The rain fed Sahyadris of Maharasthra
19 Sep 2019, Maharashtra : Monsoon is undoubtedly the best season in Maharashtra to cherish its natural beauty and enjoy the bounties that its landscape offers. With the gorgeous mountains of the Western Ghats running through the state from north to south, it comes alive in the rainy season, opening up a treasure trove of mist-laden valleys, foggy hills, gushing streams and waterfalls, wildflower meadows, and much more, offering a view to die for. Also called the Sahyadri Mountains, these hills are one of the world’s best biodiversity hotspots and home to exotic flora and fauna. To experience the magic of monsoon, explore these scenic locales around Maharashtra and witness the rain-soaked beauty of the Sahyadris.
Khandala: 80 KM from Mumbai
The first major hill station outside Mumbai city, Khandala gives you a preview of the monsoon beauty of the Western Ghats. The cozy little town is dotted with retreats that offer uninterrupted views of the mountains, valleys, and lakes. You can stay in Khandala and explore its bigger and busier sister town, Lonavala or vice versa. Visit the Duke’s Nose Peak, Tiger’s Leap Point, Kune Waterfall, Bedsa Caves, or head 20 KM southward and do sightseeing in Lonavala.
Lonavala: 100 KM from Mumbai
One of the oldest hill stations of the state, Lonavala is the most popular getaway for Mumbai travelers. While both winter and rainy season are great to visit the town, the monsoon is prettier and offers more opportunities to absorb its natural beauty. You can choose from lakeside camping, forest retreats, or luxury hill resorts, for your stay and enjoy the season. Visit the Lion’s Point, Bushi Dam, Valvan Lake, and Dam. Or enjoy the pristine beauty of the rain-soaked mountains at the Pawna Lake, where you can do camping, fishing or boating. You can also trek along the mountain trails and enjoy panoramic views from the top of Rajmachi Fort, on the northern side of the town.
Matheran: 110 KM from Mumbai
The smallest hill station of this part of the state, Matheran offers a quiet and cozy ecological retreat. This is the only hill town in the state, or probably in the country, where vehicles are not allowed in its interiors, keeping its natural beauty intact. Visit the Sunset and the Sunrise Point for exceptional views. Even if you cannot see the sun, the grey horizon of the rainy season is equally breathtaking. Also, try your hands at Valley Crossing over a 1000 meters deep gorge.
Igatpuri: 121 KM from Mumbai
A town synonymous with spirituality, the serene natural surroundings of Igatpuri is purely therapeutic. Nestled within the rolling hills of Sahyadris on one side and beautiful water bodies on the other, the sleepy village wakes up in monsoon and becomes the most vibrant. Dotted with scenic trails and misty valleys, the locale is perfect to explore and get adventurous or introspect in the peaceful ambiance.
Mulshi Lake: 131 KM from Mumbai
The best nature hotspot in the Pune district, Mulshi Lake and its surroundings is the best place for a peaceful getaway. Formed by the catchment of the Mulshi Dam, the shores are popular among campers and trekkers. Surrounded by the Sahyadri on all sides, Mulshi Lake is a thing of beauty that will last in your memory forever. There are plenty of lakeside retreats you can choose to stay at and enjoy the panoramic views, enjoy watersports, and let nature revive you inside out.
Khadakwasla: 159 KM from Mumbai
A popular weekend retreat for Punekars, the Khadakwasla dam, and its adjoining lake have been an age-old destination for campers and hikers. Today, there are plenty of resorts and eco retreats popped around the lakeshore, each offering lake and mountain views from all possible angles. You can easily book a top-rated taxi from Mumbai to Pune and do a day trip or stay overnight for more detailed experience.
Panchgani: 244 KM from Mumbai
An old colonial town, hidden in the hills of Sahyadris, Panchgani is the gateway to Mahabaleshwar and a must-visit destination in the rains. Much subtler and quieter than its busier and more famous neighbor, Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani paints a postcard-like image of a perfect hill town, with its rolling hills, meadows, cliffs, orchards, vintage villas, and lakes. You can combine your Mahabaleshwar trip with Panchgani and make it a holistic vacation.
Mahabaleshwar: 263 KM from Mumbai
The highest point of the state, Mahabaleshwar is a must-visit hill station in the monsoons. Sitting above 1300 meters, it offers the best views of the Sahyadris and its surroundings. The town is also popular for long treks, sunset viewing (when it’s not raining), waterfalls, lakes, and seasonal strawberry farming. You can enjoy watersports at the Venna Lake, or trek to the Pratapgarh Fort or Vasota Fort, or do rock climbing and rappelling at the torrential cascades.
Kaas Plateau: 280 KM from Mumbai
The plateau region is famous for 850 different species of flowers and other plants, which only grow once a year, in the monsoon. Sitting atop 1200 meters, it also offers the best views of the hills, wrapped in velvety greenery with colorful flora. A rich biodiversity site, Kaas Plateau is a must-visit in the monsoon.
How to travel
Most of these mountain locales are situated in the eastern or southern part of the state and is best started from Mumbai. Being centrally located, you can easily travel from the city to these popular destinations by road. While there are plenty of trains and buses, you will get the best experience only when you take a road trip. If you are flying from other cities, you can get a direct Mumbai Airport taxi for your travel.
