Malshej Ghat Hill station-A Picturesque destination in Deccan Plateau

Malshej Ghat Maharashtra

Malshej Ghat is a beautiful and quiet hill station, popular among trekkers, hikers, and nature lovers as it is abundantly adorned with mountains, lakes, and numerous waterfalls. Located in the Western Ghats range in the Pune district, it sits at an altitude of 700 m above sea level and has pleasant weather and picturesque views all around. Malshej is a unique place to explore, It is a sight where several rivers cut through it, forts, and cascading waterfalls that sight with diverse flora and fauna further add to the beauty of this place. The hill station is an ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life and a popular weekend getaway from Pune, Mumbai, and Thane. It is most popular for the pink flamingos that migrate here during the months of July and September.

Attraction near Malshej Ghat

There are many popular places and forts in this area like Harishchandragad, Sindola fort, Bhairavgad, Ajoba, and Hadsarkilla. The view of Pimpalgaonjoga Dam and Khireshwar village is very picturesque. Nageshwar Temple is an architectural masterpiece of Khireshwar village, unexplored Aadrai jungle trek and Kalu waterfall of Khireshwar village are some of the major attractions here that will leave you mesmerized.

Harishchandragad

The Harishchandragad fort is quite ancient and said to have been in the 6th century, during the rule of the Kalachuri dynasty. The various Puranas like Matsyapurana, Agni Purana, and Skanda Purana includes many references to Harishchandragad. The various caves probably have been carved out in the 11th century. In these caves are idols of Lord Vishnu.

The Nageshwar temple

The Nageshwar temple outside Khireshwar village is a magnificent structure etched with divinity. The temple is built in the 10th century by a king named Zhanj of the Shilahar clan who was ruling the region. The temples are decorated with beautiful sculptures and carvings. These include the Nageshwar temple at Khireshwar.

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Kalu Waterfall

Kalu Waterfall is the highest and largest waterfall in Malshej Region. Kalu waterfall originates from the Harishchandragad mountains and flows through Khireshwar village. Kalu waterfall falls from the Deccan plateau at a height of 370 meters. It is a seasonal waterfall. During monsoon, it flows dangerously whereas in summer it is completely dry.

Things to do in Malshej Ghat

Ajoba Hill Fort trekking

Ajoba hill is one of the highest peaks in the Sahyadri ranges, standing at a height of 1374 meters. This trek is the most popular trek near Mumbai. It is believed to be sacred because, as per legends, this is the place where Goddess Sita spent her time in an ashram during her exile, after she got separated from Lord Rama. When you reach halfway up the mountain, you will find Valmiki Ashram, in a cave, where Goddess Sita stayed with her two sons.

Ajoba hill fort trekking can be done in two ways,  either from the eastern or the western side. The path to the mountains is rough and risky during monsoons, so it is advised to trek during the dry season. Many water streams in the mountain, allow trekkers to rest for some time. From here, visitors can further trek to Luv-Kush Palna.

Bird-watching in Pimpalgaon Joga Dam

Bird watching in the Pimpalgaon dam is the best thing to do in Malshej ghat. The Dam is built across the Pushpavati River and covers a 5 km stretch. The lofty cliffs of the dam provide an opportunity for spectacular scenery. Also considered to be a haven for different bird species, you know who will give you company up there. visitors can see here migratory birds, such as Pink Flamingos, and other birds like the Whistling Thrush, Pied Crested Cuckoo, Alpine Swift, Purple Moorhen, and Quail make regular appearances.

Malshej Ghat waterfall

Malshej and the surrounding area are blessed with countless beautiful natural waterfalls. The sight of the cascading waterfall can be best seen during monsoons when the place seems to be like a symphony of waterfalls. Visitors can walk through the Malshej ghat waterfall, where mist, rain, fog, and cascading waterfalls form the background.

Malshej ghat camping- The camping experience in Malshej is the best thing to do here. Views of the Ghats, waterfalls in the vicinity, and a serene ambiance make it a perfect activity to avail. With a prominent forest, the property boasts being nestled in the lush green beauty and allows visitors to experience the cool breeze.

How to Reach Malshej 

Malshej is located in the Pune district about 130 kilometers north of Pune and 154 kilometers northeast of Mumbai. Kalyan in Thane District or Karjat near Mumbai is the nearest rail station. The closest Bus Station is Junnar, Pune. State buses run frequently between Kalyan and Ahmednagar also. Any bus bound towards Ahmednagar will stop at Malshej Ghat.

Malshej ghat from Pune-To travel by road to Malshej ghat from Pune take the Pune-Nashik highway (NH-50) to Narayangaon, then turn left at Otur onto the Kalyan-Ahmednagar Highway (SH-222) towards Kalyan.

Malshej ghat from Mumbai- To reach Malshej ghat from Mumbai, one can take the NH3 to Bhiwandi and then turn towards Murbad or take the state highway through Kalyan, Murbad, Saralgaon, and Vaishakhare. Malshej ghat mtdc buses are running from Kalyan and Karjat stations.

Malshej ghat weather-August and September are the best months to visit Malshej Ghat, with green hills and exotic flamingos visiting the Malshej ghat during this season. The summer heat is not very apparent at Malshej Ghat, as the temperatures range from 27 °C to 35°C. The sky is clear and offers breathtaking views of the Sahyadri range. Winter is the best seasonal time to visit Malshej. After the heavy monsoon. Temperatures range between 10°C and 20°C, the weather is delightfully cold. Malshej ghat resorts-Most resorts and homestays are booked to full capacity by December. some best Malshej ghat resorts are Treasure Island Resort, Saj by the Lake, and Rainforest Resort.