Nestled just behind the Kharghar Golf Course and alongside the bustling node of Navi Mumbai, Kharghar Hills offer a serene escape from urban life. Standing at around 127 m above sea level, this lush hillock forms part of the Sahyadri range and remains largely undiscovered compared to other trekking spots in the region. Ideal for hikers, morning walkers, and families, it blends easy-to-moderate trails, refreshing waterfalls, and panoramic views all year round.
Location & Accessibility
- Where it is: Located approximately 4–5 km from Kharghar Railway Station and 3 km from the Mumbai–Pune Expressway via Owe Dam stop.
- How to reach: Take a bus or rickshaw to Sector 35 near the Taloja jail or Owe Dam. From there, clear trails lead into the hills.
- Opening hours: Open 24×7, though local authorities advise trekking between 7 AM–3 PM for safety.
Trekking & Trails
- Difficulty & duration: Rated moderate. Short treks (1–2 km) to the base take around 30–45 minutes; full summit routes take 2–4 hours round-trip .
- Popular routes:
- Trail from the golf course side offers leisurely climbs for families.
- More adventurous trails begin near Hyde Park or behind Owe Dam, with off-road biking routes.
- Terrain: Open grasslands and forested patches. During monsoons, intermittent waterfalls and rivulets emerge, enhancing the natural charm.
Natural Highlights
- Waterfalls: Several mini waterfalls appear along trails in monsoon. The nearby Pandavkada Falls, a stunning ~107 m plunge, is a major seasonal draw – though swimming is prohibited due to past accidents.
- Biodiversity: The hills teem with butterflies, birds, and native vegetation, making them great for passive nature lovers and birdwatchers.
- Panoramic views: From the summit, trekkers can see the Kharghar dam, sectors 34–35, the golf course, and distant city skylines – especially spectacular at sunrise and sunset.
Amenities & Seasonal Tips
- Cost & facilities: Free access, no entry fee. Some organizers offer guided camping packages, complete with tents and meals.
- Best time to visit: June to October is peak for lush scenery and waterfalls. Post-monsoon (November–March) offers clearer skies and pleasant trekking .
- Safety & gear: Wear sturdy shoes, bring water, snacks, and a rain jacket during monsoons. Trails can be slippery and muddy.
Things to Do Nearby
- Pandavkada Falls: A 1 km uplift trek from the road leads to this historic and majestic waterfall.
- Central Park: Spanning 119 ha, it features botanical gardens, sports facilities, and birdwatching zones, just a short distance from the hills.
- Pandav Kada & Hanuman Kada: Small caves and waterfalls linked to local legend and perfect for monsoon exploration.
- Historical treks: Nearby Belapur Fort (Siddi-built, 16th c.) and wetland areas offer further adventure and birding opportunities.
- Isckon Kharghar: A beautiful temple you must explore.
Summing Up
A short trek up the lush, undulating ridges of Kharghar Hills offers far more than panoramic views – it reconnects you with nature, local legend, and the peaceful rhythm of the earth. As monsoon-fed streams wind between wild grass and ancient pathways, the hills whisper a simple truth: respite awaits, just beyond the next ascent. If you’re looking to escape the city without traveling far, this hidden gem in Navi Mumbai is calling your name.
