Best Monsoon Treks Near Pune: Waterfalls, Forests and Forts

From June to September the Sahyadri turns green, every gully becomes a waterfall and the forest trails fill with streams. These are the monsoon treks we run from Pune, all one-day trips with pickup in the early morning and transport back to Pune.

1. Kalu Waterfall, Malshej Ghat (Easy)

The highest and largest waterfall in the Malshej region, falling from about 1200 ft. Around 90% of it is hidden from the road, so only trekkers get the full view. It flows down from Harishchandragad through Khireshwar village. Best for beginners. Season: July to October, at its peak in the monsoon. Kalu Waterfall trek

2. Devkund Waterfall, Bhira (Easy to Moderate)

“The reservoir of God”: a pool where three waterfalls meet, said to be the origin of the Kundalika river. The jungle trail from Bhira has stream crossings, a hanging bridge and views of the Kundalika Valley. Devkund trek · Devkund guide

3. Andharban Jungle Trek, Tamhini Ghat (Easy to Moderate)

Andharban means “dark forest”. It is a gradual descent trek that starts at about 2100 ft near Pimpri village and passes waterfalls and three major stream crossings, with ridge views of the Kundalika Valley and Bhira Dam. Look out for the Malabar whistling thrush and other monsoon birds. Andharban trek

4. Aadrai Jungle Trek, Malshej Ghat (Easy to Moderate)

A deep forest walk of about 7.5 km near Malshej Ghat, with views of the Khireshwar valley and Kalu waterfall, plus the Nageshwar temple and caves. The drive through Malshej in the rain is half the fun. Aadrai trek

5. Korigad Fort & Savlya Ghat (Moderate)

A double trek near Lonavala: the well-preserved walls, temples and lakes of Korigad Fort, then the lesser-known Savlya Ghat through waterfalls and forest. Best if you already have a trek or two behind you. Korigad & Savlya Ghat trek

6. Raireshwar & Kenjalgad (Easy)

History and monsoon scenery in one day: the rock-cut steps of Kenjalgad Fort and the Raireshwar Plateau, where Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj took the oath of Hindavi Swarajya in 1645. Raireshwar & Kenjalgad trek

7. Bhimashankar to Bhorgiri Forest Trail (Easy)

Darshan at the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, then a descent through the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary to Bhorgiri village, with stream crossings, waterfalls and a visit to Gupt Bhimashankar. This forest is home to the Shekru, Maharashtra’s state animal. Bhimashankar–Bhorgiri trek

Monsoon safety, in short

• Wear shoes with real grip. Monsoon rock is slippery.
• Carry a raincoat or poncho, not an umbrella: you need both hands.
• Streams rise fast after heavy rain. The trek leader’s decision is final, and a trail may be changed or cut short.
• Keep a dry set of clothes for the ride home.

Not sure which one fits you? Read how to choose the right trek for your fitness level, or browse all our treks.