Nashik, located in the western state of Maharashtra, is a city rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. The monsoon season transforms Nashik and its surrounding areas into lush green landscapes with numerous waterfalls and serene lakes. In this blog, we’ll explore the top places to visit in and around Nashik during the rainy season of 2024, including popular destinations like Trimbakeshwar, Anjaneri Hills, Pandavleni Caves, Bhandardara, Sula Vineyards, Igatpuri, Vihigaon Waterfall, Harihar Fort, Kalsubai, and more.
1. Trimbakeshwar: The Holy Abode
Distance from Nashik: 28 km
Route: Drive via NH848 towards Trimbak. The road is well-maintained and offers beautiful scenic views.
Stay: Trimbak has several guesthouses and budget hotels. Nashik city also offers a variety of accommodation options.
Network Presence: Most mobile networks provide good coverage in Trimbak.
Nearest Stay if Coming from Outside Nashik: Nashik city, with its range of hotels, is a convenient option for accommodation.
Trimbakeshwar is a famous pilgrimage site, home to one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. The monsoon season adds a mystical charm to the place with its lush surroundings and serene ambiance. Visit the ancient Trimbakeshwar Temple and explore the Brahmagiri Hills, which offer panoramic views and a peaceful trekking experience.
2. Anjaneri Hills: A Trekker’s Paradise
Distance from Nashik: 20 km
Route: Drive via Trimbak Road towards Anjaneri. The route is scenic and well-connected.
Stay: Anjaneri has limited stay options. It’s best to stay in Nashik city and travel to Anjaneri for a day trip.
Network Presence: Mobile network is generally available but can be weak in some areas.
Nearest Stay if Coming from Outside Nashik: Nashik city provides numerous accommodation choices.
Anjaneri Hills is a popular trekking destination, especially during the monsoon. It is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman. The trek to Anjaneri Fort is moderate and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, with lush greenery and numerous waterfalls along the way. It’s a perfect spot for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
3. Pandavleni Caves: Ancient Rock-Cut Wonders
Distance from Nashik: 8 km
Route: Drive via Mumbai-Agra Highway (NH3). The caves are well-marked and easily accessible.
Stay: There are several hotels and guesthouses in Nashik city, which is close to the caves.
Network Presence: Good network coverage is available at the site.
Nearest Stay if Coming from Outside Nashik: Nashik city offers various accommodation options.
Pandavleni Caves, also known as Trirashmi Caves, are a group of ancient rock-cut caves that date back to the 3rd century BC. These caves, set against a backdrop of lush hills, become even more enchanting during the monsoon. Explore the intricate carvings and the peaceful ambiance of these historic caves while enjoying the cool monsoon breeze.
4. Bhandardara: The Hidden Gem
Distance from Nashik: 70 km
Route: Drive via SH21 towards Bhandardara. The journey is scenic, especially during the monsoon.
Stay: Bhandardara offers various accommodation options, including resorts and guesthouses. MTDC Resort is a popular choice.
Network Presence: Network coverage is available but can be spotty in some areas.
Nearest Stay if Coming from Outside Nashik: Igatpuri, located about 40 km from Bhandardara, offers more accommodation options.
Bhandardara is a hidden gem that becomes a paradise during the monsoon. The lush greenery, pristine lakes, and cascading waterfalls create a mesmerizing landscape. Visit attractions like Arthur Lake, Randha Falls, and the famous Wilson Dam. The serene environment and the beauty of Bhandardara make it a perfect monsoon retreat.
5. Sula Vineyards: A Wine Lover’s Delight
Distance from Nashik: 15 km
Route: Drive via Gangapur Road towards Sula Vineyards. The route is straightforward and well-connected.
Stay: Sula Vineyards offers luxurious stay options like The Source at Sula. Nashik city also provides various hotels.
Network Presence: Excellent network coverage is available.
Nearest Stay if Coming from Outside Nashik: Staying in Nashik city is convenient and offers a range of accommodations.
Sula Vineyards is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. The monsoon season adds a touch of romance to the vineyards, with the lush green surroundings and the pleasant weather. Enjoy wine tasting sessions, vineyard tours, and delicious meals at their in-house restaurants. The picturesque views of the vineyards in the rain make it a delightful experience.
6. Igatpuri: The Gateway to Tranquility
Distance from Nashik: 45 km
Route: Drive via NH160 towards Igatpuri. The journey is scenic, especially during the monsoon.
