The monsoon season transforms the landscape around Mumbai into a lush green paradise, perfect for trekking enthusiasts. Here are the top 10 treks to do this monsoon and embark on during the monsoon, each offering a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and historical significance.
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1. Rajmachi Fort Trek
Located between Lonavala and Karjat, Rajmachi Fort is one of the most popular trekking destinations near Mumbai. The trail passes through dense forests and picturesque waterfalls, making it an ideal monsoon trek. The fort offers panoramic views of the Sahyadri mountains and the Shirota Dam.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Distance from Mumbai: 82 km
Highlights: Ancient fort, lush greenery, waterfalls
2. Lohagad Fort Trek
Lohagad Fort, meaning Iron Fort, is near Lonavala and stands at an elevation of 3,389 feet. The fort’s sturdy structure and the stunning Pawna Lake views make it a must-visit during the monsoons. The trek is relatively easy and suitable for beginners.
Difficulty Level: Easy
Distance from Mumbai: 98 km
Highlights: Historical fort, Pawna Lake, scenic views
3. Kalsubai Peak Trek
Standing tall at 5,400 feet, Kalsubai is the highest peak in Maharashtra. The trek to the summit is challenging but rewarding, with breathtaking views of the surrounding Western Ghats. The route is well-marked, with ladders and railings to assist trekkers.
Difficulty Level: Difficult
Distance from Mumbai: 152 km
Highlights: Highest peak in Maharashtra, stunning views, challenging climb
4. Harishchandragad Fort Trek
This trek offers a mix of adventure, history, and natural beauty. Harishchandragad Fort, located in the Ahmednagar district, features ancient caves, temples, and the famous Konkan Kada (Konkan cliff). The monsoon season adds to the trek’s allure with cascading waterfalls and lush green landscapes.
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
Distance from Mumbai: 201 km
Highlights: Ancient caves, temples, Konkan Kada, waterfalls
5. Korigad Fort Trek
Situated near Lonavala, Korigad Fort is perfect for a day trek. The trail passes through dense forests and open meadows, and the fort itself offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and lakes. The fort’s structure is well-preserved, making it an interesting exploration spot.
Difficulty Level: Easy
Distance from Mumbai: 110 km
Highlights: Well-preserved fort, scenic views, easy trail
6. Matheran Trek
Matheran, Asia’s only automobile-free hill station, offers a serene and pollution-free trekking experience. The trek to Matheran is relatively easy, with multiple routes like the Garbett Plateau and One Tree Hill Point. The lush green surroundings and misty atmosphere during the monsoon make it a picturesque treks to do this monsoon.
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Distance from Mumbai: 80 km
Highlights: Automobile-free zone, lush greenery, multiple trekking routes
7. Peb Fort (Vikatgad) Trek
Peb Fort, also known as Vikatgad, is located near Neral. The trek is moderately challenging, passing through thick forests, rocky patches, and narrow trails. The fort offers panoramic views of the Matheran range and the surrounding valleys.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Distance from Mumbai: 65 km
Highlights: Panoramic views, diverse terrain, historical fort
8. Visapur Fort Trek
Adjacent to Lohagad Fort, Visapur Fort is another popular trekking destination. The trail is moderately difficult, with steep climbs and slippery paths during the monsoon. The fort’s vast plateau and the stunning views of the surrounding landscape make the trek worthwhile.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Distance from Mumbai: 98 km
Highlights: Vast plateau, stunning views, adjacent to Lohagad Fort
9. Sinhagad Fort Trek
Sinhagad Fort, near Pune, is a significant historical site and a popular trekking destination. The trek is moderate, with a well-defined path leading to the fort. The fort offers panoramic views of the Pune city and the surrounding countryside, especially beautiful during the monsoon.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Distance from Mumbai: 171 km
Highlights: Historical significance, panoramic views, moderate trek
10. Andharban Trek
Unlike traditional treks that lead to a peak or fort, the Andharban trek is a dense forest trail descending into the Konkan region. The name Andharban means “dark forest,” and true to its name, the trail is enveloped in dense foliage. The monsoon season adds a mystical touch to the trek with mist, streams, and waterfalls.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Distance from Mumbai: 132 km
Highlights: Dense forest trail, streams, waterfalls, mystical ambiance
These top 10 treks to do this monsoon offer a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and historical exploration. Remember to carry appropriate trekking gear, stay hydrated, and check the weather conditions before embarking on any trek. Happy trekking!