The ghats in Maharashtra aren’t just roads, they’re the journey itself.
While most stories on this travel website are about destinations, this one is different. It’s about the thrill of the drive, the rain-slicked curves, and the monsoon clouds that chase you through the hills.
These mountain passes cut through forests, forts, and valleys, turning into lush, misty corridors during the monsoon. Hence, these are perfect for long drives, spontaneous photo stops, and unforgettable weekend escapes.
From well-known routes like Malshej and Tamhini to hidden gems like Anuskura Ghat, here’s a curated list of 11 scenic ghats in Maharashtra, complete with travel tips and recommended places to stay if you’re planning to make a trip of it.
Quick Comparison Table: Ghat at a Glance
| Ghat Name | Road Condition | Drive Difficulty | Nearest City |
| Amba Ghat | Good | Moderate | Kolhapur |
| Ambenali Ghat | Excellent | Moderate | Mahabaleshwar |
| Amboli Ghat | Good | Moderate | Sawantwadi |
| Anuskura Ghat | Patchy | Difficult | Rajapur |
| Kasara Ghat | Good | Moderate | Nashik |
| Katraj Ghat | Mixed | Easy | Pune |
| Khandala Ghat | Excellent | Easy | Lonavala |
| Malshej Ghat | Good | Easy | Kalyan |
| Nane Ghat | Patchy | Difficult | Junnar |
| Tamhini Ghat | Mixed | Moderate | Pune |
| Varandha Ghat | Patchy | Difficult | Pune |
Why Explore the Ghats of Maharashtra
The Western Ghats in Maharashtra are more than just scenic backdrops. They offer some of the most thrilling and biodiverse driving routes in India. These mountain passes, locally called ghats, connect the coast to the interior through lush forests, winding valleys, and historic fort zones.
While some are famous for their views, some have a reputation for being dangerous to drive or ride bikes. You’ll find routes like Ambenali Ghat, one of the longest ghats in Maharashtra, and Kasara Ghat, among the most dangerous ghats in Maharashtra due to sharp curves and high traffic.
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.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, birdwatching, fort-hopping, or just escaping the city for a rainy weekend, this guide covers it all.
From famous ghats like Malshej and Khandala to lesser-known ones like Anuskura and Varandha, here’s your map to monsoon magic on four (or two) wheels.
🛣️ Updated for 2025: This guide has been refreshed with the latest driving tips, safety notes, and hotel recommendations to help you plan your monsoon road trip better.
Editor’s Pick for 2025: Ambenali Ghat
When it comes to a dramatic monsoon drive wrapped in mist and history, Ambenali Ghat takes the crown. Stretching from Mahabaleshwar to Poladpur, this 40 km ghat offers hairpin bends, sweeping valley views, and dozens of seasonal waterfalls that come alive with the rains. Add to that the legacy of Shivaji Maharaj and the legendary battle of Pawankhind, and the route becomes more than just a drive — it’s a journey through time.
What also sets Ambenali apart is its easy access to upscale hill resorts. Stay options here include well-known names like Courtyard by Marriott, Le Meridien Mahabaleshwar, and charming hillside properties like Treebo The Venna Hill and Evershine Resort & Spa. Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic rainy getaway or a family seeking luxury with a view, Ambenali has something for everyone.
Why We Picked It:
- Mesmerizing monsoon scenery
- Historical value and hidden viewpoints
- Reliable and scenic stay options in Mahabaleshwar
- Easy weekend access from Pune and Mumbai
11 Gorgeous Ghats in Maharashtra for Long Drives and Bike Tours
1. Amba Ghat
Elevation: 2000 feet (610 m) | Length: 8 km
Region: Kolhapur – Ratnagiri Border
A hidden gem tucked between Kolhapur and Ratnagiri, Amba Ghat is a lush, mist-wrapped mountain pass that becomes a monsoon dreamscape. With rolling hills, sudden waterfalls, and the feeling of driving through clouds, this ghat is perfect for road trippers looking for beauty without the crowds.
