Tikona Fort

Tikona Fort is situated about 53 km away from Pune in the ‘Maval’ region of Lonavala. Also known as Vitangad Fort, it is located near the hill station of Kamshet and the popular Pawna Lake, and is a popular trekking destination.

Tikona Fort literally means ‘triangle fort’ and is shaped like a pyramid. Though little is known about the origins of this fort, it is steeped in history and has witnessed the rule of many dynasties. In 1657 AD, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj conquered Tikona Fort as well as the forts of Karnala, Lohagad, Mahuli, Songad, Tala and Visapur, which were under the Nizami terrority. By doing so, he bought the whole of Konkan under his control. However, in accordance with the Treaty of Purandar signed on 12^th June 1665 AD, Tikona Fort was surrendered to the Mughals. Five years later in 1670 AD, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj recaptured the fort and it became the focal point of many activities of the Maratha empire.

A trek to the magnificent Tikona Fort must be on the to-do list of every adventure enthusiast. Located at 3500 ft. above sea level, it’s the perfect trekking spot for beginners as well. It takes about an hour and a half to reach the top of the fort. During monsoon, Tikona Fort and its surroundings appear especially spectacular with lush greenery everywhere you look. However, the path can get quite slippery during rainy season, and it’s preferable to visit Tikona in winter.

Start early in the morning and gather with your friends or other fellow trekkers at the Tikona Peth village, which is the base camp of the trek. After walking for a distance of 2 km you will reach the starting point of the exciting trekking route. The trail is safe, clearly marked and quite easy. Along the way, feast your eyes on the serene and soothing landscape and breathe in the fresh air.

About 45 minutes into the trek, comes the ‘Bhuyari Darwaja’, a small cave, which is the first entryway to the fort. It leads to the watch tower or the bigger second gate called the ‘Vetal Darwaza’. Further along this scenic route are the remnants of a massive bull-pulled stone grinder and the ancient Chapetdan Maruti Temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The shrine has a big rock carving of Lord Hanuman killing a demon called Panavti, and it’s painted in a deep hue of Saffron.

Adjacent to the Hanuman Temples is a set of caves. One of the larger caves has two smaller cave temples, each dedicated to Lord Ram and Goddess Tuljai, respectively. There is small water tank in front of these temples with fishes in it.

After this point, a steep ascend to the top of the fort starts. This last trail is called the ‘Shivaji trail’. On this final trek route, carefully climb the knee-high steps, many of which are uneven and slippery due to moss and rain. Be extra cautious as your make your way to the top and use the ropes along the way for support.

On reaching the summit visit the Trimbakeshwar Mandir, a beautiful temple dedicated Lord Shiva with an intact Shivalinga. The panoramic view of the entire ‘Maval’ region from the Tikona summit is absolutely spellbinding and worth the adventurous trek. From here, see the forts of Tung, Lohagad and Visapur in the distance, as well as the serene Pawna Lake below. Make sure to capture the stunning scenery on your camera, before you begin the descend to the base camp.

During the trek to Tikona Fort, it is best to carry your own snacks and water in a backpack. Or else you may grab a bite at a lone food stall at the top of the fort. After a morning full of adventure, you may stop for a hearty lunch at Tikona Peth village.