The arrival of the monsoon transforms Maharashtra into a lush green paradise. Drenched in rain, the hills shimmer, waterfalls roar back to life, and the fog blankets the valleys—creating scenes straight out of a dream. From the misty landscapes of Lonavala to the roaring waterfalls of Bhandardara, Maharashtra offers some of the most magical monsoon destinations in India.
In this detailed guide by Adotrip, we uncover the best tourist places in Maharashtra to explore during the rainy season, offering nature, adventure, and culture in equal measure.
Why Visit Maharashtra in the Monsoon?
The monsoon season (June to September) brings:
Refreshing climate after the scorching summer
Rejuvenated waterfalls and rivers
Dense greenery in Sahyadri ranges
Vibrant local festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi
Off-season travel discounts in many locations
If you're a traveler who loves scenic drives, treks, or cozying up in a hillside cottage with tea and thunder, tourist places in Maharashtra during the monsoon are your dream come true.
Top 15 Monsoon Tourist Places in Maharashtra
1. Lonavala and Khandala – Misty Hill Retreats
Highlights: Bhushi Dam, Tiger’s Leap, Rajmachi Point
Lonavala and Khandala come alive during the monsoon. The ghats are cloaked in fog, and waterfalls burst forth at every turn.
Activities: Trekking, waterfall hopping, Chikki shopping
2. Mahabaleshwar – Verdant Valleys and Strawberries
Highlights: Arthur’s Seat, Lingmala Waterfall, Venna Lake
In monsoon, Mahabaleshwar turns into a lush green escape with clouds hanging low and spectacular valley views.
Activities: Boating, sightseeing, eating fresh corn and strawberries
3. Bhandardara – Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers
Highlights: Randha Falls, Arthur Lake, Wilson Dam
One of the lesser-known monsoon destinations, Bhandardara becomes a waterfall lover’s paradise.
Activities: Camping, photography, boat rides
4. Malshej Ghat – For Monsoon Treks and Flamingos
Highlights: Waterfalls, Malshej Fort, Harishchandragad
If you're an adventure junkie, this place offers panoramic views and excellent trekking options.
Activities: Trekking, birdwatching, exploring forts
5. Igatpuri – For a Serene Monsoon Getaway
Highlights: Vaitarna Dam, Camel Valley, Vipassana Centre
Surrounded by the Western Ghats, Igatpuri's quiet monsoon charm makes it a relaxing retreat.
Activities: Meditation, lake visits, monsoon picnics
6. Amboli – The Rain Capital of Maharashtra
Highlights: Amboli Falls, Shirgaonkar Point
This small hill station receives the highest rainfall in Maharashtra and is ideal for nature lovers.
Activities: Waterfall chasing, nature walks
7. Tamhini Ghat – Monsoon Drive Heaven
Highlights: Forest trails, waterfalls, Bhira Dam
Located near Pune, this scenic ghat section is perfect for monsoon road trips.
Activities: Scenic drives, photography, nature treks
8. Matheran – The Car-Free Hill Station
Highlights: Charlotte Lake, Echo Point, Panorama Point
Matheran remains vehicle-free and pristine. During monsoon, it's even more tranquil with cloud-kissed paths.
Activities: Toy train rides, horse rides, walks in the mist
9. Kaas Plateau – Valley of Flowers of Maharashtra
Highlights: Seasonal wildflower bloom (August–September)
A UNESCO biodiversity site, Kaas turns into a blooming carpet of colors during late monsoon.
Activities: Photography, nature walks, eco-tourism
10. Torna Fort – For Trekkers and History Buffs
Highlights: Historical trek route, lush surroundings
Among Shivaji's earliest forts, Torna becomes a trekker’s delight in the rains.
Activities: Monsoon trekking, fort exploration
11. Kolad – White Water Rafting in Monsoon
Highlights: Kundalika River, rafting camps
Adrenaline meets scenic beauty at Kolad, especially during the rains.
Activities: Rafting, ziplining, camping
12. Panchgani – Foggy Charm and Colonial Air
Highlights: Table Land, Sydney Point, Parsi Point
A quieter alternative to Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani is perfect for cozy monsoon getaways.
