Maharashtra, known for its diversity and rich culture, is especially vibrant during the monsoon season. The rains enrich its landscapes, creating lush greenery and setting the stage for a memorable journey. The state features a blend of natural beauty and heritage, including rolling hills, waterfalls, historic forts, and ancient temples. This itinerary highlights the best places to visit in Maharashtra during the monsoon over a 5 days-long trip, each offering a unique experience.
Day 1- Exploring Mumbai (The City of Dreams)- Mumbai serves as an ideal starting point for your journey, especially during the monsoon when the city showcases a unique charm. Upon arrival, check into your hotel, have a filling breakfast, and visit the Gateway of India. From there, take a boat ride to the Elephanta Caves, known for their intricate rock-cut sculptures of Lord Shiva. For lunch, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, then stroll along Marine Drive to appreciate the dramatic waves. Don’t miss out on tasting local snacks at Chowpatty Beach. In the evening, explore Colaba Causeway for some shopping before returning to your hotel for dinner and relaxation after a fulfilling day of activities.
Day 2- Lonavala and Khandala (The Twin Hill Stations)- The monsoon season in Lonavala and Khandala is a favorite among nature enthusiasts. These hill stations, just a few hours from Mumbai, are celebrated for their misty hills, lush greenery, and beautiful waterfalls. Start your day with an early morning drive to Lonavala, reaching in about 2.5 hours. Visit Tiger’s Leap for breathtaking valley views, then head to Bhushi Dam to experience the natural waterfall. In the afternoon, after lunch, explore the ancient Karla and Bhaja Caves, which date back to the 2nd century BC and are surrounded by scenic landscapes. In the evening, enjoy the views from Rajmachi Point, overlooking Rajmachi Fort and the valley. Conclude your day with a short drive to Khandala, check into your hotel, savor a traditional Maharashtrian dinner, and get some rest.
Day 3- Pune (The Cultural Capital)- Travel to Pune, a city that blends history and modernity, known for its greenery and vibrant culture, especially during the monsoon. Begin with a 1.5-hour drive from Lonavala to Pune, then check in at your hotel. Visit Aga Khan Palace, a significant historical site where Mahatma Gandhi was imprisoned. After lunch, explore Shaniwar Wada, the former Peshwa seat, which is particularly beautiful in the lush monsoon season. Attend the evening sound and light show that recounts the history of the Peshwas.In the evening, visit local markets like Tulsi Baug and Laxmi Road for handicrafts and textiles, and conclude your day with a climb up Parvati Hill for panoramic city views.
Day 4- Mahabaleshwar (A Misty Retreat)- Mahabaleshwar, a popular monsoon destination in Maharashtra’s Western Ghats, is known for its scenic beauty, strawberry farms, and impressive viewpoints. Begin your trip with a 3-hour drive from Pune, checking into your hotel before heading to Venna Lake for boating. In the afternoon, visit Arthur’s Seat for stunning views of valleys and the Savitri River, and then explore Elephant’s Head Point for more breathtaking sights. In the evening, stroll through Mapro Garden to taste fresh strawberry products and purchase local jams, and if possible, visit the Lingmala Waterfall, which is most vibrant during the monsoon.
Day 5- Panchgani (Table Land and Nature Trails)- Panchgani, near Mahabaleshwar, is a charming hill station known for its stunning geological features and cool weather. In the morning, after breakfast, visitors can explore Table Land, the second-highest volcanic plateau in Asia, which offers magnificent views of the valleys and hills, enhanced by monsoon clouds. In the afternoon, Parsi Point and Sydney Point provide breathtaking sights of the Krishna Valley and Dhom Dam, along with opportunities for short nature walks. For adventure seekers, paragliding in the evening takes advantage of the monsoon winds for an exhilarating experience, concluding the day with a relaxing dinner at the hotel.
Additional tips- To prepare for the monsoon in Maharashtra, pack a raincoat, sturdy shoes, an umbrella, and waterproof bags for electronics. Since this season is popular for travel, it’s advisable to book accommodations and transport in advance. Prioritize safety when visiting waterfalls, hill stations, or trekking, as the terrain can be slippery; follow local guidelines and avoid unsafe areas. Additionally, enjoy local monsoon specialties such as bhajiyas, hot masala chai, and vada pav.
-Triparna
