Dukes Nose Trek

Kurvande, Khandala, Maharashtra (One Day)

Duke's Nose is a popular landmark located about 7 kilometres from the quaint town of Lonavala which is a famous Hill Station in the district of Pune. The name Duke's Nose was derived from the Duke of Wellington, whose nose resembled the shape of the cliff. Locals call it Naagphani or the Cobra's Hood, again going by the shape of the cliff. The region is hugely famous for hiking and its picturesque location. Tourists often visit the landmark to get a panoramic view of the beautiful Sahyadri Ranges, the splendid valleys and the dense forests that cover the Sahyadris. The landmark often serves as an ideal picnic spot for tourists exploring Lonavala.

The trekking trail to reach the site begins at Khandala and takes about 4 hours to reach the top of Duke's Nose. The trek from Khandala to Kurvande village and back takes about 7 to 8 hours. From Kurvande Village, trekkers need to walk for another hour and a half to reach the base of the 800-foot tall cliff. The climb to the top goes through rocky trails and narrow pathways. It takes about 3 hours to reach the top. It is advisable to trek in groups. Do explore the valley from the Duke's Nose to the Duchess Nose. The trail goes through dense forests in a foggy or misty atmosphere that frequently gets windy. Night Treks are a favourite for those who want to take their trekking experience to the next level. One may enroll with one of the groups who arrange these night trips at minimal fees. These trips begin from the Lonavala Railway Station. From there, trekkers need to walk to reach the base of Duke's Nose. This trail is a 7 kilometres stretch. Beyond this point is the climb to the top. The trail goes through a rocky area and narrow spaces in the dark. It takes about 3 hours to reach the Duke's Nose. Trekkers then can either wait till sunrise or begin climbing down after a few hours of rest.

After the thrilling trek to reach the top of the Duke's Nose, camping overnight is a must here. Campers can install their tents on the cliff and spend the night under a starlit sky in the cool breeze watching the beautiful valley. There are several vendors who arrange for group camping activities that include bonfire, barbeque, dinner and other games or entertainment activities by the bonfire. Camping costs anything between INR 1200 and INR 3500. You just need to pack your essentials and get going for one of these overnight camping trips.