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Dukes Nose (ड्यूकस नोज / नागफणी)
When you are in Khandala, I’m sure you have noticed one hill which looks exactly like a nose shape. Some people call it Dukes Nose (named after the Duke of Wellington’s nose), while locals lovingly call it Nagphani, because from a different angle, it looks like the hood of a cobra (Nag). This iconic cliff is one of the most popular and scenic locations near Lonavala.
Standing tall at around 3,200 feet, this is not just a hill, it’s a place where nature shows its full power. From greenery to deep valleys, this spot feels like a 360-degree theatre of nature. The best part? This trek is not only for hardcore trekkers but also for people who believe that “thoda chalna bhi trekking hi hota hai.”
The trek to Duke’s Nose starts from Kurvande village, which is around 8 km from Lonavala railway station, and it usually takes 30 to 45 minutes to reach the top. The trail is short, scenic, and beginner-friendly. In simple words – kam effort, full paisa vasool view.
The funny thing is, even after visiting Lonavala more than 50 times, I never got the chance to visit Duke’s Nose. This place was always on my bucket list, but somehow the plan never clicked. Last year, during the rainy season, we even planned this trek, but as usual, the plan stayed only on WhatsApp. You know how it goes – full excitement, zero execution.
This time, frustration took over planning. I picked up the phone, called my travel partner Shailesh, and said straight from the heart:
“Kab khoon khaulega tera Shailesh? Kab hogi apni agli trip? Chal chalte hai Dukes Nose!”
And thankfully, without thinking twice, he said YES.
That one word was enough to light the spark again.
So tighten your helmet, keep your excitement high, and let the adventure begin… 🚀⛰️
About Dukes Nose / Nagphani – What Makes This Place Special
Before I take you ahead on my journey, let me tell you a little more about Duke’s Nose, because this place truly deserves it.
Duke’s Nose, also known as Nagphani, is located in the Western Ghats, near Lonavala–Khandala. The height of this cliff is around 3,200 feet, and trust me, once you reach the top, you will understand why people fall in love with this place again and again.
This spot is famous not only for trekking, but also for rock climbing, rappelling, and ziplining. Many adventure groups come here, especially on weekends. If you are someone who enjoys a little thrill, this place will make you smile. And if you are someone who just wants to sit quietly and enjoy the view, Duke’s Nose will still make you happy.
From the top, you get a proper 360-degree view. On a clear day, you can easily spot Visapur Fort, Lohagad Fort, Tung Fort, Rajmachi Fort, Tiger Point, Khandala Ghat, and deep green valleys all around. During the monsoon, waterfalls appear everywhere, clouds float around you, and sometimes visibility becomes zero – which honestly makes it even more magical. In winter, the weather stays cool, the air feels fresh, and it becomes perfect for a relaxed trek.
The trek starts from Kurvande village, which is just 8 km from Lonavala railway station. The trail is short and mostly easy, making it ideal even for first-time trekkers. It usually takes 30 to 45 minutes to reach the top, depending on your speed and how often you stop to click photos (and trust me, you will stop a lot).
One more beautiful thing about Duke’s Nose is the small Shiva temple at the top. Reaching there, sitting near the temple, and feeling the wind on your face gives a different kind of peace. It feels like Mahadev is silently watching over everyone who reaches here.
In short, Duke’s Nose is not just a trekking spot. It’s a place where nature, adventure, peace, and emotions come together.
Now that you know what makes Duke’s Nose so special, let me take you ahead on how our journey actually started – from bike ride to base village, small surprises on the trail, and moments that made this trip unforgettable.
Journey Begins – Pune to Lonavala Ride
With the plan finally in action, our journey kicked off early in the morning. I picked up Shailesh from Pune, and by around 8:00 AM, we were already on the road. There’s something magical about early morning rides – less traffic, cool fresh air, and a special calmness that makes even a long ride feel peaceful.
