Trekking in the Sahyadris

The city of Pune sits blessed with the Sahyadri mountain range, which makes trekking here one of the most awe-inspiring experiences—especially during the monsoon showers. When the rain arrives, mist envelopes the mountains, waterfalls cascade down cliffs, and the trails glow with every shade of green. Many trekkers even compare the magic of the Sahyadris in monsoon to the beauty of the Himalayas.

While the Himalayan range is famous for long, high-altitude treks that demand weeks of time, enormous effort, and greater budgets, the Sahyadris offer something different. Their greatest strength lies in their accessibility. You don’t need weeks off work or extensive planning. Instead, you can escape into the hills for a one-day monsoon hike or enjoy crisp nights under the stars on a weekend camping trip in winter.

Mountains surround Pune from every direction, allowing adventure seekers endless opportunities to immerse themselves in nature. Every trail offers a chance to breathe fresh air, soak in scenic beauty, and take a much-needed break from the noise of urban life.

Of course, popularity brings its own challenges. Some Sahyadri treks draw large crowds during peak season, and the magic of solitude sometimes gets lost in the rush. But the range still hides plenty of unexplored routes. These trails rarely see trekkers, which means they offer peace, silence, and the joy of walking through wilderness without distraction. Choosing these paths lets you experience trekking in its truest form—immersed in quiet landscapes where every step deepens your connection with nature.

One such off-beat trail lies close to both Pune and Mumbai: the Dukes Nose Trek via Khandala.

Duke’s Nose Trek – All You Need to Know

Although the Dukes Nose trek is popular, very few trekkers know about the multiple routes that lead to its summit. Adventure Pulse leads groups on one such hidden route that begins from Khandala, making it an ideal choice for those who want to explore the mountain differently.

Start Point

The trek begins at the Tata Power Plant located in the beautiful town of Khandala.

Travel Time & Distance

From Pune, you cover roughly 80 km to reach the starting point. Depending on traffic and time of day, the drive usually takes between 1.5 to 2 hours.

Trek Distance & Duration

Once on the trail, trekkers cover about 7 to 9 km, depending on the route taken. The journey requires 5 to 6 hours of trekking time, adjusted for the pace and fitness of the group.

Best Season to Trek

The Dukes Nose trail changes its character with the seasons, offering very different experiences depending on when you go.

• Monsoon (June to September): The mountains turn lush green, mist and fog roll in, and small ponds brim with fresh rainwater. Waterfalls gush down from cliffs, and the entire trail feels alive. For those who love dramatic landscapes and don’t mind slippery paths, monsoon is the best time to visit.

• Winter (November to February): The same trail transforms into a completely different world. The greenery recedes, and the landscape becomes rocky, dry, and covered with loose gravel. The ponds vanish, but in return, trekkers get clearer views, cooler weather, and a less slippery path. Winter works well for those who prefer stability underfoot and more predictable skies.

Both seasons have their own charm, and your choice depends on whether you want the lush vibrance of monsoon or the sharp clarity of winter.

Views on the Trek

The Khandala route to Dukes Nose rewards trekkers with one of the most scenic journeys so close to two major cities. The trail winds through forest patches, where in monsoon you’ll walk under canopies bursting with wildflowers, dense shrubs, and vibrant creepers. Cacti and unique plants line certain sections, adding character to the walk.

As the forest clears, vast valleys open up, revealing green meadows and small water-filled ponds. These patches create striking contrasts in the landscape, making the trail visually rich and ever-changing.

Closer to the summit, the trail rises steeply for about 20 minutes. This final ascent leads you to the iconic “nose,” where you’ll find a small Shiva temple. Standing there feels exhilarating—the nose juts out dramatically, and strong winds sweep across the peak. As you look out, a vast expanse of mountains unfolds, painted in layers of green and brown hues. Clouds drift past, valleys sink below, and the sense of scale humbles you instantly. Carrying a thin jacket helps, as the wind often bites.

Network Connectivity

Unlike many other Sahyadri trails, the Dukes Nose trek provides mobile network coverage for almost 80–90% of the journey. This constant connectivity makes the trek relatively safer, even for those who choose to hike solo. You can stay in touch, navigate, or share updates without worrying about losing signal completely.

Word of Caution

The trail, while beautiful, demands preparation—especially in the monsoon:

• Footwear: Rain turns stones and mud patches slippery. Always wear trekking shoes with solid grip; casual sneakers won’t suffice.

• Clothing: Thick foliage and overgrowth can scratch exposed skin. Wear full-length pants and full-sleeved t-shirts to protect yourself from thorns, insect bites, and mosquitoes.

• Rain Gear: Expect heavy showers on the trail. Carry a poncho or a rain jacket. Umbrellas are less practical since the trail narrows at many points.

• Attention: Be mindful of every step. In monsoon, the trail can get muddy, and loose stones make certain sections tricky. Walk carefully, especially on ascents and descents.

Preparation keeps you safe and ensures you enjoy the trek without stress.

Parting Thoughts

If you live in Pune or Mumbai and crave a quick escape into nature, Dukes Nose Trek via Khandala delivers everything you seek. It combines accessibility with beauty—lush greenery in monsoon, open views in winter, a peaceful route away from crowds, and the joy of standing on one of the most dramatic viewpoints in the Sahyadris.

The trail balances convenience and wilderness. You don’t travel far, yet you immerse yourself in mountains, forests, waterfalls, and meadows. You stay connected through network coverage, yet the off-beat route allows you to disconnect from the bustle of urban life. Most importantly, you experience solitude—a rare gift on popular treks.

So the next time you need a refreshing break, head to the Sahyadris and climb to the Dukes Nose. Whether it’s mist and waterfalls or crisp winter skies, the journey promises to leave you awestruck.

Join us as we do another batch to this beautiful trail on the 13th of September, 2025. Click here for registration and details..

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