Tikona Fort, Lonavala – Trekking Travel Guide

Tikona Fort (also called Vitandgad) is a triangular hill fort rising above Pawna Lake near Lonavala. Perched at about 1,070 meters (3,580 ft) above sea, its pyramid-shaped summit offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This popular one-day trek is suitable for beginners, making it a favorite monsoon getaway for families, couples and trekking . The fort’s top has ruins of a temple, water tanks and caves to explore, and you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Pawna Dam and the twin forts of Tung, Visapur and .

Plan your visit with the table below: the Tikona Fort Trip Planner shows key details for the trek: distance, time, base village, route, difficulty, entry, timings and best season. This makes it easy to prepare and fit Tikona into your Lonavala holiday itinerary.

Trip Planner	Details
Location	Tikona Peth village, Pawana Maval, Maharashtra (near Lonavala)
Trek Distance	~2.5 km one-way (5 km round-trip)
Trek Time	~4–5 hours round-trip (1.5–2 hours up)
Elevation	3500 ft (≈1070 m) above sea
Difficulty	Easy–Moderate (suitable for beginners, families)
Base Village	Tikona Peth (also called Tikona Path) – the foothill village
Route	Tikona Peth → stone steps and trails up the hill to Tikona Fort (entrance gate)
Nearest Railway	Kamshet (for Pune) or Lonavala (for Mumbai)
Road Access	Via Mumbai–Pune Highway to Kusgaon Exit, then local road to Tikona Peth
Entry Fee	None (free access currently)
Timings	8:00 AM to 6:00 PM (closed after sunset; no night trek)
Best Season	Monsoon (June–Sept) – lush green Also pleasant in winter (Oct–Feb). Avoid hot summer days.
Stay Options Nearby	Private villas and camps (see below) – e.g. Lonavala Camping by Pawna Lake or private villas near Della Park.

History of Tikona Fort

Tikona Fort (Vitandgad) has roots in medieval Maratha history. The name Tikona means “triangle” in Marathi, reflecting its three-sided . A ruined vihara (Buddhist monastery) on the hill dates to the 7–8th , but little else is known about its very early days. The fort first appears in history in the 16th century: it was captured by Malik Ahmad Nizam Shah I of the Nizam Shahi dynasty in . In 1657, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj seized Tikona (along with many other nearby forts) during his campaigns, making the fort part of the Maratha . It was then a strategic outpost controlling the Pawana Maval region.

In 1665 the fort briefly fell to a Mughal commander named Kubad Khan (after the Treaty of Purandar), but was quickly retaken by the . Tikona remained under Maratha control for many years. Even Aurangzeb’s son Akbar visited here in 1682 (though the climate did not suit him. Finally, in 1818 during the Third Anglo-Maratha War the British captured Tikona Fort, ending Maratha rule. Today you can see the ruins of its stone walls and ancient Trimbakeshwar Mahadev temple at the summit, plus several Satavahana-era caves and water cisterns that hint at its storied .

Location

Tikona Fort is situated in the Pawana Maval region of Maharashtra, roughly 60 km west of . The closest town is Kamshet (51 km from Pune). Tikona’s base village is Tikona Peth, located near the crest of a hillock. From the summit you look down on Pawna Lake (a reservoir), and you can see Lonavala’s famous roadside attractions. The fort lies on a rocky hill that rises steeply (see image above). Roads in this area are narrow but are being upgraded – for example, a 6.5 km road project (₹8 crore) will soon improve access from Pawana Dam to Tikona .

Getting oriented: the trailhead starts at the south side of Tikona Peth (there is usually a parking area there). The fort’s triangular summit is prominent on the skyline. It’s about 2.5 km uphill to the top via stone steps. The trek route is well-defined and considered safe, with few trees and clear steps for most of the . (However, the last section gets steeper.) Watch your head on low rock-overhangs and stick to the path – it’s the only way up.

Timings

Tikona Fort is open daily from morning until evening. Official timings are 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM, roughly. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) does not allow night trekking, so plan to reach the top well before. It is best to start early, especially in winter when sunset comes early. Beware: after dark there are no lights or services, and trekking at night is prohibited by the. By late afternoon, the gate may be closed to climbers. Also note that the fort itself has no security gate – access is by an open pathway – but local guides often patrol the area.

Entry Fees

Currently there is no entry fee to trek Tikona . The site is open to the public at no charge. (Of course, wear-and-tear on facilities is minimal since it’s largely ruins and natural rock.) You will not pay any tickets or camping fees at the fort. Just sign in if a guard or register exists at the base village. As always, respect the monument: do not deface or damage any part of the fort.

