Tucked away in the rugged Western Ghats of Maharashtra, Malshej Ghat Tour is a monsoon marvel that comes alive with lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, misty mountains, and exotic wildlife. Whether you’re a trekking enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone looking for a serene getaway from the chaos of city life, Malshej Ghat has something for everyone.
This blog will take you through everything you need to know about planning a Malshej Ghat tour, from how to reach, the best time to visit, and must-visit places to accommodations, distances, and local cuisine.
How To Reach Malshej Ghat?
Malshej Ghat is well-connected by road and can be easily accessed from Mumbai and Pune. However, it does not have direct railway or airport connectivity, so you will need to travel by road from the nearest major transport hubs.
By Road
Malshej Ghat is best accessed via road, and the drive itself is a mesmerizing experience. If you are traveling from Mumbai (130 km) or Pune (120 km), you can take the NH 61 (Ahmednagar-Kalyan Highway), which passes through picturesque landscapes, deep valleys, and rolling hills.
- From Mumbai: Take the Eastern Express Highway → Kalyan → Murbad → Malshej Ghat.
- From Pune: Travel via Pune-Nashik Road → Narayangaon → Junnar → Malshej Ghat.
- From Nashik (166 km): Via NH60 → Alephata → Junnar → Malshej Ghat.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Kalyan Junction (85 km). From Kalyan, you can hire a cab or take a state transport bus to reach Malshej Ghat.
By Air
The nearest airport is Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (130 km). From there, you can hire a taxi or take a train to Kalyan and then proceed by road.
Best Time To Visit Malshej Ghat
While Malshej Ghat is beautiful throughout the year, its true magic is best experienced in the monsoon season (June to September) when the waterfalls are in full force and the surroundings are carpeted in lush greenery. However, each season offers a unique charm:
- Monsoon (June-September): The best time for nature lovers and photographers, as the region is adorned with dense fog, roaring waterfalls, and cool weather.
- Winter (October-February): Ideal for trekking, birdwatching, and camping, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C.
- Summer (March-May): Not recommended due to heat, but early mornings and late evenings can still be pleasant.
Malshej Ghat Hotels & Resorts
While Malshej Ghat is more of a nature retreat than a luxury destination, there are a few accommodations that provide a comfortable stay amid the scenic landscapes.
Top Places to Stay in Malshej Ghat:
- MTDC Resort, Malshej Ghat – A government-run resort with basic amenities, stunning valley views, and an on-site restaurant.
- Saj By The Lake – A boutique resort near Malshej Ghat, perfect for a peaceful getaway with lake-facing rooms and eco-friendly cottages.
- Flamingo Hill Resort – Offers a budget-friendly stay with cozy cottages and a homely atmosphere.
- Jandyal Farm House – A rustic stay option, ideal for travelers who want to experience village life close to nature.
If you prefer a luxurious stay, you can also stay in Junnar (30 km away) or Narayangaon (50 km away), which have better resort options.
Best Places To Visit In Malshej Ghat
Malshej Ghat is a paradise for travelers who enjoy scenic landscapes, waterfalls, and adventure activities. Here are some must-visit places:
1. Pimpalgaon Joga Dam
A vast dam built on the Pushpawati River, this spot is a birdwatcher’s delight, especially in the monsoon when you can see flocks of migratory flamingos.
2. Harishchandragad Fort
One of the most popular trekking destinations near Malshej Ghat, Harishchandragad Fort offers breathtaking views from Kokankada (Konkan Cliff), a sheer drop of 1,800 feet.
3. Malshej Falls
During monsoon, the entire region is dotted with numerous waterfalls. The Malshej Falls, located along the highway, are a sight to behold.
4. Ajoba Hill Fort
A lesser-known trekking trail, Ajoba Hill Fort is ideal for those who want a quieter hiking experience amidst dense forests.
5. Khireshwar Village
A small, picturesque village at the base of Harishchandragad, perfect for experiencing rural Maharashtra and interacting with locals.
6. Shivneri Fort
Located 30 km from Malshej Ghat, this is the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and an important historical site.
Malshej Ghat Tour from Mumbai
A road trip from Mumbai to Malshej Ghat is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of the Western Ghats.
- Distance: 130 km
- Travel Time: 3.5 – 4 hours
- Route: Mumbai → Kalyan → Murbad → Malshej Ghat
Suggested Itinerary for a 2-Day Trip from Mumbai
Day 1:
- Start early from Mumbai (6 AM)
- Breakfast at Kalyan or Murbad
- Reach Malshej Ghat by 10 AM and explore the waterfalls
- Visit Pimpalgaon Joga Dam
- Check into a hotel or resort
- Sunset trek to Harishchandragad Fort (if time permits)
Day 2:
- Early morning visit to Shivneri Fort
- Explore Khireshwar Village
- Return to Mumbai by evening
Malshej Ghat Tour from Pune
The route from Pune to Malshej Ghat is equally scenic, passing through charming countryside and small villages.
- Distance: 120 km
- Travel Time: 3 – 3.5 hours
- Route: Pune → Narayangaon → Junnar → Malshej Ghat
1-Day Itinerary from Pune
- Start early (6 AM)
- Breakfast at Narayangaon
- Visit Shivneri Fort
- Reach Malshej Ghat by noon and explore the waterfalls
- Lunch at MTDC Resort
- Evening visit to Pimpalgaon Joga Dam
- Return to Pune by night
Malshej Ghat Distances from Major Cities
| City | Distance | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Mumbai | 130 km | 3.5 – 4 hrs |
| Pune | 120 km | 3 – 3.5 hrs |
| Nashik | 166 km | 4 – 4.5 hrs |
| Kalyan | 85 km | 2 – 2.5 hrs |
| Ahmednagar | 130 km | 3.5 – 4 hrs |
Malshej Ghat Local Cuisines
Maharashtrian cuisine dominates the food scene at Malshej Ghat, with local eateries offering delicious and authentic flavors. Some must-try dishes include:
- Misal Pav – A spicy, tangy Maharashtrian breakfast dish.
- Pithla Bhakri – A traditional dish made of gram flour served with jowar or bajra roti.
- Kanda Bhaji – Crispy onion fritters, best enjoyed with a cup of hot tea in the monsoon.
- Vada Pav – A popular street food snack, perfect for a quick bite.
- Sol Kadhi – A refreshing drink made from kokum and coconut milk.
Final Thoughts
Malshej Ghat is an offbeat gem that offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers, trekkers, and road trip enthusiasts. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or an extended retreat, this destination will leave you mesmerized with its beauty, culture, and serenity. So pack your bags, hit the road, and let Malshej Ghat work its magic on you! 🌿🌧️🚗
