Pune – Ratangad Fort Sunrise & Wildflower Trek
Ratangad Calling – Sunrise, Trails & Timeless Heritage
The journey
The Ratangad Fort Trek from Pune offers a beautiful post-monsoon experience in the Sahyadris, especially between August and November. After the monsoon, the mountains transform into a refreshing landscape of greenery, misty valleys, flowing streams, and seasonal wildflowers. Begin the trek from Ratanwadi in the early morning and make your way through lush forest trails and rocky mountain paths. As you climb higher, enjoy the changing landscape and seasonal blooms, with Karvi and Sonki flowers adding vibrant colours to the Sahyadri slopes. Reach Ratangad Fort around sunrise and witness the first rays of sunlight spreading across the surrounding mountain ranges. On clear days, enjoy spectacular views of AMK, Ajoba, Kalsubai, and the vast valleys around Ratangad. After enjoying the sunrise, explore the fort's ancient ruins, caves, rocky formations, and viewpoints before having breakfast amidst the peaceful mountain surroundings. Descend to Ratanwadi and enjoy a traditional vegetarian village lunch before beginning the journey back to Pune.
Trip highlights
- Catching the golden sunrise lighting up the peaks right from Ratangad Fort
- Trekking through lush trails covered in blooming Karvi and Sonki wildflowers
- Spotting the iconic AMK, Ajoba, and Kalsubai peaks from the top viewpoints
- Exploring ancient rock-cut caves, historic ruins, and rugged formations on the fort
- Visit the ancient Amruteshwar Temple at Ratanwadi
- Digging into a hearty traditional village lunch at Ratanwadi after the descent
Day-wise itinerary
Day1Departure from Pune
Sahyadri
Departure from Pune
Sahyadri
Begin Your Journey Towards the Sahyadris
08:00 PM – Departure from Jm Corner, Shivaji Nagar, Pune
09:00 PM – Pickup from Jagtap Dairy, Wakad
09:15 PM – Pickup from Nashik Phata (Kasarwadi Police Station)
Once all participants are onboard, we continue our overnight journey towards Ratanwadi Village. Get some rest during the journey and prepare for an exciting morning in the post-monsoon Sahyadris.
Notes: There will be no dinner halt during the journey. Please have your dinner before departure or carry packed food. Bus timings are tentative and may vary depending on traffic and road conditions. The final schedule will be shared approximately 6 hours before departure. Please report at your designated pickup point on time.
Day2Ratangad Sunrise Trek & Return to Pune
Sahyadri
Ratangad Sunrise Trek & Return to Pune
Sahyadri
Explore Ratangad in Its Post-Monsoon Glory
03:00 AM – Arrival at Ratanwadi Village & Freshen Up
Arrive at Ratanwadi in the early morning and take some time to freshen up. Enjoy a warm cup of tea and get ready for the trek ahead.
04:00 AM – Begin the Trek to Ratangad Fort
Start the trek under the early morning sky as we make our way through the post-monsoon trails of the Sahyadris. The route takes you through lush greenery, rocky sections, forest patches, and scenic mountain terrain.
During the August to November season, the surrounding landscape may be decorated with colourful Karvi, Sonki, and other seasonal wildflowers, making the trail especially scenic.
Reach the Summit & Witness the Sunrise
Reach the summit of Ratangad in time for sunrise. Watch the first rays of sunlight illuminate the Sahyadri ranges and valleys around you.
Enjoy magnificent views of AMK, Ajoba, Kalsubai, and the surrounding mountain ranges. With the monsoon behind us, the landscape begins to clear up, offering dramatic valley views and beautiful layers of mountains.
Explore Ratangad Fort & Breakfast
After sunrise, explore the historic Ratangad Fort, including its ancient ruins, caves, rocky formations, and scenic viewpoints.
Take time to appreciate the surrounding post-monsoon landscape and seasonal flowers before enjoying a packed vegetarian breakfast amidst the mountains.
Begin the Descent to Ratanwadi
Start descending towards Ratanwadi Village through the scenic mountain trail. Enjoy the lush post-monsoon surroundings, seasonal wildflowers, forest sections, and expansive valley views along the way.
Arrive at Ratanwadi & Enjoy Village Lunch
Reach the base village and freshen up before enjoying a traditional vegetarian village meal. Relax and recharge after the trek.
Visit Amruteshwar Temple
After lunch, visit the historic Amruteshwar Temple, an ancient stone temple located in Ratanwadi. Take some time to admire its traditional architecture and peaceful surroundings.
Depart for Pune
After completing the Ratangad adventure, board the bus and begin the return journey to Pune. Relax and enjoy the changing landscapes as we leave the Sahyadris behind.
Arrival in Pune
Reach Pune with memories of a beautiful Ratangad sunrise, colourful wildflowers, scenic trails, and an unforgettable post-monsoon Sahyadri experience.
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch
Notes: Sunrise, mist, wildflower blooms, and mountain views depend on natural and weather conditions. The flowering period and intensity of Karvi, Sonki, and other seasonal flowers may vary from year to year.
Included
- Pune to Pune transportation by Non-AC bus
- Refreshment snacks during the journey
- Vegetarian breakfast
- Traditional vegetarian village lunch
- Experienced trek guide and trained team captain
- Forest entry charges, permits, and applicable fees
- Basic first-aid kit carried by the team captain
Not included
- 5% GST applicable during checkout
- Dinner during the journey
- Personal expenses such as shopping and additional snacks
- Mineral water and other beverages
- Soft drinks, energy drinks, and similar refreshments
- Anything not specifically mentioned under inclusions
Departures & starting cities
Pick the city you'd like to start from, then the dates that work for you.
