However, one must know that this is one of the best places for weekend getaways near Mumbai at a distance of 122 km, with fascinating sites to explore. If you are looking for some thrilling adventure, you should definitely visit Kolad, as it is popular for its white river rafting adventure sport, & other activities as well. So this time, when planning for your next vacation, take a break from a usual visit to any known city, & instead explore Kolad, a hidden gem in Maharashtra.

Kolad: What makes it an offbeat weekend destination near Mumbai & Pune

Kolad is an underrated hidden gem of Maharashtra that deserves its due as a tourist place. Those who often visit Mumbai & Pune for vacations must discover its natural beauty & other aspects for which it is famous. Exploring Kolad will bring a new change from the commonly visited places. 

Tourist attractions

Kolad is undoubtedly one of the popular destinations in Maharashtra, with so many intriguing sites that make your vacation unforgettable. 

• Kundalika River
• Talgad Fort
• Kuda Caves
• Devkund Waterfall
• Sutarwadi Lake
• Bhira Dam
• Plus Valley
• Tamhini Ghat
• Ghosala Fort

Adventure sports

There needs to be more than just touring the sites mentioned above to make your visit to Kolad reminiscing. With many adventure activities to do here, it will keep your spi-rit & mood high. Apart from being the best place for river rafting near Mumbai & Pune, this underrated gem of Maharashtra has more for its adventure enthusiasts. These are:

• Kundalika river rafting
• Bungee jumping
• Riverside camping
• Ziplining
• Kolad waterfall rappelling
• Bumper ride
• Banana ride
• Kayaking
• Boating
• River crossing

Tasting popular Maharashtrian delicacies

Besides enjoying sightseeing, & indulging in thrilling adventure sports, Kolad welcomes you to its eatery joints to taste the delicious Maharashtrian cuisines. Below is a list of the local yet famous foods to savour.

• Kothimbir Vada
• Misal Pav
• Thalipeeth
• Pudachi Vadi
• Pandhra Rassa
• Bombil
• Puran Poli
• Keri Aamti
• Pav Bhaji
• Modak

When to visit Kolad to enjoy your vacation?

There might be a question in your mind regarding which is the best time to visit Kolad for vacation.

Summer (March to June)

Those planning to spend their vacation in Kolad during summer must know that the weather during this time can be humid & tropical. This is the reason why it is called off-season in Kolad. However, you will be comfortable during the morning, as it is the best time to explore Kolad river rafting. This is one of the top popular adventure sports that is hard to miss. 

Monsoon (July to September)

Monsoon season is the best time to enjoy your thrilling adventure of white river rafting at Kolad, a perfect weekend destination near Mumbai & Pune. It is the best time when the current of the rivers is wild, which is perfect for doing water sports. The other activities to enhance your excitement are rappelling, river crossing, & rock climbing. With all such activities, you will never experience a dull moment. Moreover, the monsoon season is best for witnessing the natural beauty of waterfalls.

Winter (November to February)

To enjoy a barbeque night & scenic views, the winter season does come as the best option to go with. The weather during this time is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from mild to chilly. This is the time when this small hamlet in Maharashtra turns into a winter wonderland with captivating scenic views. Winters are the best time for sightseeing, hiking, & other activities. 

Opulent resort to plan your luxury stay in Kolad

To have great fun with adventure activities & sightseeing, jüSTa Rudra Resort & Spa, the best resort in Kolad, is infused with luxury facilities ranging from comfy accommodations to other leisure facilities. Tucked away from the humdrum of city life, this is a splendid stay in the heart of Kolad, Maharashtra. Featuring well-appointed 58 spacious rooms with world-class amenities, this resort is perfect for spending vacations or celebrating moments of joy.

The other miscellaneous facilities that give vacationers the choice of this resort as their perfect staycation include an open swimming pool with an attached lawn for cocktail parties and a multi-purpose court to indulge in sporting activities like tennis, volleyball, cricket, basketball, & football. It also has a spa with 5 therapy rooms. There is also a gymnasium to keep your fitness routine intact, Shantivan, a little peaceful escape to nature, a jogging track, & indoor game room to play Fussball, carrom, table tennis & chess. The private bonfire area here lets you spend quality time with your loved ones.

It also comes as the best destination wedding venue in Kolad with its two spacious banquet halls, Raigad (at 2600 sq. ft) & Surgad (at 850 sq. ft), with six different seating style arrangements, Tennis Court Lawn (5200 sq. ft), Pool Lawn (4500 sq. ft), & Gazebo Lawn (4000 sq. ft). With such extensive features, your lifetime event will be a huge success & memorable. 