By 9:30 AM, we reached Lonavala. Since it was January, the weather was just perfect – the air was crisp, the sky clear, and everything around looked green and alive. Honestly, it felt like nature itself was whispering, “Aaj ka din tumhara hai.”
It had been almost one year since our last trip together, so this ride felt extra special. The journey was full of random talks, old trip memories, and of course, totally useless but hilarious discussions – because that’s exactly what makes travel with friends unforgettable.
“Some friendships don’t need daily meetings; they just need one good trip.”
Chai Break – Because Travel Without Chai Is Incomplete
After reaching Lonavala, we stopped for some snacks and cutting chai. For travelers, chai isn’t just a drink – it’s an emotion. One cup of hot tea, chilly weather, and the surrounding mountain views – and just like that, we were recharged and ready for the adventure ahead.
After this much-needed break, we trusted Google Baba and headed towards Kurvande village, the base point of the Dukes Nose trek. The village is just 8 km from Lonavala railway station, and the road is smooth, scenic, and perfect for a short ride.
Within no time, we reached the base village, parked our bike safely, adjusted our bags, and got ready to start the trek. Standing there, looking up at the massive hill in front of us, the excitement level went one step higher.
“Yahin se shuru hoti hai asli kahani.”
Trek Starts – Chota Walk, Bada Reward
We started our trek, and honestly, within just 10 minutes, Duke’s Nose began to show its magic. The initial trail is easy and comfortable, perfect for warming up your legs and getting into the trekking rhythm. Soon, we reached a flat patch on the hill, and from there, the view completely opened up.
Below us, Kurvande village looked calm and serene, and from this spot, Tiger Point was clearly visible. Feeling the cool breeze, looking at the scenery, we exchanged a smile. No words were needed – we both knew: “aaj ka trek worth it hai.“
This is one of the things I love about Duke’s Nose – you don’t have to wait until the top to enjoy the views. Nature starts rewarding you right from the beginning.
“Sometimes, the journey gives you happiness even before the destination.”
A Hidden Surprise – Indrayani River Origin
As we continued walking ahead, something completely unexpected happened. We reached a small but special spot – the origin point of the Indrayani River. Honestly, we had no idea this place even existed here.
It was one of those surprise moments that makes travel so exciting. Finding this spot felt like discovering a 1000-rupee note inside an old book – totally unexpected but incredibly satisfying. We stood there for a few minutes, reading the little information board and simply appreciating how such an important river begins quietly, hidden in the mountains.
Moments like these remind you that travel isn’t just about famous landmarks, but also about the hidden stories waiting to be discovered.
Trail Gets Tricky – Adventure Mode ON
After this point, the trail became a little more slippery and challenging. The soil was dry and loose, and the slope demanded extra attention. And here comes the funny part – both of us were wearing sandals.
Not the smartest trekking decision, I agree. But sometimes trips are about adjusting, not perfection. We slowed down, watched our steps carefully, helped each other, and kept moving ahead.
There were a few moments where we laughed at ourselves and said, “Agli baar shoes pakka.”
That’s the beauty of traveling with friends – even small struggles turn into fun memories.
Zipline, Rappelling & Views That Stop You
As we moved ahead, the trail reached a point where it connected two hills. Suddenly, we heard some noise coming from the right-side hill. Curiosity took over, and we decided to check what was happening – and trust me, that small detour was totally worth it!
To our surprise, there were people ziplining and rappelling. Adventure groups had set up activities, and watching them fly across the valley was thrilling. From that spot, we could clearly see Dukes Nose standing tall and proud, almost like the king of the hills.
But the real magic was the panoramic view. On a clear day like ours, you could spot:
Visapur Fort, Lohagad Fort, Tung Fort, Tiger Point, Khandala Ghat, Rajmachi Fort, Shrivardhan Fort
It felt like nature had opened a live map of Sahyadris in front of us.
We sat there for some time, soaking in the views, clicking photos, and doing what travelers do best – nothing.
