Ghats in Maharashtra offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich biodiversity. During the monsoon season, the Western Ghats in Maharashtra transform into a mystical wonderland offering a perfect way to rejuvenate our mind, body and soul.
Hence, it becomes a perfect place for those looking for a place to spend weekend holidays or head out for a long road trip.
If you have a private vehicle or a motorcycle, this would be the perfect time to explore these ghats (mountain passes) and enjoy the lush greenery, scenic landscapes, and stunning waterfalls that they offer.
Western Ghats in Maharashtra offer diverse ecosystems like tropical rainforests, deciduous forests and grasslands. They are also home to popular hill stations in Maharashtra including Lonavala, Khandala, Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani, Matheran and many others.
These ghats of Maharashtra cut through various wildlife sanctuaries and national parks like Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary and Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary. Hence, it makes perfect sense to drive or ride through them and experience nature at its best.
While there are around 15 ghats in Maharashtra here are 11 of them that we cover in this post.
Note: Before you buckle your seatbelt or put on your helmet please note that these ghats of Maharashtra have ample curves and blind spots. Hence, as a blogger, I implore you to drive/ride cautiously and responsibly to avoid any unforeseen situations.
1. Amba Ghat
Elevation: 2000 feet (610 m)
Length: 8 km (5 miles)
Blessed with picturesque mountains, Amba Ghat remains one of the popular ghats in Maharashtra that you can drive through. This mountain pass connects Ratnagiri and Kolhapur and therefore is an ideal weekend getaway choice.
During the monsoon season, the misty landscapes and gushing waterfalls make it one of the most appealing monsoon places in Maharashtra. Many prefer to visit Amba Ghat for trekking and paragliding activities. However, you must take utmost care when you are trekking during heavy rains. If you prefer a short holiday you can look for various resorts in Amba Ghat that offer decent accommodation.
Apart from outdoor adventures, Amba Ghat Ratnagiri is also perfect for those who want to enjoy some wildlife spotting and bird-watching activities. There are a few historical forts of Maharashtra here like Vishalgad Fort that reflect Maratha heritage and history.
Generally, it should take around 30 minutes to cover Amba Ghat. However, with plenty of twists and hairpin bends, it is ideal that you go easy on acceleration.
2. Ambenali Ghat
Elevation: 2051 feet (625 m)
Length: 40 km (25 miles)
Ambenali Ghat is nested in the Northern Western Ghats of Maharashtra and offers an exceptional view of the Sahyadri Mountains. During the monsoon season, this mountain pass in Maharashtra offers a perfect combination of natural landscapes, adventure and historical significance. It is also locally known as Mahabaleshwar Ghat Road.
As you drive through the winding roads of this ghat you can enjoy some vantage points for sightseeing and photography. This ghat in Maharashtra begins in Raigad and ends in Satara near Poladpur.
Being the longest ghat in Maharashtra it can also prove to be the most dangerous ghat in Maharashtra. Firstly, because of its length, sharp bends and steep gradient that can prove fatal. Secondly, this mountain pass goes through the Javli forest area where leopards are frequently spotted.
However, this ghat in Maharastra has various popular hill stations and forts that you can explore. While you are driving through this mountain pass you can visit Mahabaleshwar, Pratapgad Fort, Kamalgad Fort and Tapola.
3. Amboli Ghat
Elevation: 2260 feet (689 m)
Length: 18 km (11 miles)
Nestled in the Konkan region, Amboli Ghat is one of the popular ghats in Maharashtra which gets more visitors during the monsoons. Here you can find Amboli hill station and Amboli waterfall which most visitors prefer.
With its lush greenery, stunning waterfalls and rich biodiversity, Amboli Ghat is the southernmost ghat in Maharashtra. You can also enjoy panoramic views of Madhavgad Fort and the surrounding valleys and forests.
In comparison to other ghats of Maharashtra, this one has fewer sharp turns and bends. However, it is still advisable to drive/ride cautiously.
This region is also perfect for bird enthusiasts and photographers looking for some stunning wildlife and landscape shots. Amboli is also considered the home of the Green Vine snakes and you will find them in abundance here. If you prefer to stay in Amboli you can look for resorts in Amboli for accommodation. Similarly, you can also look for affordable Amboli hotels for weekend getaways.
Note: Amba Ghat, Ambenali Ghat and Amboli Ghat might sound like they are similar mountain passes, but they are different. Of the three, Ambenali Ghat is the northernmost ghat on the map. As you go southwards you come to Amba Ghat followed by Amboli Ghat. These ghats are approximately 170 km (105 miles) away from each other.
