Last Updated on July 9, 2016 by
Off late, the discerning traveler has started to get out of his/her comfort zone and choose offbeat destinations. What’s more? Travelers these days even choosing not so popular weather conditions over high season. However, more and more people are taking up trekking in monsoon, especially in the geographically blessed Sahyadris in Maharashtra. Not many brave to trek during monsoon, fearing rains will spoil their plans. However, I feel it doesn’t rain all day in most of the places and one can still travel in monsoon. In fact, the fun of traveling in monsoon is double. Not only is the weather therapeutic but the monsoon foods, bonfires, the water sports etc make it all the more fun. Such excursions are best enjoyed with close friends and family.
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It is one thing to trek in the majestic Sahyadris in the dry season but it’s a different ballgame altogether to indulge in a monsoon trek through the verdant and misty hills of Maharashtra. Of course, it’s a ‘limited period offer’. Come July, August and September and the hills of Maharashtra display their split personality unabashedly.
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The dry brown shrubs give way to greenery all around. The hot clear skies turn cool, breezy and mist laden, the nondescript dry streams metamorphosize into monstrous waterfalls and the clouds are your constant companion. There is joie de vivre in the air and you should definitely be a part of it! In my seven years in Maharashtra, I have been to some of the most scenic treks. Here is the list of hand picked trails (suitable for monsoon) for you based upon my personal experience.
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Disclaimer: I have personally attempted monsoon treks only in Naneghat (July) and Bhimashankar (August). Rest of the below mentioned treks I have done in dry season. However, I have verified with experts and they have confirmed that below treks are monsoon friendly.
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It is one of the easiest treks I have attempted ever. Barring a few patches when you have to climb the steep stairs, it’s mostly a cakewalk. The panoramic view from the fort on the top is breathtaking. The highlight of the trek is Vinchu-Kata (scorpion’s sting). It looks like a scorpion’s sting and hence the name. The trek passes through charming little villages. Wave to the villagers en route, or better still break a bread with them. Check out the ancient but well preserved Bhaje caves nearby.
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The route was once an ancient trade route which was in extensive use to transport goods arriving at the Junnar which was then a flourishing marketplace. The locals are still found using this pass to reach Konkan. Not only is it easy to reach but is a relatively easy trek, making it ideal for beginners. The final 20 minutes of the trek was something the memories of which we will cherish forever. It’s a simple uphill route on neatly man made rock cut stairs. What makes it out of the ordinary is that during monsoon one gets to traverse it with a gushing waterfall engulfing the legs as one climbs up. The highlight of this trek was the ancient cave, said to be commissioned by a woman ruler Naganika, probably to serve as a resting place for the traders who used this route. Naganika was the wife of Satakarni (180-170 BCE), the third ruler from the Satavahana era. The inscriptions mostly talk about the achievements of the dynasty and thus are a vital source of information for historians.
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Though not very tiring, this trek can be tricky in monsoon. The steps can be slippery. What makes it exciting as well as risky is the last stretch of vertical steps which are almost at a 90 degree angle. But the views on top are rewarding. The trekkers can cook their own food and stay in an abandoned cave overnight like I did. We trekked in night under full moon and it was magical. However, during monsoon, a day trek is advised. You will not forget in a lifetime the intensity with which the wind slaps your face as you reach the top. Spend at least 2 days here. While returning, have a swim in a lake nearby.
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This strenuous trek takes at least two days to complete. We started from Lonavala and ended the trek at Karjat. Expect to see different species of birds, mammals and reptiles en route. We were lucky to see a series of shooting stars during our night trek. The view from the fort is breathtaking. We cooked instant noodles in the open and sourced the water from a cave nearby. Our sleep, the next day, was broken by the sound of many bike enthusiasts revving up their mean machines. This place is popular with bikers for off roading. We ended the trek with a sumptuous lunch at the house of one of the locals.
