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Places to Visit in Monsoon in Maharashtra

A priceless gift of nature to Maharashtra, Lonavala is loved by all whether locals or outsiders, all through the year. But the magic the season of monsoon brings to this hill station in Maharashtra in the form of cool breeze, fresh vegetation and the rolling Sahyadri hills hiding under the covers of clouds turns it into the best place to visit whenever it rains.

While the crisp air and enchanting views rejuvenate your body and soul, spend some memorable monsoon days here with those dear to you. With a long list of waterfalls, lakes, and scenic picnic spots, there is no shortage of interesting places you can find here during the rainy season. Besides, trekking in Lonavala is always a good idea irrespective of the season.

Activities to do: Trekking, Camping, Sightseeing, Rappelling.

How to Reach: Cabs and buses for Lonavala are easily available from Mumbai and Pune. Several trains also connect Lonavala to major cities nearby.

Distance from Mumbai: 83 km

Distance from Pune: 66 km

Average Rain During Monsoon: 4073 mm

Furled in water cascades, verdant meadows, and the bliss of Kundalika river- Kolad is a go-to destination. Kolad is the Rishikesh of Sahyadris where you can indulge in a wide range of water and adventure activities.

Located in Raigad district of Maharashtra, Kolad is an adventure land which witnesses a massive footfall of travellers and adventure enthusiasts during and post-monsoon in Maharashtra. Kundalika river is the fastest flowing river of Maharashtra and the full-vigour is just about perfect for rafting and other water-adventure sports.

Activities to do: camping,  rafting, rappelling, kayaking.

How to reach: It falls on the Mumbai-Pune highway by Khopoli exit or NH 17 which is the old Mumbai-Goa highway.

Mumbai: 117  KM (Approximately)

Pune: 150 KM (Approximately)

Average Rain during monsoon: 5300 to 5400 MM

Dotted with waterfalls, rivers and towering hills of Sahyadri, Igatpuri is one of the places to visit in monsoon in Maharashtra which is hard to resist. Igatpuri falls on the  Mumbai-Agra highway, just 45 kilometres before Nashik.

It is a major railhead that also connects the nearby cities. Igatpuri is truly a paradise in terms of natural beauty, valleys such as Bhatsa River Valley, Camel Valley, Konkan Kada valley etc are some of the well-kept treasures in this petite hilly town.

Activities to do: Vipassana meditation, trekking, camping, hiking, riding, cycling etc.

How to reach: Board a bus travelling from Mumbai/Pune to Nashik, get off at Igatpuri. You can also take a train till Igatpuri, there are a decent number of trains available which halt at Igatpuri.

Distance from Mumbai: 120 KM

Distance from Pune: 250 KM

Average Rain during monsoon: 5500 MM

The strawberry town needs no introduction, Mahabaleshwar is a hill station in Satara district of Maharashtra. It is quite near to Panchgani in distance and both are often coupled together in a single trip. In bygone times, during the British Raj, Mahabaleshwar served as a summer capital.

It is famed for producing almost 85 percent of the entire strawberry production that gets distributed across the country. Bound by meadows and greenery from all sides, Mahabaleshwar is a large plateau town that attracts hordes of tourists throughout the year. During the monsoon season, the entire valley comes to life with cascading waterfalls and rivers.

Activities to do: Trekking, Berry farm tours, rock climbing, rappelling, camping, and pilgrimage.

How to reach: The best way to travel to Mahabaleshwar is by Bus. Both, Mumbai and Pune are well connected and has regular bus services to Mahabaleshwar.

Distance from Mumbai: 232 KM (approximately)

Distance from Pune: 120 KM (approximately)

Average Rain during monsoon: 5500 MM

Karnala is famous for the monsoon trek to the famous Karnala fort that is decently preserved inside the Karnala bird sanctuary. It is situated around 10 kilometres from Panvel, a suburb near Mumbai. Karnala fort aces as a significant fort in the bygone times when it monitored the Bor Pass that connected the coast to the mainland of Maharashtra.

It is one of the nearest Maharashtra places to visit in monsoon but if you are a birder, you must also try a day hike during the winter months post monsoon when the place is flocked with exotic birds and is blanketed in green.

Activities to do: Birdwatching.

