Places to Visit in Monsoon Maharashtra
Hi, I’m Dhanwant, a Nashik native with a passion for exploring the hidden gems of Maharashtra, especially during the monsoon. Through my blog, Urbanchats.com, I share stories of my solo adventures whether it’s trekking misty hills, chasing waterfalls, or savoring local vada pav on a rainy day. I’ve been wandering the Western Ghats for years, and there’s nothing I love more than the magic of Maharashtra in the rains. Join me as I take you through some of my favorite monsoon destinations!
Monsoon in Maharashtra is pure magic. As of June, the rains have transformed the state into a lush, green paradise, perfect for travelers seeking waterfalls, misty hills, and serene getaways. Whether you’re in Pune, Mumbai, or Nashik, there’s no shortage of breathtaking places to visit in monsoon Maharashtra. In this guide, I’ll share my favorite monsoon destinations in Maharashtra, complete with tips to make your trip unforgettable. Let’s dive in!
Why Visit Maharashtra in Monsoon?
Maharashtra’s Western Ghats come alive during the monsoon (June–September). Waterfalls gush down cliffs, hills are cloaked in fog, and the air smells of wet earth. It’s the best time to explore nature, with temperatures dropping to a pleasant 20–25°C. Whether you’re a trekker, a history buff, or just craving a scenic drive, monsoon Maharashtra has something for everyone. Here are my top picks in Pune, Mumbai, and Nashik three cities that shine in the rain.
Places to Visit in Monsoon Pune
Pune, nestled in the Western Ghats, is a monsoon haven with its rolling hills and waterfalls. Here are two must-visit spots:
Sinhagad Fort: A Historical Trek
Image Credit : https://punetourism.co.in/sinhagad-fort-pune
Sinhagad Fort, 36 km from Pune, is a perfect monsoon trek. The 3-km trail to the summit is surrounded by misty greenery, and the fort’s history once a Maratha stronghold adds depth to the journey. I trekked here last monsoon, and the views of Sahyadri hills, drenched in rain, were stunning. At the top, enjoy hot bhutta (corn) and kanda bhaji from local stalls. The trek takes 1–2 hours, but wear grippy shoes the path gets slippery.
Mulshi Dam: A Serene Escape
Mulshi Dam, 40 km from Pune, is ideal for a peaceful day trip. The dam’s backwaters swell during monsoon, creating a serene lake surrounded by lush forests. I drove here on a rainy afternoon, and the sight of raindrops rippling on the water was mesmerizing. Pack a picnic (try local misal pav), but avoid swimming currents can be strong. The drive along Mulshi Road, with its foggy bends, is an adventure in itself.
Places to Visit in Monsoon Mumbai
Mumbai’s monsoon is iconic think chai by the sea and misty hill stations nearby. Here are two spots to explore:
Marine Drive: Rainy Romance
Marine Drive, Mumbai’s iconic promenade, transforms in the monsoon. The rain lashes against the Arabian Sea, creating a dramatic backdrop for the city skyline. I visited last July, sitting on the tetrapods with a cup of cutting chai as waves crashed around me. It’s a quintessential Mumbai experience perfect for couples or solo travelers. Visit in the evening for the best vibe, and bring an umbrella!
Lonavala: Misty Hills and Waterfalls
Just 83 km from Mumbai, Lonavala is a monsoon favorite. The hills are blanketed in fog, and waterfalls like Bhushi and Kune Falls are at their peak. I hiked to Kune Falls last monsoon, a 200-foot cascade surrounded by greenery it felt like a scene from a movie. The 1-hour hike is easy, but the rocks can be slippery, so wear sturdy shoes. Don’t miss chikki from local shops on your way back. Lonavala gets crowded on weekends, so aim for a weekday visit.
Places to Visit in Monsoon Nashik
As a Nashik native, I can vouch for my city’s monsoon charm. The Western Ghats here offer spiritual trails and historical forts. Here are my top picks:
Brahmagiri and Bhandardurg Fort: A Spiritual Trek
Brahmagiri, a 4,248-foot hill near Trimbakeshwar (30 km from Nashik), is the source of the Godavari River. I trekked here on June 8, 2025, climbing 750 steps to Gomukh temple, where the river begins as a spring. The monsoon fog made the trail mystical, and the views from the summit were breathtaking. From there, a rock bridge leads to Bhandardurg Fort, a Maratha stronghold with rock-cut stairs and a Hanuman idol. The trek takes 4–5 hours round trip and is moderately challenging perfect for adventure seekers. I’ve shared more details in my Brahmagiri trek guide.
Someshwar Waterfall: Nature’s Gem
Someshwar Waterfall, just 7 km from Nashik, is a hidden gem in monsoon. The falls swell with rainwater, creating a roaring cascade surrounded by lush greenery. I visited last monsoon, and the misty air and sound of gushing water were so calming. There’s a small Shiva temple nearby, adding a spiritual touch. It’s a great spot for a picnic—bring vada pav but avoid swimming, as the currents are strong. The waterfall is best visited in the morning to avoid crowds.
Monsoon Travel Tips for Maharashtra
Exploring Maharashtra in monsoon is magical, but preparation is key:
- Pack Smart: Carry a raincoat, grippy shoes, and a waterproof bag. Umbrellas attract monkeys I learned this the hard way on Brahmagiri!
- Drive Carefully: Roads like Mulshi Road (Pune) or the Mumbai-Pune Expressway can be foggy. Drive slowly and use fog lights.
- Check Weather Updates: Monsoon rains can be unpredictable. I check forecasts daily to avoid heavy downpours.
- Savor Local Food: Try kanda bhaji in Pune, vada pav in Mumbai, and misal in Nashik monsoon comfort food at its best.
Why Monsoon Maharashtra Should Be on Your List
From the misty hills of Pune to Mumbai’s rainy romance and Nashik’s spiritual trails, Maharashtra in monsoon is a traveler’s dream. Each destination offers a unique blend of nature, history, and culture, amplified by the magic of rain. Whether you’re trekking Sinhagad Fort, watching waves at Marine Drive, or exploring Brahmagiri, you’ll leave with memories to cherish.
Want more Nashik monsoon ideas? Check out my guides to Someshwar Waterfall and Soma Vine Village for more inspiration. What’s your favorite monsoon spot in Maharashtra? Let me know in the comments!