4. Anuskura Ghat
Elevation: 2208 feet (673m)
Length: 7 km (4 miles)
Nestled in the Rajapur taluka of Ratnagiri district, Anuskura Ghat is among the most scenic ghats in Maharashtra. If you are looking for long drives and rides where you can stop at various vantage points and soak in the view, this is it.
Unlike other Maharashtra ghats, this one is a hidden gem and not many know about it. However, historically, this mountain pass was an important trade route connecting the coast to the interior regions of Maharashtra.
While the ghat is short in length, you can explore various other local attractions nearby including the Arjuna Dam. This is a perfect place for a one-day picnic or photography tour. Kolhapur is the nearest city to this ghat at around 90 km away.
5. Kasara Ghat (Thal Ghat)
Elevation: 1919 feet (585 m)
Length: 20 km (12.5 miles)
Mountain passes in Maharashtra play an important role in moving people across the Sahyadri Mountains. Kasara Ghat also known as Thal Ghat has been instrumental in the development of the region in the past and the present as well. This remains one of the busiest ghats in Maharashtra and therefore you would find ample traffic here.
Located on the Mumbai-Nashik route, Kasara Ghat connects Mumbai and Pune to Nashik. This ghat is a part of NH-160 which is a major national highway. One can also visit this mountain pass via the rail route and alight at Kasara Railway Station.
The natural landscape of the Kasara Ghat/Thal Ghat is mesmerizing during the monsoon season. Packed with lush green hills, cascading waterfalls and panoramic views of the Western Ghats are a treat to watch for.
If you are visiting popular hill stations in Maharashtra like Igatpuri and Bhandardara you would have to go through this ghat. Camel Valley Point is one of the viewpoints that give you a panoramic view of this mountain pass and its surrounding valleys and forests. You can also visit the Bhivpuri Waterfall which is on the route.
During the rainy season, the combination of poor visibility, slick roads, sharp bends and busy traffic means that you need to drive/ride cautiously and responsibly.
6. Katraj Ghat
Elevation: 2730 feet (832 m)
Length: 13 km (8 miles)
Located on the outskirts of Pune, Katraj Ghat connects Pune to the southern parts of Maharashtra. This ghat is a part of NH-48 which connects Pune to Satara, Kolhapur and further to Bangalore in Karnataka.
Like most ghats of Maharashtra, Katraj Ghat transforms into a green verdant space packed with scenic mountain views, cascading waterfalls and green hills and valleys. The ghat is also close to Sinhagad Fort and many prefer to drive this ghat to enjoy trekking to the fort.
The ghat is also home to Katraj Wildlife Sanctuary and various Buddhist and Jain caves. You can also explore the Katraj Lake close to this mountain pass and enjoy panoramic views of the lake.
However, being close to Pune, this mountain pass remains quite busy, especially on weekends and public holidays. Hence, it is vital to drive cautiously, especially during the monsoon season. You can also visit these places near Pune for short holidays.
7. Khandala Ghat (Bhor Ghat)
Elevation: 2040 feet (622 m)
Length: 18 km (11 miles)
Khandala Ghat (Bhor Ghat) is probably one of the most popular ghats in Maharashtra due to its proximity to Mumbai. This mountain pass connects Khopoli town with Khandala and is one of the ways to reach Khandala and Lonavala.
This route offers stunning views of the Western Ghats in India. Hence, you can enjoy lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and misty valley views on your way. This ghat is situated on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and the old Mumbai-Pune Highway (NH4).
This Maharashtra ghat has various points of interest like the Rajmachi Point, Duke’s Nose, Kune Waterfall, and Tiger’s Leap. People also explore this ghat by train and therefore you can pick various daily passenger trains running from Mumbai to Pune and vice versa.
Bhor Ghat, historically, was an important trade route connecting Konkan with the Deccan Plateau. It was one of the places where the First Anglo-Maratha War was fought between the Maratha Confederacy of India and the British East India Company.
However, today it is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts who prefer to hike, trek and even explore birds. If you are going to hike Maharashtra forts here are some tips on how to hike forts during the monsoon season.
With ample twists and turns and steep gradients, drivers and motorcyclists must follow traffic rules, especially during the monsoon season.
8. Malshej Ghat
Elevation: 2296 feet (700 m)
Length: 8 km (5 miles)
Nestled in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, Malshej Ghat remains one of the popular destinations in Maharashtra during monsoons. This mountain pass is ideal for nature lovers, bird lovers and photographers.
Located on the Kalyan – Ahmednagar road, Malshej Ghat can provide you with pristine views of the Sahyadri Mountains as you drive by. With ample lush green hills, numerous waterfalls, and steep valleys you can enjoy the panoramic views it has to offer.