![IMG_9588](http://asoulwindow.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/img_9588.jpg)
The difficulty level of this trek is medium. However, it requires you to be in fit shape as the trek is strenuous in patches. I like this trek for the many opportunities of delicious local food one gets to eat while the trek is still on. Look out for makeshift huts selling poha , Jhunka-Bhakhari and fresh lime water. Once the trek is over, binge on the mouth watering pedas fresh from the shops lining the temple. The trek is also memorable for a series of waterfalls one gets to see en route. Keep your eyes open for little surprises en route. Beware of the slippery patches in monsoon.
![IMG_6324](http://asoulwindow.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/img_6324.jpg)
It is the most dangerous trek I have attempted in Sahyadris and survived to tell the tale. After an easy trek of 2 hours, I reached the point from where there is a steep descent to approach the Dhak Bahiri caves. The task was to reach the cave by crossing the rocks and climbing up. There was an iron rod holding on to which I had to walk on the narrow space below my feet to cross the 1st level on the vertical hill.
There was a clean fall and the inclination was around 70 – 80 degrees throughout. So a slip here and there while negotiating the rock patch and I am no more. After the horizontal trek, next up was a vertical climb and then a rope climb to top it all. The next 2 levels were more risky. No wonder, many people gave up after 1st level. Here I had to go vertical and reach the cave holding on to just a rope and resting our leg on not very trust able and hostile rocks. The climb was getting riskier. However, once I reached the top, the feeling was indescribable.
Caution: Don’t attempt this trek if you are not confident! I would suggest attempt this at the end of monsoon season, when it doesn’t rain much, the rocks are not slippery but the weather is still pleasant.
![IMG_9549](http://asoulwindow.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/img_9549.jpg)
Things to carry in a monsoon trek in Sahyadris :
– A windcheater/raincoat/Poncho and umbrella to brave the rains.
– Mosquito repellents like odomos to fight the mosquito, esp. in monsoons.
– Lots of snacks and lime water to keep energy levels up.
– Camera and plastic covers to protect camera and other electronics from rain
– Walking stick, not much required though.
– Basic first aid kit. Personal medicines, if one is on any medication.
– Sunscreen, caps, goggles if it’s a sunny day.
– Water (around 2 ltrs per person as it is a 3-4 hour trek one side, esp in dry season)
– Spare dry clothes and lots of small and big polythene bags to compartmentalize wet clothes and most importantly to protect your electronics, esp. camera and cellphones.
– Do wear trekking shoes (No chappals or sandals)
– Please avoid wearing gold and other ornaments.
Enjoy the nature’s bounty this monsoon in hills of Maharashtra. Be respectful to the nature and locals when you are at it. If you have any queries, ask me in the comments below.
Note: An abridged version of this article was published in the website Mobo.
![IMG_9495](http://asoulwindow.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/img_9495.jpg)
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Nice article on 6 Exciting Monsoon Treks in Sahyadris, Maharashtra! Your personal experience adds to the wwriting –
Keep on writing, great job!-
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Took mental notes. I will target some of these next monsoon!
You must! Sahyadris are gorgeous in monsoon.
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Monsoon has a different definition for the residents of Pune. Every trek that you mentioned in this wonderful post is worth experiencing. I have done a few and enjoyed them thoroughly. Thanks for sharing this beautiful post.
Glad to hear from you that you have experienced these Treks yourself. I agree with what you said. I will plan a trek in Sahyadris next monsoon.
That’s so good 🙂 Even I am thinking of some treks this month though the place is not fixed yet.
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I know it’s a very North India things to say, but I was clueless about all the adventure/trekking possibilities in Maharashtra. On top of that in the monsoon, it could really be amazing especially as the greenery is at its height and nature does come alive with the rain. Thanks for all the information.
Naneghat is surreal. Bhimashanker trek also looks interesting due to flowing streams. Great tips about what to carry during trek
These look like some great treks. I love trekking so I would love to do a few of these, though the one to Dhak Bhaiiri Caves I think might be a little bit too much for me!! Not sure I would want to go in the monsoon season though, think I would prefer the dry season 🙂
What strikes me about your images of the scenery at Sahyadris Maharashtra is how green and lush it is. This makes Sahyadris Maharashtra the perfect place for Instagram pictures, so much color! The Dhak Bahiri Cave Trek does look high difficulty! Some good tips about what to bring on the trek, I’d imagine the mosquitoes are pretty aggressive in the monsoon season, I wouldn’t like to be without spray.
