22 Absolutely Breathtaking Places To Visit In Monsoon In Maharashtra In 2024

30 Jun 2021

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Blessed are those who savor the best of nature, sip in the moist wind ladened with earthy fragrance, while tapping their feet to the rhythm of raindrops; while losing themselves in the wild! If the Western Ghats is on your bucket list for the upcoming rainy season then I have suggestions of some top-notch places to visit in monsoon in Maharashtra. These places count on their ancient castles, sprawling greenery, and unexplored trails among others, and make for wonderful weekend getaways from various cities of the state. Monsoon is the best time to explore your surroundings as this is the time when getup of nature makes every place even more enchanting. Maharashtra is the heart of the Western Ghats; the breeding ground of the best of Sahyadris is certainly a different world altogether. Start planning your monsoon calendar well in advance!

22 Most Popular Places To Visit In Monsoon In Maharashtra

Are you planning for the best places to visit in monsoon in Maharashtra and looking for the best getaways to encounter its exquisite beauty? See where all you can go to experience a blissful spell of rain in Maharashtra and dance in the soothing showers to relive your childhood!

Bhimashankar, Pune – Sweet Spot Of Sahyadri
Bhandardara, Ahmednagar – Camping On Your Mind?
Malshej Ghat, Thane-Pune – The View From The Top!
Matheran, Raigad – Of Nature And Horses!
Alibag, Raigad – The Coastal Charm Of Raigad
Karnala, Raigad – The Looming Fort Over The Rainforest
Kolad, Raigad – The Best Of Picture-Perfect Maharashtra
Harihareshwar, Raigad – Vitamin Sea In The Monsoon?
Shrivardhan, Raigad – Tall, Dark, And Awesome!
Lohagad, Pune – Fort That Towers Above The Rest
Igatpuri, Nashik – Place To Enjoy Rains At Its Best
Kalsubai, Nashik – The Highest In Maharashtra
Durshet, Khopoli – Weekend Getaway With A Lot To Explore
Amboli, Sindhudurg – Unexplored Highlands Near Goa!
Panchgani, Satara – Five Hills Into The Loveliness Of Nature
Thoseghar Waterfalls, Konkan – The Best Of The Ghats Of Western India
Mulshi Dam, Pune – Nature’s Serenity At Its Best
Tapola, Mahabaleshwar – Presenting The Mini Kashmir
Lavasa – A Planned Hill Station
Khandala – Bollywood’s Favourite Spot
Tamhini Ghat – For Movie-Like Meadows
Lonavala – Greenery At Its Best

1. Bhimashankar, Pune – Sweet Spot Of Sahyadri

A trail through the mountain in Bhimashankar

The ghat region of the Sahyadri Hills wears the prettiest shade of green with the onset of monsoon. The notable biodiversity of Bhimashankar is certainly a bewitching sight. Explore the place with your friends or family as some stunning escapades await you in the midst of vast valleys. Sahyadri Wildlife Sanctuary and Jyotirlinga Temple are some of the most popular places to visit in Maharashtra during monsoon. It is this time when the abundant flora and fauna of the sanctuary comes alive and rare animal breeds can be spotted. If you are in or around Pune during monsoon, make sure that you don’t miss out on this place. It is one of the best monsoon destinations in Maharashtra.

Distance & time taken from Mumbai to Bhimashankar: 220 km and 5h

Distance & time taken from Pune to Bhimashankar: 110 km and 3h

Connectivity from other parts of Maharashtra: Bhimashankar can be easily reached by road from places across Maharashtra, nearest railway station being Shivaji Nagar in Pune is at a distance of 127 km.

Must Read: 15 Road Trips From Mumbai That Must Be On Every Traveler’s Bucket List

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2. Bhandardara, Ahmednagar – Camping On Your Mind?

Image Source An ideal weekend getaway from Mumbai and Pune, Bhandardara is an offbeat hill-station in the Western Ghats decked with waterfalls, lakes, and sprawling greenery. A recommended pit stop while you are headed to Shirdi, Bhandardara is one of the popular places to visit in monsoon in Maharashtra. The rains add to the pristine beauty of this place when nature sways at its glorious best. At 2000 m plus altitude, Bhandardara is perfect for planning a camping session with your gang. The place has lovely campsites too!

Distance & time taken from Mumbai to Bhandardara: 164 km and 3.5h

Distance & time taken from Pune to Bhandardara: 172 km and 4.5h

Connectivity from other parts of Maharashtra: Nashik is the nearest railhead at a distance of 70 km from Bhandardara.

