Maharashtra is a state blessed with diverse natural beauty, rich culture, and historical heritage. The monsoon season brings out the best of its scenic splendor, as the hills turn lush green, the waterfalls roar, and the lakes overflow. If you are looking for some refreshing and rejuvenating destinations to escape the hustle and bustle of the city life, here are some of the tourist places in Maharashtra where you should go once in monsoon!

Lonavala is famous Monsoon Tourist Places In Maharashtra

Lonavala Waterfall, Famous tourist Places In Maharashtra

Lonavala is one of the most popular hill stations in Maharashtra, located about 64 km west of Pune and 96 km east of Mumbai. It is known for its production of the hard candy chikki and is also a major stop on the railway line connecting Mumbai and Pune. Lonavala is surrounded by hills, lakes, and waterfalls, and offers a variety of attractions for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and history buffs. Lonavala is famous Monsoon Tourist Place In Maharashtra, Visit during One day trip From Mumbai and Pune. Some of the must-see places in Lonavala are:

• Bhaja caves: These are ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves dating back to the 2nd century BC, featuring intricate carvings and sculptures.
• Bushi dam: This is a masonry dam on the Indrayani river, where you can enjoy the sight of water gushing over the steps during monsoon.
• Karla caves: These are another set of Buddhist rock-cut caves, dating back to the 1st century BC, housing one of the largest chaityas (prayer halls) in India.
• Rajmachi fort: This is a historical fort built by the Satavahanas and later occupied by the Marathas, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
• Ryewood lake: This is a serene lake surrounded by dense forests, where you can enjoy boating, picnicking, and birdwatching.

Lonavala is also famous for its scenic spots like Tiger’s Leap, Lion’s Point, Duke’s Nose, and Lohagad fort, where you can witness breathtaking views of the misty hills and valleys.

Khandala Tourist Place Near Mumbai

Amruntanjan Point famous tourist Places in Maharashtra

Khandala is Lonavala’s twin hill station, located just 5 km away from it. It is equally charming and picturesque, with lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and rocky cliffs. Khandala is ideal for trekking, hiking, camping, and paragliding, as it has many trails and spots that offer thrilling experiences. Khandala Tourist Place Near Mumbai as well as Pune, and visit during Monsoon and One day trip From Mumbai & Pune. Some of the places to visit in Khandala are:

• Amrutanjan point: This is a vantage point that offers a splendid view of the Khopoli town and the Duke’s Nose peak.
• Bhushi lake: This is a small lake formed by the Bhushi dam, where you can enjoy splashing in the water or relaxing on the banks.
• Shooting point: This is a scenic spot that has been used as a backdrop for many Bollywood movies, offering a panoramic view of the Rajmachi fort and the valley.
• Reversing station: This is an old railway station that was used to reverse the trains on the ghat section, now abandoned and converted into a viewpoint.
• Kune falls: This is a magnificent waterfall that plunges from a height of 200 meters, creating a misty spray and a rainbow effect.

Khandala is also known for its historical forts like Visapur, Lohagad, and Tungarli, where you can explore the ancient architecture and history.

Tamhini Ghat Tourist Place Near Pune

Devkund Waterfall Famous tourist Places in Maharashtra

Tamhini Ghat is a mountain pass that connects Mulshi and Tamhini villages in Pune district. It is one of the most scenic routes in Maharashtra, as it passes through dense forests, rolling hills, and gushing waterfalls. Tamhini Ghat is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers, as it offers stunning views of the Western Ghats and its biodiversity. Tamhini Ghat is Tourist Place Near Pune, Visit during Pune to Tamhini Ghat One day Trip By Cab. Some of the attractions in Tamhini Ghat are:

• Mulshi lake: This is a large lake formed by the Mulshi dam on the Mula river, where you can enjoy boating, fishing, and camping.
• Tamhini waterfall: This is a spectacular waterfall that flows over a rocky ledge during monsoon, creating a thunderous sound and a misty atmosphere.
• Andharban forest: This is a dense forest that literally means “dark forest”, where you can trek through the lush greenery and spot various flora and fauna.
• Devkund waterfall: This is a hidden gem in Tamhini Ghat, where you have to trek for about 2 hours to reach a pool of crystal clear water and a cascading waterfall.
• Sutarwadi lake: This is a serene lake surrounded by hills and fields, where you can enjoy the tranquility and the sunset.

