There’s something magical about trekking in the monsoon—the smell of wet earth, the lush green trails, and the thunderous roar of nearby waterfalls. For adventure lovers in and around Mumbai, the rainy season transforms the Sahyadri hills into a monsoon paradise. And the best part? You don’t have to choose between a scenic trek and a waterfall visit. You can do both.
In this guide, we bring you a curated roundup of the best monsoon trekking itinerary near Mumbai that combine hill fort explorations with hidden waterfalls—perfect for a weekend escape.
Why Combine Treks with Waterfall Hopping?
Monsoon treks in Maharashtra are famous for their historic forts, misty cliffs, and seasonal waterfalls. Pairing both experiences in a single trip elevates your adventure and offers more content for creators, photographers, and nature lovers. Whether you’re into content creation, camping, or just nature therapy, this combination guarantees an unforgettable monsoon weekend.
1. Harishchandragad Fort + Taramati Peak Waterfalls
Location: Ahmednagar district, ~200 km from Mumbai
Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Duration: 2 Days, 1 Night
Harishchandragad is one of the most iconic monsoon treks in Maharashtra. The trail, especially via the Naneghat or Khireshwar route, is covered in lush green moss and fog-draped trees during the monsoon. The fort itself dates back to the 6th century and features ancient caves, temples, and the famous Konkan Kada, a vertical drop offering surreal views and cloud-bed illusions.
But the hidden gem lies nearby—Taramati Waterfalls, which comes alive only during the rainy season. On your descent or detour, you can hear the gushing water and take a refreshing break. It’s a perfect photo and relaxation spot before continuing your journey.
Highlights:
- 360° views from Taramati Peak (1,424 meters)
- Hidden waterfalls for content creators & nature photographers
- Ancient caves and temples at the summit
2. Rajmachi Fort + Kondhane Waterfalls
Location: Lonavala-Karjat region
Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Duration: 1 Day or Overnight
Rajmachi Fort, nestled between Lonavala and Karjat, is a monsoon dream. The twin forts of Shrivardhan and Manaranjan offer a moderate hike surrounded by misty meadows and flowing streams. It’s ideal for beginners, solo travelers, and groups.
What makes this trek even more special is the Kondhane Caves and Waterfalls on the Karjat side. These Buddhist caves are surrounded by cascading monsoon waterfalls—perfect for a scenic dip and some incredible drone shots.
Highlights:
- Ideal for beginners or a monsoon weekend getaway
- Easy access from both Lonavala and Karjat
- Historical caves with waterfalls nearby
3. Lohagad Fort + Bhaja Waterfalls
Location: Lonavala
Trek Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 1 Day
Lohagad Fort is one of the most popular monsoon treks near Mumbai and Pune. Known for its long ‘Vinchu Kata’ tail-like structure, the fort offers panoramic views of the Pavana backwaters. The route becomes even more beautiful during the rains with mist, moss, and cloud-kissed trails.
After your trek, head to the nearby Bhaja Caves and Waterfalls—a lesser-known combo spot that makes for an excellent end to the day.
Highlights:
- Super easy trail for families and casual trekkers
- Historical Buddhist caves nearby
- Waterfall streams ideal for monsoon photography
Monsoon Trekking Packing List
To enjoy these adventures safely, here’s what you should carry:
- Waterproof hiking shoes with strong grip
- Light poncho or rain jacket
- Dry-fit clothing
- Small backpack with waterproof cover
- Power bank and flashlight
- Extra pair of socks and sandals
- Personal first-aid kit
- Energy snacks, water bottle
- Waterproof pouch for phone & electronics
Local Tips for Safe Waterfall Treks
- Start early: Monsoon weather is unpredictable. Begin your trek at sunrise.
- Avoid swimming in unknown waterfall pools: Strong currents can be dangerous.
- Check for forest permissions: Especially in areas like Rajmachi.
- Hire local guides: Many of these routes have diverging paths—local experts ensure you stay on track and help support the rural economy.
- Respect nature: Avoid plastic, stay on trails, and don’t disturb the wildlife.
Best Time for Monsoon Treks Near Mumbai
Peak season is mid-July to early September, when waterfalls are at their fullest and the green cover is vibrant. Avoid trekking during red alert or heavy rainfall warnings issued by the IMD.
If you’re planning your next monsoon weekend escape from Mumbai or Pune, skip the typical resort stay. Instead, combine your love for trekking, history, and waterfalls with these curated hill-fort itineraries. It’s not just about reaching the top—but enjoying every step, every splash, and every breathtaking view along the way.
For more studio rentals, creator-friendly locations, and hidden natural gems, keep exploring with SceneLoc8—your one-stop guide to India’s most photogenic places.
