As the monsoon season hits its peak in September, the hills around Mumbai come alive. The Western Ghats transform into a vibrant, green paradise with countless waterfalls gushing down the slopes. It's a magical time to escape the city's hustle and witness nature at its finest.
Image credit: Universal Adventures
This majestic three-tiered waterfall is one of Maharashtra's highest. Its sheer size is truly a sight to behold, and its location between Lonavala and Khandala makes it very easy to access. It is surrounded by verdant greenery, and perfect photo opportunity.
Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 80-90 km
Trek Time: It is about 30-40 minutes trek.
How to Reach: The easiest way is to drive via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. If you're traveling by train, take one to Lonavala and then grab a taxi or auto-rickshaw for the final leg of the journey, as the falls are a short drive from lonavala.
Local Food: Lonavala is famous for its delicious chikki. You'll also find local vendors selling hot vada pav and corn pakoras, perfect for a monsoon day!
Also Read: Best 4 Day Itinerary for Lonavala and Khandala
Image credit: tripxl.com
If you're looking for a peaceful and scenic spot, Bhivpuri is a great choice. The trek to the falls is relatively easy and perfect for a relaxing day out. The area is surrounded by dense forests and offers a serene retreat
Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 70-80 km
Trek Time: The trek to Bhivpuri waterfall takes approximately 1 hour.
How to Reach: The best way to get here is by train. Take a local train on the Central Line to Bhivpuri Road station. From there, the waterfall is a short and pleasant walk. You can also drive to the base village and then walk.
Local Food: The Karjat region is known for its rural charm. You'll find several local eateries serving traditional snacks and Maharashtrian thalis.
Also Read: 8 Waterfalls to Visit in Maharashtra this Monsoon
Image credit: Zingbus
Experience a unique natural wonder at Naneghat. Strong winds push the water upwards, creating an incredible "reverse" waterfall effect. The trek itself is an adventure through lush forests.
Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 120-165 km
Trek Time: The trek to Naneghat's reverse waterfall typically takes 2.5 to 3 hours.
How to Reach: You can drive to the base village of Naneghat. The roads can be a bit challenging, so a private car is recommended. From the base, it's a moderately difficult trek to the top to see the reverse waterfall.
Local Food: Since the area is remote, you'll find small stalls run by villagers at the base of the trek. They typically serve basic but delicious food like hot poha and vada pav.
Also Read: Best Hill stations to Visit in Monsoon in Maharashtra
Image credit: Travel And Trekking
Known as the "bathing pond of Gods," Devkund waterfall is a stunning natural escape near the Bhira dam. A trek through a lush forest and across rivers leads to a beautiful emerald-green pool at the base of the falls.
Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 130-170 km
Trek Time: The trek from the base village takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
How to Reach: Drive to the base village of Bhira or Patnus. The last part of the journey is a beautiful trek through the forest. It's advisable to hire a local guide for the trek as the trail can be confusing.
Local Food: Food options are limited to what local villagers sell at the base camp. You can find simple snacks like Maggi and tea. It's best to carry your own food and water.
Image credit: History with Travels
A stunning hidden gem near the Matheran hill station, Dodhani Waterfall is known for its beautiful landscape and thrilling rappelling. With an easy and short trek, it's a perfect day trip getaway for beginners.
Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 50-65 km
Trek Time: A short and easy walk from the village to the falls (around 15-20 minutes).
How to Reach: Take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway to Panvel. From there, follow the road towards Matheran. The waterfall is located near Dodhani village. You can drive to the village and then a short walk will take you to the falls.
Local Food: Being close to Panvel, you can find a variety of local restaurants. Be sure to try the famous Aagri style food at local eateries.
Image credit: Tripadvisor
Known as the "Asoka Waterfall," this beautiful spot near Vihigaon village in Igatpuri is a fantastic and family-friendly escape. Its easy access and serene, green surroundings make it a perfect place to relax and enjoy a peaceful picnic.
Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 115-130 km
Trek Time: The trek itself is fairly short, taking around 20-30 minutes.
How to Reach: The best way to reach is by a private vehicle via the Mumbai-Nashik Expressway. The waterfall is located just off the highway near Vihigaon village.
Local Food: You'll find vendors selling snacks like vada pav and tea near the waterfall. For a full meal, head into Igatpuri town.
Image credit: On a Cheap Trip
Perfect for a challenge, Kataldhar waterfall is a seasonal cascade that drops a stunning 350 feet. The difficult trek through the Ulhas valley is completely worth the effort for the incredible views and a unique eye-shaped cave at its base.
Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 90-100 km
Trek Time: The trek itself is about 2-3 hours long.
How to Reach: Drive to the base village near Lonavala. From there, it's a challenging but rewarding trek to the waterfall. This is not a casual walk and requires proper trekking gear and fitness.
Local Food: Being in the Lonavala region, the food options are similar to Kune Falls. You can find many local restaurants and dhabas serving Maharashtrian food.
Image credit: Mahabaleshwar Tourism
Worth the drive from Mumbai, Lingmala Waterfall near Mahabaleshwar is a peaceful retreat. It offers two unique views, including a main cascade that plunges 600 feet, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 270 km
Trek Time: The waterfall is accessible via a short trek from the road, taking approximately 15-20 minutes.
How to Reach: A long but scenic drive will get you to Lingmala Waterfall. Take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and then the highway towards Mahabaleshwar. The falls are located on the Mahabaleshwar-Pune road. From the entrance, a short walk takes you to the mini waterfall and a longer trek to the main falls.
Local Food: Mahabaleshwar is a popular tourist destination with many restaurants. Don't miss the local strawberries and corn!
Image credit: tripxl.com
Zenith Waterfall is a beautiful, easily accessible cascade in the Khopoli area. It's a favorite among trekkers and a great spot for a day trip.
Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 75-80 km
Trek Time: A short and easy trek from the railway station (around 10-15 minutes).
How to Reach: The most popular way to reach is by taking a local train on the Central Line to Khopoli station. You can then walk or take an auto-rickshaw to the waterfall's base.
Local Food: There are many local eateries and small food stalls near the railway station and on the way to the falls that serve hot snacks and Maharashtrian food.
Image credit: Tripadvisor
A perfect September day trip getaway, Malshej Ghat is a paradise of countless waterfalls. The misty weather and lush green hills create a breathtaking scenic drive, making it a favorite for nature lovers.
Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 127 km
Trek Time: This Trek is a more comprehensive trail that can take about 3 to 4 hours to ascend and 2 to 3 hours to descend.
How to Reach: Drive via the Mumbai-Nashik Expressway towards Malshej Ghat. The journey itself is an experience, with numerous small and large waterfalls visible from the road. You can stop at various points to enjoy the view and the refreshing spray of the water.
Local Food: The chilly weather here calls for hot snacks. Indulge in some crispy kanda bhaji (onion fritters) and a cup of hot ginger tea.
Also Read: 10 Most Scenic Waterfalls to Visit in Monsoon
Image credit: Knocksense
Watch the Weather: Heavy rain can make trails and roads risky. Always check the forecast and reschedule if there's a heavy rain warning. Your safety comes first!
Wear the Right Shoes: The ground can be slippery. Choose sturdy shoes or sandals with a good grip to prevent any slips.
Stick to the Path: Follow the marked trails to stay safe and protect the natural environment.
Drive Smart: Roads can be tricky when wet. Drive slowly, stay alert, and don't drink and drive.
Be a Responsible Traveler: Help us keep these beautiful places clean! Carry your trash with you and leave the area just as you found it.
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