Scenic Roads in Maharashtra That Come Alive in Monsoon

There’s something magical about monsoons in Maharashtra. The hills turn emerald green, the waterfalls come alive, and the air smells fresh with the promise of adventure. For road trip lovers, this is the best time to hit the highways and soak in the beauty of nature. The winding ghats, misty valleys, and rain-soaked landscapes make driving an experience to remember. If you’re planning a monsoon getaway, here are some of the most scenic roads in Maharashtra that you simply cannot miss.

1. Malshej Ghat

Nestled in the Western Ghats, Malshej Ghat is one of the most popular monsoon drives. The road here feels like a slice of heaven – with mountains, countless waterfalls cascading down the cliffs, and lush greenery all around. The drive itself is soothing, especially when light rain splashes against your car windows. A fun fact about Malshej Ghat is that it becomes a seasonal home for flamingos! Yes, these graceful pink birds migrate here, making the region even more enchanting. Apart from the drive, you can stop at viewpoints like Pimpalgaon Joga Dam or simply enjoy the panoramic valley views that stretch as far as the eye can see.

2. Mulshi Ghat

Mulshi Ghat is perfect if you want a road trip that’s not too far from Pune or Mumbai. The drive to Mulshi Lake is absolutely scenic, especially during the monsoon when the entire region is wrapped in shades of green. The sparkling blue water of Mulshi Dam against the backdrop of foggy Sahyadri mountains makes the ride worth every turn. If you’re someone who loves to slow down and take in the views, Mulshi is a dream spot. A fun thing to do here, apart from enjoying the road, is to sit by the lake with a cup of hot chai and some pakoras – the classic monsoon combo! You can also explore farm stays or eco-resorts around the lake if you want to turn the drive into a weekend getaway.

3. Tamhini Ghat

Tamhini Ghat is the unsung hero of scenic roads in Maharashtra. This stretch of road connecting Mulshi to the Konkan region comes alive during the rains with a hundred waterfalls tumbling down the mountains, mist-laden valleys, and dense forests that look like they’ve come straight out of a painting. The drive here is soothing, and you’ll find yourself pulling over every now and then to admire the waterfalls by the roadside. A little tip? Don’t miss the Tamhini Waterfall, which is one of the highlights of the drive. It’s the perfect spot to stretch your legs and feel the cool mist on your face. This ghat is not just about the drive, it’s about pausing, clicking photos, and soaking in the little surprises nature has to offer at every curve.

4. Amboli Ghat

Known as the “Queen of Ghats”, Amboli is one of the prettiest monsoon destinations in Maharashtra. Located in the Sahyadris near Goa, the road to Amboli Ghat is a treat for anyone who loves long drives through nature. One of the highlights here is the Amboli Waterfall, a massive cascade that becomes the star attraction during the rains. A fun fact is that Amboli is also one of the highest rainfall spots in Maharashtra, which means you’re almost guaranteed to experience misty weather and rain-washed landscapes. And if you’re a bit of a nature enthusiast, you’ll be thrilled to know that the region is home to rare species of flora and fauna, making it a hotspot for biodiversity.

5. Kamshet

While Kamshet is often known for paragliding, the road leading here is nothing short of stunning during the monsoon. Located close to Lonavala, the drive to Kamshet takes you through green meadows, small villages, and rolling hills that are dotted with tiny streams during the rains. The simplicity of the landscape here is what makes it so charming. A fun activity at Kamshet is, of course, paragliding – where you can actually see the green hills and shimmering lakes from the sky! But even if you’re not the adventurous type, the monsoon drive itself is calming and perfect for a quick escape from the city rush. Add to that a hot bhutta (roasted corn) from a roadside stall, and your drive instantly feels more memorable.