Explore the Rainy Adventures: Best Monsoon Treks in Maharashtra Revealed

Monsoon Treks in Maharashtra

Monsoon season brings forward the most scenic views no matter where you are in India. Trekking during this season not only creates a deeper connection with nature but also offers some of the most mesmerising views. With roaring waterfalls, crisscrossing trails, historic forts, colourful flowers, lush green mountains and valleys, Maharashtra is every adventure seekers paradise in the monsoon season. The Sahyadri range turns into the best hiking destination during monsoons with the best treks in Maharashtra for you to spend your days exploring.

The following are some of the best trekking places in Maharashtra:

• Kalsubai - Moderate 
• Torna Fort - Difficult
• Rajmachi Fort Lonavala - Moderate
• Bhimashankar Trek - Easy to Moderate
• Harishchandragad - Depends upon the route taken
• Ratangad - Moderate
• Visapur Fort: Easy

• Kalsubai

The summit of Kalsubai, the highest peak in Maharashtra, cannot be seen on most parts of the trek. The summit is always hidden behind clouds, across waterfalls, rich green valleys, and paddy fields. At 5,400 ft., this trail is well-defined with forests, meadows, rocky steps, and ladders in place, making it easier for trekkers to reach the summit. This trek in Maharashtra offers a mesmerising view from above the clouds.  

Difficulty level: Moderate

• Torna Fort

Torna Fort is well-known for being the first fort won by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Not only is it full of history and folklore but is also renowned for its sheer beauty and the challenge it puts forward in trekking through stream crossings, ridge walks and waterfalls.

During the monsoon season, this hike offers a charming experience and showcases the beauty of Mahabaleshwar, Khadakwasla Dam and Singhal upon reaching uphill. It is also known as Prachandgad and is surrounded by mesmerising views of Bhatgar, Pratapgad, Raireshwar and Raigad from the top. One of the best trekking places in Maharashtra, the Torna Fort hike a must-visit during June and July. 

Difficulty level: Hard

• Rajmachi Fort Lonavala

Located at a 16 km trekking distance from Lonavala, this historical fort is approximately 2,710 ft. high. Rajmachi is a popular spot for trekking in the Lonavala hill station with several routes for trekkers to course through. Visible from the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, it faces Borghat, a historical trade route in the Sahyadri range.

Difficulty level: Moderate

If you plan an extended holiday in Lonavala, don’t forget to book your stay at Club Mahindra Tungi Resort. Comfortable and spacious rooms, delicious local and international cuisines, special activities for you and your family, mesmerizing views from every corner of the resort – your vacation will be more fun than you had imagined. 

• Bhimashankar Trek

Being an all-time favourite trail route amongst trekkers, this hiking route in Maharashtra will help you spot various kinds of birds and animals of the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary. As Bhimashankar is the source of the River Bhima in Maharashtra, this trek takes you along the scenic views of the river throughout the 3,300 ft. climb. At the hilltop, trekkers can pray and seek blessings at the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple.

If you are a first-timer or a beginner, it is advised that you take the Ganesh Ghat route instead of the challenging Shidi Ghat route. Bhimashankar trek is amongst the best monsoon hiking trails in Maharashtra.

Difficulty level: Easy to Moderate

• Harishchandragad

Harishchandragad is a sixth-century hill fort in the district of Ahmednagar, Maharashtra. It is amongst the most demanding treks in Maharashtra with hikes across peaks, ponds, and caves. This trek is a must for thrill-seekers and has multiple routes, including Nalichi Vaat, Khireshwar, Pachnai and Taramati Ghal.

It is advised that trekkers do not hike up through the Nalichivaat or Taramati Ghal route during the monsoon season. This fort has caves all over the area with the main attraction being the Kedareshwar Cave and Konkan Kada, an almost 1,800 ft. high concave fall, making it look like a Cobra's hood. To get a sweeping view of the surrounding hills, trekkers can also opt to camp overnight at Kedareshwar Cave.

Difficulty level: Depends upon the route taken

• Ratangad

Situated in Ahmednagar district, Ratangad means 'Jewel of Forts'. About 4,255 ft. above sea level, Ratangad stands tall at the bank of the Bhandardara lake. Surrounded by the great mountains of Kalsubai, Kulang, Katarabai, Alang, Ghanchakkar and Ajoba, it ensures that trekkers also get to experience striking views of the lake.

This trek is amongst the most exciting trails of Sahyadris. The route consists of a 6 km boat ride and then a 4 km walk to reach the base in the village of Ratanwadi. There are various passages leading to the fort; while Pravara stream is the most famous, the Samrad route is relatively tougher.

Difficulty Level: Medium

• Visapur Fort

Located 2 hours from Mumbai and 5 km from Lonavala, this trek begins at the Bhaje village near Malavli. Visapur trek is relatively easier than other monsoon treks in the area. It has a well-defined trail with boulders and unique staircase waterfalls, making it a favourite trek trail among beginners. Visapur Fort is much bigger than Lohagad and is set at a much higher altitude. You can also take a small detour and visit the historic Bhaja Caves on the way to the fort.

Difficulty Level: Easy

• Lohagad

Meaning 'Iron Fort', Lohagad is located near the hill station of Lonavala Khandala, 52 km west of Pune. This fort stands 3,389 ft. above sea level and is amongst the easiest forts to scale, with no requirement of climbing experience. Lohagad is considered one of the best trekking routes near Pune and Mumbai.

Being connected to Visapur Fort, Lohagad divides basins of the Pavana and Indrayani rivers. Facing the Pavana reservoir in the south, it extends northward to the Vinchu Kata Scorpion's tail. The fort's four large gates are still intact and protected by the Archeological Survey of India.

Difficulty Level: Easy

Enjoy the monsoon season amid the most breathtakingly beautiful trekking destinations in Maharashtra. The trek trails in the state are not only a vibrant experience for all but are also an amazing opportunity for a refreshing getaway. You can also spend a night or two at Club Mahindra Tungi Resort in Lonavala, or Club Mahindra Saj and Club Mahindra Sherwood Resorts in Mahabaleshwar after your trekking trip. These resorts are well-equipped with state-of-the-art services and amenities to make your holiday magical!