65-Year-Old Pune Resident Completes 1,000 Treks to Sinhagad Fort
Pune, 4th September 2025: For most people, trekking to Sinhagad is a weekend activity, but for 65-year-old Nandkishore Mulik from Kothrud, it has been a way of life. Mulik, a resident of Mayur Colony–Shivtirthanagar, has created a record by completing his 1,000th trek to the historic fort on August 28.
Mulik began trekking to Sinhagad once a week in 2005, inspired by his father, Dattatreya Mulik, who had the habit of walking 14 kilometres daily. He was also encouraged by his acquaintance, Damu Kaka Mate, who first took him to Sinhagad and offered him sweets after the climb.
Since then, Mulik has followed a strict routine. Every Wednesday or Thursday, he leaves his home in Kothrud at 5 am, reaches Atkarwadi (Sinhagad foothills) by 6 am, and completes the climb to Pune Gate by 7 am before returning. Regardless of weather — rain, cold, or summer heat — he has consistently undertaken around 50 treks each year for the past two decades.
Mulik also maintains a diary, noting each trek with its number and companions. His trekking group includes friends Jayant Maharao, Pradeep Upadhyay, Balasaheb Gijre, Ganesh Shinde, Vinay Bapat, and Vijay Rajwade. Together, they chant the slogan: “Jagaat Bhari, Sinhagad Wari.” On other days, Mulik regularly walks on Vetal Hill in Pune.
Speaking about his milestone, Mulik said, “Currently, I do not have any illness or fatigue. I am physically and mentally fit. I am happy to be among those who have climbed Sinhagad a thousand times. I appeal to all citizens to devote at least an hour every day to exercise.”
His friend and trekking partner Ganesh Shinde added, “I have been going to Sinhagad with Mulik since 2006. We are a group of seven. Mulik always makes time for trekking after handling his business commitments. Our health has remained good because of these regular treks.”
For Mulik, Sinhagad is more than just a trek — it is a discipline, a source of fitness, and a tradition he hopes will inspire others.
