All along the watchtower..

Life Away From Life plans a one-day trek to this significant watchtower, Tung fort near Lonavala, in Maharashtra on14th March 2010– Sunday

One of the first innovations of civilization appears to be the construction and growth of fortifications. Primitive man fortified his dwelling by a hedge of thorns to keep away wild animals. But when man became greater menace than beast, when man grouped themselves to attack other groups, when armies were formed, fortifications grew into substantial structures. Forts became the integral part of the state.

A definite patter can be found in the development of forts. First it was the village that was fortified, then the town. But a time came when a chieftain residing in a town felt that his own house needed a special protection. So fortified residences or gadhis came into being. The gadhis dotted all over Maharashtra are a good example of such fortified residences.

Tung or Kathingad, a fortified post fort located on top of a hill of height 1073 mtrs is located near Lonavala, in the Pune district of Maharashtra.

A small fort , not capable of holding a garrison of more than 200 troops, not capable of withstanding a siege of any significant duration, and who’s main function was to act as a screen to the main or secondary fort, and to increase the range of reconnaissance, patrolling and communications.
More like a watch tower.

Oblong in shape, it was well protected by walls and bastions. It was obviously an outpost Lohagad fort and meant to control the road to Poona.

Life Away From Life plans a one-day hike to this significant watchtower, Tung fort near Lonavala, in Maharashtra on 14th March 2010– Sunday

This trek is recommended for first time trekkers and nature enthusiasts.

Trip Details:
The Plan:
Date:14th March 2010– Sunday (one day trek)

Assemble at : Sion circle –7 am sharp ( various pick up points , we will take the following route : Sion Circle – Chembur – Vashi – Nerul – Belapur – Panvel – Express highway – Lonavala Exit – Tungwadi ( base village)

Trek details
Grade of trek: easy – recommended for beginners.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Highest point: 1073 mtrs asl

District: Pune

Map co-ordinates: 18deg 39’ Lat., 73deg 27’ long. (for Google earth enthusiasts)

Location: 191deg. 12 kms from Malavli railway station

List of things to carry
to be mailed on request

Excursion Cost : Ex Mumbai
To be mailed on request.

Cost includes
lunch box, forest fee , road taxes transportation to the trekking points.

Cost not include
extra expenses like drinks,tips,medical and travel insurance, video camera fee, beverages etc.

Contact for participation
Prateek Deo
cell: 9869158351

email : prateekdeo@gmail.com

A Life Away From Life venture.
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Photos by Sarjya