If you have been planning to escape for weekend getaways near Mumbai, then Kolad is the perfect little place for you. Abundant with greenery, natural beauty, adventure sports and water bodies, this hamlet town is straight out of a fairytale. This destination is also known as mini rishikesh of Maharashtra, due to the surreal landscape. So here is a 2 day guide, to get you exploring!
To begin the journey you can take a private car, train or bus from Mumbai. The accessibility to this town from the metropolitan town of Mumbai is very easy. If you leave in the early hours, that is at 3:00 am or 2:00 am, you can reach the destination at a perfect time for river rafting! But that’s not the only place and activity you have to restrict yourself. Below we have listed all the places that should be on your bucket list, while visiting Kolad:
What Makes Kolad The Best Travel Spot For Weekend Getaways Near Mumbai
If you are searching for long weekend getaways near Mumbai, then below are the top attractions to explore in Kolad.
White River Rafting – Kundalika River
Kundalika River is the most popular location in Maharashtra for Kolad River Rafting; which is open all year long. This river is on a stretch of 12 kms, and flows from Sahyadri Range, right towards the Arabian Sea. The river has a lot of resorts and lodges in its radius, for the river rafting folks around. You can even have a small picnic with your close friends or new friends, towards the end of the river rafting, at many small food joints located at a close proximity.
Waterfall to Adorn – Tamhini Ghat
Surrounded by lush green vegetation, Tamhini Ghat comes to life during the monsoon season. With a stream of water gracefully descending below, Tamhini Ghat is a sight to behold. It is a narrow passage located between Munshi and Tamhini, this spot is popular for the rich and diverse surroundings. There are beautiful lakes, dense forest, mystical atmosphere and majestic waterfalls, perfectly captured in the frame of monsoon.
Nature’s Abode – The Bhira Dam
A perfect place to unwind and relax, Bhira Dam is a perfect place to go boating, or even for a small picnic. The dam was established in 1927, for irrigation purposes, but now it is also a popular tourist spot. Campers enjoy this location for setting up their camps and bonfires, as well as in the daytime you can even see the Devkund Falls from this location. If you’re not a fan of camping, then you can book a resort nearby, and on your evening stroll (don’t forget to get your camera!) you can seize the sunset with the beautiful landscape.
Historical Architecture – Ghosala Fort
If you’re a history buff, then you should visit this Fort. The monument dates back to Shivaji’s kingdom, and was used to keep an eye on enemies and trade routes. You can spend a couple hours exploring the nearby caves that were used as a hideout spot from the enemies.
Buddhist Gem – Kuda Caves
If you’re intrigued by Buddhisum and ancient Buddhist teachings, then this hidden gem is a must visit. The caves are very old, and are carved from rocks. There are 26 caves located next to each other, which are small, intricate and were made in the first century B.C.; a delight for history buffs, as the location also fosters the first buddhist teachings, stupa and a guardian elephant. Hence, it is one of the best places to visit near Mumbai.
Photographer’s Paradise – Sutarwadi Lake
This lake is an offbeat location, with instagramable sunsets, sunrises and even mid day shots. The lake is in a pristine condition, highlighting the beauty around it. A perfect destination for a small stroll, while nature’s music echoes around. If you like enjoying some quiet time surrounded by nature, then this is the perfect destination.
Trek it up – Plus Valley
A perfect place to unleash your adventurous spirit, the Plus valley is a trekker’s paradise. Enveloped by greenery, the chirps of nature and rocks, this trek is a bit difficult but at the same time, it is also equally beautiful. Take on this trekking experience, with the fresh crisp wind combing through your air and the soothing nature’s rhythm filling up the air.
Trek & Watch – Talgad Fort
You can trek to yet another, historical fort, which was made to keep an eye on the trade routes – Talgad Fort. The destination rests 1000 ft above, and is a 45 mins long trek. You can reach this destination and capture the beautiful views from the top. This comes as the best adventurous trip from Pune to Kolad.
Pond of Gods – Devkund Waterfall
A mystical waterfall that descends cooling fresh water towards the Kundalika river – Devkund waterfalls holds mythical significance. It is a very popular picnic spot, as the area is surrounded by breathtaking flora and fauna. Nestled between dense forest, the waterfall is a favourite location for nature lovers, campers and trekkers alike. You can take the Bhira-Devkund trek during the monsoon and winter season to create a memorable experience.
So, here’s a list of places you should try and cover in your 2 day trip to Kolad. Now, while the timeline suggests a two-day endeavour, we wholeheartedly grasp the fact that certain locales might tempt you to linger a tad longer. Rushing through the list isn’t the objective here; rather, it’s about embracing every moment, basking in nature’s splendour, and relishing the thrill of adventure sports at your leisure. Kolad unfurls as a realm where each fleeting second is an experience in itself, even if you choose the art of simply being.
jüSTa Rudra Resort & Spa – The Best Luxury Staycation In Kolad
To make your journey hassle-free, we suggest you book jüSTa Rudra Resort & Spa, one of the top luxury resorts in Kolad. This luxury stay in the heart of Maharashtra leaves no stone unturned in satiating its guests with world-class amenities including an outdoor swimming pool, a wellness spa, gymnasium, & multi-sports court. Let us brief you about its features, starting from:
- Rooms: jüSTa Rudra Resort & Spa is your ideal stay in Kolad as it brings a perfect blend of luxury, comfort, & peace. It comprises 58 spacious rooms elegantly designed with unique handpicked mid-century furniture from ancient havelis. The 4 thoughtfully designed room categories include Superior, Premium, Deluxe, & Cottage.
- Banquet Halls: This luxurious resort can be your best wedding destination in Kolad if you wish to tie the sacred nuptial knot in this small hamlet of Maharashtra. The banquet hall here is equipped with all seating arrangements ranging from Theatre Seating (250 pax), Round Tables Seating (250 pax), Class Room Seating (100 pax), & U Shape Seating (75 pax). The lawn here is spread at 5,500 sq. ft, & is spacious enough to accommodate 350 – 500 guests.
- Dining: Now, coming to some relishing part is the Konkan Café & Bar. Whether it is regional Maharashtrian cuisine or international flavours, this in-house multi-dining restaurant will make its guests savour all different flavours that could tantalise their taste buds. You can also experience poolside dining, an oasis of relaxation where you can pick the menu that features a variety of snacks & beverages.
Conclusion
Kolad has been an underrated gem of Maharashtra, which has yet to witness much tourist footfall. But now, thanks to its popular adventure activity, white river rafting, it has not only helped attract Mumbaikars & Punekars but people from other parts of the country as well. So when are you planning to visit this beautiful gem of Maharashtra?
