Sebastian Joseph/Flickr
After the sweltering heat of the Indian summer, Mumbaikars may welcome the soon-to-hit monsoon season with open arms (as well as a steaming cup of chai and vada pav).
But few things will set the ol' adrenaline rushing more than flying the coop for the weekend, even as the monsoons strike. Mumbai is surrounded by lush, green getaway spots that a. get painted greener and lusher by the rains, b. make for a scenic, romantic mini-holiday c. feature the perfect blend of waterfalls, hilly areas, and lakes to explore and hone your photography skills.
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Most importantly, they're all located within 500 km of the city.
Here are 9 underrated places to really enjoy that monsoonwaala cuppa chai and vada pav at:
Malshej Ghat - 130 Km
Satrajit Basu/Flickr
Famous for its flamingoes and other types of fauna that flock around, Malshej Ghat is an worthy monsoon trip waiting to be taken. It boasts of a smattering of private resorts as well as campsites. Head to Darkoba Peak for some rock climbing or trekking, or simply admire the many waterfalls that seemingly sprout out of nowhere in this area.
Kaas Plateau - 285 Km
Sebastian Joseph/Flickr
Located near Satara, Kaas Plateau is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monsoon season is the best time to visit this belt, that hosts over 850 different species of flora. During this season several varieties of flowers blossom, underneath an overcast sky, making it quite a romantic spot.
Panshet - 179 Km
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A popular weekend destination for Pune residents, Panshet features a range of activities from kayaking, waterskiing and water scooters for those who like an activity-filled weekend. There are also several forts to explore, including the Sinhagad fort, Torna and Raigad, as well the Sinhagad National Park. There are also facilities to camp out in the open sans the discomfort of doing your business in the open.
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Nashik - 171 Km
Sula Vineyards
Nashik makes for a heady destination — quite literally, since it is home to the famous Sula (and various other) vineyards, which in itself makes for an entire trip: it features wine tours, wine therapies, and some excellent French cuisine. You also can't visit Nashik without eating the famous Misal Pav.
Bhandardara - 185 Km
Enygmatic-Halycon/Flickr
Situated at the banks of the Pravara River, Bhandardara also makes for an ideal weekend trekking trail. It is also steeped in historical culture — a 1,000-year old temple dedicated to Shiva sits here serenely, and it is also believed to be the meditation spot of Agasti Rishi. Tourists cannot avoid seeing the Wilson Dam that was built in 1910, and should try to catch a glimpse of the (seasonal) Randha falls.
Igatpuri - 130 Km
furiouskaa5786/Flickr
This little hill station has been put on the map by a Vipassana Academy, that practices the old art of vipassana meditation. It's beautiful green landscapes have also played host to many an Indian film shoot. A large Golden Pagoda also serves as its main landmark. The best place to shop for chips, biscuits and sodas is Babaji's, else head to (the delightfully-named) Camel Valley to view the waterfalls.
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Bhimashankar - 213 Km
DraconianRain/Flickr
Bhimashankar is a place heavy on religion, and prayer — ideal to visit if you want to reflect on life's greater meaning. The Jyotirlinga temple here (which features intricate carvings on its doors and pillars) is always bustling with devotees any time of the year. Once you're done visiting the Hanuman Lake, Bhimashankar Wildlife Reserve, houses a large variety of birds, animals and plants.
Kalusubai - 152 Km
Enygmatic-Halycon/Flickr
The highest peak of the Sahyadri mountain range (at 1646 metres), Kalusubai offers peaceful panoramas of rolling hills lost in dense clouds — a view that's worth the trek up this mountain. The place is dotted with temples to visit, as well as private resorts and bungalows to stay at.
Thoseghar Waterfalls - 277 Km
Hus9/Flickr
There are a series of waterfalls located near the village of Thoseghar, ranging from 20 - 500 metres in height. The best time to visit these falls is during the monsoon, when there is a heavier flow of water making the sight even grander than usual, amidst a plush, green valley. Even if it can get slightly crowded at the waterfalls, the area offers quiet respite from the busy city of Mumbai.
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