How to Reach

By road:

 Tikona Fort is easiest accessed by road from the Mumbai–Pune Highway. From Mumbai or Pune, take the expressway and exit at Kusgaon Phata (exit 40) or Takve. Follow the signs to Lonavala, but shortly after passing Pawna Lake, turn towards Tikona Peth village. The last stretch is a narrow ghat road winding up to the village. Parking is available near the base (along the roadside). Note that parking space can be limited on busy weekends.

By train:

 The nearest railway stations are Kamshet (for people coming from Pune) or Lonavala (for people coming from Mumbai). Both stations are on the Mumbai–Pune line. From Kamshet station, Tikona Peth is about 21 km away (roughly a 45 min drive. From Lonavala station it’s around 25 km (about 40 min drive). You can hire a taxi or share-a-vehicle (nimbus/taxi) to Tikona Peth. There are also occasional state-run buses from Lonavala towards Pawna/Pune that stop near Tikona Peth, but timings are infrequent.

By air:

 The nearest airport is Pune (PNQ) or Mumbai (BOM). From there, proceed by road/train as above.

(Note: Always check real-time travel apps or local updates for road conditions, especially in monsoon. In 2025, officials announced new road-work projects in the area to improve , so connectivity is expected to get even better.)

Things to Do

• Trek to the summit. 

   The main attraction is the trek itself and exploring the fort top. Climb the stone-cut steps and rock paths up to the large entrance gate. Along the way you’ll see ancient rock walls and ridges.

• Explore historical ruins.

    On top, visit the Temple of Trimbakeshwar Mahadev, a small shrine built of reddish stone. Check out the rock-cut Satavahana caves near the temple. Walk around the remains of small buildings and seven water cisterns that once held . The massive entrance gate (now partly ruined) and fortress walls hint at old defensive architecture.

• Sightseeing and photography.

    The fort’s summit offers breathtaking views of the Pawna Lake and nearby. You can see Tung Fort (near Kamshet), Visapur and Lohagad on the western ridge, plus rolling countryside. On a clear day, the triangular outline of Tikona itself is photogenic from a distance. (Image suggestion: a stock photo of the fort hill from Pawna Lake. Place near introduction.)

• Nature watch. 

   The trek passes through shrubs and grasses. In monsoon the path is green and you may spot colourful flowers. Look for birds and mountain goats (known locally as gaderiya). Avoid disturbing wildlife.

• Combine with local spots.

    After the trek, many visitors relax at Pawna Lake (boating, lakeside camping) or head to the adventure/theme parks below (see “Nearby Attractions”). On the descent you’ll see the towering Bhushi Dam sluice, a popular spot in rainy season (but obey danger signs as water flow increases).

• Group events.  

  The fort is a nice family picnic spot, and nearby fields sometimes host local events. Some people organize fort-cleanup drives. If you plan a special occasion (birthday, reunion), you can hire a local cook in Tikona Peth to pack lunch for the group.

Safety Tips

• Follow official guidelines. 

  Recent government orders in 2025 have forbidden risky behavior at Tikona . Do not climb beyond fences or into forbidden zones (especially near cliff edges) to take selfies or photos. Also avoid sitting on slippery rocks during . These rules are for visitor safety, so follow any posted warnings.

• Monsoon caution:

   Heavy rains can make the path slippery and dangerous. In fact, in August 2024 a monsoon landslide partially collapsed the cliff at Tikona Fort (no injuries, but officials closed access temporarily). If the trek path looks flooded or muddy, turn back. Always test each step for grip, wear good trekking shoes, and use the handrails (if any) on steep sections. Never trek alone in bad weather.

• Timing:

   Finish the trek well before dusk. Do not attempt a night trek or stay overnight on the. Camping on Tikona Fort is prohibited by the ASI and there are no lights or emergency services at night.

• Personal safety:

   Trek in a group if possible. Inform someone at base about your plan. Carry sufficient water, snacks, a raincoat/poncho (in monsoon), and a basic first-aid kit. Sign the visitor register if available. Do not trek under the influence of alcohol or .

• Wildlife and insects:

   Carry mosquito repellent (especially in rainy season). Be aware of snakes – watch where you step. Do not litter or leave food scraps, as this attracts animals and mars the environment.

• Vehicle parking: 

  Park your vehicle on stable ground in the designated area. Avoid illegal parking on bends. Car theft or vandalism is rare but keep belongings secure.

By following these precautions, you’ll have a safer, more enjoyable trek at Tikona Fort.

Best Time to Visit

The peak visiting season is the monsoon and post-monsoon. From June to September, the region is lush green and cool. Light rain showers and mist often create a magical atmosphere on the . However, this is also the most crowded time (especially weekends), and monsoon brings intermittent path closures (as happened in).

Winter (October–February) is also very pleasant: days are sunny and nights are cool, with lows around 15–20°C. Winter mornings can be misty but clear up by mid-morning. Trekking is comfortable, and foliage is still green early on.

