Best Places to Visit in Maharashtra in Monsoon Season
Maharashtra, a state blessed with diverse landscapes ranging from coastal regions to the Western Ghats, comes alive during the monsoon season. The rains transform the scenery into a lush, green paradise, making it an ideal time to explore its natural beauty. Here are some of the best places to visit in Maharashtra during the monsoon season, each offering a unique blend of natural splendor, adventure, and tranquility.
1.Matheran
Best Places to Visit in Maharashtra in Monsoon Season
Nestled in the Western Ghats, Matheran is Asia’s only automobile-free hill station, ensuring a serene and unpolluted environment. The monsoons turn this quaint town into a verdant wonderland, with waterfalls and streams appearing along the trails. The toy train ride through the misty hills offers breathtaking views, making it a memorable experience. Major attractions include Panorama Point, which provides a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape, and Echo Point, where you can hear your voice reverberate through the hills.
2.Mahabaleshwar
Best Places to Visit in Maharashtra in Monsoon Season
Famous for its strawberry farms and scenic valleys, Mahabaleshwar is a popular monsoon destination. The rains enhance the beauty of its lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and foggy mountains. Venna Lake is perfect for a peaceful boat ride amidst the mist. The viewpoints such as Arthur’s Seat, Kate’s Point, and Wilson Point offer spectacular views of the valleys and the Sahyadri mountain range. Don’t miss visiting Mapro Garden to enjoy fresh strawberry-based treats.
3.Lonavala and Khandala
Best Places to Visit in Maharashtra in Monsoon Season
These twin hill stations are well-known for their proximity to Mumbai and Pune, making them a favorite weekend getaway. The monsoon season blankets Lonavala and Khandala in green, with numerous waterfalls and mist-covered peaks. Bhushi Dam, with its overflowing waters, becomes a popular spot for visitors. The Karla and Bhaja Caves, ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves, offer a mix of history and natural beauty. Rajmachi Fort trek is a must for adventure enthusiasts, offering panoramic views of the Sahyadri ranges.
4. Panchgani
Best Places to Visit in Maharashtra in Monsoon Season
Located close to Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani is another picturesque hill station that thrives during the monsoons. Named after the five hills surrounding it, Panchgani offers breathtaking views and pleasant weather. The Table Land, a vast volcanic plateau, provides stunning vistas and is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Parsi Point and Sydney Point are popular spots to witness the mesmerizing sunrise and sunset. Adventure activities like paragliding are also popular here, providing a bird’s-eye view of the lush landscape.
5. Bhandardara
Best Places to Visit in Maharashtra in Monsoon Season
A serene hill station, Bhandardara is known for its tranquility and natural beauty. The monsoons enhance the charm of its lakes, waterfalls, and mountains. Arthur Lake, surrounded by dense forests, is a sight to behold. The Randha Falls, cascading from a height of 170 feet, is a magnificent spectacle during the rainy season. Trekking enthusiasts can explore Mount Kalsubai, the highest peak in Maharashtra, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding region. The ancient Ratangad Fort is another trekking destination worth exploring.
6. Amboli
Best Places to Visit in Maharashtra in Monsoon Season
A lesser-known hill station, Amboli is a hidden gem in the Sahyadri hills. It receives one of the highest rainfalls in Maharashtra, resulting in lush greenery and numerous waterfalls during the monsoons. The Amboli Waterfalls are a major attraction, offering a refreshing escape. The misty Hiranyakeshi Temple, located near the source of the Hiranyakeshi River, is a serene spot. Kavalshet Point provides stunning views of the valley below, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.
7. Tamhini Ghat
Best Places to Visit in Maharashtra in Monsoon Season
A mountain pass situated between Mulshi and Tamhini, Tamhini Ghat is renowned for its breathtaking views, especially during the monsoons. The region is adorned with numerous waterfalls, lush greenery, and diverse flora and fauna. The Mulshi Dam, with its overflowing waters, adds to the scenic beauty. The winding roads through the ghats, shrouded in mist, offer a mesmerizing drive. It’s a perfect destination for a day trip from Pune, with opportunities for trekking and photography.
8. Malshej Ghat
Best Places to Visit in Maharashtra in Monsoon Season
Malshej Ghat, a mountain pass in the Western Ghats, is known for its picturesque landscapes and numerous waterfalls during the monsoons. The region is also a paradise for bird watchers, as migratory flamingos flock here during this season. The Harishchandragad Fort trek is popular among adventure seekers, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. The Pimpalgaon Joga Dam, with its serene surroundings, is an ideal spot for picnics and nature walks.
9. Igatpuri
Best Places to Visit in Maharashtra in Monsoon Season
A small hill station located in the Nashik district, Igatpuri is known for its scenic beauty and pleasant climate. The monsoon season brings alive the lush greenery, waterfalls, and mist-covered mountains. The Bhatsa River Valley, Camel Valley, and Tringalwadi Fort are some of the must-visit spots. The Vipassana International Academy, offering meditation courses, is also located here, providing a tranquil retreat.
10. Kaas Plateau
Best Places to Visit in Maharashtra in Monsoon Season
Known as the ‘Valley of Flowers’ of Maharashtra, Kaas Plateau is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. During the monsoons, the plateau blooms with a variety of wildflowers, creating a colorful carpet across the landscape. This biodiversity hotspot attracts nature lovers and photographers from all over. Nearby attractions include Kaas Lake and Thoseghar Waterfalls, adding to the region’s charm.
11. Alibaug
Best Places to Visit in Maharashtra in Monsoon Season
A coastal town with pristine beaches, Alibaug is a perfect monsoon getaway. The rains add a refreshing touch to the sandy shores and lush coconut groves. Kolaba Fort, situated on an island, is accessible by a short boat ride. The beaches like Alibaug Beach, Nagaon Beach, and Kashid Beach are ideal for a relaxing day out. Enjoy the local seafood delicacies at the beachside shacks.
12. Kolad
Best Places to Visit in Maharashtra in Monsoon Season
Located on the banks of the Kundalika River, Kolad is famous for its white-water rafting activities, especially during the monsoon when the river is in full flow. The surrounding greenery and waterfalls make it a picturesque destination. Besides rafting, you can indulge in camping, trekking, and exploring the nearby Tamhini Ghat.
Conclusion
Maharashtra in the monsoon season is a traveler’s delight, offering a diverse range of destinations that cater to different interests. Whether you are an adventure enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking peace and tranquility, the monsoon destinations in Maharashtra promise an unforgettable experience amidst nature’s bounty. So pack your bags, put on your rain gear, and get ready to explore the verdant landscapes and scenic beauty of Maharashtra this monsoon!