If you’re chasing peaceful weekend drives, short treks, or a romantic escape with valley views, this one’s a must-do, especially during the rains.
What to See & Do
- Vishalgad Fort is nearby for history and panoramic views
- Wildlife spotting and birdwatching in the dense surrounding forests
- Scenic hairpin turns ideal for bikers and monsoon photographers
Driving Tip
Amba Ghat has sharp turns, narrow passes, and occasional fog. Drive slowly, especially in the rain and avoid overtaking on blind curves.
🏨 Planning to stay near Amba Ghat? Explore scenic hotels along the highway near Amba Ghat.
2. Ambenali Ghat
Elevation: 2051 feet (625 m) | Length: 40 km
Region: Raigad to Satara (via Mahabaleshwar)
Ambenali Ghat is one of the longest and most dramatic mountain passes in Maharashtra, connecting Poladpur in Raigad to Mahabaleshwar in Satara. Also known as the Mahabaleshwar Ghat Road, this stretch winds through the dense Javli forest, offering misty views and adrenaline-packed curves.
Ideal during monsoons, the ghat transforms into a cinematic route with cliffs, waterfalls, and low-hanging clouds adding to its raw beauty. But its length, steep gradients, and leopard-prone forests demand careful driving.
What to See & Do
- Pratapgad Fort for stunning views and Shivaji-era history
- Tapola for a peaceful lakeside retreat known as the ‘Mini Kashmir’
- Scenic pit stops are ideal for photography and short hikes
Driving Tip
Expect sharp bends and poor visibility during rains. Keep to your lane, avoid night drives, and stay alert in forested sections.
🛏️ Planning to stay in Mahabaleshwar or nearby? Explore hotels along Ambenali Ghat perfect for your road trip → Hotels Near Ambenali Ghat
3. Amboli Ghat
Elevation: 2260 feet (689 m) | Length: 18 km
Region: Sindhudurg (Konkan)
Amboli Ghat is the green gateway to Maharashtra’s southern Konkan, a monsoon magnet that wraps you in clouds, cascading waterfalls, and the sounds of the wild. It’s less twisty than most ghats, but don’t let that fool you, it still demands your attention, especially on wet roads.
Located near Amboli hill station, this ghat is perfect for nature lovers, birders, and anyone craving misty landscapes and rainforest vibes.
What to See & Do
- Amboli Waterfall — a thunderous treat during peak monsoon
- Sunset Point and Madhavgad Fort for wide-angle valley views
- Spot rare reptiles and birds — including the famous green vine snake
Driving Tip
Though relatively easier to navigate, visibility can drop quickly during rain. Watch out for wildlife crossings and slippery patches near waterfalls.
🏨 Looking for a stay wrapped in mist and forest? Check out handpicked hotels near Amboli Ghat → Hotels Near Amboli Ghat
4. Anuskura Ghat
Elevation: 2208 feet (673m) | Length: 7 km
Region: Rajapur, Ratnagiri
A true off-the-map beauty, Anuskura Ghat is one of Maharashtra’s best-kept secrets. This short yet striking ghat offers winding roads with breathtaking views — ideal for monsoon drives, biker pit stops, and photo breaks.
Once a historic trade route linking the Konkan coast to inland Maharashtra, it now tempts solitude seekers and road trippers wanting peace without the crowds.
What to See & Do
- Pause at scenic turns for cloud-kissed valley views
- Visit Arjuna Dam for a quiet, green escape
- Carry snacks — no commercial tourism here, just raw beauty
Driving Tip
Watch out for moss-covered edges and narrow stretches. Mobile networks can be patchy, so keep your route saved offline.
