People travel to the Western Ghats but mostly to explore Munnar’s tea gardens or Tamil Nadu’s Nilgiri Hills.
But how many of you look for the glorious hidden hill stations that are not crowded with visitors? These places are just as irresistible as the other houseboats; the only difference is that crowds haven’t discovered them yet.
If you are the kind of traveller who wants to visit the unexplored and learn about the beauty they behold, this guide is for you. We have narrowed it down to five places where you can learn a lot of how peaceful nature is and the kind of life you are missing on your busy days.
1. Malshej Ghat – Hidden waterfalls, temples detours and where locals actually stay
We all go to Pune to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere among folks our age. But if you travel 120 km beyond the city, you will reach the Western Ghat mountain pass, Malshej Ghat. it was quite popular during the Maratha rule, giving you a peek into the region’s past.
But even if that’s not your kind of experience, you can check out the countless waterfalls, which are mostly visible during the monsoon season. You can spot the beautiful Malshej Waterfall and Kalu Waterfall if you travel from June to September.
While at the Malshej Ghat, don’t skip the Harishchandragad Fort, especially if you love to learn history. It has old structures similar to the Kedareshwar Cave Temple.
It is where you will witness a humungous Shivalinga submerged slightly in the water. The sight itself defies the nature of law, attracting those who believe in magic.
Since it is a protected mountain pass, you won’t find many homes here. People from Sawarne, Thitbi, and Khireshwar often come for a weekend gateway to relax and witness the misty valleys.
2. Mahabaleshwar – Beyond Arthur’s Seat and the Valley side most tourists skip
We think about Mahabaleshwar, and our mind often travels to the rich strawberry farms and Arthur’s Seat for a dramatic valley view. However, not many people are familiar with the hidden sunset point and the multiple waterfalls.
If you don’t explore the hidden gems, you will miss out on locations which actually make your travel worth remembering for life.
One such place is the Bhilar waterfall, located 42 minutes from Mahabaleshwar. You can click pictures at this scenic site and enjoy trekking and slow walks. Another similar place is the Lingmala Waterfalls, which is within the vicinity.
Other hidden locations are Falkland Point and Kate’s Point where you can look at an unparalleled view of the nature.
You can access either of the points through a short trek and enjoy the sunset if the timing is right.
3. Amboli Ghat – Maharashtra’s wettest stretch and its quietest waterfall
Did you know that Amboli Ghat is famous as the “Cherrapunji of Maharashtra” because of how often it receives rainfall? Surprising for a tropical state, this hill station along the Western Ghat belt welcomes approximately 7,000 mm of yearly rainfall. It is the last hill station before Konkan begins.
What’s beautiful about this place is that it remains cool and pleasant for most of the months, with summer hitting only for a restricted period.
Though many people visit Amboli Ghat for its waterfalls, not many know about Nangarta Falls, one of the quieter waterfalls close to the hills. It is just 10 km ahead and off the state highway. The water drops from a staggering height of 40 ft and is an off-route choice for travellers. But if you are seeking a raw beauty of Maharashtra, then explore it with your friends.
People know about the viewpoints and the local cultures, but not many know that there are around 108 Shiva temples within the deep jungle areas. Most of them are still undiscovered, promising a thrill if you start exploring.
One thing to know is that driving through the Ghat at night is not recommended because of sharp turns and narrow lanes.
4. Bhandardara – From Forts, Lakes and a stargazing spot nobody talks about
People often travel to Bhandardara, but they are only aware of the ancient dams and waterfalls. A lot of them miss out on the beautiful forts and valleys located at a distance from the hill station.
One of the places is Kulang Fort, located around 20 km from Bhandardara. It is challenging, even for thrill seekers, due to the rock-cut step path. But the glorious view around Madangad Peaks and Alang makes your experience worthwhile.
Another hidden spot is the Bhairavgad Fort, around 15 km from the main location. You can trek till there and will have to use an old iron ladder for it.
There is a hidden canyon called the Sandan Valley, around 200 ft deep into the water. It is unlike what you will experience in the common Bhandardara spots, making memories that you can brag about in front of your friends.
There is an ancient 1,200-Year-Old Amruteshwar Temple located on the Pravara River Banks. Its history dates back to the 9th century, but not many are aware of it. The gorgeous stone carvings give you a glimpse of how art looked in the old age.
Mount Kalsubai stands at a height of 5,400 ft and looks like an absolute marvel. Locals have named it the “Everest of Maharashtra,” but travellers are still not quite familiar with the place.
So, the next time you are exploring Bhandardara during your south indian tour, cover these locations that not many know about.
5. Kass Plateau – The two-week flower window and the local guides who knows it best
Would you want to travel to a UNESCO World Heritage site? Maharashtra is home to the Kass Plateau, the valley of flowers from where you wouldn’t want to leave. What will catch your attention is the blooming of wildflowers right after the end of the monsoon. You can only see it for two to three weeks, after which it will wilt. But it is not simple to identify the spots where wildflowers blossom in bulk. So, the best idea is to hire a local guide from the forest department. They will take you exactly where the flowers are beautifully alive.