the end of each trek provided that you completed it. It will bear your name, the trek, and the maximum altitude you achieved on the trek.

Transport: In case we opt for the transport with you, where will you pick us from and where will you drop?

We will pick you up and drop you at the same location in Pune.

Transport: What time will you drop us at the end point on last day of the trek?

Expect to reach Pune by 8pm.

Mandatory documents: What are the mandatory documents required for the trek?

No mandatory documents required for the trek.

Learning Experience

• We are an Adventure Learning Organisation first.
• We want you to not just complete a trek safely but also pick up some basic trekking knowledge and skills along the way.
• To achieve this we have integrated learning modules into our itineraries.
• These modules will help you build the necessary skills to progress from trekking to mountaineering over time.

Loyality Programs

Our community is an integral part of us and we take pride in our trekkers and climbers. When you complete at least three days on any trek or expedition with us, you become eligible for our membership and referral programs.

• Currently we have three levels:
• Basic Membership
• Summiteer Membership
• Leader Membership

Personalized Attention

• Our group sizes on treks don’t exceed 15 members in order to maintain a healthy Participants : Leader Ratio of 8:1.
• Over time we have found this number to be optimum when it comes to ensuring personalised attention to every member of our group.
• On mountaineering expeditions this number is even smaller. Our group sizes are capped at 12 members ensuring a Participants : HAP Ratio of 2:1.

Best Expedition Leaders

• Our Expedition leaders are advanced mountaineering course qualified, specially trained in rescue procedures from NIM and certified first-aid responders.
• Even our local guides are certified first-aid responders.

Eco-friendly Practices

• Group sizes are capped at 15 people.
• Batch sizes are capped at 250 people per trail per season.
• We follow a rolling campsite model.
• We are constantly exploring and introducing new trails to reduce the burden on existing ones.

For us, a successful summit is not about reaching the highest point of a mountain but about making it safely back to base.

• To ensure this:
• Every region of ours is mapped with an emergency evacuation plan.
• The equipment we use is UIAA certified.
• Our trek leaders are AMC certified with specialisation in rescue procedures.
• Our support staffs are trained in first aid as well.

What's Included

Whats included.

• Meals during Trek
• Forest Permits/Camping Charges , if any (Upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)
• Safety Equipment
• Trek guide, cook, helpers.
• Services of a Trek Leader
• Accommodation during the trek (Tents/Guesthouses)
• Transportation from Pune to the base and back to Pune

Whats Not Included?

• Meals during road journeys
• Cost of any kind of travel insurance
• Any expense of personal nature
• Any expense not specified in the inclusion list
• Portage of personal rucksacks

Cancellation Policy

Cash refund.

Cancellations up to 30 days prior to departure date 5% Deduction

Between 30 days to 15 days prior to departure 50% deduction

Less than 15 days of departure No Cash Refund

Voucher Refund

Cancellations up to 5 days prior to departure date No Deduction

Cancellations less than 5 days prior to departure No Refund

Please note

• Cash refund is applicable only in case of bookings made without using any promotional offer code or vouchers.
• This is only a brief of cancellation terms. For finer details please refer Detailed Cancellation Policy.

How to Choose the perfect pair of Trekking Shoes?

Sarthak Madan 21 May 2021

<p><span style="color: #000000;">Your choice of trekking shoes can make your trek a blissful or blister-full experience based on how well it fits you. A good pair of trekking shoes is the most essential piece of equipment you will use while hiking.&n

Campcraft Basics : How to Pack your Rucksack

10 Mountain features that must be a part of any trekker’s vocab!

Experiential.

Maharashtra Memoirs: Hiking in the Sahyadris

Informative.

HIGHLIGHTS OF BARAADSAR LAKE

Baraadsar lake: Who is this trek meant for?

