As monsoon clouds blanket Maharashtra, the entire state transforms into a lush, enchanting wonderland.
Verdant hills, cascading waterfalls, misty valleys, and lush green forests invite travelers to explore nature in its most dramatic form. For those with a love for long drives and the open road, monsoon road trips in Maharashtra are nothing short of a dream.
Whether you’re seeking a quick weekend escape or a full-blown monsoon expedition, this guide covers the best road trips in Maharashtra during the rainy season. From scenic drives near Mumbai to peaceful routes near Pune, let’s explore the most unforgettable road trips you can embark on this monsoon.
Why Take a Monsoon Road Trip in Maharashtra?
Monsoons in Maharashtra breathe new life into the landscape. Dry riverbeds turn into gushing streams, hill stations wear a fresh coat of green, and dusty trails transform into scenic roads framed with blooming wildflowers.
Taking a monsoon road trip in Maharashtra is not just about reaching a destination—it’s about the experience along the way. The rhythmic sound of rain, the earthy scent of wet soil, and ever-changing views through your windshield make for an immersive and rejuvenating journey.
1. Mumbai to Malshej Ghat – A Rain-Drenched Paradise
Distance: 127 km
Time: 3.5 hours
Best for: Waterfalls, foggy roads, trekking
Nestled in the Western Ghats, Malshej Ghat is one of the most scenic road trips in Maharashtra during monsoon. The winding roads, thick fog, and waterfalls spilling down the cliffs create an enchanting setting. The drive is dotted with lush green hills and photo-worthy spots at every turn.
Highlights:
- Pimpalgaon Joga Dam
- Harishchandragad Trek
- Flamingos (early monsoon)
Keyword fit: scenic drives near Mumbai, rainy season road trips near Mumbai
2. Pune to Tamhini Ghat – Hidden Beauty in the Clouds
Distance: 70 km
Time: 2 hours
Best for: Nature photography, peaceful drives
The drive through Tamhini Ghat during monsoon is one of the best-kept secrets for nature lovers. The route is filled with lush vegetation, mist-covered hills, and flowing streams. For those looking for road trips from Pune during monsoon, Tamhini offers an easily accessible escape into nature.
Highlights:
- Scenic waterfalls
- Devkund Waterfall Trek
- Mulshi Lake views
Keyword fit: road trips from Pune during monsoon, monsoon weekend getaways Maharashtra
3. Mumbai to Lonavala & Khandala – Timeless Monsoon Getaways
Distance: 83 km
Time: 2 hours
Best for: Weekend road trips, family travel
No list of weekend road trips from Mumbai is complete without Lonavala and Khandala. While they remain popular year-round, their real charm unfolds during the monsoon. The expressway becomes a visual delight with waterfalls, mist, and emerald hills on either side.
Highlights:
- Tiger Point
- Bhushi Dam
- Rajmachi Fort Trek
4. Pune to Lavasa – A Rain-Kissed Hill City
Distance: 57 km
Time: 1.5 hours
Best for: Couples, scenic drive lovers
Built around the Warasgaon Lake, Lavasa is a modern hill city perfect for a cozy monsoon weekend.The drive to Lavasa features winding roads, lush green hills, and countless Instagram-worthy stops along the way. If you’re based in Pune, this is one of the most scenic monsoon drives you can take.
Highlights:
- Lakeside cafes
- Boating (when safe)
- Cityscape views in the mist
5. Mumbai to Igatpuri – Misty Peaks and Cascading Waterfalls
Distance: 121 km
Time: 3 hours
Best for: Tranquility, photography
Tucked away in the Nashik district, Igatpuri turns into a monsoon paradise. Driving from Mumbai to Igatpuri offers some of the most scenic drives near Mumbai, especially around Kasara Ghat. The landscape here is surreal during the rains with dense clouds, vibrant greenery, and waterfalls in every direction.
Highlights:
- Bhatsa River Valley
- Camel Valley
- Vipassana Center
6. Pune to Mahabaleshwar – A Monsoon Wonderland
Distance: 120 km
Time: 3 hours
Best for: Hill station charm, strawberry fields
Mahabaleshwar, located in the Sahyadri range, is among the Maharashtra monsoon travel destinations you just can’t skip. The winding roads, foggy viewpoints, and lush green forests create a fairy-tale-like setting for travelers.
