Dukes Nose Khandala
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Duke's Nose Nagphani

4.6
·530 reviews·Chavani, India

A striking cliff shaped like a snake's hood, offering beginner-friendly treks and thrilling adventures with panoramic views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Monsoon mornings

Misty views & lush greenery

CrowdMedium
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Dukes Nose Khandala

Duke's Nose Nagphani

Best Time

Monsoon mornings

Misty views & lush greenery

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A striking cliff shaped like a snake's hood, offering beginner-friendly treks and thrilling adventures with panoramic views.

4.6
(530 reviews)

"Perfect spot to relax in nature with breathtaking panoramic views, especially during the monsoon."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Good Grip Shoes

Essential for navigating steep and slippery sections, especially during monsoon.

🎒 Pack Light & Smart

Carry essentials like water, snacks, and rain gear. Avoid heavy backpacks.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Ridge View

The Ridge View

Summit

The unique ridge formation offers stunning panoramic views, a true highlight for any visitor.

Reddit
Monsoon Mist & Greenery

Monsoon Mist & Greenery

Entire trail

Experience breathtaking vistas blanketed in mist and vibrant green during the monsoon.

InstagramReddit
Adventure Activities

Adventure Activities

Summit

Popular for rappelling, rock climbing, and camping, attracting adventure enthusiasts.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Best Trekking Season

The monsoon season (June to September) transforms Duke's Nose into a lush green paradise with misty views, making it ideal for trekkers. However, be prepared for slippery paths and carry rain gear. Instagram+1

Choosing Your Route

For a quicker ascent, opt for the route from Kurvande, taking about an hour. The Khandala railway station route is longer (3-4 hours) but offers a more immersive trekking experience. Instagram

Best Times

When
Monsoon mornings
Why
Misty views & lush greenery
Crowd
Medium
When
Post-monsoon afternoons
Why
Clearer views, less slippery
Crowd
Low
When
Sunrise
Why
Spectacular golden hour
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Dukes Nose, Whangaroa 🌿🌀 Beautiful start to finish 🫶 the track is 11km/3.5 hours return and has some steep sections including a rail climb to reach the top of Dukes Nose. Make sure you start from📍Campbell Road & take the route via Wairaku Stream! #newzealand #nz #nztravel #fyp #Outdoors #purenz #nzmustdo #thingstodo #beautifuldestinations #northland #northlandnz #Hiking #hikingnz #granola #dukes...
@notes2home
3.9K likes • 71.3K views

👟 Wear Good Grip Shoes

Essential for navigating steep and slippery sections, especially during monsoon. InstagramReddit

🎒 Pack Light & Smart

Carry essentials like water, snacks, and rain gear. Avoid heavy backpacks. Reddit

Such an epic Northland hike! Who’s been? #nzmustdo #nztravel #roadtripnz #purenz #northlandnz
@roadynz
3.3K likes • 79.4K views
Dukes nose (Nagphani) Easiest yet very less known trekking spot in Lonavla. Watch full video on my youtube channel (Link in the bio) #lonavla #monsoon #trek #sahyadri #dukesnose #nagphani #khandala
komal.s.avhad
106.3K likes • 1.5M views

🗺️ Plan Your Route

Ensure you take the ridge route to avoid missing the best views. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The cliff's unique shape and surrounding landscapes are perfect for photography. Instagram

📍Duke’s Nose (Nagphani) . . #dukesnose #dukesnosetrek #lonavla #trek #lonavlatrek #trekking #sahyadri_clickers #nagphani
omkar_kotapkar
188 likes • 4.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Good Grip Shoes

Essential for navigating steep and slippery sections, especially during monsoon. InstagramReddit

🎒 Pack Light & Smart

Carry essentials like water, snacks, and rain gear. Avoid heavy backpacks. Reddit

🗺️ Plan Your Route

Ensure you take the ridge route to avoid missing the best views. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The cliff's unique shape and surrounding landscapes are perfect for photography. Instagram

💧 Carry Rain Protection

Rain guards are recommended, especially if visiting during the monsoon season. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(530 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Duke's Nose as a perfect spot to connect with nature, offering breathtaking panoramic views, especially during the monsoon when the landscape turns lush and misty. It's praised as a beginner-friendly trek with a unique ridge view that's a major draw. Some note the importance of planning the route correctly and wearing appropriate footwear for the terrain.

"Perfect Spot to Relax in Nature

This hilltop viewpoint is an amazing place to unwind and soak in nature. The panoramic views from the top are simply breathtaking, especially during the monsoon when everything turns lush green.

The cool breeze adds to the peaceful vibe, making it the perfect spot to just sit back, relax, and take in the beauty of the surrounding valleys and hills. A serene escape that's definitely worth the visit!"

Shubh

"One of the best Treks to do every year. Beginner friendly. Stunning view from the top. The ridge view is the USP. The Indrayani river also originates here. Make sure to plan the route properly else you will miss the ridge route."

Gaurav Kshirsagar

"Short trek leads to a pin point cliff. You can do abseiling. Parking available at the start. Bring your rain guards."