🚗 Planning a quiet road trip to this hidden gem? Browse nearby stays near Anuskura Ghat → Hotels Near Anuskura Ghat
5. Kasara Ghat (Thal Ghat)
Elevation: 1919 feet (585 m) | Length: 20 km
Region: Mumbai–Nashik Route
Kasara Ghat or Thal Ghat is one of Maharashtra’s busiest mountain passes and a lifeline between Mumbai and Nashik. It’s where dramatic cliffs meet highway hustle, especially during monsoon months when the entire stretch bursts into green.
While not a quiet escape, it’s a visual feast for road-trippers and train travellers alike. The Mumbai–Nashik railway snakes through the hills here, offering postcard-worthy views from Kasara Railway Station.
What to See & Do
- Stop at Camel Valley Point for cloud-draped valley views
- Spot seasonal waterfalls tumbling down the cliffs
- Make detours to Igatpuri, Bhandardara, or Bhivpuri Waterfall
Driving Tip
Expect heavy truck traffic and sharp bends. Go slow during the rains as poor visibility and slick roads are common here.
🛣️ Heading toward Igatpuri or Kasara? Discover scenic hotels near Kasara Ghat → Hotels Near Kasara Ghat
6. Katraj Ghat
Elevation: 2730 feet (832 m) | Length: 13 km
Region: Pune Outskirts
Just south of Pune, Katraj Ghat serves as a scenic gateway to Maharashtra’s southern belt. Part of NH-48, it links Pune to Satara, Kolhapur, and all the way to Karnataka, but for city folks, it’s also a quick escape into the hills.
Being close to Pune, this mountain pass remains quite busy, especially on weekends and public holidays. If you are planning 2 days trip near Pune you can make use of this ghat to reach your destination quickly.
During the monsoon, this ghat becomes a lush corridor of rolling greens and misty views. Locals often drive here to hike Sinhagad Fort or simply enjoy the breezy ridges.
What to See & Do
- Trek to Sinhagad Fort for history and views
- Visit Katraj Lake and the lesser-known Buddhist and Jain caves
- Drive through Katraj Wildlife Sanctuary for a green escape
Driving Tip
Expect a weekend rush from Pune. Rains make it more scenic and more slippery. Stick to the speed limit and avoid overtaking.
🏨 Planning a Pune getaway or Sinhagad hike? See the top hotels near Katraj Ghat → Hotels Near Katraj Ghat
7. Khandala Ghat (Bhor Ghat)
Elevation: 2040 feet (622 m) | Length: 18 km
Region: Mumbai–Pune Corridor
Khandala Ghat, also known as Bhor Ghat, is one of Maharashtra’s most iconic mountain passes. Located along the Mumbai–Pune Expressway and the old NH4, this ghat connects Khopoli with the twin hill stations of Khandala and Lonavala. While you’re here you would want to cover some of the popular places, hidden gems and places to eat in Lonavala.
Come monsoon, this region turns postcard-perfect — mist curling around the cliffs, waterfalls in full spate, and the lush green of the Sahyadris soaking in the rain.
What to See & Do
- Snap photos at Rajmachi Point or Tiger’s Leap
- Trek to Duke’s Nose or visit Kune Waterfalls
- Ride the train — the Ghat rail route is among India’s most scenic
Did You Know? Bhor Ghat once served as a vital trade link between the Konkan coast and the Deccan Plateau. It even witnessed battles during the First Anglo-Maratha War.
Driving Tip
This one is extremely popular and busy which means traffic on weekends. Watch for hairpin bends and reduced visibility during monsoon. The expressway offers a smoother ride, but thrill-seekers love the old highway’s dramatic curves.
🌧️ Exploring Lonavala or driving through Bhor Ghat? Check out scenic hotels near Khandala Ghat → Hotels Near Khandala Ghat
8. Malshej Ghat
Elevation: 2296 feet (700 m) | Length: 8 km
Region: Kalyan–Ahmednagar Road
Malshej Ghat is a monsoon paradise tucked into the Sahyadris, offering cliff-hugging roads, sweeping valley views, and misty waterfalls around every turn. Just a few hours from Mumbai and Pune, it’s a favourite among weekend road-trippers and nature photographers.
