The season of relief is finally here! Monsoons transform landscapes into lush, vibrant vistas across India. Not only do the monsoons breathe a sigh of relief into the beating heat, but the pitter-patter also creates some breathtaking vistas. One of the best places where you can find stunning backdrops is Maharashtra. With its sprawling Western Ghats and coastal stretches, Maharashtra becomes a playground for trekking enthusiasts during monsoons. The allure lies not just in the refreshing rains but also in the trekking opportunities across its picturesque terrain. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned trekker, Maharashtra’s monsoon treks offer a thrilling experience amidst mist-covered hills, cascading waterfalls, and verdant valleys. If you’re tempted enough, let’s check out the best monsoon treks in Maharashtra!
7 Best Monsoon Treks In Maharashtra
1. Andharban Jungle Trek
If the woods, dripping leaves, and petrichor are your calling, there’s no trek better than the Andharban Jungle trek for you! Andharban translates to Dark Forest but don’t let that derail you. The trail is well marked for trekkers so you always find your way out. This stunning trek is located in Pimpri, Tamhini Ghat. It’s 140 km from Mumbai, 70 km from Pune, and just 50 km from Lonavala. The trail is mostly downhill, making it easy and fun. What makes this trek even more exciting is that it has different start and end points. You can kick off your adventure from Pimpri Dam and wrap it up at Bhira Dam, or go the other way around.
A little patience can bring you a long way, quite literally. Be a little patient and you’ll witness some of the greenest plateaus, foggy dense forests, and numerous waterfalls. Remember, you need a permit for this trek, so keep one ready before you lace up your boots. The permit isn’t very hard to get; all you need to do is register at Tamhini Wildlife Sanctuary for INR 150 per person. Book ahead, though as there’s a limit of 500 people per day, and you don’t want to miss out!
Duration: 1 day 1 night
Distance: Approximately 10-12 km
Difficulty Level: Moderate
2. Nanemachi Waterfall Trek
Next up, we’re taking you to a place that defies gravity, not even kidding. Nanemachi Waterfalls, one of Maharashtra’s finest, is a hidden gem just a few kilometers from Mahad. The winds here are so strong that not only are you going to get pushed back, but even the water from the waterfall cascades backwards! This is why you’ll also hear people calling it the Reverse Waterfall. You’ll be amazed at how not just your echoes but anything you throw here will come back right to you!
Nestled deep within a dense forest, this wonder exudes an extraordinary energy. If you thought it was only known to defy gravity, wait till you learn a lot more. Known for its stunning blue waters, Nanemachi plunges about 400 feet into a pristine pool. What makes this spot even more magical is how the pool’s colors shift throughout the day, enhancing its majestic beauty. This place is so serene that not only tourists from afar, but even the locals, flock here regularly to bask in its splendor.
By now, you would’ve understood that going on the Nanemachi Waterfall Trek means experiencing nature in its purest form. The trek is a thrilling adventure, taking you through lush green forests in the Raigad District. If you’re up for an unforgettable outdoor experience, book your waterfall hike and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Nanemachi Waterfalls.
Duration: 1 night 1 day
Distance: 3-4 km
Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate
3. Devkund Waterfall Trek
If you’re seeking that perfect waterfall hidden in the jungle, look no further than the Devkund Waterfall Trek from Mumbai. Located about 175 km from Mumbai, 115 km from Pune, and 90 km from Lonavala, this trek begins in Bhira village, Raigad district. The journey takes around six hours from Mumbai and four from Pune, but it’s worth every minute.
Devkund Waterfall is a stunning, mostly unexplored gem, surrounded by lush, dense forest. The trek, which spans 6 km one way and takes about 3-4 hours, is a mix of easy to medium difficulty, with some slippery rocks to navigate. The sight of the waterfall, a beautiful cascade of white water plunging from 85 meters, is mesmerizing. The waterfall, also known as the “Bathing Pond of Gods,” changes colors throughout the day, adding to its magical charm.
During the rainy season, the waterfall is fed by the Tamhini ghat, creating a fierce flow that originates from the Kundalika River. The trek’s highlight is the natural pool at the base, offering a refreshing dip. Devkund is a perfect escape for adventure enthusiasts and a must-visit paradise for nature lovers.
Duration: 1 night 1 day
Distance: 12 km
Difficulty Level: Moderate
4. Kataldhar Waterfall Trek
Kataldhar is a hidden gem located in Ulhas Valley near Lonavala, on the route to Udhewadi Village. This village is also the base for the trek to Rajmachi Fort. However, the Kataldhar Trek kicks off from Fanasrai Village. There’s only one way to reach the seasonal Kataldhar Waterfall, which enlivens during the monsoon rains. This waterfall, along with Kune Waterfall, is the source of water in the Ulhas River that flows into Thane and Vasai Creek.