Highlights:
- Arthur’s Seat
- Venna Lake
- Mapro Garden
7. Mumbai to Bhandardara – A Lake-Lover’s Dream
Distance: 165 km
Time: 4.5 hours
Best for: Peaceful retreat, lakeside camping
Located near Igatpuri, Bhandardara is a serene retreat nestled by the Pravara River. The monsoon amplifies its charm with cascading waterfalls and lush, dense greenery. This is a great pick for lakeside camping in Maharashtra and those seeking a digital detox.
Highlights:
- Arthur Lake
- Randha Falls
- Umbrella Falls
8. Pune to Kaas Plateau – The Valley of Flowers in Maharashtra
Distance: 140 km
Time: 4 hours
Best for: Flower bloom, UNESCO site
A UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, the Kaas Plateau comes alive with seasonal flowers during the late monsoon. The journey from Pune to Kaas is scenic and peaceful, with small villages, lush forests, and lakes dotting the route.
Highlights:
- Kaas Lake
- Sajjangad Fort
- Flower photography (late August–September)
9. Mumbai to Alibaug via Coastal Route – Rain by the Sea
Distance: 95 km
Time: 3 hours
Best for: Coastal views, beach drives
Skip the expressway and take the scenic coastal road to Alibaug through Revdanda and Kashid. Monsoon turns this route into a lush green belt with charming sea views and beautiful stretches of road.
Highlights:
- Kashid Beach
- Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary
- Revdanda Fort
10. Pune to Matheran – No Cars, All Nature
Distance: 120 km
Time: 3.5 hours
Best for: Eco-travel, trekking
Matheran, the only automobile-free hill station in Asia, is a great spot for monsoon weekend getaways in Maharashtra. Although vehicles are not allowed in the town, the drive to the base is scenic and refreshing. You can walk or take a toy train (if operational) to reach the hilltop.
Highlights:
- Echo Point
- Panorama Point
- Charlotte Lake
Essential Tips for Monsoon Road Trips
Before you set off on your journey, here are a few essential tips to keep in mind:
1. Vehicle Check
Ensure your car’s brakes, headlights, wipers, and tires are in top shape. Wet roads can be tricky.
2. Weather Forecast
Always check the forecast. Avoid flood-prone areas and landslide zones.
3. Start Early
Morning drives offer better visibility and help you steer clear of traffic jams and weather-related delays.
4. Pack Right
Carry rain gear, extra clothes, snacks, and a first-aid kit. Download offline maps in case of network loss.
5. Drive Safe
Avoid speeding, use fog lights where necessary, and keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.
Honorable Mentions – More Monsoon Drives Worth Considering
- Mumbai to Durshet – For riverside adventures and forest treks
- Pune to Bhimashankar – Ideal for trekkers and temple lovers
- Kolhapur to Amba Ghat – Western Maharashtra’s green corridor
- Chiplun to Guhagar – Monsoon Magic Along the Konkan Coast
- Satara to Thoseghar Falls – Waterfalls, windmills, and wonder
Conclusion: Embrace the Monsoon, Hit the Road
From misty ghats to breezy beaches, scenic road trips in Maharashtra offer unmatched beauty during the monsoon season. Whether you’re looking for weekend road trips from Mumbai, peaceful road trips from Pune during monsoon, or long drives with your gang, the state is packed with choices.
Don’t let the rain keep you indoors. Pack your bags, fuel up, and set off on a journey where the roads are as memorable as the destination.
FAQs
Q. What are the best road trips in Maharashtra during monsoon?
Top monsoon destinations include Malshej Ghat, Tamhini Ghat, Mahabaleshwar, Lavasa, and the Kaas Plateau.
Q. Is it safe to drive in the monsoon in Maharashtra?
Yes, with proper vehicle checks, safe driving practices, and weather awareness, monsoon drives can be both safe and enjoyable.
Q. Are there any offbeat monsoon road trips near Mumbai?
Yes, consider Bhandardara, Tamhini Ghat, and Matheran for less crowded, more serene experiences.