Whether you’re seeking birdwatching, hiking, or simply a peaceful drive surrounded by green walls of forest, Malshej doesn’t disappoint.
What to See & Do
- Trek to Harishchandragad Fort or Ajoba Hill Fort
- Catch migratory flamingos at Pimpalgaon Joga Dam
- Stop at waterfalls cascading down roadside cliffs
Nature Alert
This ghat is a biodiversity hotspot, home to exotic bird species, including flamingos during monsoon. So keep your eyes peeled on the road and around for something to spot.
Driving Tip
Expect sharp curves, foggy patches, and occasional landslides. Drive slow, stay alert, and pull over only at safe viewpoints.
🏞️ Planning a scenic drive to Malshej Ghat? Discover hotels nearby for a perfect overnight stay → Hotels Near Malshej Ghat
9. Nane Ghat
Elevation: 2461 feet (750 m) | Length: 18 km
Region: Junnar, Maharashtra
Once a bustling trade route dating back to 200 BCE, Nane Ghat, literally “Coin Pass” is now a monsoon haven for trekkers and history lovers alike. Nestled in the Sahyadris near Junnar, this ancient mountain pass links the Konkan coast to the Deccan plateau, with stories etched into its cave walls in Brahmi script.
Today, it’s the misty trails, sweeping valleys, and the iconic Reverse Waterfall that lure weekend warriors and monsoon chasers. The trek to the summit offers cinematic views and a walk through time, with stone-carved inscriptions whispering tales of traders and tolls.
What to See & Do
- Hike the scenic Naneghat trail, especially lush during the rains
- Spot the Brahmi inscriptions inside the ancient Naneghat Caves
- Witness the surreal Naneghat Reverse Waterfall in full monsoon glory
Driving Tip
While the main ghat road is motorable, reaching the trailhead or caves often involves narrow village paths and muddy terrain. SUVs or high-clearance vehicles are recommended during peak rains.
10. Tamhini Ghat
Elevation: 2926 feet (892m) | Length: 15 km
Region: Mulshi–Mangaon
Tamhini Ghat is a biker’s paradise, with sharp bends, dramatic climbs, and monsoon mist. Located between Mulshi and Mangaon, this mountain pass near Pune is one of the most scenic and adrenaline-friendly drives in the Western Ghats.
Rain transforms this ghat into a fantasy ride. Waterfalls gush down hillsides, clouds roll low over the valleys, and the green stretches as far as the eye can see. It’s no wonder so many motorcycle vlogs are shot here.
Beyond the drive, Tamhini is a biodiversity hotspot. Add a few stops to your route — from Devkund and Kumbhe waterfalls to Kundalika Valley and Mulshi Dam — for the full experience.
What to See & Do
- Ride or drive through monsoon-drenched curves, a thrill for biking enthusiasts
- Visit hidden gems like Devkund Waterfall and Kundalika Valley
- Enjoy misty picnic spots near Mulshi Dam and Tamhini Waterfall
Driving Tip
Tamhini sees heavy rainfall and frequent landslides. Ride slow, avoid overtaking, and watch out for slippery edges and blind turns. The road is scenic, but safety always comes first.
Looking to stay near the lush valleys of Tamhini? Browse handpicked hotels near Tamhini Ghat →
11. Varandha Ghat
Elevation: 1788 feet (545 m) | Length: 10 km
Region: Bhor–Mahad
Tucked between Bhor and Mahad, Varandha Ghat is where nature and nostalgia meet. With Sahyadri cliffs on one side and deep valleys on the other, this mist-wrapped road cuts through dense greenery, waterfalls, and winding turns.
Best experienced during the monsoon, this ghat offers surreal viewpoints where clouds drift low, and silence is broken only by birds and waterfalls. It’s also one of the quieter ghats, making it ideal for slow drives and peaceful escapes.
The route is part of an important trade link between the Konkan and Deccan regions. You’ll likely share the road with ST buses and trucks, so expect company on curves.
