Maharashtra is a beautiful state in India, especially during the monsoon season. The rains bring the landscape to life, making it lush and green. Here are the ten best places to visit in Maharashtra during the monsoons, along with dos and don’ts, travel details, and approximate budgets.

 1. Lonavala

Overview

Lonavala is a popular hill station known for its scenic beauty. The rain enhances the greenery and waterfalls, making it a must-visit during the monsoons.

Dos and Don’ts

• Do: Visit Bhushi Dam and Tiger’s Leap for stunning views.
• Don’t: Avoid trekking during heavy rain as the trails can be slippery.

Travel Details

• Time: 2-3 hours from Mumbai.
• Mode: Car or train.
• Approximate Budget: ₹2,000-₹3,000 per day.

 2. Mahabaleshwar

Overview

Mahabaleshwar is famous for its strawberries and beautiful landscapes. The monsoons make it even more picturesque with misty hills and waterfalls.

Dos and Don’ts

• Do: Visit Venna Lake and Elephant’s Head Point.
• Don’t: Avoid visiting during heavy rainfall as landslides can occur.

Travel Details

• Time: 5-6 hours from Mumbai.
• Mode: Car or bus.
• Approximate Budget: ₹3,000-₹4,000 per day.

 3. Matheran

Overview

Matheran is a unique hill station as it is vehicle-free. The monsoon season covers the area in a blanket of greenery.

Dos and Don’ts

• Do: Enjoy the toy train ride and visit Charlotte Lake.
• Don’t: Avoid plastic as Matheran is a plastic-free zone.

Travel Details

• Time: 2-3 hours from Mumbai.
• Mode: Car to Neral, then toy train or horse ride.
• Approximate Budget: ₹2,500-₹3,500 per day.

 4. Khandala

Overview

Khandala, close to Lonavala, offers beautiful valleys and lakes. The monsoon season enhances its beauty with fresh greenery and flowing waterfalls.

Dos and Don’ts

• Do: Visit Rajmachi Point and the Duke’s Nose for breathtaking views.
• Don’t: Avoid hiking alone as the trails can be dangerous.

Travel Details

• Time: 2-3 hours from Mumbai.
• Mode: Car or train.
• Approximate Budget: ₹2,000-₹3,000 per day.

 5. Bhandardara

Overview

Bhandardara is a serene and less-crowded destination known for its lakes and waterfalls. The monsoons make it a perfect getaway.

Dos and Don’ts

• Do: Visit the Randha Falls and Arthur Lake.
• Don’t: Avoid swimming in the lakes during heavy rains.

Travel Details

• Time: 3-4 hours from Mumbai.
• Mode: Car.
• Approximate Budget: ₹2,500-₹3,500 per day.

 6. Igatpuri

Overview

Igatpuri is known for its beautiful landscapes and Vipassana center. The monsoon rains make it a picturesque destination.

Dos and Don’ts

• Do: Visit the Bhatsa River Valley and Tringalwadi Fort.
• Don’t: Avoid venturing out during thunderstorms.

Travel Details

• Time: 2-3 hours from Mumbai.
• Mode: Car or train.
• Approximate Budget: ₹2,500-₹3,500 per day.

 7. Malshej Ghat

Overview

Malshej Ghat is a mountain pass known for its misty hills and numerous waterfalls during the monsoons.

Dos and Don’ts

• Do: Visit Harishchandragad Fort and Pimpalgaon Joga Dam.
• Don’t: Avoid driving at night as the roads can be dangerous.

Travel Details

• Time: 3-4 hours from Mumbai.
• Mode: Car.
• Approximate Budget: ₹2,500-₹3,500 per day.

 8. Amboli

Overview

Amboli is a lesser-known hill station that turns into a paradise during the monsoons with its lush green forests and waterfalls.

Dos and Don’ts

• Do: Visit the Amboli Waterfall and Shirgaonkar Point.
• Don’t: Avoid trekking during heavy rains.

Travel Details

• Time: 7-8 hours from Mumbai.
• Mode: Car or bus.
• Approximate Budget: ₹3,000-₹4,000 per day.

 9. Panchgani

Overview

Panchgani is another beautiful hill station known for its scenic views and strawberry farms. The monsoon season adds to its charm.

Dos and Don’ts

• Do: Visit Table Land and Sydney Point.
• Don’t: Avoid visiting during peak monsoon days due to landslides.

Travel Details

• Time: 5-6 hours from Mumbai.
• Mode: Car or bus.
• Approximate Budget: ₹3,000-₹4,000 per day.

 10. Lohagad Fort

Overview

Lohagad Fort is a popular trekking destination. The monsoon season makes the trek more adventurous with greenery and waterfalls along the way.

Dos and Don’ts

• Do: Wear proper trekking shoes and carry rain gear.
• Don’t: Avoid the trek during heavy rainfall to prevent accidents.

Travel Details

• Time: 2-3 hours from Mumbai.
• Mode: Car to the base village, then trek.
• Approximate Budget: ₹1,500-₹2,500 per day.

 Conclusion

Traveling in Maharashtra during the monsoons can be a delightful experience if planned well. Each destination offers unique beauty enhanced by the rains. Always check the weather forecast, pack appropriately, and follow the dos and don’ts to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Whether you seek adventure or peace, Maharashtra has something to offer during the monsoon season. Enjoy your journey and stay safe!