Monsoon Trek? Here Are 8 Places You Must Go!

Mumbai is finally bidding goodbye to the scorching summer (at least, we hope so!) and the monsoon is making its way in. What’s better than Mumbai monsoons?! So get ready to pack your bags and set off on a wonderful trekking experience with the family to these places that are only 200 kms from the maddening Mumbai streets. Get set go!

1. Ajoba

Image source: treksandtrails.org

Altitude: 4511 feet

Don’t miss: Cradle of Sitamai, Luv-Khush Palna, Valmiki Ashram

What’s special: One of the highest peaks in the Sahyadri ranges, Ajoba Hill is a favourite among Mumbaikars in the monsoon season. This is the place where Sita is believed to have stayed during her exile from Lord Rama, according to the Ramayana. The trek, especially if you are travelling with kids, should be split into two parts. The first part- to reach the Valmiki Ashram takes about an hour and a half and the second part of the trekking to reach the Luv-Khush Palna takes about 2 hours. Plan the trip accordingly with kids, with intermittent gaps and proper refreshment.

2. Lohagad Fort

Image source: trekkerpedia.com

Altitude: 3390 feet

Don’t miss: If you are travelling with a group and have the energy, don’t miss the nearby Visapur fort; Bhaja and Karla caves.

What’s special: In what translates as Iron Fort, this place is a must-visit to those who are planning a quick respite from the boring city life. As you enter the fort, the four main entrances- Ganesh, Narayan, Hanuman and Maha Darwaja give you an idea of how strong the fort was built and the sense of protection and security it had provided to the then rulers.

3. Rajmachi Fort

Image source: wikipedia

Altitude: 2710 feet

Don’t miss: Shrivardhan fort and Manaranjan fort

What’s special: In what is considered as one of the easiest trekking destinations for beginners, Rajmanchi, that is easily accessible from Pune and Mumbai is a sight to behold. Also, if you are heading to Rajmachi with the kids and have some time to spare, don’t miss Della Adventure that is only 4-5 kms from the fort.

4. Mahuli Fort

Image source: shahapurkar-wordpress.com

Altitude: 2815 feet

Don’t miss: Shiva temple, Sanctuary near the fort

What’s special: This highest fort in Thane district is the ultimate choice for rock climbers. With lush green forests and meadows around, this picturesque location is an option you must consider for your monsoon treks. The forest area near the fort has now been declared as a sanctuary. You will need to be an expert and trekking and rock climbing to go atop the various pinnacles in Mahuli.

5. Karnala Fort

Altitude: 1440 feet

Don’t miss: Karnala Bird Sanctuary

What’s special: An ideal trekking experience for beginners and for children. Situated along the Mumbai-Goa highway, Karnala fort is a beginner’s paradise. Also, this is one of the nearest trekking experiences from Mumbai you can have with your family, so don’t miss it.

6. Korigad Fort

Image source: pune99

Altitude: 3049 feet

Don’t miss: Koraidevi temple, Amby Valley Township

What’s special: Something you shouldn’t miss if you are planning a trip near Lonavala with family. The Korigad fort overlooks the famous Amby Valley township and is famous for its intact wall that runs for a distance of more than 2kms. The fort is also famous for its six canons- the largest being Laxmi Toph, near the Koraidevi temple.

7. Sinhagad Fort

Altitude: 4320 feet

Don’t miss: Tanaji Malusares Samadhi, Tanaji Kada, Lokmanya Tilak Bungalow

What’s special: The Sinhgad Fort is said to have been built around 2000 years ago. With a breathtaking landscape that offers one of the best views during monsoon, come visit this place for a fun trekking experience with the kids, as well as some authentic Maharashtrian delicacies.

8. Peth Kothaligad Trek