How to reach: Board the state buses which regularly ply to Karnala from Mumbai as well as Pune. Indirect way of reaching Karnala is via Panvel.

Distance from Mumbai: 50 KM (Approximately)

Distance from Pune: 124 KM (Approximately)

Average Rain during monsoon: Below 5000 MM

Lohagad is famous for a hill fort that sits at an elevation of 3,389 feet above sea level and is best known as a one-day trek destination from Mumbai and Pune. Malvali being the base village of this trek, the fort is in proximity to the famous hill stations Lonavala where both can also be teamed up together to cover in one single trip.

Lohagad is an easy trek that serves one with history and nature in a single dish. The fort was built in the 18th century and the name literally stands as the “ Iron fort.”

Activities to do: Trekking, nature walks.

How to reach: Take a local train to Lonavala from Mumbai and then change to another local train heading towards Pune only to get off at Malavli and then start the trek. From Pune, any local shuttling between Pune to Lonavala can drop off at Malavli station.

Distance from Mumbai: 100 KM (Approximately)

Distance from Pune: 66 KM (Approximately)

Average Rain during monsoon: 4700 MM

Panchgani: The neighbouring hill station to the strawberry town of Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani is one of the most-cherished places to visit in monsoon in Maharashtra. Nestled at an elevation of 4370 feet above sea level in Satara district of Maharashtra, Panchgani is named after the five hills of  Sahyadri that surround this place.

The Sahyadri make for a great view from the various sunset and sunrise points in Panchgani. It is mostly frequented by families as it has well-defined routes and points with a fair choice of stay options and a lucrative market.

Activities to do: Picnic, sightseeing, trekking and hiking, camping.

How to reach: The best way to travel to Panchagani is by Bus. Both, Mumbai and Pune are well connected and has regular bus services to Panchgani.

Distance from Mumbai: 245 KM (approximately)

Distance from Pune: 102 KM (approximately)

Average Rain during monsoon: 5500 MM

As the highest peak of Sahyadri range, Kalsubai is a dream trek. Dwells at an elevation of 5400 feet above sea level, Kalsubai is a scenic hill and is peppered with innumerable waterfalls and rivulets.

The peak is located within the green fringes of  Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary where the trail is well-marked for the trek and nature enthusiasts to follow. Bari is the base village to begin the uphill walk towards the peak.

Activities to do: Trekking, camping, hiking, photography, rock climbing etc. 

How to reach: Either take a train till Igatpuri and then hire a taxi to reach Bari or just hire a private taxi from Mumbai or Pune and reach Bari.

Distance from Mumbai: 152 KM (approximately)

Distance from Pune: 180 KM (approximately)

Average Rain during monsoon: 6000 MM

The romantic and environmentally responsible Matheran is a weekender’s delight. Not more than 100 kilometres west of Mumbai, lies this tiny hill station which is famous for banning motorable vehicles to preserve its colonial edifices.

You can still find Matheran in the most untouched way even after the rapid rise of hotels and guest houses because, besides the commercial tactics, the place is covered and surrounded by thick jungles. Monsoon is literally the best time to visit Matheran.

Activities to do: Trekking, zip lining, rock climbing, rappelling, jungle walks, camping etc.

How to reach: The best way to travel from Mumbai to Pune is by taking a local train and getting off at Karjat or Neral. Post your train journey, you can either hire a private or shared cab or take the toy train.

Distance from Mumbai: 98 KM (approximately)

Distance from Pune: 80 KM (approximately)

Average Rain during monsoon: 5170 MM

Bhimashankar is one of the revered Jyotirlingas in India and is one of the mandates to people surfing Maharashtra places to visit in monsoon. Perched atop an elevation of 3250 feet above sea level in Bhorgiri village- Bhimashankar is surrounded by other Sahyadri jewels like Matheran, Nasik, Trimbakeshwar etc.

Bhimashankar is a mix of new and old architecture in Nagara style where sculptors and pieces are seen from the 13th to the 18th century.

Activities to do: Pilgrimage, day and night trekking, hiking, camping, nature walks, rappelling, rock climbing and village tours etc.

How to reach: The nearest railway station is the Karjat station which is located at a distance of around 168 Km. The station is connected to many cities via direct and indirect trains. So, it takes two hours to reach Bhimashankar from the station.