Tamhini Ghat is also a hotspot for adventure activities like rafting, kayaking, rappelling, and ziplining, as it has many rapids, cliffs, and valleys that offer adrenaline rush.

Karjat Tourist Place Near Mumbai

Kondhane Caves, Famous Tourist Places in Maharashtra

Karjat is a quaint town and a municipal council in Raigad district, located about 63 km from Mumbai and 100 km from Pune. It is situated on the banks of the Ulhas river, at the foothills of the Western Ghats. Karjat is a popular weekend getaway for Mumbaikars and Punekars, as it offers a refreshing break from the urban chaos.

Karjat is famous for its farmhouses, resorts, and adventure camps, where you can enjoy nature, leisure, and fun. Karjat is famous Tourist Place Near Mumbai, Visit during Mumbai to Karjat One day Trip By Cab. Some of the places to visit in Karjat are:

• Kondana caves: These are ancient Buddhist caves dating back to the 1st century BC, featuring stupas, sculptures, and inscriptions.
• Ulhas valley: This is a scenic valley that runs along the Ulhas river, offering views of waterfalls, streams, and greenery.
• Bhor ghat: This is a mountain pass that connects Karjat to Lonavala, where you can see the historic railway line that was built by the British in 1850.
• Peth fort: This is a hill fort that is also known as Kothaligad, where you can trek to the top and see a temple, a cannon, and a cave.
• Bahiri cave: This is a cave that is located on a cliff near the Peth fort, where you can see a shrine dedicated to Lord Bahiri, who is worshipped by the local tribes.

Karjat is also known for its adventure sports like trekking, climbing, rafting, and bungee jumping, as it has many hills, rocks, and rivers that offer exciting challenges.

Malshej ghat Tourist Place Near Mumbai

Thumb Point Famous Tourist Places In Maharashtra

Malshej ghat is another mountain pass that connects Thane and Ahmednagar districts in Maharashtra. It is located about 130 km from Mumbai and 154 km from Pune. It is one of the most beautiful ghats in Maharashtra, as it boasts of verdant hills, misty clouds, and roaring waterfalls.

Malshej ghat is a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts, as it is home to many exotic species like flamingos, quails, cuckoos, monkeys, leopards, and peacocks. Malshej ghat is Most Tourist Place Near Mumbai, and Visit during Malshej Ghat One day Trip From Mumbai. Some of the famous tourist Places in Maharashtra to visit in Malshej ghat are:

• Malshej falls: These are spectacular waterfalls that cascade from a height of 150 meters during monsoon, creating a mesmerizing sight.
• Harishchandragad fort: This is an ancient fort that dates back to the 6th century AD, where you can see temples, caves, ponds, and carvings.
• Ajoba hill: This is one of the highest peaks in the Sahyadri range, where you can trek to the summit and see a shrine dedicated to Saint Valmiki.
• Pimpalgaon Joga dam: This is a dam built on the Pushpavati river, where you can enjoy boating and fishing.
• Shivneri fort: This is the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj , the founder of the Maratha Empire , where you can see his statue , museum , and monuments .

Malshej ghat is also known for its scenic spots like Naneghat , Konkan Kada , Nane Ghat , and Pimpri Lake , where you can witness breathtaking views of the nature .

Amboli Ghat Tourist Place Near Kolhapur

Amboli Ghat Waterfall Famous tourist Places in Maharashtra

Amboli Ghat is a hill station and an eco-hotspot in Sindhudurg district , located about 491 km from Mumbai and 346 km from Pune . It is situated at an altitude of 690 meters above sea level , on the Sahyadri hills . Amboli Ghat is one of the wettest places in Maharashtra , as it receives an average rainfall of 750 cm per year .