Activities: Paragliding, sightseeing, strawberry picking
13. Lavasa – Italy-Inspired Monsoon Town
Highlights: Lakeside promenade, nature trails
With European vibes, Lavasa turns dreamy in the monsoon. The lake and ghats add to the beauty.
Activities: Cycling, photography, lakeside strolls
14. Chikhaldara – The Only Coffee-Growing Area in Maharashtra
Highlights: Melghat Tiger Reserve, Bhimkund
Located in Vidarbha, this lesser-known hill station is serene and culturally rich.
Activities: Jungle safari, tribal village tours
15. Nashik – Monsoon Wine Trails and Temples
Highlights: Sula Vineyards, Trimbakeshwar Temple
While not a hill station, Nashik is lovely in the monsoon for vineyard tours and heritage trails.
Activities: Wine tasting, riverfront walks, temple visits
Best Monsoon Drives in Maharashtra
Mumbai to Lonavala via Old Highway
Pune to Tamhini Ghat
Nashik to Bhandardara
Kolhapur to Amboli
Road trips during the monsoon are unforgettable with waterfalls and misty ghats on every route.
Local Food to Try in Monsoon
Bhutta (Roasted corn) with lemon and masala
Kanda Bhaji (Onion fritters) with chutney
Misal Pav with hot chai in a hilltop stall
Puran Poli during festive monsoon
Monsoon Travel Tips for Maharashtra
Carry waterproof gear – raincoats, windcheaters, covers
Avoid trekking in thunderstorms
Keep cash and offline maps
Drive cautiously in ghats
Pre-book stays in remote areas
Why Book with Adotrip?
Expert-curated monsoon travel itineraries
Best deals on hotels, flights, and experiences
All-in-one platform for seamless bookings
Access to offbeat tourist places in Maharashtra
With our “Trip Planner,” you’re never far from your perfect monsoon escape.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the best tourist places in Maharashtra to visit in monsoon?
Lonavala, Malshej Ghat, Bhandardara, and Mahabaleshwar are top picks.
2. Is it safe to travel to Maharashtra during the rainy season?
Yes, but avoid landslide-prone zones and check weather updates.
3. Which hill stations are best visited in monsoon in Maharashtra?
Lonavala, Matheran, Igatpuri, Mahabaleshwar, and Amboli are great options.
4. Are treks in Maharashtra safe during monsoon?
Monsoon treks can be thrilling but slippery. Go with experienced guides.
5. Which places in Maharashtra have the most waterfalls?
Bhandardara, Malshej Ghat, and Amboli are waterfall-rich destinations.
6. What local foods should I try in Maharashtra during monsoon?
Try kanda bhaji, bhutta, vada pav, and hot chai at hill stations.
7. Which is the most scenic drive in Maharashtra in monsoon?
Pune to Tamhini Ghat or Mumbai to Lonavala via old highway.
8. Is Lavasa worth visiting in monsoon?
Yes, its lakeside setting and greenery make it beautiful in rains.
9. What clothes should I pack for a monsoon trip in Maharashtra?
Light layers, quick-dry clothes, waterproof jackets, and good footwear.
10. What is the best time to see flowers in Kaas Plateau?
Mid-August to late September is ideal for flower bloom at Kaas.
11. Can I do white water rafting in Maharashtra during monsoon?
Yes, Kolad offers monsoon rafting on the Kundalika River.
12. Are there any offbeat monsoon places in Maharashtra?
Chikhaldara and Bhandardara are relatively unexplored yet stunning.
13. Is it possible to travel with kids during monsoon in Maharashtra?
Absolutely! Just choose safer routes and kid-friendly stays.
14. Does monsoon affect hotel pricing in Maharashtra?
Yes, many hill stations offer off-season discounts during early monsoon.
15. How can I plan a monsoon trip easily?
Use Adotrip’s Trip Planner to book stays, experiences, and routes seamlessly.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an adventurer, or someone looking to relax amidst greenery, the monsoon season turns tourist places in Maharashtra into magical wonderlands. Misty mornings, gurgling streams, dense green valleys, and dramatic skies—there’s romance and raw beauty at every turn.
So pack your bags, pull out your raincoats, and let Adotrip take you on an unforgettable monsoon journey across Maharashtra.