There is Konkan Café & Bar, one of the top Kolad restaurants, to indulge in delicious Maharashtrian cuisines & flavours. You can also go for international flavours to quench your taste buds. This in-house restaurant offers a range of multi-cuisines, mostly Maharashtrian, catering to different tastes. The bar here lets you enjoy sipping your finest drink and witness the natural beauty of Kolad with a captivating sunset view displaying the colourful hues of yellow, orange, & blue.

Conclusion

So now you know what makes Kolad an offbeat weekend destination near Mumbai & Pune. If you are from Mumbai, it is hardly a distance of 122 km drive, whereas from Pune, it is 113.3 km. Kolad is indeed an underrated hidden gem with a treasure trove of so many places of attractions for tourists. Besides enjoying thrill with adventure sports like river rafting, bungee jumping, or any other, you will also make your stay memorable at jüSTa Rudra Resort & Spa, a perfect accommodation for luxury seekers.

The post Kolad: An Offbeat Weekend Destination Near Mumbai & Pune first appeared on jüSTa Hotels & Resorts.

Experiencing this water sport is truly a fantastic experience when coming for vacation in Kolad. It might seem a thrilling sport to enjoy, but it must be done with proper care, or else it may prove fatal if taken lightly. Kolad, being the best place to do river rafting near Mumbai & Pune, attracts many Mumbaikars & Punekars other than tourists from other cities excited to enjoy this challenging sport on the Kundalika River. It is known to be one of the fastest-flowing rivers in India. When trying this sport for the first time, it must be done with the support of an expert, as it will help in avoiding any unpleasant incident. So, if you want to experience this sport on your Kolad trip, follow our travel guide below.

River rafting in Kolad: Best time to do it

As the name suggests, river rafting is an adventurous water sport where you must challenge the waves while moving your boat with a firm grip on your oars. Even though you can enjoy it anytime. Still, the monsoon season is the best time to visit Kolad for river rafting. This is because, during this time, the flow of the water moves more rapidly & swiftly, adding more thrill to your water sport. It tests your strength to afloat in the water & those who are determined will enjoy it. The weather in this tiny hamlet is humid throughout the year. Still, when it rains from June to September, the temperature comes down, making the climate pleasant & calm. 

Knowing the grade levels

Kolad is one of the popular travel destinations in Maharashtra, which is famous for its natural attractions & also the river rafting sport. Now it does not matter whether you are an amateur or experienced, it is applicable for both to understand the rafting grades at different levels.

• Grade 1: You can call it a beginning-level training where you will be taught about the signs, techniques, & safety equipment when experiencing river rafting.

• Grade 2: In the second stage, the instructor will practically show the rafting technique with slow gliding. You have to master the raft with proper use of techniques that have been learnt, & get the feel of rowing in Kundalika River.

• Grade 3: Here begins the challenging task when you have to withstand the roaring flow of the river. During this time, you must maintain a firm grip on your raft & oars when facing unexpected drops. To move further, you must rush forward by keeping your raft floating. Teamwork is essential here, as it lets the participants row simultaneously. 

• Grade 4: In this stage, river rafting occurs during the monsoon, when the river waves rapidly flow. All the lessons you have been taught in the beginning by the trainer must be kept in mind, as it can turn into a very dangerous, yet very thrilling & exciting experience to remember.

Is it really safe to experience river rafting in Kolad?

In this stage, river rafting occurs during the monsoon, when the river waves rapidly flow. Hence, all the lessons you have been taught in the beginning by the trainer must be kept in mind, as it can turn very dangerous. Still, with proper caution, you can turn it into a very thrilling & memorable experience.

Safety measures to follow when getting ready for river rafting

When getting ready to experience the thrill with river rafting sport in Kolad, there are some guidelines that must be followed. Let’s see what are they:

• River rafting must be done with a life jacket. Make sure to have it on your body.

• If you have any medical condition that bothers you, do not hesitate to discuss it with the instructor. He will advise you accordingly. 

• Before rafting, you must have a satisfactory meal for at least 30 – 40 minutes. It will fill you with the energy needed to do the water sport.

• While rafting, you must not suffer from dehydration. To avoid it, stay hydrated with ample water intake.

• If you have any doubts, then get it cleared with your instructor.

• Follow the instructions of the expert carefully.

• Do not stand when moving with the current.

• Avoid putting your feet outside the raft.

• Carrying or consuming alcohol is strictly not allowed

• Be confident & stay in happier mood

Things to carry when going for Kolad river rafting

After knowing the safety tips, you must understand what you must carry when going for Kolad river rafting.