Stay: Igatpuri offers a variety of accommodation options, including resorts and guesthouses. Manas Resort is a popular choice.
Network Presence: Good network coverage is available in most parts of Igatpuri.
Nearest Stay if Coming from Outside Nashik: Nashik city, which is well-connected and offers a range of accommodations.
Igatpuri, located in the Western Ghats, is a haven for nature lovers during the monsoon. The lush green hills, fog-covered valleys, and numerous waterfalls make it a picturesque destination. Visit attractions like Bhatsa River Valley, Camel Valley, and Vihigaon Waterfall. The serene environment and scenic beauty make Igatpuri a perfect monsoon getaway.
7. Vihigaon Waterfall: A Natural Wonder
Distance from Nashik: 60 km
Route: Drive via NH160 towards Vihigaon. The route is well-connected and offers beautiful views.
Stay: Vihigaon has limited stay options. It’s best to stay in Igatpuri or Nashik city and visit Vihigaon for a day trip.
Network Presence: Mobile network is available but can be weak in some areas.
Nearest Stay if Coming from Outside Nashik: Igatpuri and Nashik city provide a range of accommodation options.
Vihigaon Waterfall, located near Igatpuri, is a stunning natural wonder that comes alive during the monsoon. The waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery, offers a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the cool waters or simply relax and soak in the beauty of the surroundings.
8. Harihar Fort: The Mesmerizing Cliff Fort
Distance from Nashik: 40 km
Route: Drive via NH848 towards Trimbak and then take the diversion towards Nirgudpada. The route includes highways and rural roads.
Stay: Nirgudpada has basic lodging options. For better amenities, stay in Nashik city or Trimbak.
Network Presence: Limited network coverage on the fort, with some areas offering connectivity.
Nearest Stay if Coming from Outside Nashik: Nashik city, offering a variety of hotels, is the best option for accommodation.
Harihar Fort, known for its unique rock-cut steps, offers a challenging yet rewarding trekking experience. The fort is perched on a triangular prism of rock and provides stunning views of the surrounding valleys. The monsoon season enhances the beauty of the trek with lush greenery and cool breezes. The fort’s distinctive architecture and the panoramic vistas make it a must-visit for trekking enthusiasts.
9. Kalsubai: The Everest of Maharashtra
Distance from Nashik: 55 km
Route: Drive via SH21 towards Bari Village. The journey involves highways and rural roads.
Stay: Bari Village, the base for the Kalsubai trek, has basic lodging options. For better amenities, stay in Igatpuri or Nashik.
Network Presence: Limited network coverage, with some spots offering connectivity.
Nearest Stay if Coming from Outside Nashik: Igatpuri and Nashik city offer a range of accommodations.
Kalsubai, the highest peak in Maharashtra, is a trekker’s dream, especially during the monsoon. The challenging trek, which begins from Bari Village, is rewarded with breathtaking views from the summit. The lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and the sense of accomplishment make the trek to Kalsubai a memorable adventure. The monsoon season adds an extra layer of beauty to this already stunning landscape.
10. Gangapur Dam: The Serene Reservoir
Distance from Nashik: 12 km
Route: Drive via Gangapur Road. The route is well-connected and easily accessible.
Stay: There are several hotels and guesthouses in Nashik city, which is close to the dam.
Network Presence: Good network coverage is available.
Nearest Stay if Coming from Outside Nashik: Nashik city offers various accommodation options.
Gangapur Dam is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, especially during the monsoon. The dam creates a large reservoir that offers serene views and a peaceful environment. It’s an excellent spot for picnics and leisurely walks. The surrounding area turns lush green during the rainy season, making it a perfect place to unwind and enjoy nature.
11. Ramsej Fort: The Historical Marvel
Distance from Nashik: 14 km
Route: Drive via NH60 towards Ashewadi. The route is well-connected and offers scenic views.
Stay: There are a few guesthouses and lodges near the fort. For more comfortable stays, opt for accommodations in Nashik city.
Network Presence: Good network coverage is generally available.
Nearest Stay if Coming from Outside Nashik: Nashik city, with its variety of hotels, is a convenient option for accommodation.
Ramsej Fort, also known as Ramshej, is a fort of historical significance located near Nashik. The fort played a key role during the Maratha War of Independence. The monsoon season adds a touch of greenery to the fort’s surroundings, making it a great place for history enthusiasts and trekkers. Explore the fort’s ancient structures and enjoy the panoramic views of the Nashik landscape.