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• Rajgad is a historic hill fortress located in the Pune district of Maharashtra, India. This majestic fort is a popular destination for trekkers, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers. Spread over an area of approximately 42 square kilometers, Rajgad offers a thrilling trekking experience along with a rich historical and cultural backdrop. 
• The fort is situated at an elevation of 4,514 feet (1,376 meters) above sea level in the Sahyadri mountain range. It was originally known as Murumdev and was later renamed Rajgad by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj when he made it his capital in 1674. The fort played a significant role in the Maratha Empire's history and is considered one of the most prominent forts in Maharashtra. 
• Rajgad Fort is also known for its historical significance. It was a key stronghold of the Maratha Empire, and the fort witnessed many crucial events during Chhatrapati Shivaji's rule. There are remnants of palaces, water tanks, and other structures that provide a glimpse into the fort's glorious past. It is a place where history and adventure come together, making the trek a memorable experience. 
• In conclusion, Rajgad Trek is a thrilling adventure that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and a challenging trekking experience. It is a testament to the Maratha Empire's legacy and a must-visit destination for both history buffs and nature enthusiasts. Trekkers and travelers looking for a memorable experience in the Sahyadri mountains will find Rajgad to be a rewarding destination. 

Trek Details:

• Base Village:  Gunjavane
• Trek Type: Fort Trail  
• Trek Difficulty : Easy-Moderate
• Endurance : Moderate
• Trek Distance:  3km
• Trek Duration:   2 hours 45 minutes
• Max Altitude : 4512 ft
• Distance From Pune:  62Km
• Distance From Mumbai:  203Km

Batches  : 

• October: ,27, 28
• November:  3, 4, 10 ,11, 17, 18, 24, 25
• December:  1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30 
• January:  5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27
• February:  2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24
• March:  1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30

Event Fees:

• Pune:  1199/-
• Base Village: 699/-

Saturday / Sunday

• 08:00 PM:  Report to The Trekleaders at Fergusson College Main Gate,(  https://goo.gl/maps/53XNsyDPwcSVReZW9  )
• 08:20 PM:  Pickups from Kothrud
• 08:30 PM: Pickups from Chandani Chowk
• 08:40 PM: Pickups from  Navale Bridge, Bengalore Highway, NH4
• 11:30 PM:  Reach Base Village and Start the trek towards Rajgad Post Instructions and Briefing by Trek leaders.
• 02:00 AM:  Reach the top of The Rajgad (Padmavati Machi). Have rest in Camping Tents.
• 05:00 AM:  Wake up Call. Get freshen up and Start The Trek towards Balekilla 
• 06:30 AM: Witness the Beautiful Sunrise. Do photography. 
• 07:30 AM: Descend to Padmavati Machi and Have breakfast. 
• 09:00 AM: Start trek towards Sanjeevani machi.   Reach Base Village, Get Freshen up and Have Lunch.
• 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM:  Reach Sanjeevani Machi and Explore.
• 11:30 AM: Start descending towards Base.
• 02:00 PM: Reach Base Village. Get freshen up and have lunch.
• 04:00 PM: Start return journey to Pune
• 08:00 PM: Reach Pune. (Arrival Time Depends on Pace of Group and Traffic)

Inclusion :

• Travel from Pune by Private Bus as per govt COVID guidelines 
• Breakfast & Tea
• Lunch ( Veg Thali )
• Tent Stay (Triple sharing)
• Trek Leaders Charges.
• Entry Charges.
• Trek Expertise Charges. 
• First Aid Charges

Exclusion :

• Travel till pickup points
• 5% Gst on booking tickets
• Any kind of personal expense like Mineral water/lime water/ Soft Drinks/ Extra snacks or meals that are not included in the inclusions, purchased for personal consumption 
• Any kind of cost which is not mentioned and included in the inclusion of this package.
• All expenses incurred due to unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances like roadblocks, bad weather
• Any medical / Emergency evacuations if required
• Any kind of Insurance 

Things to carry:

(Highly Required and Mandatory Things)

• backpack (waterproof or covered with waterproof cover) 
• trekking shoes or any sports shoes with a Good grip
• Trekking pants (compulsory), 2 T-Shirts (Preferably full sleeves or Half T-shirt with sleeves), Raincoat/ waterproof jacket/ windcheater, Handnapkin/Towel, etc
• Water 2-3 liters.
• Ready-to-eat food like plum cakes, Dry fruits, dry snacks and biscuits, Chikki, chocolate bars, etc.
• Personal Medicines and Personal First aid 

(Required but Optional Things)

• To change after trekking - Facewash, Extra pants/ shorts, Extra T-shirt, sleeper/ floaters, an extra bag to carry your trekking shoes, innerwear, etc
• Sweater For bus journey
• Electoral or Glucose D powder. 
• Portable Phone Charger, Earphones, etc.
• Sun protection cap, sunglasses, Sunscreen lotion, toothbrush-toothpaste, etc
• Proper face mask or shield 
• Extra Pair of clothes.

