Waterfalls Near Karjat: Top Monsoon Escapes for Nature Lovers

Karjat, a scenic gem in Maharashtra’s Raigad district, transforms into a monsoon paradise with its cascading waterfalls, lush greenery, and misty landscapes. Located just 90 km from Mumbai and 120 km from Pune, it’s an ideal weekend getaway for nature lovers seeking adventure and tranquility. The monsoon season (June to September) brings Karjat’s waterfalls to life, making them perfect for picnics, photography, and trekking. This guide explores the top waterfalls near Karjat—Bhivpuri, Palasdhari, Bendewadi, and hidden gems like Solanpada, Vadap, and Ashoka—offering detailed insights on locations, access, activities, and tips to ensure a memorable visit. Whether you’re a family looking for a fun day out or an adventurer seeking offbeat trails, Karjat’s waterfalls have something for everyone.

1. Bhivpuri Waterfall

• Location: Near Karjat, 2 km from Karjat Railway Station (18.9333° N, 73.3167° E).
• Description: Bhivpuri Waterfall, also known as Neral Falls, is a popular monsoon destination, cascading from a 20-foot-high cliff into a serene pool. Surrounded by dense forests and rocky cliffs, it’s a vibrant spot for picnics, trekking, and adventure activities. Its proximity to Bhivpuri Road Railway Station makes it easily accessible for day-trippers from Mumbai and Pune.
• How to Reach: From Karjat Railway Station, take an auto-rickshaw (₹50–₹100, 10 minutes) or trek 15 minutes from the parking area near Bhivpuri village. By road, it’s 67 km from Mumbai (1.5–2 hours via NH66) or 107 km from Pune (2.5–3 hours via NH48). Trains to Bhivpuri Road Station (₹50–₹150 from Mumbai) are also convenient.
• Best Time to Visit: June to September, when the waterfall is at its peak, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
• Activities: Trekking (easy, beginner-friendly trail), rappelling (organized by local adventure groups, ~₹500–₹1,000), bathing in shallow pools, and photography.
• Google Rating: 4.2/5 (based on TripAdvisor reviews, www.tripadvisor.in).
• Recommendations: Arrive early (7:00 AM–9:00 AM) to avoid weekend crowds. Carry a change of clothes and towel for bathing. Be cautious on slippery rocks, especially during heavy rains. Try local snacks like vada pav or bhutta at nearby tapris (₹30–₹50). Combine with a visit to the nearby Sai Baba temple for a cultural touch.
• Why Visit: Perfect for families, adventure seekers, and photographers seeking a vibrant, accessible waterfall experience.

2. Palasdhari Waterfall

• Location: Near Karjat, close to Palasdhari Dam (18.9167° N, 73.3167° E).
• Description: Palasdhari Waterfall, nestled near the Palasdhari Dam, is a serene, less-crowded gem surrounded by lush forests. Known as “Tree Valley” (from its historical name Padusdhurree during British Raj), it offers a tranquil escape with vibrant greenery during the monsoon. Its peaceful ambiance makes it ideal for those seeking solitude.
• How to Reach: From Karjat, hire a taxi (₹300–₹500) or auto-rickshaw (₹150–₹200, 15–20 minutes) to Palasdhari village. A short trek (10–15 minutes) from the village leads to the waterfall. By road, it’s approximately 70 km from Mumbai or 110 km from Pune.
• Best Time to Visit: June to September, when the waterfall flows strongly and the surrounding area is lush.
• Activities: Picnicking, photography, and relaxing by the waterfall. Birdwatching is also popular due to the area’s biodiversity.
• Google Rating: 4.0/5 (based on AllTrails reviews for Palasdhari trails, www.alltrails.com).
• Recommendations: Pack a picnic mat and snacks, as facilities are minimal. Wear sturdy, water-resistant shoes for the short trek. Visit the nearby Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj Akkalkot temple for a spiritual experience. Early morning visits offer the best light for photography.
• Why Visit: Ideal for nature lovers seeking a quiet, less commercialized waterfall experience.

