Namita SawantSondai Fort trek is a perfect trek for beginners or individuals who have not embarked on a trek in years. Easy to reach from Karjat, just about 9kms from the railway station, this is one of the ideal beginner-friendly treks to explore the breathtaking views of the Sahyadri mountain range. The best time to undertake Sondai Fort Trek is definitely in the monsoon season when you can catch the lush greens and the waterfalls, but this trek can be taken throughout the year.
The base village to start this trek is Sondewadi. It is easily accessible via road and takes approximately 30-40 minutes from Karjat railway station. This was my first trek after almost four years and the first ever planned trek from experts – T Trikon. Here is my unbiased review of trekking to Sondai Fort with T Trikon.
Assembling at Karjat Railway Station by 8 Am
It is a day trek, and as per the planned itinerary shared by the experts at T Trikon, we reached the Karjat railway station by 8 am. The train timings for CST-bound fast trains to Karjat were shared by the team. From the railway station, we, comprising eight participants from mid-20s to late 40s, met our trek captain – Mr. Yash Kadam, a young man in his early 20s brimming with immense knowledge and stories of his career as a traveler. He kept us amused and entertained for most of the journey and the trek.
In a taxi arranged by T Trikon, we covered the half-hour journey to Sondewadi base village, where we took a halt at a peaceful village home for breakfast. We were served hot poha and chai, and the food was delicious. After our restroom break in hygienic washrooms, some of us changed into their trek shoes and were ready for the hike. By 10 am, we started our ascent in the hot, scorching sun. The temperature was high, but the coolness was balanced by our team of enthusiastic trekkers and the trek group leader.
The Sondai Fort Trek Ascend Begins
The fort is located at a height of 1200 ft above sea level. From the base village Sondewadi to the top, the distance is approximately 2 kms, and ideally, it takes just 2 to 2.5 hours to complete the trek to and fro. However, that’s for people who often trek. Although the level of the Sondai fort trek is not difficult, it took me some time getting used to the ascent.
There are stops in between as you reach the first plateau. Finally, some shade to fill your lungs and courage to begin again. The second part of the trek takes you through a forest. This bit had a few rocks that were still manageable to climb in the hot weather, but in the monsoon, it would definitely be a bit challenging. The final phase of the trail may appear the easiest from a distance, but you must climb two sets of staircases before reaching the top.
The view along the way is mesmerizing, despite it being the scorching summer season. As you carefully traverse the trail, remember to stop and breathe in the view. Having trekked Karnala and Shivneri forts in the past, I anticipated encountering a similar fort structure at the top. However, I found a small temple and a few flags, which still evoked a fort-like ambiance.
Despite the absence of a fort, the breathtaking view compensated for any disappointment. From atop, one can enjoy panoramic views of Morbe Dam and Prabalgad. However, beware of the monkeys that inhabit the area.
Sondai Fort trekking experience
The ascents might leave you breathless, but the descents demand total awareness, bringing you to a state of being present in the moment. That’s why it’s often said that while trekking, it’s not the mountain that you conquer, but your inner self. My experience of trekking to Sondai Fort was refreshing and memorable. From the outset to the numerous halts in between, and the refreshing lemon water during the descent, everything felt soul-soothing.
It was a welcome break from the daily grind. The itinerary planned by T Trikon was commendable as well. The sumptuous meal that awaited us post-trek added even more stars to our experience. The local village food was authentic and satisfying. I opted for the non-vegetarian meal, which included bhakri, dry chicken, rassa, and rice. However, the vegetarian meal was equally delicious.
After the meal, we rested at the village house for an hour and left for Karjat railway station at 4 pm. By 6 pm, we arrived back in Thane. The 12 hours in between were a revelation, inspiring me to embark on more treks and conquer greater heights, both externally and internally.
I want to express my gratitude to my yoga teacher, who inspired me to undertake this journey. Hopefully, I will go on more such treks this year.
T Trikon Sondai Fort Trek Cost And Inclusions:
- Cost: Rs. 999 per person
- Inclusion: Travelling from Karjat to Sondai and back.
- Food: Breakfast and Lunch
- Trikon trekking expert guide charges.
5 Things to remember while going on a trek
- Carry essentials only – Water, cap, sunscreen, snacks, napkin, etc.
- Wear appropriate shoes – Choose shoes with good grip, as the descent might get a little tricky if your shoes are not right.
- Stay hydrated – Sip water in between, especially if you are going on a summer trek.
- Don’t litter – The pristine nature at Sondai Fort deserves all the love, so please avoid littering.
- Follow the leader – While this trek can be done without a guide, the presence of an expert makes a significant difference in your overall experience. So, follow the trail led by the trek expert.
To book your trek with T Trikon and for the travel itinerary for the Sondai trek, visit: Sondai Fort Trek | One Day Easy Monsoon Trek Near Mumbai (ttrikon.com)
For more ideas on day trips near Mumbai and Pune, explore: Best of India Travels – Discover India (Raw & Rugged)
Happy Trekking!