(Note: Please wear Full sleeves and Full Track Pant,  this will protect your body and skin from Sun / Thorns / Insects / Prickles, etc)

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Day trip to Suzdal from Moscow: transport, sights, maps and tips

 DAY TRIP TO SUZDAL

  Suzdal is one of the most popular destinations on the Golden Ring and the whole city is often described as an open-air museum.  The city has no railway station and practically no heavy industry, meaning that is has preserved its provincial charm and a great deal of architectural monuments.

  From Moscow, Suzdal is not as easy to get to as Sergiev Posad (the closest Golden Ring city to the capital) but it is worth going the extra distance as Suzdal provides more of a contrast from Moscow.  If you make use of high-speed trains it is possible and not too demanding to visit for even just a day, but of course spending the night there is recommended to soak in the atmosphere or to combine it with a visit to neighbouring Vladimir.  As the city is a very popular tourist destination you will have no problem finding a cafe or guesthouse there.  There is practically no public transport in the city, but the city is small and most sights are located relatively close to each other.

Getting There and Back

Via Vladimir

Direct to Suzdal

  Buses directly to Suzdal leave from Moscow’s Schyolkovsky Bus Station.  There are about 9 buses a day and it takes around 4½ hours depending on traffic.  The buses stop at Vladimir too.  Using this option will mean a rather exhausting day trip.

Orientation and Main Sights

  Suzdal is a relatively small city and it is not difficult to walk around the city to see most of the sights.  

  The main road in the city is Ulitsa Lenina which runs north across the whole city.  

  The main sights of Suzdal are located either on or just off this road, including the two main sights: the Suzdal Kremlin in the south and the Spaso-Yevfimiev Monastery in the north.

  More information about Suzdal can be found on our Suzdal  pages.

  Suzdal is famous for its medovukha (mead) which is an alcoholic drink made out of honey.  It can be drunk either hot or cold, meaning it perfect in both summer and winter, and you will find it on practically every menu in the city.  There are various flavours of the drink available and even a non-alcoholic version.  In addition to medovukha, you can find all traditional Russian souvenirs in the city and there is a big souvenir market on Torgovaya Ploschad.

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Blog: From numbers to graphics

Charles-Joseph Minard’s map of Napoleon’s flawed Russian campaign: An ever-current classic

Some data visualisations can be perceived as something more than figurative representations of numerical or statistical analyses, and certain examples of infographics give us something more than simply visual information.

Often it is the design that fascinates us, and even the idea it expresses.

Sometimes it is also the objective that fascinates us.

In the history of data visualisations, there are some examples which stand out in that way, and constantly arouse such attentions.

The Frenchman Charles-Joseph Minard’s figurative maps of the French army’s loss during Napoleon’s campaign against Russia in 1812-13 is one of the field’s classics.

About this blog

Research on data visualization

Graphs, charts and colorful maps. We meet them almost every day, in the news media, in the textbooks and in the information campaigns. The amount of data in society is rapidly growing and it is becoming easier to visualize them.

How do we read such data visualizations? And how are they made? Do they make the news and the textbooks more objective and informative, or are they perceived more or less as decorations?

In this blog, nine researchers in a project administered from the University of Agder, Norway, ask how we better can understand and critically evaluate data visualizations, those of us who are neither mathematicians nor designers.

To learn more about the project, please visit our website, indvil.org .

Minard’s map was originally published in 1869 with the title Carte figurative des pertes successives en hommes de l’Armée Francais dans la campagne de Russe 1812-1813 .

It shows how the army which, at the border to Russia at the start of June 1812, comprised of 422 000 men from the whole of Europe, suffered great defeats during the course of the campaign under Napoleon’s leadership. After he was forced to turn back at Moscow with his remaining 100 000, his army then totalled just 10 000 soldiers when he arrived back at his point of departure a half year after they started.

Minard presents the army’s advance in the form of a graph which both represents a geographic movement over time, and its decreasing size. In the combination of the graph and the (admittedly very minimalistically drawn) geographic map, an “flow map” emerges, which was Minard’s invention.