Summer (March–May) is the least favored: temperatures can exceed 35°C in day and trails lack shade, making the climb strenuous. If you must visit in summer, start before dawn to avoid the heat.

Ultimately, monsoon (Jul-Sep) offers the finest, but always check the forecast and avoid heavy downpour days. Weekdays or early mornings are quieter and cooler than busy weekends.

Weather Overview

Lonavala and Tikona experience a tropical climate:

• Monsoon (June–Sept):

   Heavy rains. Average rainfall ~3000 mm/year (some days of nonstop rain). Temperatures 20–28°C. After rain, humidity is high.

• Post-monsoon (Oct–Nov): 

  Sky clears, terrain waterlogged. Temperatures 20–30°C.

• Winter (Dec–Feb):

  Cool and dry. Day: ~25–30°C; night: 15–20°C. Very pleasant for daytime treks.

• Summer (Mar–May): 

  Hot and dry. Daytime 35–40°C, shaded areas are scarce. Hydration and sun protection essential.

Always start early and carry water. In monsoon, use waterproof bags and check conditions; landslides can occur on steep roads (as seen in 2024). Local weather apps or watchers can give real-time alerts.

Nearby Attractions

Around Tikona Fort there are many attractions in Lonavala for families and adventure seekers:

• Pawna Lake & Camping: 

  Just below Tikona Fort lies Pawna Reservoir. It’s a beautiful spot for boating, photography and lakeside camping (tents by the water). Numerous campsites by the lake offer bonfires and meals under stars. For example, Lonavala Camping runs an overnight adventure camp with tents, BBQ and water .

• Adventure Parks: 

  Lonavala has several theme parks. Della Adventure Park (near Tikona) offers ziplining, ATV rides, bull rides and more – perfect for thrill-seekers. Wet N Joy Water Park and Dinosaur Park (in Lonavala city) entertain families with slides and life-size dinosaur exhibits. Many private villas (see below) are located near Della and these .

• Kamshet Paragliding:

   Around 12 km south of Tikona is Kamshet, famous for paragliding. You can book tandem flights over rolling valleys from sites like Kondhwa or Kunegaon.

• Historic Caves:

   A short drive away are the Karla Caves and Bhaja Caves, ancient Buddhist rock-cut temples with elaborate chaityas and sculptures, dating to 2nd century BC. Also visit Bhushi Dam in Lonavala (though follow safety signs – it’s very slippery in monsoon).

• Other Forts:

   If you have more time, consider trekking nearby forts like Lohagad, Visapur or Tung, all within 20–30 km and offering additional scenic hilltop views.

These attractions mean you can easily plan a multi-day Lonavala trip: spend one day trekking Tikona Fort, another day at Pawna or Della, and so on.

Accommodation Options (Villas & Camping)

Lonavala is renowned for its holiday villas and resorts. Many visitors prefer private villas in Lonavala for group stays or family vacations. These range from basic cottages to luxury villas with private pools. Lonavala villa rental agencies can match you to 2–5 BHK properties based on your needs. For example, Lonavala Getaways (via stayslonavala.com) offers 2BHK–5BHK homes near major parks and lakes. Each villa typically has amenities like a private pool, large living areas, and hill views vedakshvilla.com stayslonavala.com. Families might search for “family villas in Lonavala with pool” to find options with child-friendly spaces. Couples often look for “romantic villas in Lonavala for couples” to book a cozy private stay with scenic sunset views.

For adventure-lovers, camping is another option. As noted, Lonavala Camping at Pawna Lake provides prepared tents and outdoor activities (zipline, kayaking, bonfire, BBQ)lonavalacamping.com. This is ideal for groups and couples who want nature but without pitching their own tents.

Notable options to check:

• Vedaksh Villa – A 4BHK luxury villa near Della Adventure Park with private pool and mountain views vedakshvilla.com.

• Stays Lonavala – A curated service by Lonavala Getaways offering many villa listings (2BHK–5BHK) across Lonavala vedakshvilla.com.

• Lonavala Camping – Lakeside tent camping and adventure activities, great for a fun night out in lonavalacamping.com.

• Other villa sites: Vedaksh Villa’s sister properties (Hindavi Villa, Duke Villa), or local resorts at Pawna Lake.