Distance from Mumbai: 222 KM (approximately)

Distance from Pune: 127 KM (approximately) from Shivaji Nagar in Pune by private vehicles.

Average Rain during monsoon: 6000 to 7000 MM

Alibagh is the town by the sea that can easily be accessed by a ferry ride from Gateway of India in just an hour log boat ride. The coastal town is one of the most popular places in Maharashtra which experiences tourists footfall throughout the year.

Fondly dubbed as “mini-Goa”, it is nestled in the Konkan region of Maharashtra, precisely south of Mumbai. Alibag is loved for the colonial history and clean beaches such as Varsoli, Kihim Beach, Alibag beach, and Nagaon Beach. The presence of Murud-Janjira fort in the middle of the sea amplifies the surge of tourism in Alibag even more.

Activities to do: Banana boat ride, horse riding, Fort exploration, camping, trekking, swimming and other beach sports.How to reach: Take a boat from the Gateway of India, it will drop you at Alibag. You can also take state buses to reach here, especially the ones who live in Pune.

Distance from Mumbai: 110 KM (Approximately)

Distance from Pune: 142 KM (Approximately)

Average Rain during monsoon: Below 5000 MM

The pristine Bhandardara lake has become a party playground and a camper’s oasis in the last couple of years. The distant Sahyadri hills surrounding the lake is a sight for sore eyes. A dam, a lake and a picturesque location which is everyone’s favourites. Bhandardara is one of the highly recommended places to visit in monsoon in Maharashtra.

Activities to do: Boating, swimming, kayaking, camping, hiking.

How to reach: The best way to travel from Mumbai to Pune is by taking a train till Igatpuri which is the nearest railway station to Bhandardara. Post your train journey, you can either hire a private or take a bus.

Distance from Mumbai: 117 KM (approximately)

Distance from Pune: 172 KM (approximately)

Average Rain during monsoon: Below 5000 MM

The picturesque station that lies a few kilometres before you hit the customary Lonavala city roads is quite underrated. Khandala is another famous hill station that leads to many trek trails such as Visapur, Rajmachi and Lohagad etc. in monsoon and is quite easily accessible from metro cities like Mumbai and Pune. Bedsa cave, Duke’s nose, Tiger’s cave Bushi Dam, Tungarli Dam, and Karla and Bhaja caves are a few attractions that can be toured while in Khandala.

Activities to do: Trekking, cave exploration, temple visits, rock climbing, rappelling, zip lining, hiking, camping.

How to reach: The best way to travel to either Lonavala or Khandala is to take shared cabs or private buses from the railway station in Pune which is heading towards Mumbai. From Mumbai, you can also take a train till Lonavala or a bus like Neeta or Paulo.

Distance from Mumbai: 82 KM (approximately)

Distance from Pune: 70 KM (approximately)

Average Rain during monsoon: 4500 MM

If you have been to Durshet once or multiple times the sight of the 35 acres Nature Trails forest Lodge flashes in mind. Durshet is one of the mandates  to visit in monsoon in Maharashtra as the river Amba that flows past the foliage swells and has volumes of water for you to splash and soak in.

Birders get lucky as well while staying at the forest lodge because Durshet abounds in some exotic fauna and flora.

Activities to do: Trekking, bird-watch, nature trails, temple visit, jungle walks, kayaking and other water sports in the river Amba.

How to reach: Take the old Mumbai- Pune highway which is NH4 and exit at Khopoli in the right towards Pen-Khopoli road and then take an immediate left towards the Khopoli-Pali road, exactly at hotel Mayuri. 

Distance from Mumbai: 100 KM (approximately)

Distance from Pune: 76 KM (approximately)

Average Rain during monsoon: 4500 MM

A ghat in the Sahyadri is mostly a monsoon pass, Malshej is popular ghat on the Mumbai-Thane road. The ghat is similar to the other ghats of Sahyadri range but it oodles with a number of trek trails. It is one of the must-see places in monsoon if you love getting drenched in the heavy showers.

Situated on the borders of Thane and Ahmednagar districts and is home to home chirpers like cuckoos, flamingoes, quails and rails.

Activities to do: Birdwatching, trekking, camping, driving, hiking etc.