3. Malshej Ghat, Thane-Pune – The View From The Top!

Glorious nature view from the top of Malsej ghat

Image Source Malshej is another attraction in the Ghats that makes it to the top 10 places to visit in Maharashtra in monsoon. Primarily known for picturesque trails, and orchards of mulberries that flourish at their best during monsoon, Malshej Ghats is the place for adventure seekers. Ajoba Hill Fort – a popular place for adventurers, Darkoba Peak, Jivdhan Chawand Fort, and Nane Ghat are popular trails that give travelers a lot to explore. Harishchandragad Fort Trek at 1400 m is an ultimate experience where the 6th-century fort makes an exciting spectacle for travelers. 40 km from Malshej, Shivneri Fort is a must-visit place. The place happens to be the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji.

Distance & time taken from Mumbai to Malshej Ghat: 127 km and 3h 10m

Distance & time taken from Pune to Malshej Ghat: 120 km and 3h

Connectivity from other parts of Maharashtra: Connected with other popular cities in Maharashtra, you can also plan to travel to Malshej Ghat by rail. Kalyan Railway Station is almost 85 km from Malshej.

4. Matheran, Raigad – Of Nature And Horses!

Image Source Matheran is synonymous with viewpoints and views! Monsoon only adds to the glamor quotient of the heart of Raigad that remains one of the prime attractions of places to visit in monsoon in Maharashtra. Matheran – touted as the smallest hill station presents panoramic vistas and exceptional photography options. This is one of the most popular hill stations in Maharashtra. Louisa Point, Panorama Point, Monkey Point, Porcupine Point, Echo Point, and Prabal Fort are some of the places that exhibit true colors of nature with the onset of monsoon. Don’t believe me? Plan a trip and behold the beauty!

Distance & time taken from Mumbai to Matheran: 80 km and 2h

Distance & time taken from Pune to Matheran: 125 km and 2.5h

Connectivity from other parts of Maharashtra: Neral Junction is the closest you can get to Matheran by train. From the junction, a toy train runs up to Matheran, which covers almost 21 km in 2 hours time.

Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!

5. Alibag, Raigad – The Coastal Charm Of Raigad

Image Source With lots of refreshing architecture, pristine beaches, and scenic beauty in the offering, Alibag is counted among the top places to visit near Mumbai in monsoon. Kulaba Fort, Undheri Fort, and Murud-Janjira Fort are known for intricate architecture; while Nagaon Beach, Alibaug Beach, and Varsoli Beach are the virgin coastal beauties distinguished by their mesmerizing sunsets. The pristine beaches of Alibag attract a large number of tourists every year. You can also indulge in interesting things to do in Alibaug. Monsoons are most awaited in the region because of the fact that beaches in Alibaug undergo a complete makeover and look straight out of a picture postcard. Turquoise waters and lush greenery make it an even more exciting place to visit in Maharashtra.

Distance & time taken from Mumbai to Alibag: 98 km and 2h 42m

Distance & time taken from Pune to Alibag: 141 km and 3h 11m

Connectivity from other parts of Maharashtra: Pen Railway Station is the nearest railhead to Alibag located 30 km far from the place. You can also take a direct train to Mumbai Central from there.

6. Karnala, Raigad – The Looming Fort Over The Rainforest

Image Source Karnala Fort is one of the oldest remaining buildings that juts over the rainforest area over 450 m above the ground. A trek up to the fort on a gloomy day is an experience that is one of its kind when a bird’s eye view of the Mumbai coastline and Sahyadri Range in front make it a surreal sight, making this place one of the best places to visit in Maharashtra during monsoon. The mosses surrounding the fort and mystic environs around the fort definitely looks picturesque and every moment spent beholding the surreal sight makes for a memorable one. Karnala Bird Sanctuary is home to 150 plus birds and it’s a pleasure watching them in their natural habitat particularly during monsoon when the birds are out celebrating the rains.

Distance & time taken from Mumbai to Karnala: 50 km and 1h 17m

Distance & time taken from Pune to Karnala: 121 km and 2h 11m

Connectivity from other parts of Maharashtra: Panvel is the nearest railhead which can be easily reached from Mumbai Central and VT. There on a private vehicle can easily take you to Karnala.

