Malshej Ghat – The Home of Mist, Waterfalls and Flamingos in the Season
Malshej Ghat is rather small and empty, compared to the other more popular hill stations of Maharashtra such as Lonavala-Khandala, Matheran and Mahabaleshwar. It offers more privacy and seclusion. However, due to its proximity to both Mumbai and Pune, its popularity is growing fast. Its superb location on the Sahyadri range of mountains and scores of cascading waterfalls have made Malshej Ghat the ideal retreat for most city dwellers. Malshej Ghat is a great place for all adventure lovers – hikers and trekkers.
Panoramic views of nearby hill ranges provide a feast for the eyes for travelers coming from congested metropolitan cities. Malshej Ghat turns into a romantic haven during the monsoon. Unfortunately, this is also the season when the area becomes extremely susceptible to landslides.
Tourist Destinations Nearby
The ancient hill fort Harishchandragad located nearby is known to have played important roles in guarding and protecting Malshej Ghat against invaders for many years. According to archaeological experts, the construction of the fort was started during the 6th century but was completed in 7th century AD, the long gap was probably due to controversies about its origin and existence. Although the Mughals held control over this fort for many long years, the Marathas eventually captured it in 1747.
Incidentally, Harishchandragad happens to be one of the most visited forts in Western Ghats. It is also among the most liked sites among trekkers who roam through the ridges of the lofty Western Ghats. This huge hilltop fort can be accessed through several routes. But the one that goes by the Khireshwar is said to be the most charming.
Khireshwar, by the way is also known for flamingos that visit this area during June/July every year, flying out all the way from far away Siberia.
Shivneri Fort, the birthplace of Chatrapati Shivaji is only 40 kilometers from Malshej Ghat.
How to reach Malshej Ghat
Malshej Ghat is situated in Pune district near the borders of Thane and Ahmednagar. It is at a distance of 154 kilometers from south Mumbai, and 130 kilometers north of Pune. The nearest railhead is Kalyan near Mumbai. To go to Malshej Ghat by road from Mumbai, take the NH3 to Bhiwandi and turn towards Murbad, or you can also take the state highway via Kalyan, Murbad, Saralgaon and Vaishakhareklm.
Where to stay
Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) has its rest house in Malshej. It is situated in a plateau between Harishchandragad and the other hill ranges. You will get a nice view of the valleys from here. One of the beauties here are many waterfalls. Various waterfalls from small up to the huge ones are really worth to see.
There are many other hotels and resorts you can choose from as well.
