This is why Malshej Ghat is the best, quick getaway from Mumbai

The penchant for travel has taken mankind to discover marvels around the world. There are instances like Columbus setting out to discover and see what he could not see beyond his sight, or the Wright Brothers designing an aircraft to help them fly. But we have something easier, because reaching the unspoilt environs of Malshej Ghat will not require you to pull off stunts like Columbus and the Wright brothers.

We are glad that we are living in a time where everything is just a tap away. Without banging your head around any scientific theory, you can set off in your quest to travel far and wide.
And the city that has the potential to infuse such zeal in you is Mumbai. With the signature Gateway of India at the edge of the water, and the Marine Drive caressing the arms of Arabian Sea, it has encouraged even a passer-by to dream of exploring. Malshej Ghat is one of the prime attractions that has turned out to be a major draw card for this city. If you want a quick getaway and don’t want to miss out on anything, drive to this place and get the deserved break. Here is more about the ghat.

Why Malshej Ghat?

A beautiful and quiet hill station, Malshej Ghat is quite popular among the trekkers, hikers and nature lovers as it is abundantly adorned with mountains, lakes and numerous waterfalls. Located in the Western Ghats range in Pune district, it is a tourist hotspot. It sits at an altitude of 700 m above the sea level, and has pleasant weather and picturesque views to mesmerise one and all.

What makes Malshej Ghat a unique place to explore is the sight how several rivers cut through it, how numerous forts offer you a glimpse of the rich heritage, and the cascading waterfalls that are a sight to behold. Not to mention, how the diverse flora and fauna further add to the beauty of this place.
Places and things to do in Malshej Ghat
Ajoba Hill Fort for trekking
It is one of the highest peaks in the Sahyadri ranges, standing at a height of 4511 ft. Famous for being one of the most popular treks near Mumbai, Ajoba Hill Fort is also believed to be sacred because, as per legends, this is the place where Goddess Sita spent her time in an ashram during her exile, i.e., after she got separated from Lord Rama. When you reach halfway up the mountain, you will find Valmiki Ashram, believed to be the cave, where Goddess Sita stayed with her two sons.
Trekking to this hill fort can be done in two ways, i.e., either from the eastern or the western side. The path to the mountains turns rough and risky during monsoons, so it is advised to trek during dry weather. There is a small water stream too in the mountain, allowing trekkers to fill their bottles with pure drinking water. From here, you can further trek to Luv-Kush Palna, which can be done by passing a rivulet situated beyond the ashram.

Depending on the time of the year, you are planning to explore this place, make sure you take appropriate clothes and trekking shoes. The lush greenery around you will surely pump you to undergo this risky trial, but the effort you make will be worth enough. People interested in rock climbing also come here to feel the adrenaline rush.

Pimpalgaon Joga Dam for bird-watching
The Pimpalgaon Joga Dam is built across the Pushpavati River and covers a sprawling 5 km stretch. The dam is also a prime attraction of this place as its lofty cliffs provides opportunity for spectacular scenery. Also considered to be a haven for different bird species, you know who will give you company up there. If you are lucky enough, you might get to see migratory birds, such as Pink Flamingos, whereas birds like Whistling Thrush, Pied Crested Cuckoo, Alpine Swift, Purple Moorhen and Quail make regular appearances. If you are a nature lover, you know where to head now.

The sight of cascading waterfall

Malshej Ghat has been blessed with countless beautiful natural waterfalls. In fact, the waterfalls are the major crowd pullers because the sheer joy of walking through the waterfalls can’t be described in words. If you only want to enjoy the sight of cascading waterfall, you need to visit Malshej Ghat during monsoons, when the place seems to be like a symphony of waterfalls. Think of the canvas in which you are walking into, where mist, rain, fog and cascading waterfall form the background.
How to reach Malshej Ghat?
There is no direct train to Malshej Ghat. The nearest railway station is Kalyan Railway Station, which is around 86 km away from Malshej Ghat. It will take you around 1.5 hours to reach the place.
This place is, however, well-connected by buses. In fact, there are frequent bus services available from Mahuli Fort to Mumbai and Kalyan.

If the above options don’t appease you, hire a cab and reach your destination at ease.