7. Kolad, Raigad – The Best Of Picture-Perfect Maharashtra

Image Source Are you looking forward to making your monsoon outing fun and adventurous? In that case, Kolad the perfect place for you! The beautiful weekend destination in Maharashtra is full of sprawling campsites, picture-perfect homestays and enough of activities for adventure enthusiasts. Whitewater rafting is the most renowned activity that you can take in the waters of Kolad during monsoon. Trekking, zip lining, and canoeing are other daring activities that adventurers mostly prefer. Some of the most prominent attractions near Kolad are Kuda caves, Tamhini falls and Bhira dam, all of which make up for some of the best places to visit during monsoon in Maharashtra.

Distance & time taken from Mumbai to Kolad: 122 km and 2h 22m

Distance & time taken from Pune to Kolad: 144 km and 2h 46m

Connectivity from other parts of Maharashtra: Kolad Railway Station is the nearest railhead to Kolad and is easily accessible by road from Mumbai and Pune.

8. Harihareshwar, Raigad – Vitamin Sea In The Monsoon?

A pleasant sea beach in Harihareshwar in Raigad

Image Source Popularly known as the House of God, Harihareshwar is a wonderful beach paradise in the west coast region and lives up to its name of popular places to visit in Maharashtra during monsoon. Surrounded by the mountains named after lord Harihareshwar, Brahmadri, Pushpadri, and Harshinachal, the popular beach destination is believed to possess the magical healing powers by the locals residing there. The place is mostly thronged by visitors during monsoon because surroundings are bright and beautiful than ever and the mountains nearby present scenic vistas.

Distance & time taken from Mumbai to Harihareshwar: 200 km and 4h 16m

Distance & time taken from Pune to Harihareshwar: 170 km and 4h 20m

Connectivity from other parts of Maharashtra: Mangaon Railway Station is the nearest railhead to Harihareshwar located 59 km from the main town.

9. Shrivardhan, Raigad – Tall, Dark, And Awesome!

View from the top of the fort in Shrivardhan

Image Source Blessed with imposing structures and pretty beach destinations, Shrivardhan is the place to be during monsoon when flashes its best smile. With all the white sand beaches, colossal sky, and unspoiled environs that yet remain to be completely explored, Shrivardhan is certainly one of the best places to visit in monsoon in Maharashtra. Laxminarayan Temple, beautiful beaches, Peshwa Memorial, and popular destinations like Diveagar, Kandivali and Harihareshwar must be visited when you are around Shrivardhan.

Distance & time taken from Mumbai to Shrivardhan: 187 km and 4h

Distance & time taken from Pune to Shrivardhan: 157 km and 4h 10m

Connectivity from other parts of Maharashtra: At 374 km, Sawantwadi is the nearest railway station to Shrivardhan, which is an 8-hour ride via NH66

10. Lohagad, Pune – Fort That Towers Above The Rest

Image Source For a towering fort as rustic as this, Lohagad holds the legacy of being one of the most popular and prominent structures in the south Indian region, as well as one of the top places to visit in Maharashtra during monsoon. The name translates to the fort of iron is a popular structure for the reason that it has been a strategic fort for dynasties over the centuries, right from the Satavahanas to Mughals to Marathas. Monsoon casts its magical spell on this place and not only the fort area, but places in its vicinity like Pavna dam, Lonavla, Kamshet, Khandala, and Karjat are exciting getaways around Lohagad. A visit to this place during a monsoon trip in Maharashtra the best bargain for your wonderful weekend.

Distance & time taken from Mumbai to Lohagad: 99 km and 2h

Distance & time taken from Pune to Lohagad: 62 km and 1h 34m

Connectivity from other parts of Maharashtra: 16 km from Lohagad, Lonavla is the nearest railway station, which is easily accessible from Mumbai and other major cities nearby.

11. Igatpuri, Nashik – Place To Enjoy Rains At Its Best

Image Source A popular tourist place in Maharashtra to visit in monsoon, Igatpuri comes alive in the rainy season with plenty of waterfall opening around. Bhatsa River Valley and along the same course, Camel Valley are two places that stand out in Igatpuri. The spellbinding sight of five waterfalls in the Camel Valley with gushing water cascading one below the other makes it a magnificent spectacle during the month of monsoon. Nature’s glorious spectacle awaits you!

Distance & time taken from Mumbai to Igatpuri: 120 km and 2h 10m

Distance & time taken from Pune to Igatpuri: 238 km and 4h 38m

Connectivity from other parts of Maharashtra: Igatpuri Railway Station is the nearest railhead enabling people an easy access to it.

