A Complete Guide to the Katraj – Bopdev Ghat Hike

Katraj – Bopdev Ghat Hike

Sahyadri range (Introduction)

The Sahyadris consist of a vast range of mountains in the states of Maharashtra and Karnataka, offering picturesque views of the Western ghats and the cities around these ghats. Being a famous mountain range the Sahyadris are well known for many treks and trails including ones leading to a large number of forts among other treks around Pune (Katraj – Bopdev Ghat Hike), however, some of these trails are not yet discovered or are considered offbeat trails due to significantly less human footfall, and one such trail is the Katraj-Bopdev trek. This trail is definitely one of the best trekking places near Pune. The Sahyadri range, part of the Western Ghats, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its biodiversity and historical forts built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Location and Accessibility of Bopdev Ghat Trek

The Katraj – Bopdev trail is situated in the Sahyadri range towards the south of Pune city. A scenic drive along the Katraj ghat brings you to the old Katraj tunnel, beside the Katraj – Bopdev trail start point. The Katraj-Bopdev trail lies in the Sahyadri range, south of Pune city. Start at the Katraj Old Tunnel, reachable via a scenic 20-km drive along Katraj Ghat from Pune (approximately 30 minutes by PMPML bus or taxi). The trek ends near the Shiv/Rameshwar Temple at Bopdev Ghat. For those starting at Bopdev, arrange a pickup at the Katraj Old Tunnel for the return. View the starting point on Google Maps.

Duration of the trek

The entire trail, fits well in the one-day trek near Pune bracket, with a duration of 2-3 hours one way, depending on individual to individual; however, completing a return journey would double the time required.

Fitness level required

Just like most treks around Pune, one need not have any prior hiking or trekking experience, however having a basic fitness level is always advised and necessary, also completing a return journey of the trail would require some good physical stamina, making the same trail one of the difficult treks in Pune. This easy-to-moderate trek requires no prior trekking experience but demands basic cardiovascular endurance and leg strength, equivalent to walking 10-12 km on flat terrain or climbing 20-30 flights of stairs. The return journey is more challenging, making it one of the tougher day treks in Pune for those seeking a test of stamina. Regular activities like cycling or swimming can prepare you for this trail.

Exploring the Sahyadri Range

The Sahyadri range, part of the Western Ghats and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, spans Maharashtra and Karnataka, offering breathtaking views of lush forests, historic forts, and vibrant cities like Pune. Known for its biodiversity and trekking trails, the Sahyadris are home to iconic treks like Sinhagad and Rajgad, as well as offbeat gems like the Katraj-Bopdev trek. This 7-8 km trail near Bopdev Ghat is one of the best trekking places in Pune, perfect for beginners and fitness enthusiasts seeking a weekend adventure close to the city.

Bopdev Ghat Distance and Duration

The Katraj-Bopdev trek covers 7-8 km one way, taking 2-3 hours for experienced trekkers and 3-4 hours for beginners. A return journey (Katraj-Bopdev-Katraj or vice versa) spans 14-16 km and takes 5-6 hours, depending on fitness and pace. The trail’s proximity to Pune makes it ideal for a half-day adventure, allowing you to return home by early afternoon.

Trail Specifications

• Distance: 7-8 km one way (14-16 km round trip)
• Elevation Gain: ~350 meters
• Terrain: Rocky plateaus, gravel slopes, dense forest paths
• Gradient: Moderate (10-20% on ascents)
• Coordinates: Start at Katraj Old Tunnel (18.4136°N, 73.8532°E), end at Shiv/Rameshwar Temple (18.3954°N, 73.9256°E)

4 different ways to do the Katraj – Bopdev trail

Shiv Rameshwar Temple at Bopdev Ghat

Katraj – Bopdev – As mentioned above in the blog the trail can be started over the Katraj old tunnel and completed next to the Bopdev temple (7-8 km, 2-3 hours).

Bopdev – Katraj – Doing the entire trail, Vice-Versa is also an option, however, one should keep it in mind, trying to locate the Katraj old tunnel can get quite confusing half way through the trek as soon as you hit the forest.

Katraj – Bopdev – Katraj or Bopdev – Katraj – Bopdev

The above two options work great for adventure enthusiasts who want a physically challenging experience with a difficult trek in Pune. The entire journey here would take A 14-16 km round trip for adventure enthusiasts, taking  5 – 6 hours, also saving one from the logistical challenge of having to arrange two separate transport mediums, thus making it another plus point for a return journey trek.

How I explored the trail!

I have been hiking in and around the city of Pune for the past Decade. Having been to many famous forts & treks such as Sinhagad, Rajgad, Torna, Rohida, Andarban & Sinhgad (K2S Trek) around the city, I was looking for some treks around Pune, that are of beat, close to the city, and yet a little challenging, thus making it a difficult trek in Pune. That’s when I came across the Katraj – Bopdev trail. Initially when I looked up the internet, was unable to find much detail on it. Given the above circumstances, I decided to explore the trail myself, of course, keeping in my mind some basic safety methods and knowing your directions well is always a necessity as well a big advantage, especially if it is a jungle trek near Pune. Some of the preparation I did is as follows –

1.  Noting the start point & getting a good estimate of the endpoint. For example at the Katraj-Bopdev trail, one needs to head East at an approx. of 90 degrees.
2. I carried paint along with me so that I could mark the trail as I move ahead. Marking the trail especially helps in circumstances when you do not manage to complete the trail, as heading back can get a little tricky.
3. Another very important point is to ensure you walk on the right trail, although this is achieved by having some experience in the mountains, it is highly possible to maintain a trail if you time and again keep checking the direction you’re heading at.