The route east towards Moscow is drawn as a beige line, whilst the return is marked out in black.

The breadth of the line denotes the number of men, and this diminishes dramatically in the months before December, when the army reaches the river Neman, at the Polish-Russian border.

Not explanatory, but with narrative power

The experience of the dramatic difference between the number of soldiers standing on the border to Russia, ready to enter the country, and those that were left standing when the campaign was over, is reinforced by the fact that the start and the finish coincide geographically.

Instead of seeing the reduction along an axis of time alone from June to December, or – just as it perhaps might have been done today – represented with human-shaped pictograms which each, separately, represent x number of soldiers, the defeats would be presented based on the army’s movements through a geographical area. Every struggle and battle fought is expressed in the way that the graph contracts.

What happened during these battles, how long did they last, and how did they go on from there?

Why does one flank deviate from the main line?

Minard’s map cannot explain these things, but it can inspire further exploration in reference and history books.

When Minard’s map is perceived of as owning such a clear narrative power in its delineation of a catastrophic campaign, as Edward Tufte writes in his book, Beautiful Evidence (2006: 132), it is because of this seemingly simple but highly effective graphic presentation. In the map’s combination of data connected to change over time and space, the presentation is imbued with a distinctly narrative quality regarding the French army’s defeat in the campaign against Russia.

In this narrative, Minard adds an extra dimension: Not only did Napoleon’s men meet a threat from the Russian army, but also from the weather. It was icy cold in October and November 1812 with temperatures down as low as -30 degrees Celcius, according to Minard’s graph. It doesn’t require a great deal of imagination on the part of those collating the information that the map gives to see that many of those who died on their way home died from the cold.

An inspirational map

The map’s elegantly simple, but at the same time complex, presentation of a temporal course in a static form of expression, has given it a very particular status (Edward Tufte has gone on to call it probably the best graphic that has ever been made).

Minard began to design graphic presentations in particular on thematic maps first after he had become a pensioner from his work as a civil engineer with particular responsibility for the development of bridges and road networks. Many of the maps display statistical information about a subject with geographical bases: The export of French wine out of France (where was the wine exported to?), of coal from England, overviews of food production in the various French districts and so on.

Over the course of the years, Minard’s maps, and in particular that depicting Napoleon’s campaign, have fascinated and inspired many of his successors. In ‘Visions and Re-Visions of Charles Joseph Minard’, from 2002, Michael Friendly writes about how the compact assembly of different variables was something that was in particular attempted to be recreated in trials of interactive digital data visualisations in the 1990s. Digital adaptions, versioning or the redesign of Minard’s work resulted in variants in which the map, in its digital representation, became clickable and opened up the possibility of providing more combined or added information.

Other versions presented more dynamic and integrated versions of the variables time, geographical place and temperature than the analogue map had done – and in this way perhaps also strengthened the notion that temperature played a completely integral role.

Friendly concludes the article, however, by establishing that, even if there was great potential in digital revisions and versioning, one could only hope that Minard’s original design would continue to inspire. And it certainly has, like Norbert Landsteiner’s interactive chart .

Looking with a gaze from the east

Minard has really attempted to inspire, and a very interesting contribution to the succession of variations on the original map is ‘1812: When Napoleon Ventured East’, created by the Russian news agency TASS in 2017.

(Video: Preview of TASS' production)

This prize-winning version can be understood as a comprehensive interactive commentary to Minard’s map in which TASS’s data visualisations studio, under the auspices of Alexei Novichkov, carries out a critical analysis of Minard’s French version, based on the sources and historical analyses of the time (Minard himself built his version based on five contemporary French written sources, referred to briefly in the map’s legend).

In ‘1812: When Napoleon Ventured East’, the presentation of Napoleon’s campaign is considered from a Russian perspective, which by necessity provides the story about the war with a catastrophic result another aspect: The Russian army’s participation in that which, in Russian historical writing, has been given the name ‘The Patriotic War’. In this version, the Russians are added to the graphic representations, and the French loss is placed alongside those on the Russian side.

The version explains in detail, including with graphic presentations and with the help of quotations from French and Russian war memoirs, how the French army met with challenges that resulted in Napoleon’s much used and, until that point, successful military strategy did not work – with fatal results.