12. Kalsubai, Nashik – The Highest In Maharashtra

Image Source A popular trekking destination in the south, Kalsubai is a renowned weekend getaway near Mumbai during monsoon because of the exciting trails that disappear into the mist. Mt. Kalsubai, at 1646 m is the highest peak in Maharashtra and certainly an exciting place to visit in Maharashtra. Wake up to the soft music of nature and soothe yourself with the tranquilizing environs set upon the Sahyadri Mountain Range, Kalsubai is all fresh and purred in the rainy season. Make it sure that you visit Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary and Kalsubai Temple once you are around. The popular trekking route leading to the summit starts from Bari village located at a distance of 10 km from Bhandardara, which you reach via Igatpuri while traveling by Mumbai-Nashik road.

Distance & time taken from Mumbai to Kalsubai: 152 km and 2h 52m

Distance & time taken from Pune to Kalsubai: 178 km and 5h

Connectivity from other parts of Maharashtra: Kasara Railway Station is the nearest readhead to Bari village

13. Durshet, Khopoli – Weekend Getaway With A Lot To Explore

Think of the best places to visit in monsoon in Maharashtra and Durshet will be among the first few places to come to your mind immediately. With all the prominent attractions, hot springs, panoramic vistas, beginner level treks, night safaris, and rustic forts, Durshet cuts the image of a must-visit attract in the Western Ghats. A stay in a jungle lodge, or a tranquilizing nature walk, account for pure experiences that make the highlight of your visit to Durshet. Monsoon is the time when the rustic forts look beautiful than ever and you have a lot of fun activities to choose from. Live the nature, the very best of it.

Distance & time taken from Mumbai to Durshet: 76 km and 1.5 h

Distance & time taken from Pune to Durshet: 99 km and 1h 47m

Connectivity from other parts of Maharashtra: Khandala at a distance of 30 km is the nearest railhead to Durshet.

14. Amboli, Sindhudurg – Unexplored Highlands Near Goa!

Valley in Amboli with clouds floating over it during monsoon

Image Source Resembling the abode of Gods, Amboli highlands near Goa is a wonder and a tranquilizing retreat for people looking for an ultimate weekend getaway from Mumbai. The invigorating climate and misty environs of the Sahyadri Hills conjure magic in the air of Amboli, the place that gets even beautiful with the rains, and this makes it one of the finest places to visit in monsoon in Maharashtra with family. Huge waterfalls opening up into the vast jungles of the Ghats, and then the eternal sunrise view from the cliff top is the true remedy for a restless soul. Moti Talao, Terekhol Fort, Sagareshwar Beach, and Sindhudurg Fort some of the places of attraction nearby.

Distance & time taken from Mumbai to Amboli: 489 km and 8 h 30m

Distance & time taken from Pune to Amboli: 346 km and 6h 30m

Connectivity from other parts of Maharashtra: Sawantwadi Road is the nearest railhead to Amboli at a distance of 30 km.

15. Panchgani, Satara – Five Hills Into The Loveliness Of Nature

Image Source As the name suggests, Panchgani is the place of five hills – one of the prime attractions of the popular place in Satara district. The city with its exciting viewpoints, temples, lakes, and gorgeous water bodies gets better with the onset of monsoon, which can be seen in the lovely breathtaking views around. It is one of the best places to visit in rainy season in Maharashtra. Places like Mount Malcolm, Mahabaleshwar Temple, Panchganga Mandir, Wilson Point, Sydney Point, Table Land, Venna Lake, Lingmala Falls, Dhom Dam and Bombay Point are the places that must be on your bucket list if you are traveling to Panchgani.

Distance & time taken from Mumbai to Panchgani: 244 km and 4.5h

Distance & time taken from Pune to Panchgani: 101 km and 2h 17m

Connectivity from other parts of Maharashtra: Satara is the nearest railhead to Panchgani. Also, Pune has a better connectivity with the Panchgani by road.

16. Thoseghar Waterfalls, Konkan – The Best Of The Ghats Of Western India

Image Source Thoseghar Waterfalls, located in the vastness of the Ghats is perfect for a nature tour and it is one of the best places to visit in monsoon in Maharashtra. The nature views here especially during monsoon are remarkable and makes for a treat to the nature lovers. The waterfalls make one of the most exciting places to visit in monsoon and is a prized jewel of the Konkan.