What to See & Do
- Scenic stops at Bhambatmal and other lookout points
- Spot monsoon waterfalls and lush gorges along the route
- Birdwatching and nature photography in rich biodiversity zones
Driving Tip
This ghat is narrow, fog-prone, and busy with heavy vehicles. Be extra cautious around hairpin turns, and avoid overtaking unless visibility is clear. If it’s raining heavily, park safely and wait it out, the valley views are worth the pause.
Want to stay somewhere quiet near Varandha Ghat? Check out scenic hotels near Varandha Ghat →
Hotel Guide: Where to Stay Along the Ghats
Looking for scenic hotels near these mountain roads?
👉 Here are 24 beautiful highway-accessible stays near the ghats in Maharashtra.
Conclusion
Maharashtra’s ghats are more than just roads winding through hills — they’re experiences waiting to unfold. From the misty allure of Ambenali to the raw wilderness of Anuskura, each ghat offers a distinct personality for those chasing nature, history, or a thrill behind the wheel. Whether you’re planning a monsoon escape or a winter road trip, these scenic drives offer the perfect excuse to slow down, soak in the views, and reconnect with the road.
Bookmark this guide and start planning your next ghat getaway today — the mountains are calling.
FAQs About Ghats in Maharashtra
There are over 30 mountain passes (ghats) across the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. However, only about a dozen are popularly known for tourism, long drives, or monsoon getaways — such as Malshej Ghat, Tamhini Ghat, and Ambenali Ghat. Many smaller ghats serve local or industrial routes but are not tourist-friendly.
Several ghats are well-known, but Malshej Ghat, Tamhini Ghat, and Bhor Ghat (Khandala Ghat) top the list. These are not just scenic but also easily accessible from major cities like Mumbai and Pune. Among these, Malshej Ghat is especially popular during the monsoon for its waterfalls and misty views.
Ambenali Ghat is considered the most dangerous due to its 40 km length, sharp curves, and dense Javli forest known for leopard sightings. It’s breathtaking but demands cautious driving, especially during the rains.
Tamhini Ghat holds one of the highest elevation points at 2,926 feet (892 m). While not the absolute highest in the Sahyadris, it is the tallest among the scenic and motorable ghats popular with travellers.
If we go by length, then Ambenali Ghat is the biggest, stretching around 40 km between Mahabaleshwar and Poladpur. It’s also among the longest ghats in the Western Ghats region.
If you’re starting from Pune, Tamhini Ghat, Malshej Ghat, and Varandha Ghat are ideal picks. These routes offer spectacular monsoon views, easy accessibility, and a variety of spots to explore. Bikers and couples often prefer Tamhini for its curves and waterfalls, while families might enjoy Malshej for its safety and picnic spots.
Amboli Ghat, Kasara Ghat, and Khandala Ghat (Bhor Ghat) are relatively safer, with fewer hairpin bends and better-maintained roads. However, always check local weather alerts, avoid night drives, and be cautious of landslides.
For families with kids or senior travellers, Malshej Ghat and Kasara Ghat are great choices. These have plenty of viewpoints, smoother roads, and nearby stays. Avoid extremely remote ghats like Anuskura or Ambenali unless you’re well-prepared.
A ghat is a mountain pass that cuts through the Western Ghats, connecting coastal and inland areas. They’re often used for transport and tourism, especially during monsoon road trips.
Tamhini, Amboli, and Malshej Ghats are ideal for scenic drives, especially during monsoons. They offer waterfalls, greenery, and peaceful routes for riders and drivers alike.
Yes. Malshej, Khandala, and Tamhini Ghats are all within reach for one-day trips from Pune or Mumbai.
They’re the best during monsoon! Mist, waterfalls, and valleys make these ghats perfect for a rain drive — just go slow and avoid overtaking.
Absolutely. Ghats like Tamhini and Malshej are legendary among bikers for their curves, elevation, and views.
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.