- Forts
- Shrivardhan & Manaranjan
- Difficulty
- Easy – moderate
- Time
- 1–2 days
- Base
- Lonavala or Kondivade
- Best season
- Jun – Feb
- Activity
- Hike · Camp · Off-road
Rajmachi at a glance
Rajmachi is a pair of forts, Shrivardhan and Manaranjan, above the hamlet of Udhewadi between Lonavala and Karjat. From Lonavala the approach is a long, mostly gentle track that is also driven or ridden in the dry season. From Kondivade on the Karjat side the climb is shorter but steeper. It is a popular overnight camp, and the fireflies around late May and early June draw big crowds.
Two ways in
From Lonavala, the route follows a broad dirt track through forest to Udhewadi. It is long but has little climbing, which makes it a good first overnight trek and a common off-road and cycling route when dry.
From Kondivade near Karjat, the trail climbs steeply through forest to the plateau. It is shorter in distance but harder work, especially in the heat.
Fireflies and the monsoon
In the weeks before the monsoon arrives, usually late May to early June, the forest around Rajmachi lights up with fireflies. Go with a small group, keep torches pointed down and avoid the busiest weekends.
In the monsoon the Lonavala track turns to mud and streams rise. Off-road vehicles should avoid it after heavy rain.
Safety notes
The Lonavala track has several junctions in the forest. An offline map with your route saved stops wrong turns after dark.
If your group is split between walkers and riders, a shared group map shows where everyone is along the track.
Check before you go. Permits, access rules, camping regulations and trail conditions change. Confirm the current situation with the local forest department or administration, check the weather, and read recent condition reports before you set out.
Frequently asked questions
Is Rajmachi easier from Lonavala or Karjat?
Lonavala is easier but longer, with little climbing. Kondivade on the Karjat side is shorter and steeper.
When is firefly season at Rajmachi?
Usually in the weeks just before the monsoon, roughly late May to early June, depending on the year.
Can you drive to Rajmachi?
The Lonavala track is used by bikes and 4x4s in the dry season. It becomes muddy and difficult in the monsoon, so check recent reports before driving it.
Last updated 2026-10-17.
