Katraj to Bopdev Ghat Trek

Katraj to Bopdev Ghat Trek Overview:

The Katraj to Bopdev trek may not share the fame of its K2S counterpart, but it rewards trekkers with solitude, scenic ridgelines, and a refreshing sense of discovery as it winds away from the crowds. Meandering its way through 2–3 ridges along the southern fringes of Pune, this 7 km hike is perfect for a moonlit or sunrise escape with stunning panoramic views of the city skyline and the Sahyadri hills.

The trek starts near the Waghjai Temple at the Old Katraj Tunnel and ends at the Bopdev Ghat temple, passing through a mix of open ridgelines, grassy plateaus, and a small forested patch in the middle. While it lacks the sheer scale and challenge of K2S, it’s still a fulfilling 4 hour hike that gets your heart rate up and rewards you with a peaceful escape from the city!

This trek is particularly popular during the full moon, where the moonlight bathes the hills in a soft glow, allowing you to walk almost without a torch.

Location and How to Get There:

The trail lies about 20 km from central Pune and begins from the Waghjai Temple, just above the old Katraj Tunnel exit on NH48. The endpoint is at Bopdev Ghat near the Bopdev Temple.

Since this is a point-to-point trek, it is advisable to arrange transportation accordingly. The best way is to park a vehicle at Bopdev and take a cab to the starting point at Katraj. Public buses may not be very frequent or convenient for this route, especially if attempting the trek at night.

At Adventure Pulse, we organise a compact minibus to the start and pick up from the end point of the trek.

Difficulty Level of the Katraj to Bopdev Trek:

This is a short trek suitable for fit beginners as well as experienced hikers looking for a peaceful evening outing. You’ll cross over a couple of moderate ascents and descents, with loose gravel and uneven rocky patches making for a mildly challenging but fun experience.

It is recommended to wear proper hiking shoes with good grip, especially during the descent toward Bopdev Ghat which can get slippery. While the trail is far less taxing than K2S, navigation is still important—some sections can be faint, particularly after the forest patch, so going with someone familiar with the route or using a GPS trail is helpful.

Best Time/Season to do the Katraj to Bopdev Ghat Trek:

The trek can be attempted year-round, but the best time is from July to March when the nights are cool, and visibility is excellent during full moon phases. Avoid doing this during peak summer due to the heat and risk of dehydration.

Important Points to Note:

• Water: Carry at least 2 litres of water per person as there are no water sources on the trail.

• Lighting: A headlamp is highly recommended—even during full moon treks—for navigating uneven terrain and forest sections.

• Shoes: Proper hiking or trail shoes with grip are essential. Avoid sandals or sports shoes with worn-out soles.

• Snacks: Light snacks like trail mix or energy bars are good to carry if doing independently. There are no food stalls or shops on the trail.

• No Washrooms: There are no toilets or facilities on the route, so plan accordingly.

• Navigation: Trail markers are minimal—download an offline route map if going solo.

This short but satisfying trek is a great way to immerse yourself in the quiet beauty of Pune’s hills—especially under a full moon night sky.