In summary, Lonavala has accommodation for every taste: budget-friendly villas for groups, luxury pool villas for weekend getaways, and lakeside camping for the adventurous. Many of these places include keywords like “Private pool villa in Lonavala” or “Luxury villas in Lonavala for weekend” in their descriptions, so they’re easy to find online. Plan and book in advance for peak season, and always check reviews for cleanliness and service. A good villa stay can perfectly complement your Tikona Fort trek, giving your family or friends a comfortable base to relax and enjoy Lonavala’s other attractions.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: What is Tikona Fort?A: Tikona Fort (Vitandgad) is a triangular-shaped hill fort in the Maval region near Lonavala, Maharashtra. It stands about 1,070 m above sea level and is famous for its one-day trek. The fort has a small temple, rock-cut caves and water tanks at the top, and offers sweeping views of Pawna Lake and nearby . It’s an easy-to-moderate trek popular with families, trekkers and groups, especially during the monsoon.

Q: How difficult is the Tikona Fort trek?A: The trek is rated easy to moderate. The path is well-marked and mostly gradual, with roughly 1.5–2 hours of ascent (about 2.5 km one-way). There are a few steep steps near the top, but no technical climbing is required. It’s suitable for beginners, children and senior trekkers in good health. Overall round-trip (including breaks) takes about 4–5.

Q: What is the trek distance and duration for Tikona Fort?A: The trek covers about 2.5 km one-way from Tikona Peth to the. Most trekkers ascend in 1.5–2 hours, spending another 2–3 hours descending and exploring. Plan 4–5 hours total for the whole trip, including stops at the top.

Q: When is the best time to visit Tikona Fort?A: The best seasons are monsoon (June–Sept) and winter (Oct–Feb). Monsoon brings lush greenery and cool , but also heavier crowds and slippery paths (check forecasts). Winter offers clear skies and mild weather. Avoid peak summer (March–May), as it gets hot and dry. Early mornings in any season are pleasant and less crowded.

Q: Is there an entry fee and what are the opening hours?A: There is no entry fee to trek Tikona. The site is open roughly 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM . Night trek or camping on the fort is not allowed (for safety and preservation). Gates usually close by 6 PM.

Q: How do I reach Tikona Fort from Pune or Mumbai?A: From Pune, drive west on the Mumbai–Pune Expressway, exit at Kusgaon (or Takve), and follow the Pawna/Tikona signboards to Tikona Peth. It’s about 60 km in total. From Mumbai, drive towards Lonavala, take the Pawna/Tikona turn after Lonavala. Alternatively, take a train to Kamshet (for Pune side) or Lonavala (for Mumbai side) and hire a cab to Tikona Peth (about 20–25 km). State buses also connect Lonavala to villages near Pawna, but they run infrequently.

Q: Are night treks or camping allowed on Tikona Fort?A: No. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) prohibits night stays and camping on Tikona . The fort closes after sunset for safety. Visitors should plan to descend before dusk and can camp overnight only outside at Pawna Lake or other designated campsites (outside fort premises).

Q: What are the safety tips for Tikona Fort?A: Trek carefully, especially in monsoon. Wear sturdy shoes, carry water, and use the marked path. Avoid the edges – as per local rules, activities like sitting on cliff ledges or taking selfies at dangerous spots are . Do not trek under the influence of alcohol or if alone in bad weather. Inform someone of your plan, and check the weather forecast: heavy rain recently caused landslides at . Also, respecting local prohibitions, stay away from wildlife and stray animals on the hill.

Q: What accommodations are available near Tikona Fort?A: Lonavala has many villas, resorts and camps. Visitors often rent private villas (2–5 BHK) with pools and hills views. Search keywords like “Lonavala villa rental” or “villas in Lonavala for groups.” Popular agencies include Lonavala Getaways (stayslonavala.com) which lists 2BHK–5BHK villas near Della, Pawna and tourist vedakshvilla.com. For example, Vedaksh Villa is a 4BHK private-pool villa just 500m from Della Adventure vedakshvilla.com. Couples may prefer “romantic villas in Lonavala” with cozy settings, while families look for “family villas with pool.” Alternatively, lakeside camping (e.g. Lonavala Camping) is an option for a night under the s

lonavalacamping.com.

Q: What else is there to see and do around Tikona Fort?A: Many attractions surround Tikona: Pawna Lake (boating, lakeside camping), Della Adventure Park and Wet N Joy Water Park for thrill rides, Dinosaur Park for kids, and ancient caves like Karla and Bhaja for sightseeing. The famous Bhushi Dam and Lion’s Point viewpoint are also close to Lonavala. Trekking enthusiasts can also visit nearby forts (Lohagad, Visapur, Tung) within 20–30 km. Together, these sites make Lonavala a full vacation spot for nature, adventure and relaxation.

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Meta Title: Tikona Fort Lonavala Travel Guide – Trekking, History & Stay Options

Meta Description: Discover Tikona Fort near Lonavala – a triangular hill fort with panoramic views. Learn trek distance, timings, history and tips for visiting. Perfect for family, couple or group trips. Find the best villas and camping near Lonavala for a comfortable vedakshvilla.com.