How to reach: Take a train till Kalyan or Karjat from Pune and Mumbai to be at the Malshej Ghat. If driving, take the Pune-Nashik highway (NH-50) till Alephata and then switch to Kalyan-Ahmednagar Highway (SH-222).

Distance from Mumbai: 154 KM (approximately)

Distance from Pune: 130 KM (approximately)

Average Rain during monsoon: 5500 to 6000 MM

Lavasa is a planned hill station near Pune whose design is inspired by the Italian town Portofino. It is one of a kind project, ventured by the Lavasa corporation. Sprawling across a land of 25,000 acres, the city design covers seven hills of Sahyadri range.

The ultra-modern architecture and the well-planned infrastructure is something to praise. Besides the being so beat, it is indeed designed in a stunning location. During monsoon, Lavasa experiences moderate rainfall but plenty to raise the water of the nearby dam Mulshi.

Activities to do: Football, golf-course, theme park, hikes and water sports.

How to reach: It is very near to Pune and can be reached in a cab or on a bike. From Mumbai, traveling to Pune and then heading towards Mulshi road is a great option to reach here in no time.

Distance from Mumbai: 190 (approximately)

Distance from Pune: 60 KM (approximately)

Average Rain during monsoon: 5500 MM

The mist-laden ghats of Amboli brim with nature and is the topmost “ Eco Hotspots” in Sahyadri. Amboli is an off-the-beaten hill station at 2,260 feet above sea level in the Sindhudurg district of Southern Maharashtra after which the coastal uplands of Goa start to unfurl.

Places such as the Amboli waterfalls, Madhavgad fort, Shirigaonkar and sunset points etc. Amboli village has been recorded to receive the highest rainfalls during monsoon in the entire state of Maharashtra which gives you thumbs up to include in your list of Maharashtra places to visit in monsoon.

Activities to do: Camping, jungle treks, waterfall rappelling, bonfire, trekking and hiking etc.

How to reach: Amboli comes enroute Goa, a 100 kilometres before Madgaon and 60 Km before Madgaon on the Mumbai-Goa highway. 

Distance from Mumbai: 490 KM (approximately)

Distance from Pune: 350 KM (approximately)

Average Rain during monsoon: 7732 MM

Famous as the “Temple Town,” Harihareshwar is a beach suburb that features many ancient temples such as the Soja Devi Temple, the Kalbhairav temple, and Shankar temple. Hemmed in by four hills of the Sahyadris, Harihareshwar literally means the abode of Lord Shiva and almost all the temples are dedicated to him.

The temple's architecture is largely influenced by Maratha dynasties. Due to the presence of a throng of ancient temples and shrines, Harihareshwar is often called as “Dakshin Kashi.”

Activities to do: Trekking, pilgrimage, camping and beach activities.

How to reach: The nearest station is Mangaon, so if you plan a train journey from Mumbai or Pune then look for a train that goes and halts at Mangaon. Otherwise, the simplest is to take a bus or a cab to reach Harihareshwar.

Distance from Mumbai: 180 KM (approximately)

Distance from Pune: 170 KM (approximately)

Average Rain during monsoon: Below or around 4000 MM

Renowned for its Shiva temple, Shrivardhan perches on a peninsula of Raigad district in Maharashtra. The distance from Harihareshwar to Shrivardhan is just of 25 KM. Since both the getaways are beach locations so monsoon isn’t the best time but is a good time to visit.

Besides being close to Harihareshwar, Shrivardhan is also near to some of the famous beaches like Diveagar Beach and Kondivali beach.

Activities to do: Beach trekking, beach football, swimming, water rides and pilgrimage.

How to reach: Best to take a cab or a state bus from Mumbai or Pune.

Mumbai:190 KM (approximately)

Pune: 160 KM (approximately)

Average Rain during monsoon: Below or around 4000 MM

Tapola provides for a perfect weekend hideaway from Mumbai and Pune. It mostly serves as the base village to treks such as Vasota and Jaigad. Shivsagar, a large reservoir, and Koyna Dam are the two major attractions at this tiny village in Maharashtra. Dubbed as the “mini Kashmir,” Tapola is a satellite village just 25 kilometres away from Mahabaleshwar.

Activities to do: Boating, Jet Skiing, swimming, kayaking, trekking, photography etc.