The trek takes you through dense forests, and the path is slippery, so be careful while descending and climbing. Due to its hidden nature, it’s best to trek with a guide or expert, as it’s easy to get lost in the dense forest. When the flow in the waterfall is moderate, the caves beneath it become visible, so you can even go rafting. However, Kataldhar is prone to flash floods, so stay alert and avoid going too deep.
Duration: 1 day
Distance: 9 km
Difficulty Level: Moderate to difficult
5. Kalu Waterfall Trek
Nestled in the picturesque region of Malshej Ghat, Maharashtra, the God Valley Waterfall is a stunning natural wonder that captivates visitors with its awe-inspiring beauty. Standing over 1200 feet tall, this iconic waterfall, also known as the God Valley Kalu Waterfall, is a must-see attraction. Located just 154 kilometers from Mumbai, it’s perfect for a day trip or a weekend escape.
During the monsoon season, from June to September, the waterfall is at its most magnificent. The abundant rainfall transforms the area into a lush green paradise, and the rainwater cascades down the rocky cliffs in a spectacular display. Trekking enthusiasts will love exploring the scenic surroundings, which offer breathtaking views of the waterfall and the verdant Sahyadri mountain range.
Visitors should take safety precautions, especially since the terrain can be slippery. Wearing proper footwear and following local guidelines is essential. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a peaceful retreat, the God Valley Waterfall in Malshej Ghat offers an unforgettable experience. It’s a place where nature’s grandeur is on full display, providing a serene escape from the hustle and bustle.
Duration: 1 night 1 day
Distance: 4-6 km
Difficulty Level: Easy
6. Aadrai Forest Trek
If you’re not interested in waterfalls and would rather like to walk through a forest that is clean and trekkable forest, the pristine Aadrai jungle is your best bet. It’s an offbeat spot that’s slowly gaining popularity as one of India’s cleanest trekking spots. Located in Maharashtra’s Pune district, the base village for this untouched wilderness is Khireshwar. To get there, take the local train from Mumbai to Kalyan railway station and then hop on a KDMT bus. These buses head towards Malshej Ghat every 15 minutes so you don’t have to worry if you miss one. You’ll get off at Khubi Phata, from where you can walk roughly 5 km to Khireshwar.
As soon as you reach, you’ll spot a serene lake on your right. You can set up camp right there if you like, or proceed with the trek. Through the forest, you’ll explore a tranquil mix of vast grassland plateaus, dense forest canopies, and numerous waterfalls, including the mesmerizing Kalu Waterfall, which will make you want to come back. You might even catch a glimpse of a rainbow!
However, the trail is home to reptiles, wild animals, and poisonous plants, so it’s wise to hire a guide to navigate safely. And don’t forget to pick up any plastic waste you find on your way back to help keep this jungle pristine.
Duration: 1 day 1 night
Distance: 7.5 km
Difficulty Level: Easy
7. Bhimashankar Trek
The Bhimashankar trek is an adventure you don’t want to miss! It has everything—ladders, stream crossings, rock climbing, lush grasslands, waterfalls, and dense forests. Located near Pune, Maharashtra, this trek kicks off from Khandas. Upon reaching Bhimashankar, you can visit the Bhimashankar temple, which houses one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas.
There are two starting points to this trek, each offering different difficulty levels and scenic vistas. About half a kilometer from Khandas, you’ll hit a T-junction with a small bridge. Head right at the bridge for Ganesh Ghat, an easier route with dense forests, small streams, and a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha along the way. Take the left for Shidhi Ghat if you like to tickle your fancy. This route has ladders, steep rock climbs, and stunning waterfalls. Both paths converge at a lush grassland, where your uphill trek to the Bhimashankar Temple begins.
Duration: 1 night 1 day
Distance: 13 km
Difficulty Level: Moderate to difficult
Summing Up
Voila! There’s your list of all the treks you can go on in Maharashtra, and you’ll find one that suits you. These treks vary based on difficulty, time, and distance so there’s something for everyone. Plan your next trek to one of these best monsoon treks in Maharashtra and get going for a quick breath of fresh air.
FAQs
Which Months Are Monsoon In Maharashtra?
Maharashtra experiences monsoons in June and July.
Which Hill Stations Are Best In Maharashtra In Monsoon?
The best time to visit hill stations and offbeat destinations in Maharashtra is during the monsoon, as the places come alive with greenery. The waterfalls, too, are gushing and serene. Some of the best hill stations to visit are:
- Mahabaleshwar
- Matheran
- Lonavala
- Bhandardara
Is Lonavala Safe In The Monsoon?
Lonavala receives surplus rainfall in monsoons, almost all day, every day. So if you don’t mind getting wet in the rain, Lonavala is a great place to be during monsoons as there’s lush greenery everywhere.
Which Month Is Best To Visit Pune?
Between June and February is the best time to visit Pune as the climate is colder and pleasant.
