Explore 10 Best Monsoon Treks in Maharashtra for an Unforgettable Trekking Experience

Hills in Maharashtra generally stay dry and dusty throughout the year; there is not much to admire but, these very hills take a whole new avatar during monsoon season. 

The best part is, that tourists can find many amazing trekking places in Maharashtra in monsoons near the capital city, Mumbai. 

Until the farthest end, you’ll see massifs covered in a green velvety carpet, verdant lush rainforests, freshly washed leaves, and milky white waterfalls and streams contrasting the neon green background. 

This Indian state becomes a hub for top monsoon treks in Maharashtra during the rainy season.

Maharashtra is an ancient state with many historical, cultural, and adventurous attractions and places to visit. Moreover, it is a popular destination for various adventure sports and Maharashtra monsoon treks are famous across the country. 

Another amazing fact about the best monsoon treks in Maharashtra is, that many of these beautiful trekking trails lead to ancient forts which are an architectural marvel.

Let’s Have a Look at 10 Beautiful Monsoon Treks in Maharashtra 

Here are 10 of the best monsoon treks in Maharashtra, which are a no-miss:

• Torna Fort Trek
• Duke’s Nose Trek
• Lohagad Fort Trek
• Harishchandragad Fort Trek
• Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary Trek
• Kalsubai Trek
• Rajgad Trek
• Rajmachi Fort Trek
• Devkund Waterfall Trek
• Naneghat Trek

1. Torna Fort Trek

Torna Fort is situated in the Pune district and is renowned for its history, legendary stories, folklore, stunning beauty, and difficulty level. It is among the top must-do treks in Maharashtra during monsoons. 

This expedition is thrill-inspiring, challenging, and difficult as it involves crossing streams, waterfalls, and ridges. It is advisable to go on this trek only if you have prior experience in trekking. 

However, the effort pays off well, once you cover the slippery and steep mountainous trails of the Sahayadri Ranges at an altitude of 1400 m, you’ll be rewarded with captivating sights of the nearby ranges such as Sinhagad, Raigad, and Khadakwasla Dams, etc.

Difficulty Level: Difficult

Best Time: November to February

Key Highlights: 

• Hill Fort
• Trails are a bit slippery during monsoon.
• There is a gradual ascent that requires walking on the ledge. 
• A small rocky patch. 
• No rope is required.

Basecamp: The basecamp is located in Velhe village. Tourists can take a bus from Pune which goes towards Satara and get off at Narsapur phata from here a shared jeep to Velhe can be hired.

2. Duke’s Nose Trek

There is a rock wall which is a major attraction of this trek, for beginners, the rock wall is quite fascinating, however, for rock climbers it is a challenging feat. 

Duke’s Nose is situated between Lonavala and Khandala. It is a well-known location for various activities like rappelling, rock climbing, camping, and zip-lining. 

This place is one of the best monsoon treks in Maharashtra for beginners. Along with trekking, this location is ideal for sightseeing and spending quality time in the resorts of Lonavala one of the most popular vacation places in Maharashtra in Monsoon.

Difficulty Level: Moderate to Easy

Best Time: October to February

Key Highlights:

• Rock wall
• Panoramic views of the Sahyadri Ranges
• Rock Climbing
• Rappelling
• Sightseeing
• Exploring Khandala and Lonavala

Basecamp: The trek starts from a small village in Khandala, you can reach Khandala via private car, taxi, or bus.

3. Lohagad Fort Trek

Lohagad translates to ‘Iron fort’, it played a major role during the Maratha Empire reign. This is a great trekking option when enlisting Monsoon treks in Maharashtra for beginners. 

Perched at a height of 3,400m from sea level, the Lohagad Fort is located in the heart of the verdant massifs of Lonavala.  

Difficulty Level: Easy

Best Time: June to September and October to February

Key Highlights:

• Vinchu Kata: A narrow trail, resembling a scorpion’s tail
• Pawna Lake
• Bhaja Caves
• Verdant Landscapes
• Hill Fort

Basecamp: The trek starts from the village of Lohadgad Wadi. To reach this village, trekkers can take local transport or hire a taxi after reaching Lonavala.

4. Harishchandragad Fort Trek

Imagine passing through lush green landscapes and verdant vistas, admiring the gigantic Sahyadri ranges, and, breathing the cool and fresh mountain air as you hike up toward one of the most historical places in India, Harishchandragad Fort.

From mesmerizing views of the rainforests, and valleys, and breathtaking scenes from Kokan Kada cliff, the highest Maharashtrian peak Taramati to visiting the holy Shiva temple in Kedareshwar cave, this trek has a lot to offer. 

For individuals seeking fun-filled Easy Monsoon treks in Mumbai, Harishchandragad Fort Trek will be a great option.

Difficulty Level: Moderate to Mildly Difficult

Best Time: June to September and October to February 

Key Highlights:

• Harishchandragad Fort
• Sahyadri Range landscapes
• Kokan Kada
• Taramati Peak
• Kedareshwar Cave
• Pachnai Route
• Nalichi Vaat
• Khireshwar Route
• Belpada Route

Basecamp: The basecamps for this trek are situated in Khireshwar Village and Pachnai Village. To reach these places, one can take buses or trains from Mumbai and Pune, reach Kalyan or Igatpuri, and then take any public transport to reach the village basecamps.

5. Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary Trek

It takes you through dense rainforests, gradually into the core of the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary. 