Distance & time taken from Mumbai to Thoseghar Waterfalls: 276 km and 5h

Distance & time taken from Pune to Thoseghar Waterfalls: 133 km and 3h

Connectivity from other parts of Maharashtra: The waterfalls can be reached from Satara by road

17. Mulshi Dam, Pune – Nature’s Serenity At Its Best

Image Source Nothing looks as enchanting as Mulshi Dam when you are looking for top monsoon places in Maharashtra. Fed on the vast nature trails and lush surroundings, this place acts as the lovely escape from Pune. Just a couple of hours drive from Pune will take you to Mulshi Dam which becomes even more scenic in the monsoon season. Picnicking, trekking, and bird-watching are some of the most popular activities here.

Distance & time taken from Mumbai to Mulshi Dam: 165 km and 3h 40m

Distance & time taken from Pune to Mulshi Dam: 40 km and 1h 24m

Connectivity from other parts of Maharashtra: The dam can also be reached from other major cities in Maharashtra by road

18. Tapola, Mahabaleshwar – Presenting The Mini Kashmir

Image Source Located in Mahabaleshwar region, Tapola is a perfect monsoon getaway from Mumbai and Pune. Mahabaleshwar is a perfect nature delight for all the outdoor seekers and Tapola is a place where nature’s untarnished beauty can be seen flourishing at its best. While mornings are pleasantly calm and bright, evenings are sublime and charming. Densely wooded mountains are extremely enchanting and make perfect company for nature viewing. It is one of the best places to visit in rainy season in Maharashtra.

Distance & time taken from Mumbai to Tapola: 227 km and 5.5h

Distance & time taken from Pune to Tapola: 134 km and 3h 18m

Connectivity from other parts of Maharashtra: This is well connected with different parts of Maharashtra through public transports.

19. Lavasa – A Planned Hill Station

Image Source If you want to have the fun of holidaying in an Italian city while being in Maharashtra, then Lavasa is the place to be. Located on a hill, it is one of the best places to visit in rainy season in Maharashtra. It offers luxurious staycation with picturesque views of hills of Sahyadri range. Imagine staying in a well-planned city while it’s raining. Sounds interesting, right?

Distance & time taken from Mumbai to Lavasa: 187.5 km and 4h 29m

Distance & time taken from Pune to Lavasa: 57.5 km and 2h 19m

Connectivity from other parts of Maharashtra: It can be reached by road easily through Mulshi road.

20. Khandala – Bollywood’s Favourite Spot

You must have heard about Khandala in the famous song of Amir Khan. Won’t you want to visit the beautiful place in real? Well, this is one of the best places to visit in Maharashtra in rainy season. It is home to various trekking trails like Visapur, Rajmachi, Lohagad and more. Some of the best places to visit in Khandala are Bedsa caves, Duke’s nose, Karla dam and more.

Distance & time taken from Mumbai to Khandala: 79.7 km and 2h 18m

Distance & time taken from Pune to Khandala: 70.9 km and 1h 51m

Connectivity from other parts of Maharashtra: It is located near Lonavala so you can take a bus till Lonavala and then take a taxi till the ghat road.

21. Tamhini Ghat – For Movie-Like Meadows

Image Source Located at a height, Tamhini ghat offers picturesque views that will definitely leave you spellbound. It is one of the best monsoon destinations in Maharashtra that you should add to your list. It is adorned with beautiful meadows and lanes that you can explore for a unique experience.

Distance & time taken from Mumbai to Tamhini Ghat: 143.3 km and 4h 3m

Distance & time taken from Pune to Tamhini Ghat: 53.3 km and 2h 9m

Connectivity from other parts of Maharashtra: Tamhini Ghat can be easily reached by road via Mumbai-Goa highway.

22. Lonavala – Greenery At Its Best

Image Source Lonavala is one of the most beautiful places in Maharashtra. But, if you want to witness its true beauty, then visit Lonavala in the monsoon season. As the rain pours down, the green vegetation becomes greener than ever and offers mesmerizing views. The cool breeze that blows after rain will soothe your mind like never before. It is one of the best places to visit in rainy season in Maharashtra.

Distance & time taken from Mumbai to Lonavala: 83.1 km and 1h 57m

Distance & time taken from Pune to Lonavala: 6.5 km and 1h 19m

Connectivity from other parts of Maharashtra: Lonavala has a railway station. Also, Lonavala can be reached by road.

Further Read: 15 Best Picnic Spots Near Mumbai For The Summer

These relatively unexplored places to visit in monsoon in Maharashtra have the right mix of appeal and challenge to leave you enticed and pumped. Explore more as you plan your trip to Maharashtra, and all its unexplored havens in the Ghats! Book via TravelTriangle to enjoy unlimited benefits on your customised and comfortable tour.

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