Tourists Throng Maharashtra Forts as Summer Holidays Conclude; Sinhagad Records Massive Traffic and High Toll Revenue

With summer vacations ending, thousands of tourists flocked to historic forts like Sinhagad and Rajgad, enjoying unseasonal morning fog and pleasant weather, while authorities managed massive traffic jams

KHADAKWASLA | May 25, 2026 : As summer vacations draw to a close, a record-breaking number of tourists swarmed heritage sites and scenic spots around Pune on Sunday. Historic locations including Sinhagad, Rajgad, and Torna forts, alongside the Khadakwasla, Panshet, and Varasgaon dams, witnessed unprecedented crowds. In a rare summer phenomenon, Rajgad fort was blanketed in thick morning fog, offering visitors a refreshing escape with cool breezes and breathtaking landscapes.

The massive influx led to severe logistical challenges at Sinhagad Fort. By 10 AM, the ghat road was completely choked, prompting authorities to halt vehicular movement multiple times. Traffic was strictly regulated, with uphill access granted only as descending vehicles cleared the route. Samadhan Patil, Forest Circle Officer, noted that vehicular checks were enforced at base points like Donje and Kondhanpur Phata. Following a month of low footfall due to extreme heatwaves, this Sunday marked the highest tourist turnout in May. Over 20,000 visitors traversed the fort, including enthusiastic trekkers ascending from the Atkarwadi route.

The Forest Department’s Management Committee registered 537 four-wheelers and 950 two-wheelers, collecting a substantial toll revenue of ₹1,01,200 in a single day. This surge in tourism is largely attributed to pleasant weather conditions induced by recent pre-monsoon showers. Overcast skies effectively shielded tourists from the intense heat, while evening temperatures dropped significantly. The surrounding Sahyadri mountain ranges are already displaying early signs of monsoon rejuvenation with lush green foliage, drawing nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Consequently, the heavy turnout resulted in massive traffic congestions stretching for miles across the Pune-Panshet route and Khadakwasla dam promenades.

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