Amboli Ghat is famous for its rich biodiversity , as it hosts more than 108 species of plants , 300 species of birds , and 30 species of animals . Amboli Ghat Tourist Place Near Kolhapur, and famous tourist attraction in Maharashta, Visit during Kolhapur to Amboli Ghat One day trip by cab. Some of the famous tourist Places in Maharashtra to visit in Amboli Ghat are:

• Amboli waterfall: This is a breathtaking waterfall located in the Amboli Ghat, where you can enjoy the sight and sound of water splashing over rocks during monsoon.
• Hiranyakeshi temple: This is a temple built around the caves from where the Hiranyakeshi river originates, where you can see a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and explore the caves.
• Kavleshet point: This is a scenic point that offers a splendid view of the valley and the Konkan coast, where you can also spot various birds and butterflies.
• Nangartas waterfall: This is another spectacular waterfall that flows from a height of 40 meters, creating a misty spray and a soothing sound.
• Mahadevgad: This is an ancient fort that dates back to the 12th century AD, where you can see the ruins of ramparts, bastions, and temples.
• Sunset point: This is a vantage point that offers a mesmerizing view of the sunset over the hills and the sea, where you can also enjoy some snacks and tea.

Amboli Ghat is also known for its rich flora and fauna, as it hosts more than 108 species of plants, 300 species of birds, and 30 species of animals. You can also indulge in some adventure activities like trekking, camping, and rappelling in Amboli Ghat.

Tungareshwar Tourist Place Near Mumbai

Tungareshwar is a mountain plateau situated between Virar and Vasai, in Palghar district. It is a dense forest region that rises to about 665 meters above sea level, making it a very popular destination for trekkers. Tungareshwar is also a wildlife sanctuary that hosts a variety of flora and fauna, such as leopards, wild boars, barking deer, langurs, peacocks, and flamingos. Tungareshwar is famous for its ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is nestled amidst the serene hills and waterfalls. Tungareshwar is Tourist Place Near Mumbai, and Visit during One day Trip From Mumbai. Some of the places to visit in Tungareshwar are:

• Tungareshwar temple: This is an ancient temple that dates back to the 12th century AD, where you can see a Shiva linga with a brass serpent coiled around it, a trident on the dome, and a small temple of Goddess Khodiyaar Mataji with her vehicle crocodile.
• Tungareshwar waterfall: This is a spectacular waterfall that flows from a height of 150 meters, creating a refreshing spray and a soothing sound. You can also enjoy a dip in the pool at the base of the waterfall.
• Ram kund: This is a small water body near the temple, where you can see a shrine dedicated to Lord Ram and his footprints on a rock.
• Balyogi Sadanand Maharaj Matth: This is a spiritual center where you can see the samadhi (tomb) of Balyogi Sadanand Maharaj, a saint who meditated here for many years.
• Shuparak: This is a historical place where Adi Shankaracharya, the great philosopher and reformer of Hinduism, is believed to have meditated.

Tungareshwar is also known for its scenic spots like Kalmandvi waterfall, Chinchoti waterfall, and Vajreshwari hot springs, where you can witness the beauty of nature and relax.

Igatpuri Tourist Place Near Mumbai

Igatpuri Waterfall, Famous Tourist Places In Maharashtra

Igatpuri is a hill station and a city in the Western Ghats located in the Nashik district of Maharashtra, about 130 km from Mumbai and 47 km from Nashik. It is situated on the Mumbai-Agra National Highway and is a major railway station connecting Mumbai and Nashik. Igatpuri is a heaven for nature lovers, as it boasts of some of the highest peaks of the Sahyadri range, verdant valleys, gushing waterfalls, and serene lakes. Igatpuri is also a hub for adventure activities like trekking, rock climbing, rappelling, and camping. Igatpuri is famous Tourist Place Near Mumbai and visit during Mumbai to Igatpuri One day trip by cab. Some of the places to visit in Igatpuri are:

• Vipassana International Academy: This is the headquarters of the world’s largest Vipassana meditation institute, where the ancient technique of meditation taught by Gautam Buddha is practiced. The academy is also known as Dhamma Giri, meaning the hill of Dhamma, and has a golden pagoda as its landmark.
• Kalsubai Peak: This is the highest peak in Maharashtra, standing at an elevation of 1646 meters above sea level. It is a popular trekking destination, offering spectacular views of the surrounding hills and valleys. There is a small temple dedicated to Goddess Kalsubai at the summit.
• Bhavali Dam: This is a dam built on the Bham river, creating a scenic reservoir surrounded by hills and forests. You can enjoy boating, fishing, and picnicking here, or just relax by the water.
• Ghatandevi Temple: This is a temple dedicated to Ghatandevi, the protector goddess of the ghats. It is located near the Camel Valley, where you can see a magnificent waterfall cascading from a height of 1000 feet.
• Tringalwadi Fort: This is an ancient fort built at an altitude of 3000 feet, offering panoramic views of the Kulang and Kalsubai mountain ranges. It is also a good spot for birdwatching, as you can spot eagles, vultures, and peregrine falcons here.

Igatpuri is also known for its other attractions like Vihigaon waterfall, Bhatsa river valley, Camel valley, Ashoka waterfall, and Amruteshwar temple, where you can witness the beauty and diversity of nature.

Bhandardara Tourist Place Near Mumbai

Umbrella Fall Famous tourist places in Maharashtra

Bhandardara is a holiday resort village near Igatpuri, in the western ghats of India. The village is located in the Akole tehsil, Ahmednagar district of the state of Maharashtra, about 185 kilometers (115 mi) from Mumbai and 155 kilometers (96 mi) from Ahmednagar. Bhandardara sits by the Pravara river, and is a blend of natural beauty, waterfalls, mountains, tranquility, greenery, invigorating air and pristine ambiance.

Bhandardara is a perfect destination for nature lovers, trekkers, and campers, as it offers many attractions and activities to suit different tastes and preferences. Bhandardara is most beautiful Tourist Place Near Mumbai, this is hidden gems easily visit during Mumbai to Bhandardara One day trip By Cab. Some of the places to visit in Bhandardara are:

• Wilson Dam: This is one of the oldest dams in India, built by the British in 1926 on the Pravara river. It is also known as Bhandardara Dam, and has a height of 150 meters. The dam has a garden at its base, where you can see fountains and flowers. You can also enjoy boating on the Arthur Lake, which is a reservoir formed by the dam.
• Umbrella Falls: These are beautiful waterfalls that are formed when the water from the Wilson Dam overflows during monsoon. The water falls from a height of 500 feet, creating an umbrella-like shape and a misty spray.
• Kalsubai Peak: This is the highest peak in Maharashtra, standing at an elevation of 1646 meters above sea level. It is a popular trekking destination, offering spectacular views of the surrounding hills and valleys. There is a small temple dedicated to Goddess Kalsubai at the summit.
• Randha Falls: These are spectacular waterfalls that cascade from a height of 170 feet into a gorge. The water comes from the Pravara river, and creates a thunderous sound and a rainbow effect.
• Ratangad Fort: This is an ancient fort that dates back to the 6th century AD, where you can see temples, caves, ponds, and carvings. The fort offers panoramic views of the Kulang and Kalsubai mountain ranges.

Bhandardara is also known for its other attractions like Amruteshwar temple, Sandhan valley, Agasti Rishi Ashram, Konkan Kada, and Harishchandragad fort, where you can witness the history, culture, and adventure of this region.

Bhimashankar Tourist Place Near Pune & Mumbai

Bhimashankar is an ancient shrine situated in the Sahyadri hills in the state of Maharashtra. Bhimashankar temple is one of the well known Jyotirlinga, amongst the twelve jyotirlingas situated all over India. Bhimashankar is located in the village of Bhorgiri 50 km north west of Khed, near Pune. It is a popular temple town and a pilgrimage centre for Hindus, especially during the festivals of Mahashivaratri and Shravan month.

