Hanuman Tekdi(Hill), Vetal Tekdi and ARAI Quarry
Location : Pune, India
Total distance : 4.4 km round-trip (out and back)
Net elevation gain : 330 ft
Peak elevation : 2,300 ft
Tree Cover : Decent tree cover. Sunscreen optional.
Parking : Parking area near the trailhead.
Trailhead : Click here(https://bit.ly/3EQ49xR)
Landmark : Hike starts near the parking at the trailhead
Satellite map :
Click on the image for an interactive map
Terrain map :
Click on the image for an interactive map
This is a very popular trek among locals of all ages. It is especially accessible due to its additional parking at Vetal Tekdi Parking lot which shortens the hike. The trail is busy with visitors ranging from casual hikers to serious joggers even as early as 6 am. Chirping of the birds, squeaking of squirrels and soft early morning sunlight cutting through thick layers of fog leave you wanting for more.
This place is also very popular among gym-goers that use the outdoor equipment near the Hanuman temple and the devotees that visit it. Start your hike at the parking lot and continue uphill on one of the several small trails. Click here for the trailhead address https://bit.ly/3EQ49xR. This is one of the temples you get to see on the hike. If you are lucky you can even get prasad from the temple.
Enjoy the greenery and pleasantness, touch the cold dew drops, feel the mist in the air and be present in the moment for the short while you plan on spending here. Hiking helped me in so many ways and improved my health - both physical and mental. I hope it helps you too in this new year. After passing the temple walk until you see the road close to the trail.
According to this website https://ebird.org/hotspot/L2639081 over 250 species of birds can be found here. If you are lucky you can even spot some peacocks close to the trail. This can be an amazing activity for any bird watchers and enthusiasts. One thing to note is that there are many stray dogs around the temple, they don't usually bother people but keep your distance if you are scared of them.
Just after that you go through the Vetal Tekdi parking lot, keep right at the other end of this lot. Watch the video for clearer directions. After passing the parking lot continue to the next temple. This is where the outdoor workout equipment is and it is a busy area. Keep left at the next fork to continue to the abandoned ARAI quarry.
The hike ends at the ARAI quarry and you can see plenty of water in December. This a nice place to hangout with friends. Dancers shoot videos against the beautiful backdrop here. The quarry has a compound wall for safety, however it can be risky so enjoy responsibly.
Like always have fun and stay fit.
Gallery
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Sinhagad Trek
Tiger Point(Coming Soon)