“Sometimes, the best moments are the ones where you just sit quietly and let nature talk.”
Final Push – Reaching Dukes Nose Top
After spending some peaceful time at the mountain edge and enjoying the views, we started walking towards the final point. From there, it took us hardly 10 minutes to reach the top of Dukes Nose.
The rock formation at the top is truly unique, with natural holes that remind you a bit of Ranjan Khalge. Standing there and looking down gives you that perfect mix of excitement, awe, and respect for nature’s power – the kind of feeling that makes all the effort of the trek worth it.
At the top, we found a small temple of Lord Shiva. We stepped inside, offered our prayers, and took the blessings of Mahadev.
There’s something about this place – it honestly feels like Mahadev is present in every journey of life, quietly guiding and protecting his devotees. This little temple adds a special kind of peace and positivity to the spot, making the experience of Duke’s Nose even more memorable.
Sitting with the Mountains
We sat at the top for almost 30 minutes, just soaking in the views. By then, it was around 1 PM, and the sun had started shining a bit stronger. But thanks to the winter weather and the height of this place, the cool wind kept everything perfectly comfortable.
Sitting there, looking at the mountains, valleys, and endless sky, time seemed to slow down – and honestly, it felt amazing.
“Mountains don’t shout, they quietly change you.”
Descent from the Heights – Stories to Carry Home
After spending some peaceful time at the top, soaking in the breathtaking 360° views and the calmness that only a 3,200-feet-high cliff can give, it was finally time to head back. Before leaving, we once again took Mahadev’s blessings, feeling a little lighter, a little more thankful, and a lot more alive.
Going down was quicker, but we had to stay careful, especially on the slippery patches. This time, we moved with more confidence – maybe because the fear had vanished, or maybe because we now knew what to expect. Every step reminded us how short yet beautiful treks can create memories that last forever.
Within 20 minutes, we reached the parking area near Kurvande village. Standing there, taking off our helmets and bags, that familiar feeling returned – the trip was complete, but the memories were just beginning.
“Short trips, long memories.”
From the base village, we started riding back towards Lonavala. Reality slowly crept in, disguised as traffic, office worries, and Monday blues. Shailesh had to head to Pune, and I had to continue my journey towards Mumbai. I dropped him at Lonavala railway station.
We didn’t say a heavy goodbye. Just a smile, a handshake, and one simple line:
“Agli trip jaldi plan karte hai.”
Because that’s how it is with travel friends – you may separate at stations, but the next adventure is always loading.
Final Thoughts – Why Duke’s Nose Is Special
Dukes Nose / Nagphani is a perfect short trek, especially for beginners. It gives you everything – views, adventure, peace, and that feeling of achievement, all in a short time. Best time to visit is monsoon and winter, but winter is ideal if you want clear views and a comfortable trek.
Just remember:
Wear proper trekking shoes
Carry enough water
Avoid risky shortcuts
And most importantly, respect nature
“Happiness doesn’t always need long holidays. Sometimes, all you need is a friend, a bike, and a mountain.”
With that, I started my ride towards Mumbai, carrying memories of a beautiful Sunday, a long-pending trek finally completed, and the promise of another adventure soon.
Explore more. Ride often. Stay curious.
How to Reach Duke’s Nose / Nagphani
Reaching Duke’s Nose is easier than you might think, whether you’re coming from Pune, Mumbai, or nearby towns.
By Bike or Car: If you’re riding from Pune, it’s about 65 km and takes around 1.5–2 hours. From Mumbai, it’s roughly 85 km, usually 2–3 hours via the Mumbai–Pune Expressway. The ride itself is scenic and refreshing, especially during winter or post-monsoon. Once you turn towards Kurvande village, a bike or small car is easier to handle on the hilly roads. Parking is available near the base village, just a short 5–10 minute walk to the trailhead, so you can start your trek fresh.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Lonavala, well-connected to both Pune and Mumbai. From the station, take an auto or cab for the short 8 km ride to Kurvande village. The route itself gives a small taste of the lush green landscapes waiting on the trail, and the base village is the perfect spot to prepare for the trek.
