There are treks and then there are experiences that stay with you long after the journey ends. The Rajgad to Torna trek we curated for a corporate company in Pune was one such unforgettable journey.
Adding to its timeless charm, Rajgad Fort was recognized globally when it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list in July 2025. Once the capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the fort stands as a proud symbol of Maratha history. As someone who was personally a part of this trek, I can confidently say - it was not just about reaching forts, but about building connections, pushing limits, and experiencing the Sahyadris in their raw monsoon beauty.
This 2 nights - 3 days trek with MountainFit starting and ending in Pune brought together 30 enthusiastic participants. Right from the start, the energy of the group stood out. Every participant was fit, motivated, and ready to embrace the challenge. The excitement kicked off as we began our journey from Pune Railway Station towards Pali village in Velhe. The bus ride was filled with conversations, laughter, and a growing sense of togetherness.
We halted enroute for a hearty breakfast, which set the tone perfectly for the day ahead. Soon after reaching Pali Village, we began our trek towards Rajgad Fort. The trail was lush, vibrant, and alive with the beauty of the monsoon. Despite the peak monsoon season in Maharashtra, the group maintained a steady pace. The climb took around three hours, and throughout the ascent, there was constant encouragement, shared energy, and a strong sense of teamwork.
Reaching the top of Rajgad felt incredibly rewarding. The fort stood majestic amidst clouds and mist, offering breathtaking panoramic views. We explored key spots like Padmavati Machi, Suvela Machi, and Sanjeevani Machi. Walking through these historic sections, surrounded by nature at its best, was a fantastic experience. It was one of those moments where everyone paused - not because they were tired, but because they wanted to take it all in.
After spending quality time exploring the fort, we began our descent towards Pali village. The trail was slippery due to continuous rains, but the group reached safely back to the base village in less than 2 hours. There was a natural rhythm in the way everyone looked out for each other. By the time we reached our hotel, a comfortable dormitory setup awaited us. The warm, freshly prepared meal served in the evening was exactly what everyone needed after a long trekking day. Good food, simple conversations, and a sense of accomplishment made it a perfect end to the day.
The next day began with fresh energy and a sense of anticipation for the most exciting part of the trek - the Rajgad to Torna Fort ridge walk. After a delicious breakfast, we set off on what is considered a moderate to difficult trail. The weather added its own challenges, with strong winds and intermittent rain making the route more demanding. But if there was one thing that defined the group, it was their determination. As we moved ahead, we encountered a tricky rock patch on the way to Torna Fort. With continuous rainfall making the surface slippery, this section required extra caution and teamwork. A safety rope was set up, and one by one, everyone carefully made their way across. It was incredible to see how smoothly the entire group managed this stretch. The trek leaders from MountainFit were extremely supportive throughout, ensuring proper guidance and safety at every step. Their coordination and calm approach made a challenging section feel completely manageable, boosting everyone’s confidence to keep moving forward.
The trail stretched across ridges and valleys. Unfortunately, due to foggy weather conditions, we could not see any views of the surrounding mountain ranges. There were moments of silence where everyone was simply soaking in the beauty, and moments of loud cheering when someone crossed a tricky patch. It truly felt like a team moving as one unit. The 4 to 5 hour trek tested endurance, but not once did anyone consider giving up.
Reaching Torna Fort was another high point of the journey. We explored iconic spots on the fort like Zunjar Machi, Budhla Machi, and the Mengai Goddess Temple. Each location had its own story and charm, adding depth to the overall experience. By this time, there was a visible sense of achievement on everyone’s face.
The descent towards Velhe village was handled smoothly by team MountainFit, and the group was treated to a well-deserved lunch. The meal felt even more satisfying after the effort put in through the day. Later, we checked into a resort near Velhe for an overnight stay. The dormitory arrangement was comfortable, and the overall hospitality was excellent. It gave everyone the chance to relax, recover, and reflect on the journey so far.
The next day brought a refreshing shift in pace. While the plan was to visit Madhe Ghat Waterfall, heavy rainfall and dense fog made us rethink the decision. Instead of pushing through uncertain conditions, we chose to slow down and it turned out to be one of the most memorable parts of the trip. We explored a beautiful nature trail within the property itself, guided by the owner who had an incredible understanding of the region. His deep knowledge of the forest, local wildlife, and history added a whole new dimension to the experience. One of the highlights was visiting the Devrai - a sacred forest patch rich with native trees and vibrant wildflowers. Walking through it felt calm, grounding, and deeply connected to nature. What followed was pure fun and relaxation. The group spent time enjoying the private waterfall and even a natural jacuzzi within the property. After two days of intense trekking, this was exactly what everyone needed.
Post lunch, we began our return journey to Pune. The bus ride back was quieter, but it carried a different kind of energy - one of satisfaction and contentment. Everyone had their own stories, memories, and moments to take back.
What made this trek truly special was not just the route, but the people. The whole team brought incredible enthusiasm and positivity throughout the journey. Despite the harsh monsoon conditions, all 30 participants successfully completed the trek. It was a true reflection of their fitness, mental strength, and team spirit.
From a MountainFit perspective, this trek was a perfect example of what we strive to deliver. The quality of service from meals to stay arrangements and the guidance throughout the trek, everything was top notch. Every detail was taken care of to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Our trek leaders played a crucial role in making this journey memorable. They were supportive, approachable, and always ready to help in any situation, ensuring both safety and fun throughout the trek.
This Rajgad to Torna trek was more than just an outdoor activity. It was a shared journey of resilience, bonding, and discovery. Experiences like these go beyond the mountains and leave a lasting impact on teams.
If you’re looking to create a meaningful and memorable experience for your team, stepping into the Sahyadris might just be the perfect choice. Please reach out to us on the below given details and we will help you plan your perfect corporate outing.
Email id: mountainfitadventures@gmail.com
Mobile: +91 7798885559 / 7798884449