The Bhimashankar hike is a complete adventure package with alpine river crossings, high mountainous ladders, and rock climbing all in one, making it undoubtedly one of the best monsoon treks in Maharashtra.

The path offers breathtaking views and excitement. Seasoned trekkers can walk up to Bhimashankar through the Shidi Ghat path, it is a difficult route, but exciting for people who love adventure.  

For newbies, trying their hands at trekking for the first time, it is suggested to take the Ganesh Ghat route as it provides beautiful scenery and is less challenging.

Why this trek is one of the best monsoon treks near Mumbai is the amazing wildlife you can spot on the way. From langurs, and spotted deer to ‘Shekar’ or the Malabar Giant Squirrel.

The most intriguing part of the hike is the trail leading to Gupt Bhimashankar, an ancient sacred spot among the 12 jyotirlingas, situated in the middle of a flowing stream, under a large rock. 

Difficulty Level: Moderate and Difficult (Based on the trail you pick)

Best Time: June to September and October to February

Key Highlights: 

• Wildlife Sanctuary and Encounters
• Gupt Bhimashankar
• Sidhi Ghat Path
• Ganesh Ghat Route
• Rock Climbing
• Camping

Basecamp: To reach the basecamp, one can take a train or drive to Neral or Karjat from Mumbai or Pune, both of which are well-connected towns accessible by road and rail. From Karjat or Neral, you can hire a taxi and reach Bhimashankar basecamp in an hour.

6. Kalsubai Trek

The trek is challenging, and dangerous and tests your patience but, once you defeat this mountain trail all your hard work will pay off with the breathtaking views of the picturesque lush verdant mountain ranges of Mandangad, Alan, Ratangad, and Kulang, covered with colorful wildflowers and plants.

At the start of the hike, you’ll witness the incredible sight of the night sky filled with stars, and in the early hours of the morning, you’ll be greeted by the magnificent sunrise from the Kalsubai Temple. 

The Kalsubai trek is truly an experience filled with thrill, natural wonders, and spiritual purity, making it one of the best monsoon treks in Maharashtra.

Difficulty Level: Difficult

Best Time: June to September and September to February

Key Highlights:

• Unique flora and fauna
• Kalsubai Temple
• Incredible Nightsky Views
• Incredible Mountain Ranges

Basecamp: The basecamp for this trek is in Bari Village, to reach this village, you can drive to Igatpuri from Mumbai and then reach the village.

7. Rajgad Trek

As trekkers ascend towards the “King of Forts,” the verdant scenery and sweeping vistas become more stunning, especially during the monsoon, when the peaks are enveloped in a hazy mist. 

The fort’s design, consisting of the gigantic Maha Darwaja and Chor Darwaja, along with its deep historical ties to the Maratha Empire, adds to the excitement of the hike.

The monsoon season boosts the trek’s attractiveness, with falling waterfalls and colorful plants creating a scenic view. 

The Rajgad trek is a must-see for anyone seeking an unforgettable hiking experience, and it ranks among the best monsoon treks near Mumbai.

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate (Based on the trail you pick)

Best Time: October to February

Key Highlights:

Hill Fort

Maha Darwaja

Chor Dawaja

Scenic vistas 

Basecamp: Gunjavane, Pali village based on the route.

8. Rajmachi Fort Trek

Tourists often stop and admire these two structures from the Mumbai Pune Expressway near Borghat, a popular area near Khandala called Rajmachi View Point. Rajmachi is a well-known destination for hiking in the famous Lonavala Hill Stations.

The lush green mountains, crystal clear streams, and stunning vistas will leave you awe-inspired. Rajmachi Fort Trek can be a great option in the Easy Monsoon treks in Mumbai category. 

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Best Time: June to September

Key Highlights:

• Scenic views
• Rajmachi View Point
• Shrivardhan Fort
• Manaranjan Fort

Basecamp: Lonavala and Karjat have the basecamp for this trek and both of these cities can be reached by Mumbai or Pune, via bus or a private car.

9. Devkund Waterfall Trek

Devkund is a hidden gem in the heart of Maharashtra by all means. It is one of the most exciting and best monsoon treks near Mumbai for experienced and beginner trekkers. 

The height of this pristine waterfall is 80 ft and many mystical tales take rounds around this place. Locals believe, utensils used to emerge from the pond where the water falls, whenever there was any auspicious event in the village. 

This place is a serene and relaxing spot among the Top monsoon treks in Maharashtra for quality time amidst nature. 

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

Best Time: June to August

Key Highlights: 

• High Waterfall
• Pond
• Landscapes
• Picturesque views

Basecamp:  The basecamp is in Bhira Village. One can take a bus to Pali from Panvel Railway station, and hire an auto to Bhira village.

10. Naneghat Trek

Moreover, there are inscriptions within the caves indicating the usage of this pass since the Satvahana era. It is one of the most off-beat places you will ever visit in India. 

It is one of the most Beautiful monsoon treks in Maharashtra you will ever go on. The Naneghat waterfall is in full bloom during monsoon season, adding to the beauty of the surrounding areas. 

If you want your experience to be even more exhilarating then, you can go down and explore the Jivdhan fort and caves.

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Best Time: June to September

Key Highlights: 

• Breathtaking vistas
• Ghats
• Pass connecting Junnar to Kalyan
• Naneghat Waterfall

Basecamp: To reach the basecamp, head to the Vaishakhare village. Public buses going towards Malshej Ghat from Kalyan will drop you off at Vaishakhare.