By Bus: Direct buses to Kurvande village are rare, but reaching Lonavala by bus from Pune or Mumbai is easy. From there, you can take an auto or cab for the final stretch. This combination keeps your journey simple, comfortable, and stress-free, letting you enjoy the adventure without worrying about navigation.
Trek Info: The trek from Kurvande village to the top of Duke’s Nose usually takes 30–45 minutes, making it ideal for beginners and weekend travelers. The trail is scenic, with a few tricky patches, so proper shoes and a little caution go a long way.
Pro Tips: Start early to avoid crowds, carry water and light snacks, and don’t forget your camera – the 360-degree views from the top are worth every click!
Quick Travel Guide – Duke’s Nose / Nagphani Trek
📍 Location: Duke’s Nose (Nagphani), near Lonavala–Khandala, Maharashtra
🏁 Base Village: Kurvande village
📏 Distance from Lonavala Station: Approx. 8 km
⏱️ Trek Duration: 30 to 45 minutes (one way)
⛰️ Height: Around 3,200 feet above sea level
🥾 Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (Beginner-friendly)
📅 Best Time to Visit: Monsoon (July to September) – greenery & waterfalls, Winter (October to February) – clear views & pleasant weather
🚫 Avoid Visiting: Peak summer afternoons due to heat
👟 Footwear: Proper trekking or sports shoes recommended (Avoid sandals – speaking from experience 😄)
🎒 What to Carry: Water bottle, Light snacks, Cap / sunscreen, Basic first-aid, Fully charged phone (for photos & Google Baba)
🧗 Adventure Activities: Rock climbing, rappelling, ziplining (mostly on weekends)
🛕 Special Attraction: Small Lord Shiva temple at the top
♻️ Important Note: Carry back your waste and respect nature,
“Leave only footprints, take only memories.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Duke’s Nose / Nagphani Trek
1. Where is Duke’s Nose located?
Duke’s Nose, also called Nagphani, is near Lonavala–Khandala in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. You can see it easily while driving through Khandala Ghat.
2. How high is Duke’s Nose?
It stands tall at around 3,200 feet, offering stunning 360° views of forts, valleys, and mountains. Perfect for those “wow” moments!
3. How do I reach the base village?
The trek starts from Kurvande village, which is just 8 km from Lonavala railway station. You can reach by bike, car, or local transport.
4. How long does the trek take?
It’s a short and beginner-friendly trek, taking about 30–45 minutes to reach the top, depending on how many photos you click (pro tip: a lot 😉).
5. Is Duke’s Nose trek suitable for beginners?
Yes! The trail is mostly easy, with a few slippery patches. Proper shoes are recommended – sandals are fun but tricky 😄.
6. What is the best time to visit?
Monsoon (July–September): Waterfalls, clouds, lush greenery
Winter (October–February): Clear skies, cool and pleasant weather
Avoid peak summer afternoons; it can get too hot.
7. Are there any adventure activities?
Yes! You’ll find rock climbing, rappelling, and ziplining – mostly on weekends. Watching people fly across the valley is a thrill even if you don’t participate.
8. Is there a temple at the top?
Yes, a small Lord Shiva temple sits at the top. Many trekkers take a moment here to seek Mahadev’s blessings and enjoy the peaceful vibes.
9. What should I carry for the trek?
Water bottle, Light snacks, Trekking shoes, Cap or sunscreen, Basic first-aid, Phone for photos & GPS
10. Any safety tips?
Stay on the trail, especially on slippery or steep patches, Avoid risky selfies near the edge, Respect nature – carry back your waste
11. Is there any entry fee?
No official entry fee, but parking may cost a small amount near Kurvande village.
12. Can I do this trek with kids or beginners?
Yes, it’s short and scenic, but supervise kids near edges and slippery patches. Perfect for a weekend family adventure!
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