‘1812: When Napoleon Ventured East’ provides Minard’s version with nuances, and gives us much more detailed accounts than the one single map alone can do. It takes correspondingly much longer to acquaint oneself with exactly what the campaign involved in the format that the designers chose for the version: A comprehensive, dynamic internet article. The map and the article are two versions of the same historical event whereby the most recent complements the original with an alternative perspective and more information.

For example, ‘1812: When Napoleon Ventured East’ draws great attention to how Napoleon’s army, even at the start, suffered from a poor supply of food, and that this became an increasingly large problem. Including the weather as a variable, as Minard did, provided opportunities to see a clear correlation between the cold and the number of deaths.

However, the presentation says nothing as to whether there was a causal relationship between the two. In this respect, the Russian version contributes with one further important variable: The lack of food, in addition to the accounts of the skirmishes between the two armies in the course of the campaign. Perhaps these two were equally important explanations for the deaths, as the weather?

Napoleon went east, but where do today’s foreign fighters come from?

Charles Joseph Minard has not solely inspired presentations of the same historical event, or to a redesign of the map itself. Minard’s way of combining flow charts and maps in figurative presentations have become established as a conventions within data visualisation and infographics: ‘the flow map’, mentioned in the introduction. In this way it is difficult to point out what are, and what cannot be, specific actualisations of Minard’s method. But then examples emerge in which the source of inspiration seems to be evident, such as in the Italian Alessandro Zotta and Density DesignLab’s ‘On their way’, from 2016.

‘On their way’ (published originally in Italian in the newspaper Corriere della Sera’s Sunday supplement) provides, in a reflection of Minard’s design, a graphic presentation of the foreign fighters’ routes from their own home countries to join IS, and then their ways to travel home again.

In terms of colours, those of the original presentation are turned on their head: Black marks those travelling out, whilst yellow-brown marks those returning home. Zotta’s presentation operates, incidentally, with other variables than those that Minard used, because the theme is, after all, only loosely related.

Furthermore: The large number of sending countries, and the fact that IS cannot be placed geographically in a traditional sense, result in the map itself being more of an abstract character. The source of inspiration seems, however, to be easy to trace if one is aware of the classics of data visualisation’s design history.

Data visualisations taking a particular position

Edward Tufte understands Minard’s map as a clear anti-war declaration, with its conspicuous presentation of the loss of human life.

This way of interpreting the intentions behind the design can draw on support from the map that Minard chose to publish together with the presentation of Napoleon’s campaign: The Carthaginian general Hannibal’s crossing from Spain, through France and over the Alps on the way to Rome in 218 B.C.

In this map, too, attention is directed towards the human lives that were lost en route (of the 94 000 soldiers to leave Spain, 26 000 reached Torino, according to Minard’s map).

In the same way that Minard allows us to construct a notion of the historical events based on the variables that are included on the map, where the icy cold Autumn months during which Napoleon’s retreat took place create the basis of a narrative about the remainders of an army that fought as much against the cold as the enemy, the synthesis of the two maps allows us the possibility of thinking that what Minard wanted to show, was what warfare first and foremost is: Loss of human life.

Landsteiner, Norbert (2013): ‘Charles Joseph Minard: Napoleon's Retreat From Moscow (The Russian Campaign 1812-1813) An Interactive Chart’ https://www.masswerk.at/minard/

Tass Russian News Agency (2017): ‘When Napoleon ventured east’, https://1812.tass.ru/en

Zotta, Alessandro (2016): ‘On their way. The Journey of Foreign fighters’ http://alessandrozotta.it/on-their-way/

Friendly, Michael: ‘Visions and Re-Visions of Charles Joseph Minard’, Journal of Educational and Behavioral Statistics, Spring 2002, Vol. 27, No. 1, pp. 31-51. Available at http://www.datavis.ca/papers/jebs.pdf [downloaded 24.01.2019]

Kraak, Menno-Jan (2014): Mapping Time. Illustrated by Minard’s map of Napoleon’s Russian Campaign of 1812, Esri Press, Redlands

Rendgen, Sandra (2018): The Minard System. The Complete Statistical Graphics of Charles-Joseph Minard, Princeton Architechtural Press, New York

Tufte, Edward (2006): Beautiful evidence, Graphics press LLC, Connecticut

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