When the assignments are piling up, the lectures seem to drag on, and the hostel walls seem too predictable – you know it is time for a break.
Can we tell you that a refreshing escape to the Sahyadris is merely a bus ride and ₹500 away?
That’s right! Below are our list of budget-friendly treks near Pune for students who want an inexpensive dose of nature, adventure, and tranquility and all for under ₹500.
1. Sinhagad Fort Trek – The Classic Student Escape
Located just 35 km outside Pune, Sinhagad Fort is a favorite weekend trek for college students. It’s an easy morning start, you trek, then take the next few hours to relax, and you’re back by lunchtime.
The trek is relatively easy, and on average it will take about 1.5 to 2 hours to climb. The views are refreshing at the top, and they are especially invigorating during the monsoon or winter season.
The best part is the local food at the top, including hot pithla-bhakri, kanda bhaji, and spicy thecha from a rural-style kitchen! Whether you go solo, or with friends from college, Sinhagad gives you tons of time to experience a refreshing getaway, and you can do this all for less than ₹200.
Distance from Pune
~35 km
Difficulty rating
Easy
Entry fee
₹20
Travel cost
Depends from your location
Food at the top
₹150 –₹200 (optional; but a must!)
Time to trek
1.5 to 2 hrs one way
Vetal Tekdi – The Zero-Budget Refresh
Vetal Tekdi is your best option for green space while still being in Pune city limits, and will be your new best friend for an early morning walk, or short hike, or walk to think and be alone with your thoughts. This hill does not have complex circuitry and is quiet, has shade, and is free of charge. No transit needed if you are near Kothrud, FC road, or Law College road.
Distance from Pune
In the city (Kothrud)
Difficulty rating
Very Easy (more of a nature walk)
Entry fee
None
Travel cost
Depends from where you live
Food
₹200 max
Time to trek
30-60 mins
Rajgad Fort – For the Adventurous Soul
Rajgad fort is a great visitor opportunity at about 60 km from Pune. The trek is a moderately challenging trek, but it is perfect for a healthy college student. It is about 2.5 to 3 hours of one way trekking with views that are 100 % worth it.
Rajgad has open wide trails with historic intensity for those wanting a little more adventure on a budget.
Distance from Pune
~60km
Difficulty rating
Medium
Entry fee
None
Travel cost
Depends from your location
Food
₹150 (Zunka Bhakri or packed e.g. snacks)
Time to trek
2.5-3 hours one way
Lohagad Fort – Scenic, Simple, & Snap-Worthy
If you’ve been looking for some monsoon fun and some Instagrammable views Lohagad is the place to head to! The trek is fairly easy for a beginner and also gives you access to the infamous “Vinchu Kata” viewpoint. Catch the local train from Pune to Malavli, walk to the entry point, and you’ll have an enjoyable climb through a few patches of forest or steps made of stone.
Distance from Pune
~60 km (via Lonavala/Malavli)
Difficulty rating
Easy to Medium
Entry fee
None
Travel cost
Depends from your location
Food
₹200 max
Time to trek
1.5 – 2 hours
Torna Fort – For the Fitness-Ready Crowd
Torna is more than just a fort — it’s the tallest fort in Pune district (and the first fort conquered by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj). The place is not short of steep climbs, uneven terrain, and extensive views of the Sahyadris. Torna is the real deal. It’s hard, yes, but fit students or well-versed trekkers would enjoy this and find it empowering.
Distance from Pune
~65 km
Difficulty rating
Moderate to Difficult
Entry fee
None
Travel cost
Depends from your location
Food
₹100 (local village or bring your own)
Time to trek
3-4 hours
Tips for Smart Student Trekkers:
- Take the nearest PMPML bus or local train – cheapest and safest.
- Always carry: Water, sunscreen, cap, snacks, first-aid items.
- Don’t go alone on uncharted treks, only if you are familiar with the terrain and it’s safe.
- Get up early, but make sure you finish before sundown.
- Observe nature – don’t litter and use plastic sparingly.
- You do not need facilities to travel – just a backpack, decent shoes, and ₹500.
This combination is perfect for college-going students in Pune that enjoy the beauty and adventure of hiking while staying fit.
Just grab the squad (or go solo with a playlist) and head out. You can explore the weekend wonders on a budget!
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