The lake near Harihar Fort Trek looks gorgeous! It’s nice to know see that there aren’t a ton of people. I like that you rate them on difficulty! The tips – esp. about water – are super useful.
Amazing list of places to trek during monsoons. I stay in Mumbai, so these places are convenient for a adventurous getaway. Have heard about Rajmachi, Lohagarh and Bhimashankar, but never knew its possible to trek during the monsoons. Bookmarking the post for future reference, thanks a ton for sharing.
Amazing list of places to trek during monsoons. I stay in Mumbai, so these places are convenient for a adventurous getaway. Have heard about Rajmachi, Lohagarh and Bhimashankar, but never knew its possible to trek during the monsoons. Bookmarking the post for future reference, thanks a ton for sharing.
That’s incredible, I’d never think to trek in monsoon weather, it’s too scary for me! But I love your collation of articles here it’s a wonderful list I’m bookmarking for the next time I’m in India. What a gorgeous place! I love the details you’ve written about these off beat places; I’ve got my eye on the Bhimashankar Trek.
These are good places to trek. The sceneries are beautiful and locals are friendly. How did you get invited to eat lunch with them? I have done trekking but simple ones only. I’d try to challenge myself someday and try trekking to difficult paths.
Iza c/o Kathy James (Walk About Wanderer)
Wow these look like some amazing experiences, would love to explore the landscapes and forests! Not much of a hiker but may need to start! thanks for sharing!
Whoa, what a variety of hikes in terms of landscapes. You have some dry terrain, lush green forests, rivers and huge rocks. Amazing you’ve done all of these and I’m sure they were all great hikes.
I would love to do something like this. It looks absolutely amazing.
All of these hikes look incredible! The Dhak Bahiiri Caves especially. I agree that trekking in the rain is totally doable. The vegetation is more lush and you don’t have to share the trail with as many people.
Was searching about monsoon treks, specifically Naneghat and cam across this post of yours! Rajmachi and Bhimashankar are amazing experiences. I am still to do the rest. Hope to do the others soon 😀
Kudos for the list!
*came
Thank you for stopping by. I will be writing about Naneghat soon. You can subscribe to the blog in case you want to remain updated. Within this week I will write on Naneghat
Super Super…..Sahyadris are just a different shade of green in monsoons. I have only done Rajmachi and it was amazing. Hope to do the others too.
Thank you! Ever since I have moved to Delhi, I am itching to trek on Sahyadris. I miss mountains of Maharashtra!
I am so lazy to do treks. But all of these except the difficult one looks so tempting.
You must try. Start with the easier ones.
That’s a trek of a lifetime! Some places resember European and Latin American wilderness. Great that we have such natural wonders. Well done!
Yup, I love spending time in nature! Thank you!
P.S. The link to your Facebook page (above) is not working.
Oops, Thanks for informing. Checking!
I look forward to visiting India one day!
Pls do. India has variety!
Thank you for listing out these treks. Great post!
You are welcome! Glad you liked it!
Great to know that you have done all these treks yourself. I liked RAJMACHI TREK for its scenic surrounding. The Western Ghats looks amazing in monsoon. Good that you have shared the tips at the end of your post which is useful. Well written post.
Your picture at the end was epic with that small umbrella 🙂
Thank you. Now that I have shifted to Delhi, I miss Sahyadris especially in monsoon. I hope I can travel to Maharashtra to complete just one more trek. I am addicted to Sahyadris!
Thank God you mentioned some easy ones too. DHAK BAHIIRI CAVES TREK is definitely not my cup of tea but I like the picture though. I am sure the trek lovers will find this post very useful.
Haha, I would stop you even if you showed any interest to attempt Dhak Bahiri. It scared an adventure enthusiast like me. But I managed to finish it anyhow.
Reminds me of the two years I spent in Pune. I used to wait for the monsoons the whole year, so those mountains could turn green. Attempted a few easy treks while I was there and reading this, added a couple to my bucket list. 🙂
Thank you. Happy to know someone loved Maharashtra in monsoon as much as I do.