How Katraj-Bopdev Compares to Other Pune Treks

Compared to Sinhagad (10 km, 600m elevation, crowded), Katraj-Bopdev (7-8 km, 350m elevation) is quieter and ideal for those seeking solitude. Its forest valley navigation is more challenging than Rajgad’s marked trails but less demanding than the endurance-testing Katraj to Sinhagad (K2S) trek, making it a balanced choice for fit beginners.

A walk through the Katraj-Bopdev trail

To make navigating simple, I shall break the trek into parts.

Start point to the First hill

Begin at the Katraj Old Tunnel (Pune side), The trail begins at the left once you exit the Katraj old tunnel, provided you are coming from the Pune city side. As you reach the start point of the trek simply walk upwards on the hill till you reach a small goddess temple, after which taking a right will bring you onto a plateau towards the first big hill. Walking on the plateau, you shall pass 2 network towers one after the other, after which you will suddenly enter a small cluster of trees.

Click on the link below for directions on the Katraj-Bopdev trek start point.

Katraj Bopdev Ghat trek start point.

First hill to forest valley

After moving out of the tree cluster, a full right will help to change trails toward the first hill of the trek, this trail is not marked well, however, ascending on a steep slope towards the top of the hill means you’re going well. Views of the city from this point are spectacular, on one side lies Pune city, while on the other side one gets a drone view of the Mumbai – Bangalore highway. After a little descent, another plateau will approach its way giving you a 15-20 minutes’ walk taking the trail right into a dense forest.

Forest valley to the temple

Once in the forest, nature will greet you at its best making the entire trail into a dense green jungle, remember there will be a series of trails of which none are the correct ones, all one needs to do is walk in the same direction you entered the forest till you come out straight into the other half of the valley. Here the trail will naturally turn left and in a short while will take a complete right straight onto the next ascend. Once you start ascending, simply walk East on a series of hills till the Bopdev temple & ghat approach your vision, making remaining of the trail distinctly clear.

Click on the link below for the location of the trek endpoint.

Shiv / Rameshwar temple

Note: Time & again little piles of stones will notify you of being on the right track. I have also sprayed blue paint on major junctions.

Trekker marking the trail with blue paint

Things to carry during the trek

1. Small backpack – the bag should have 2 litres of water (hydration bladder recommended) along with some high-protein snacks (nuts, granola bars).
2. Rainwear – complete rain gear is a must during the rainy season. A lightweight raincoat or poncho is essential during monsoons (June-September).
3. Trekking or hiking shoes – Waterproof shoes with good grip for rocky and slippery terrain.
4. Mosquito repellent – Protect against insects in the forest valley is a must to keep away from flying insects.
5. Long clothing – Ensure to not wear any kind of shorts as walking through tall grass, forest valleys, and bushes will occur.
6. Compass/GPS: Ensure accurate navigation, especially in the forest.

Safety Tips

• Trek with a group and inform someone of your plans.

• Check weather forecasts, as monsoons can make trails slippery.

• Carry a fully charged phone with emergency contacts.

• Follow marked trails and avoid solo trekking due to limited facilities and low footfall.

Overall the Katraj-Bopdev trail is one of the best trekking places in Pune and makes a good trek for beginners as well as fitness enthusiasts, being close to the city it is also a perfect weekend adventure, allowing one to do many more things in the day, as being back home before the afternoon is highly possible. I would also strongly recommend doing the trek with a group of experienced trekkers and not alone for various safety precautions as there aren’t any facilities or habitation on the trail and chances of seeing a hiker stand very little.

As a seasoned trekker with over 10 years of exploring the Sahyadris, I’ve completed treks like K2S and Rajgad, and I’m passionate about uncovering hidden trails like Katraj-Bopdev.

Conclusion

The Katraj-Bopdev trek is a hidden treasure in the Sahyadri range, offering a perfect blend of scenic beauty, moderate challenge, and accessibility from Pune. Whether you’re a beginner seeking an introduction to trekking or an enthusiast craving an offbeat adventure, this 7-8 km trail delivers stunning views of Pune city, dense forests, and the Mumbai-Bangalore highway. With proper preparation—trekking shoes, rain gear, and a group—this half-day trek is an ideal weekend escape. Lace up your boots, follow the blue paint markers, and immerse yourself in the Sahyadris’ natural splendor. Start your journey today and discover why Katraj-Bopdev is one of Pune’s best-kept trekking secrets!

FAQs

1. What is the distance of the Katraj-Bopdev trek?
   The one-way trek covers 7-8 km, taking 2-3 hours for experienced trekkers and 3-4 hours for beginners. A round trip is 14-16 km and takes 5-6 hours.
2. How difficult is the Katraj-Bopdev trek?
   It’s an easy-to-moderate trek suitable for fit beginners. Basic cardiovascular endurance and leg strength are required, especially for the return journey, which is more challenging.
3. How do I reach the Katraj-Bopdev trek starting point?
   From Pune, take a PMPML bus or taxi to Katraj Old Tunnel (20 km, ~30 minutes). For Bopdev to Katraj, start at Bopdev Ghat and arrange a pickup at Katraj.
4. What is the best time to trek Katraj-Bopdev?
   Post-monsoon (October-February) offers clear skies and safe trails. Monsoons (June-September) provide lush greenery but require caution due to slippery paths.
5. Is the Katraj-Bopdev trek safe for beginners?
   Yes, but beginners should trek with a group and follow marked trails. Carry essentials like water, rain gear, and a compass, and avoid solo trekking due to low footfall.