Nitin Saini

What People Like

Stunning panoramic views
Beginner-friendly trek
Monsoon mist & greenery

What People Dislike

Slippery paths in monsoon
Importance of route planning

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Duke's Nose is an ideal one-day trip from Mumbai or Pune. You can drive to the base and start your trek. The nearest railway stations are Khandala and Lonavala. Instagram

The route from Kurvande village is considered the easiest and quickest, taking about 1-2 hours to reach the top. Instagram

Yes, parking is available at the start of the trek, making it convenient for those traveling by car. Reddit

You can take a local train to Khandala or Lonavala and then hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to the base of the trek. Instagram

The trek distance varies by route. The Khandala route is approximately 6 km one way, while the Kurvande route is about 2 km one way. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Currently, there is no official entry fee mentioned for Duke's Nose. However, it's always good to check for any local charges. Instagram

Trekking is generally permitted during daylight hours. Early morning for sunrise or late afternoon for sunset are popular times. Reddit

No advance booking is typically required for trekking at Duke's Nose. It's an open trail. Instagram

While camping is popular, it's advisable to check with local authorities or tour operators for any specific permits required for overnight stays. Instagram

The trek is accessible year-round, but the monsoon season offers the most scenic beauty, albeit with challenging conditions. Instagram+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The trek is considered beginner-friendly, especially the route from Kurvande. However, some sections can be steep and require careful footing. InstagramReddit

The main summit offers a spectacular ridge view, which is the USP of the trek. The panoramic views of the valleys and surrounding hills are breathtaking. Reddit+1

Yes, Duke's Nose is a popular spot for adventure activities like rappelling and rock climbing, attracting many thrill-seekers. Instagram+1

While many trek alone, it's always safer to trek with a companion or a group, especially if you are unfamiliar with the trails. Instagram

Expect lush green valleys, rolling hills, and during the monsoon, a magical misty atmosphere. The unique cliff formation is also a visual treat. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The summit ridge offers incredible panoramic shots. The unique shape of the cliff itself is also a great subject. Sunrise and sunset provide dramatic lighting. InstagramReddit

Sunrise offers beautiful golden hour light, while the monsoon season provides dramatic misty backdrops. Evenings can offer stunning sunset views. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A drone can offer unique aerial perspectives if permitted. Instagram

The 'nose' shape of the cliff, the ridge walk, and the misty valleys during monsoon are iconic photo opportunities. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Duke's Nose can be a fun outing for families, especially if you choose the shorter, easier route from Kurvande. Instagram The stunning views and the chance to see rappelling or rock climbing can be exciting for children. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and ensure kids wear comfortable shoes with good grip. Reddit The monsoon season offers a magical, misty landscape that kids might find enchanting, but always prioritize safety and keep a close eye on them near edges. Reddit

⛰️ Adventure Seekers

For thrill-seekers, Duke's Nose is a must-visit. The opportunities for rappelling and rock climbing are excellent, with several adventure groups offering guided sessions. Instagram+1 Consider booking a package that includes these activities for a full day of adrenaline. Camping overnight is also a popular option to fully immerse yourself in the mountain environment. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find Duke's Nose incredibly rewarding. The unique cliff formation, the panoramic valley views, and the dramatic monsoon mist create stunning photographic opportunities. InstagramReddit Aim for sunrise or sunset for the best light, and consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive landscapes. The ridge walk itself offers dramatic perspectives. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Trekking Routes and Difficulty

Duke's Nose, also known as Nagphani, offers a rewarding trekking experience with varying routes to suit different fitness levels. The most popular and recommended route for beginners is from Kurvande village, which is shorter and less strenuous, typically taking about 1-2 hours to reach the summit. Instagram This path is ideal for those seeking a quicker ascent and a less challenging climb.

For those who prefer a more extended trek and a deeper immersion in nature, the route starting from Khandala railway station is a great option. This trail is longer, around 6 km one way, and can take 3-4 hours to complete. It winds through scenic landscapes, offering a more comprehensive trekking adventure. Instagram While generally considered beginner-friendly, some sections of both routes can be steep and require good physical fitness and appropriate footwear. InstagramReddit

Adventure Activities at Duke's Nose

Beyond trekking, Duke's Nose is a hub for adventure enthusiasts, offering a range of thrilling activities. Rappelling down the cliff face is a popular choice, providing an adrenaline rush with stunning views as your backdrop. Instagram+1 Many adventure groups organize these activities, making it accessible even for those without prior experience.

Rock climbing is another activity that draws adventurers to this craggy cliff. The varied rock formations offer challenges for climbers of different skill levels. Instagram Additionally, camping is a favored option for those wishing to extend their stay and experience the tranquility of the mountains overnight. Instagram The unique topography and natural beauty of Duke's Nose make it a prime location for these adrenaline-pumping pursuits. Instagram

The Significance of the Name 'Nagphani'

The local name for this iconic cliff is Nagphani, which translates to 'the hood of a snake' in Marathi. This name is derived from the cliff's distinctive shape, which uncannily resembles the raised hood of a cobra. Instagram This natural formation is a significant visual landmark and a key reason for the cliff's allure.

The British, during their colonial era, renamed it Duke's Nose, reportedly due to its resemblance to the pointed nose of the Duke of Wellington. Instagram+1 While 'Duke's Nose' is now the more commonly used name, especially among tourists, 'Nagphani' remains its cherished local identity, reflecting its natural origins and cultural significance. Both names evoke the unique geological features that make this spot so memorable. Instagram

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