Bhimashankar is also a biodiversity hotspot, as it is part of the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to many rare and endemic species of plants and animals. Bhimashankar is most famous tourist place near Pune as well as Mumbai, and visit during One day trip from Mumbai and Pune. Some of the places to visit in Bhimashankar are:

• Bhimashankar temple: This is the main attraction of Bhimashankar, where you can see the Shiva lingam that is considered to be one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. The temple is built in the Nagara style of architecture, with intricate carvings and sculptures. The temple also has a huge bell that was gifted by Chimaji Appa, the brother of Bajirao Peshwa.
• Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary: This is a protected area that covers an area of 131 sq km, and is part of the Western Ghats. The sanctuary is known for its rich flora and fauna, such as the giant squirrel, leopard, barking deer, sambar, wild boar, langur, and various birds and butterflies. The sanctuary also has many waterfalls, streams, and lakes that add to its beauty.
• Gupt Bhimashankar: This is a hidden Shiva lingam that is located behind the Bhimashankar temple, in a dense forest. It is believed that this is the original Shiva lingam that was worshipped by the sage Kaushik. You have to trek for about 30 minutes to reach this place.
• Hanuman Lake: This is a serene lake that is located near the Bhimashankar temple, where you can enjoy boating and fishing. The lake also has a small temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman on its bank.
• Sakshi Vinayak: This is a small temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, who is also known as Sakshi Vinayak or the witness Ganesha. It is located on the way to the Bhimashankar temple, and is believed that Ganesha witnessed the fight between Shiva and the demon Tripurasura here.

Bhimashankar is also known for its other attractions like Nagphani Point, Bombay Point, Shiv Kamal Lake, and Ahupe Waterfalls, where you can witness the scenic views of nature and relax.

FAQ’s

Q: What are the best tourist places in Maharashtra to visit during monsoon?

A: Some of the best tourist places in Maharashtra to visit during monsoon are Lonavala, Khandala, Tamhini Ghat, Karjat, Malshej Ghat, Amboli Ghat, Tungareshwar, Igatpuri, Bhandardara, and Bhimashankar. These places offer scenic beauty, lush greenery, waterfalls, lakes, forts, temples, and wildlife.

Q: How can I reach these tourist places in Maharashtra from Mumbai or Pune?

A: You can reach these tourist places in Maharashtra from Mumbai or Pune by road or rail. Most of these places are well connected by state highways and expressways, and have regular buses and taxis available. Some of these places also have railway stations nearby, where you can catch local or express trains.

Q: What are the things to do and see in these tourist places in Maharashtra during monsoon?

A: There are many things to do and see in these tourist places in Maharashtra during monsoon, such as:
Enjoy the sight and sound of waterfalls, such as Bhaja falls, Kune falls, Tamhini waterfall, Devkund waterfall, Malshej falls, Amboli waterfall, Nangartas waterfall, Tungareshwar waterfall, Bhavali dam, Randha falls, etc.
Visit the ancient temples and forts, such as Bhaja caves, Karla caves, Rajmachi fort, Ryewood lake, Kondana caves, Peth fort, Reversing station, Hiranyakeshi temple, Mahadevgad fort, Tungareshwar temple, Ram kund, Balyogi Sadanand Maharaj Matth, Bhimashankar temple, Gupt Bhimashankar, Sakshi Vinayak temple, etc.
Trek to the highest peaks and valleys of the Sahyadri range, such as Kalsubai peak, Durg Dhakoba trek, Ajoba hill, Andharban forest, Sutarwadi lake, Harishchandragad fort, etc.
Indulge in adventure activities like rafting, kayaking, rappelling, ziplining, rock climbing, paragliding, camping, etc. in places like Mulshi lake, Ulhas valley, Bhor ghat,

Conclusion

Monsoon is a wonderful time to visit famous tourist Places in Maharashtra, as it transforms the state into a green paradise with waterfalls, lakes, hills, and forests. There are many tourist places in Maharashtra that offer scenic beauty, cultural heritage, wildlife, and adventure activities during monsoon. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, a spiritual retreat, or a thrilling escapade, you can find it in Maharashtra’s tourist places. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the best of Maharashtra in monsoon. You will surely have a memorable and enjoyable experience.