Malshej Ghat is where you will find Harishchandragad Fort and Ajoba Hill Fort. Many people flock to Malshej Ghat to capture images of migratory flamingos that flock here during the monsoon season.
However, this mountain pass has ample curves and bends that you need to watch out for especially during the rainy season. Hence, you must manage your speed and try not to overtake rashly which could lead to unfortunate situations.
9. Nane Ghat
Elevation: 2461 feet (750 m)
Length: 18 km (11 miles)
Located near the town of Junnar, Nane Ghat also known as Naneghat is the oldest ghat in Maharashtra. This route dates back to the Satavanaha Dynasty (circa 200 BCE). The route was used for trading spices, salts and textiles. Various traders use this route to travel from coastal towns to the interiors of the Deccan Plateau.
The word Nane Ghat translates to Coin Pass referencing the toll that traders paid while using this pass. As you explore this mountain pass you will find various caves that still have inscriptions in Brahmi script which was used back then. These Naneghat caves offer a window into the historical past of this region and the route.
However, today, Naneghat is known for lush green valleys, stunning waterfalls and amazing mountainous views. Various outdoor enthusiasts come here for the Naneghat trek and prefer to stop at the Naneghat trekking point. This ghat is also famous for Naneghat Waterfall also known as Naneghat Reverse Waterfall.
10. Tamhini Ghat
Elevation: 2926 feet (892m)
Length: 15 km (9.3 miles)
This ghat in Maharashtra needs no introduction. Most motorcyclists love to ride through the twists and turns that this mountain pass has to offer. You will find hundreds of motorcycle reviews on YouTube shot in Tamhini Ghat. Considered one of the most beautiful ghats in Maharashtra, Tamhini Ghat Maharashtra offers a great travel experience.
This mountain pass connects the village of Mulshi with Tamhini and is located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. Known for its serene landscapes, lush green valleys, and beautiful waterfalls this one is an instant hit with bikers.
The ghat also connects the coastal town of Mangaon with Mulshi and Pune. Apart from its breathtaking views, the ghat is also known for its rich biodiversity. When you are driving through this mountain pass you can also explore local attractions like Mulshi Dam, Tamhini Waterfall, Devkund Waterfall, Kumbhe Waterfall and Kundalika Valley.
However, this mountain pass witnesses heavy rainfall and that’s what makes it risky as well. Hence, drivers and bikers need to avoid unnecessary speeding, overtaking and lane cutting. Always remember while you are out enjoying your drive people are waiting for you at home.
You can also find ample resorts in Tamhini ghat where you can stay on weekends. You can also find hotels in Lavasa City that would help you enjoy your short holidays in Maharashtra.
11. Varandha Ghat
Elevation: 1788 feet (545 m)
Length: 10 km (6.2 miles)
If you are looking to explore Western Ghats in Maharashtra a drive through the scenic Varandha Ghat is a must. This remains one of the most scenic ghats of Maharashtra and you can enjoy the views in the monsoon season.
This picturesque mountain pass connects the town of Bhor to Mahad. Hence, it connects the interior regions of the Deccan Plateau with the coastal towns of Maharashtra. Dotted with various waterfalls and streams, lush valleys and panoramic views of the Sahyadri Mountains this one is a must-visit.
As you drive through the rolling hills and deep valleys, you get various vantage points where you can park your car and take pictures. The ghat also offers rich biodiversity and therefore you can find various birds, plant life and trees that mesmerize you. The area is also popular with various beginner trekkers who would want to test their stamina levels.
However, Varandha Ghat has many twists and hairpin bends that may prove risky if you’re not careful. During the monsoon, rain can impact the visibility further complicating the experience. Hence, make sure that you follow the rules and maintain your speed. This is an important route on the NH4 highway and this means various state transport buses and container trucks ply on this route.
Conclusion
Driving vehicles and riding motorcycles through twisted mountain passes can be a great experience. During the monsoon season, the Western Ghats in India offer you some spectacular views of the landscape. The Sahyadri Mountains in Maharashtra are an integral part of the Western Ghats and offer mountain passes that connect various towns and villages.
These Maharashtra ghats are rich in biodiversity, offer stunning panoramic views, and have historical significance that makes them a place to explore. However, it is also essential that we understand that these roads are full of hairpin bends, steep gradients and blind spots.
Hence, we must enjoy them with responsibility and care. Nature is beautiful but nature can be unforgiving if you do not respect it. With that note, I conclude my blog on ghats in Maharashtra and hope that you will head out and enjoy the beauty of Maharashtra with care, love and responsibility.
2 comments
These look like delightful places to ride. I’d be concerned about being on a bike, as there doesn’t seem to be much of a shoulder. Is that typical?
Yes, these roads have no shoulders. To be honest, most roads in India do not have them including city roads.