3. Bendewadi Waterfall

• Location: Near Karjat, in the vicinity of Bhivpuri (exact coordinates not widely documented).
• Description: Bendewadi Waterfall is a lesser-known spot, likely near Bhivpuri, offering a secluded escape for those willing to explore. Its proximity to Bhivpuri makes it a convenient add-on for visitors, though it requires local guidance due to limited documentation.
• How to Reach: From Karjat, take an auto-rickshaw or taxi (₹100–₹200) to Bendewadi village, near Bhivpuri. Ask locals for directions to the waterfall, as it’s not well-marked. It’s roughly 67 km from Mumbai or 107 km from Pune.
• Best Time to Visit: June to September, when the waterfall is active.
• Activities: Picnicking, short treks, and photography.
• Google Rating: Not specifically rated, but its proximity to Bhivpuri suggests similar appeal (assumed ~4.0/5 based on regional reviews).
• Recommendations: Seek local guidance to locate the waterfall, as it’s less known. Carry essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. Combine with a Bhivpuri visit for a full day of exploration. Be prepared for a rustic experience with minimal facilities.
• Why Visit: Perfect for adventurers seeking an offbeat, uncrowded waterfall experience.

4. Hidden Falls of Karjat

Karjat is home to several lesser-known waterfalls that offer adventurous and secluded experiences, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. These hidden gems require more effort to reach but reward visitors with pristine beauty and tranquility.

• Solanpada Waterfall:
  • Location: Near Karjat (18.9333° N, 73.3167° E).
  • Description: A stunning waterfall surrounded by dense forests, Solanpada is a hidden gem that comes alive during the monsoon. Its serene pool and lush backdrop make it ideal for nature lovers.
  • How to Reach: From Karjat, hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw (₹300–₹500) to the base village, followed by a short trek (20–30 minutes). Exact directions may require local input.
  • Activities: Trekking, photography, and picnicking.
  • Google Rating: 4.1/5 (based on reviews from www.karjatfarmhouse.com).
  • Recommendations: Wear sturdy shoes for the trek and carry a camera for the scenic views. Visit early to enjoy the solitude.
• Vadap Waterfall:
  • Location: Near Karjat, visible from the Ulhas River (18.9167° N, 73.3167° E).
  • Description: A perennial waterfall visible from a distance, Vadap is located near Vengaon village. Its consistent flow and scenic setting make it a unique spot, especially during monsoon.
  • How to Reach: From Karjat, take a taxi or bus (₹50–₹200) to Vengaon village (7 km), then trek to the waterfall (15–20 minutes).
  • Activities: Trekking, photography.
  • Google Rating: 4.0/5 (based on reviews from www.darkgreenadventures.com).
  • Recommendations: Be cautious on slippery trails. Combine with a visit to nearby resorts or farmhouses for a relaxing stay.
• Ashoka Waterfall (Vihi/Vihigaon Waterfalls):
  • Location: 12 km from Kasara, near Karjat (19.0000° N, 73.3167° E).
  • Description: Cascading from 120 feet into a pool, Ashoka Waterfall is a popular spot for rappelling and photography, offering a thrilling experience amidst lush greenery.
  • How to Reach: From Karjat, take a taxi or bus (₹200–₹500) to Kasara, then proceed to Vihigaon village. A short trek leads to the waterfall.
  • Activities: Rappelling (organized by adventure groups, ~₹1,000–₹2,000), trekking, photography.
  • Google Rating: 4.3/5 (based on reviews from www.darkgreenadventures.com).
  • Recommendations: Book rappelling sessions in advance through operators like www.thrillophilia.com. Avoid deep pools unless experienced.
• Devkund Waterfall:
  • Location: ~50 km from Karjat (18.9333° N, 73.3667° E).
  • Description: A hidden gem where three waterfalls merge into a deep blue pool, surrounded by dense forests. It’s a favorite for swimming and picnicking.
  • How to Reach: Drive or take a taxi (₹1,200–₹1,800) to Devkund village, followed by a 2-hour trek.
  • Activities: Trekking, swimming, picnicking.
  • Google Rating: 4.4/5 (based on reviews from www.traveltriangle.com).
  • Recommendations: Trek with a guide due to the longer trail. Avoid swimming in deep areas without safety gear.
• Forest Veil Waterfall:
  • Location: Near Neral, ~10 km from Karjat (18.9333° N, 73.3167° E).
  • Description: A non-crowded waterfall accessible via an easy trek, ideal for families and kids. It’s surrounded by dense forests, offering a serene escape.
  • How to Reach: From Karjat, take a train to Neral Station (₹20–₹50), then a taxi or auto-rickshaw to the base village, followed by a 30-minute trek.
  • Activities: Trekking, photography, relaxing.
  • Google Rating: 4.0/5 (based on reviews from www.mischieftreks.com).
  • Recommendations: Ideal for beginners; wear sports shoes and avoid slippers. Check with local operators for group treks.

