Pune Hiker Reports Morning Trek

Vetal Tekdi is a prominent hill in Pune, considered the highest point within the city limits at an elevation of 2,600 feet. Also known as Vetal Hill or Arai Hills, it's a popular spot for locals for morning walks, jogging, and cycling. The hill is an important green space, often called the "lungs of the city," and provides a natural oasis in a bustling urban environment. The hill derives its name from the temple of Vetal, a folk deity, located at its summit. The Vetal temple site historically marked the meeting point of four villages: Pashan, Kothrud, Erandwane, and Bhamburda. In addition to the Vetal temple, the hill complex also includes the Hanuman Tekdi with a Hanuman temple, Mhatoba Tekdi, and the Chatushrungi Tekdi. Vetal Tekdi is recognized for its rich biodiversity, hosting a variety of plant and bird species, and is considered a "mini-Sahyadri." An abandoned stone quarry on the hill has formed a lake, adding to the area's ecological features. The area serves as a significant groundwater recharge zone for Pune. Despite its ecological importance, Vetal Tekdi has faced threats from urbanization and proposed development projects. Citizen groups, such as the Vetal Tekdi Bachao Kruti Samiti (VTBKS), have been actively campaigning to protect the hill from projects like road construction and tunnels that could harm its ecosystem. These groups advocate for declaring Vetal Tekdi a no-development zone to preserve its natural heritage.