How to reach: The best way to travel to Tapola is by Bus. Both, Mumbai and Pune are well connected and has decent frequency of bus plying between Pune to Tapola. If not Reach Mahabaleshwar and then head to Tapola in a local cab.

Distance from Mumbai: 260 KM (approximately)

Distance from Pune: 150 KM (approximately)

Average Rain during monsoon: Below 4500 MM

Famed as the third largest falls in Maharashtra, Randha falls takes a plunge from a height of 170 feet. Randha falls is located in the picturesque Bhandardara lake town. It is a bight of the untamed and crystal clear Parara river that falls behind a temple.

The fall is independent of the rain water but during and post-monsoon the volume balloons up and the charm of this pretty cascade is amplified.

Activities to do: Temple visit, canyon visit, camping, trekking, hiking, nature walks.

How to reach: Travel to Igatpuri and then head towards Bhandardara Dam. Ask for Randha falls when you reach Bhandardara. The locals direct the best routes.

Distance from Mumbai: 217 KM (approximately)

Distance from Pune: 166 KM (approximately)

Average Rain during monsoon: Below 4000 MM

Mulshi is a huge hydroelectric power plant dam which is constructed on the Mula river in the Mulshi Taluka district. The close location of 35 kilometres from Pune receives a massive tourist footfall every year, especially after the Dam was built.

Mulshi lake is now a pretty water reservoir encircled by hills from all around. It is one of the most peaceful places to visit in monsoon in Maharashtra. Mulshi dam is a significant source of irrigation and electricity generation.

Activities to do: Camping, bonfire, waterfall trek, swimming etc.

How to reach: Take a cab from Pune or ride/drive your own vehicle to reach Mulshi.

Distance from Mumbai: 146 KM (approximately)
 
Distance from Pune: 45 KM (approximately)

Average Rain during monsoon: 5500 to 6500 MM.

The craggy landscape of Thoseghar waterfalls is only sufficed during the heavy monsoon pours. Thoseghar waterfall is situated in Satara district and is very near to Khas Phata, another beautiful plateau with wildflowers and scenic landscape.

Thoseghar waterfall is a seasonal fall which is best toured in monsoon or post monsoon. It is not just one fall but a series of plunges from different heights of 15, 20 meters. One of the cascades actually falls from 500 meters of elevation which is a sight that keeps you hooked for hours.

Activities to do: Trekking, camping, sightseeing.

How to reach: It is situated around 22 KM from Satara city. It is best to take a state bus from Pune to Satara and then local taxi. From Mumbai, travel till Pune and then get on a bus to Satara city.

Mumbai: 280 KM (approximately)

Pune: 140 KM (approximately)

Average Rain during monsoon: 4000 MM

Tamhini ghat is another mountain pass that is known for its cloud-clad peaks and moss-laden meadows in monsoon. Encompassing various large and small waterfalls and lakes, Tamhini brims with natural beauty.

The twisty turns and the jungle-hugging trees make the best roads for driving in monsoon as well.Tamhini is one of the prettiest places to visit in monsoon in Maharashtra.

Activities to do: Long drive, treks, waterfall pool dips, swimming, camping, hiking and bird watching.

How to reach: Take the Mulshi road from Chandni Chowk in Pune to reach Tamhini ghat. From Mumbai, a long drive on the Mumbai-Goa highway. Once you cross Kolad and the Kundalika bridge, you are treated with spiral ghats of Tamhini. 

Distance from Mumbai: 160 KM (approximately)

Distance from Pune: 55 KM (approximately)

Average Rain during monsoon: 6500 MM

The winding roads enroute Mumbai-Nashik highway is nothing but the magnificent ghats of Kasara. Kasara is the last station on the Mumbai central suburban line which connects to various hill stations.

Being the getaway to treks such as Harishchandragad and Kalsubai, Kasara is a beautiful suburb that turns dreamy and surreal in monsoon season. 

Activities to do: Trekking, camping, jungle walks, temple tours, boating, hiking.

How to reach: The easiest way to reach Kasara is by boarding a local train from Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus or Dadar in Mumbai. One can do the same from Pune as Kasara has no bus stand, a train ride is the only cheapest and easiest option.

Distance from Mumbai: 109 KM (approximately)

Distance from Pune: 235 KM (approximately)

Average Rain during monsoon: 4000 MM