Maharashtra is blessed with some of the best monsoon-special hotspots in the country, offering endless opportunities for a quick respite from the urban areas. The best way to explore these places is through Mumbai, being the hub of tourism. You can avail the best-rated car on rent in Mumbai with a local driver and head to any of these destinations for a perfect monsoon vacation
Mahabaleshwar
The highest point in Maharashtra, Mahabaleshwar is a must-visit during the rains. Sitting at 1300 meters, it offers chilly, foggy weather, with uninterrupted mountain views. Enjoy water sports at Venna Lake or trek to the nearby Pratapgarh Fort or Vasota fort, go on long hikes through the grassy glens of Wai. But most importantly, don’t miss a trip to the local strawberry and other seasonal fruit farms to indulge in the monsoon harvest.
Igatpuri
While the town is synonymous with spiritual travel, its strategic location is also a visual delight. Apart from healing your soul at the Vipassana Center, the rolling hills and water bodies along the sleepy villages are sure to be therapy for your mind and body. Get your dose of adventure on a trek to the nearest Kalsubai Peak or absorb the calming environs of the Bhandardhara waterfalls.
Kaas Plateau
If you are seeking a burst of colors amid the green and grey shades of monsoon, there is a tiny little hamlet off the roads of Satara. Known as the “Valley of Flowers”, the Kaas Plateau is like paradise on earth with more than 850 variants of seasonal bloom and other plants, enclosed by grassy knolls and lush meadows. The contrast of velvety green and vibrant flora is a sheer piece of art by nature. The best time to visit is July-August, once the monsoon starts to retreat.
Kolad
For those who want to experience excitement, head to Kolad and see the wild side to this season. A famous water sports destination, Kolad sits on the Kundalika River that cuts through the deep forests, plunging into waterfalls and streams. Rafting, boating, canoeing, camping, and trekking are some of the popular activities to do in this town during the monsoon and see nature in its rawest form.
Lonavala- Khandala
At only 80-100 Km from Mumbai, this is the nearest and city’s most favorite monsoon getaway. You can easily book a reliable and safe Mumbai to Lonavala cab and visit both. The twin towns are surrounded by verdant hills, misty valleys, and rain-feed streams, making it a treat for the sore eyes. Explore the Duke’s Nose Peak, Kune Waterfalls, Bedsa Caves, or camp at the Pawna Lake or Valvan Lake, for fishing, boating, or hiking. For avid trekkers, the nearby Rajmachi Fort makes for a great adventure through the rugged terrain.
Malshej Ghat
Tucked in the quiet countryside, the hilly locales of Malshej Ghat is a great respite in the rains. The place is most famous for the reverse waterfall and flamingo spotting during the monsoon. You can also take a trek to the Junnar Fort or go on a birding tour around the grasslands and lakes.