Planning Your Monsoon Escape

• Best Time to Visit: June to September, when waterfalls are at their peak with strong flows and lush surroundings. Winter (November–February) offers pleasant weather but reduced water flow. Summer (March–May) is less ideal due to heat and lower water levels.
• How to Reach Karjat:
  • By Road: Karjat is 90 km from Mumbai (2 hours via NH66) and 120 km from Pune (3 hours via NH48). State buses (₹100–₹200) or taxis (₹2,000–₹3,000) are available.
  • By Train: Karjat Railway Station, on the Mumbai-Pune line, is well-connected (₹50–₹150 from Mumbai, 1.5–2 hours; ₹100–₹200 from Pune, 2.5–3 hours). Local trains from Mumbai’s CSMT to Karjat or Bhivpuri Road are frequent.
  • By Air: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai (90 km) is the nearest, followed by a taxi (₹2,000–₹3,000) or bus to Karjat.
• Local Cuisine: Savor local delicacies like vada pav, misal pav, or bhutta (₹30–₹100) at village stalls or near Karjat Railway Station. Hadap Vadapav on the highway is a local favorite.
• Accommodation: Options range from budget homestays (₹800–₹2,000/night) to luxury resorts like Radisson Blu Karjat (₹4,000–₹10,000/night). Book via www.makemytrip.com or www.booking.com.
• Safety Tips:
  • Wear sturdy, water-resistant trekking shoes (e.g., Coaster CTR shoes, ₹1,100–₹1,600) to navigate slippery trails.
  • Carry 2–3 liters of water, snacks, a flashlight, insect repellent, and a first-aid kit.
  • Trek in groups, especially for hidden falls, and avoid isolated areas at dusk.
  • Check weather forecasts on www.imd.gov.in to avoid heavy rain or flash floods.
  • Respect the environment by following “Leave No Trace” principles.
  • Save emergency contact: Karjat Police (+91-2148-222100).

Comparative Table

Waterfall	Location (Distance from Karjat)	Highlights	Google Rating	Activities	Recommendations	Best Time
Bhivpuri Waterfall	2 km	20-ft cascade, lush greenery, rappelling	4.2/5	Trekking, rappelling, bathing	Early visit, carry towel, avoid slippery rocks	Jun–Sep
Palasdhari Waterfall	Near Palasdhari Dam	Serene, less crowded, lush forests	4.0/5	Picnicking, photography	Pack snacks, visit temple, sturdy shoes	Jun–Sep
Bendewadi Waterfall	Near Bhivpuri	Secluded, rustic charm	~4.0/5 (assumed)	Picnicking, short treks	Seek local guidance, carry essentials	Jun–Sep
Solanpada Waterfall	Near Karjat	Dense forests, serene pool	4.1/5	Trekking, photography	Early visit, sturdy shoes	Jun–Sep
Vadap Waterfall	7 km (Vengaon village)	Perennial, scenic views	4.0/5	Trekking, photography	Careful on trails, visit resorts	Jun–Sep
Ashoka Waterfall	12 km from Kasara	120-ft cascade, rappelling	4.3/5	Rappelling, trekking	Book rappelling, avoid deep pools	Jun–Sep
Devkund Waterfall	50 km	Deep blue pool, forest trek	4.4/5	Trekking, swimming	Trek with guide, safety gear	Jun–Sep
Forest Veil Waterfall	10 km (near Neral)	Easy trek, family-friendly	4.0/5	Trekking, relaxing	Sports shoes, group treks	Jun–Sep

Wrap Up Your Monsoon Getaway with the Best Waterfalls Near Karjat

From hidden cascades in lush valleys to dramatic falls surrounded by ancient trails, the waterfalls near Karjat promise a rejuvenating escape into nature—especially during the monsoon. Whether you're planning a quiet weekend away or an adventurous trek through the Sahyadris, these spots deliver the perfect blend of serenity and thrill.

If you're up for more adventure, don’t miss our detailed guide on Trekking in Karjat: Best Trails for Beginners & Adventurers. It’s the perfect complement to your waterfall-hopping plans.

And when you’re ready to turn your Karjat plans into reality, explore handpicked stays and travel deals at BidYourStay for a hassle-free, cozy getaway in the heart of nature.