Malshej Ghat A Memorable Trip To Natural Treasure -

You may not like rains in the city when you have to wait in the long queue of traffic due to rains as you find jams everywhere but there are some places that get the facelifts only in the monsoon and you may be interested to find out. If you live in Pune you should know that it is a place very much blessed by nature from all sides, even you can experience nature’s crafts in the city which is very well placed amongst the hills and lush greenery. These are not just words as I can see breath taking views of green hills, clouds dancing on the mountains from my own apartment which is in Baner area and the same views must be from other high storied apartments in Pune as well. Though the green cover and the hills are becoming the victim of fast urbanisation, still you can find scenic views in the city that are rare in other parts of country. If you are feeling exhausted from city life then let me take you to a refreshing trip in nature’s lap that I assure you to be the best outing of your life in monsoon.The Malshej Ghat is the place where you can fill as much oxygen into your lungs as you can and can sooth your eyes with unbelievable green surroundings. It is 130 (approx) kilometres from Pune city. Yes if you want to this piece of wow then you have to travel a bit. It is not that hectic as you are thinking about. Before you cancel the plan due to distance then let me clear that the way to the Malshej Ghat from Pune is full of irresistible natural views and gives you plenty of opportunities to click camera so do continue with planning as you won’t be able to get bored at any stage. Malshej Ghat is known for its uncountable waterfalls and thick green cover. It is not a commercial hill station that is why please do not expect any fine restaurants or hotels here and I like it that way only and hope you will also. Just get lost in nature and explore as much as you can. What to expect here are:

Plenty of greenery which looks like you are amidst a forest.
A high mountain in different shapes and sizes looks like god has made some extraordinary craft on the Earth.
Big and small waterfalls seem to be white satin ribbons dropping from hill tops.
You can take a natural shower under one of the waterfall.
Not to forget the dancing clouds which are almost on the ground and make things invisible or foggy.
Take a long walk in one of the many trails to enjoy nature in rains and you won’t feel tired at all.
Bird watching is another pleasant experience of this superb valley. Flamingos are the guests of Malshej Ghat in monsoon. These pink legged European birds arrive here in monsoon and breed in the water of Pimpalgaon –Joga Dam. This place is just four kilometres away from the famous Flamingo hill and it is worth visiting as you can get an opportunity to see the mating dance of this beautiful species of birds. Some other migrated birds that come here are green pigeon, Alpine Swift, whistling thrush, pied crested cuckoo, etc are also the guests of Malshej Ghat.

Words are not sufficient to explain the beauty of this place in the monsoon season. The best way to enjoy is to experience it and get involved in every activity of Mother Nature. The cloud cover becomes so think in the rainy season that it makes the visibility to just five metres. The best time to visit this place is in monsoon when nature is in its fullest but summer can take away all the romance with nature as you won’t find it attractive at all in hot days.It is the perfect weekend destination for you and your family or friends. It can be a one day trip but I suggest you to make it a two day trip to enjoy the nature completely. There are not any big resorts or fine accommodation available here because the season for this place is only in monsoon. There is one MTDC resort which is called Flamingos. It has arrangements for night stay and food. Do not concentrate on food as it may not be the best in town but the beauty of this place can easily help you not to remember the taste of food. The plus point is the location of this resort is really good. I suggest advance booking in peak season as it is difficult to find place.Kind suggestions

Best time to visit Malshej Ghat is monsoon preferably from July to September. Route is from Pune to Narayangaon to Junnar to Malshej Ghat. The road is in good condition. This area comes under Sahyadri hills.
Avoid Sundays if you can as it is much crowed on Sundays.
Start early in the morning to reach there to claim one of the best (difficult to decide which one is better) waterfalls to soak under with friends.
Do take extra pair of clothes as you can’t resist getting wet during the trip.
Share your experience with others and all.

Ruchi Mahajan