Once the monsoon clouds arrive in the Western Ghats, the Sahyadri mountain ranges take on the beautiful colour of a green paradise shrouded in dense mist. For people from Pune, the arrival of June and July is always synonymous with vacations such as Lonavala and Mulshi. Yet if one seeks an environment free from the hustle and bustle of crowds and the roar of tourists, there is a lot more that the area has in store in terms of natural beauty. Here is a list of five such falls that await discovery.

5 Hidden Waterfalls Near Pune You Must Visit This Monsoon For Breathtaking Views

1. Madhe Ghat Waterfall 

Situated just near the ancient fort of Torna, Madhe Ghat is one of the nearest yet most underrated monsoon destinations near Pune. It is a waterfall that drops sharply from above into the Konkan valley. What makes it unique is the thick fog that engulfs the area, giving the feeling that one is walking inside a cloud. This place has been historically famous for transporting the body of the valiant warrior Tanaji Malusare back to his village from the battle of Sinhagad.

  • Distance from Pune: 55 km (via Sinhagad Road / Pabhe Ghat)

  • Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

2. Khandi Waterfall

If you are looking for a scenic long drive with fewer trekkers, the road to Khandi Point is unmatched. Surrounded by the backwaters of Thokarwadi Dam, the entire stretch comes alive with nameless streams, but the main Khandi Waterfall is tucked away safely at the end of the route. It offers panoramic views of deep, rolling green valleys without the commercial noise of neighbouring Lonavala.

  • Distance from Pune: 65 km (Thokarwadi Dam area)

  • Trek Difficulty: Easy

3. Devkund Waterfall

Often called the ‘Bathing Pond of Gods,’ Devkund is a spectacular plunge waterfall where three streams converge to drop into a natural pool. While it has gained traction among trekking groups, it remains hidden from the casual tourist because reaching it requires a mesmerising 3-hour hike through dense, wet forests and across minor river streams. Even during the peak rainy season, the water in its deep rocky reservoir retains a stunning turquoise hue.

  • Distance from Pune: 80 km (via Tamhini Ghat to Bhira Village)

  • Trek Difficulty: Moderate 

4. Reverse Waterfall at Ane Ghat

Tucked into the borders of the Tamhini Ghat region, the reverse waterfall at Ane Ghat is a bizarre and beautiful natural phenomenon. Because of the heavy, high-velocity winds that rush up the steep Sahyadri cliffs during peak monsoon, the cascading water is blown violently upwards instead of falling down. It creates a heavy, refreshing mist that sprays everyone standing near the edge of the ghat road.

  • Distance from Pune: 100 km (via Paud Road to Tamhini/Ane Ghat)

  • Trek Difficulty: Very Easy

5. Kalu Waterfall 

Originating from the Kalu River, this is the largest and most dramatic waterfall in the entire Malshej region. Falling from a staggering height of roughly 1,200 feet, Kalu is a massive five-tiered cascade. The trail takes you through local hamlets and thick jungle terrain where you can hear the deafening roar of the water long before you actually catch a glimpse of its magnificent scale.

  • Distance from Pune: 130 km (via Rajgurunagar to Malshej Ghat)

  • Trek Difficulty: Moderate

Image credits: Freepik

ALSO READ- Why Lohagad Fort Is One Of The Best Monsoon Treks Near Pune

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