From Pune
1 departure · 1 open
September 2026
11 Sept 2026 – 12 Sept 2026
16 seats open
₹1,699
Book
What to pack
Trekking Essentials
Trekking Backpack (20–30 L) – Carry your personal essentials in a compact and comfortable backpack.
Trekking Shoes – Wear sturdy shoes with a good grip for better comfort and stability on uneven terrain.
Water (Minimum 2 Litres) – Carry enough drinking water to stay hydrated throughout the trek.
Energy Snacks – Pack dry fruits, biscuits, energy bars, chocolates, or other lightweight snacks.
ORS / Electrolytes – Useful for maintaining hydration and replenishing essential salts.
Clothing & Weather Protection
Comfortable Trek Wear – Choose lightweight and breathable clothes suitable for outdoor activities.
Extra Clothes – Carry a spare set in case your clothes get wet or sweaty.
Jacket / Sweatshirt – Recommended for cool mornings or changing weather conditions.
Cap / Hat – Provides protection from direct sunlight.
Raincoat / Poncho – Carry one if rain is expected or weather conditions are uncertain.
Scarf / Buff – Helps protect against sunlight, dust, and cold winds.
Personal Care
Sunscreen (SPF 30+) – Apply sunscreen to protect exposed skin from sunburn.
Sunglasses – Helps reduce glare and protects your eyes from strong sunlight.
Small Towel / Handkerchief – Useful for wiping sweat and freshening up.
Lip Balm & Moisturizer – Helps prevent dryness during the trek.
Safety & Emergency Items
Personal Medicines & First-Aid Kit – Carry essential medicines along with basic first-aid supplies.
Headlamp / Torch – Essential for early-morning or low-light sections of the trail. Carry spare batteries.
Emergency Whistle – Useful for attracting attention during an emergency.
Hand Sanitizer & Wet Wipes – Helpful for maintaining basic hygiene during the trek.
Useful Extras
Mobile Phone / Camera – Capture your trekking experience and memorable moments.
Power Bank – Keep your phone charged throughout the trek.
Plastic / Waterproof Pouch – Useful for storing wet clothes, footwear, or other items separately.
Rules of the trip
Smoking and Alcohol Consumption: Smoking and consumption of alcohol are strictly prohibited throughout the trek.
Bus Timings: Departure and arrival timings may vary depending on traffic, weather, road conditions, and other unforeseen circumstances.
Luggage Guidelines: Please avoid carrying trolley bags or sling bags. Participants are advised to carry only a single backpack or rucksack for convenient travel and trekking.
Keep the Trails Clean: Throwing garbage or litter on the trekking trail is strictly prohibited.
Carry Your Waste: Participants are responsible for carrying their own waste until they reach a designated disposal point.
Team Captain's Decision: In case of any unexpected situation or disagreement during the trek, the decision of the Team Captain/Leader will be considered final and will be taken in the best interest and safety of all participants.
Changes in Itinerary: The itinerary is subject to change at any time. Wandrcrew reserves the right to alter, modify, amend, or change the tour package or itinerary before or during the trip due to weather conditions, traffic, operational requirements, safety concerns, or other unforeseen circumstances. Reasonable efforts will be made to inform participants about any significant changes as early as possible.
Important Note – Batch Cancellation
If a batch is cancelled by Wandrcrew due to an insufficient number of participants, the participant may choose either:
A full refund of the amount paid, or
Transfer to the next available batch at the same price.
Cancellation policy
Plans change, we get it. Our standard cancellation and refund policy applies to every Wandrcrew journey.
Read the cancellation policyQuestions people ask
How fit do I need to be for the Ratangad trek?
This trek is rated moderate and involves forest trails and rocky mountain paths starting from Ratanwadi. Anyone aged 10 and above with basic everyday fitness can comfortably join!
What is included in the trip cost?
Your trek fee covers round-trip Pune travel by non-AC bus, snacks on the go, veg breakfast, and a traditional village lunch. You also get a trek guide, team captain, forest entry permits, and basic first aid.
What kind of food is provided on this trek?
We provide refreshment snacks during travel, a vegetarian breakfast after exploring the fort, and a traditional veg village lunch at Ratanwadi. Dinner during the journey, packaged mineral water, and soft drinks are not included.
How are we traveling from Pune to Ratangad?
We travel together from Pune to the base village of Ratanwadi and back in a non-AC bus. Specific pickup and drop points will be shared with the group before departure.
What is the group size for this trek?
We keep our groups small and tight-knit with a maximum of 18 travelers per batch. It is the best way to hike together without overcrowding the trail.
Are separate washrooms available for boys and girls?
Yes, separate washroom facilities are available for male and female participants at the base village. Facilities are basic and may be shared within the respective sections.
What kind of weather and scenery can I expect?
Expect lush green trails, mist, cool early-morning breezes, and vibrant blooms like Karvi and Sonki along the slopes. It's a gorgeous post-monsoon vibe, but carrying light layers is always a good idea.
Are washroom facilities available during the trek?
Yes, basic washroom facilities are available at Ratanwadi Village before and after the trek.
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