• Clothes that can dry fast

• Alternate clothing for changing & towels

• Warm clothes to keep cold at bay

• An extra bag to keep your wet clothes

• Sunscreen lotion to avoid tanning

• Energy bars, snacks, & water bottles to avoid dehydration

• Medications, if necessary

Best resort to stay in for experiencing river rafting in Kolad

To fulfil your craze for river rafting sport, it would be better if you book your luxury stay at jüSTa Rudra Resort & Spa. It is the best luxury resort in Kolad making a splendid stay for its visitors who would be experiencing the blend of comfort & luxury at luxury accommodations. The resort lies perfectly encircled by nature, flora & fauna, & covers 5 acres of lush green area overlooking the forest. Moreover, this treasure trove of luxury lies very nearer to the white river rafting point, giving you a wonderful access to experience the thrilling water sport in 15 minutes. 

Flocking on to the features, the resort comprises 58 well-furnished spacious rooms acquainted with multiple added facilities, ensuring a memorable stay. With its luxurious accommodations, it fulfils the motive of all kinds of travellers whether for leisure, business, or hosting a special event. If you wish to plan a destination wedding in Kolad, then it is really a welcoming idea, as the resort features two spacious banquet halls, RAIGADH at 2600 sq. ft. & SURGAD at 850 sq. ft with four different seating style rooms. Adding three other spacious features include Tennis Court Lawn (5200 sq. ft.), Pool Lawn (4500 sq. ft.), & Gazebo Lawn (4000 sq. ft.).

When it comes to comfort, then it is not limited merely to opulent rooms, but other special amenities including Shantivan that lets you swing in peace, a swimming pool to have a relaxing dip, a multipurpose court to engage in multiple outdoor sport activities, like cricket, basketball, or volleyball. For indoor game lovers, the resort lays a surprise for them with table tennis, carrom, fussball, & chess. There are skilled therapists to give you a relaxing body treatment at the resort’s spa. Jogging track & gymnasium are other add ons. 

During your stay at Kolad, you can have a memorable dining experience savouring the delicious Maharashtrian cuisines at Konkan Café & Bar. It is one of the best restaurants in Kolad that displays a range of cuisines predominantly Maharastrian. Every dish here represents the symphony of flavours, showcasing the culinary skills of master chefs here. 

Conclusion

This is all you need to know about river rafting in Kolad, with all the necessary facts regarding when to do it, the safety measures, and things to carry when doing this water sport. We have also suggested the best resort that lets you experience a range of luxury facilities, from spacious rooms to many other miscellaneous amenities. Overall, your visit to this luxury vacation will be a memorable one.

The post Things To Keep In Mind While Doing River Rafting In Kolad first appeared on jüSTa Hotels & Resorts.

What makes Kolad one of the popular travel destinations in Maharashtra

Kolad is a small hamlet lying in the Raigarh district of Maharashtra. This place had not been explored much by tourists as they were unfamiliar with it compared to other major cities of this Indian state. Because of this, it remained an underrated hidden gem despite being a treasure trove of major tourist attractions. 

However, in recent years, things have changed, & Kolad has gained traction in pulling tourist traffic for its famous white river rafting adventure activity. If you are Mumbaikar planning for a nearby weekend vacation, Kolad is the best place for weekend getaways near Mumbai. The same applies to Punekars. 

If you love exploring the unexplored, you should switch from Maharashtra’s highly popular cities to Kolad, a small hamlet awaiting its travellers to know more about it. Let us give you a brief overview of the top attractions you must explore. 

Top attractions in Kolad

There are many top places to explore in Kolad during your vacation. Check out the list & know what makes these spots worth visiting.

• Kundalika River – for white river rafting
• Kolad Museum – admiring sculptures made with bamboo & wood
• Sutarwadi Lake – a paradise for peace lovers & birdwatchers
• Kuda Caves – Exploring paintings & stupas of Lord Buddha
• Tala Fort – experience short trekking (best for beginners), & best views from top
• Ghosala Fort – explore for its architecture, caves, history, & rock-cut water tanks
• Dholwal Dam – a must-visit for lush greenery, gushing waters, & fun activities
• Sukeli Falls – beholding the sight of cascading waterfall, & for adventure fun
• Avchitgad Fort – visit it for beautiful architecture, history, & trekking
• Bhira Dam – best for photography, boating, water rafting, & hearing sound of water

Popular adventure sports to explore here

With all the above travel spots to visit with your loved ones, what adds more excitement & thrill to your journey are the adventure sports ranging from:

• White river rafting
• Zip-lining
• Trekking
• Kayaking
• River crossing
• Flying Fox
• Bungee jumping
• Riverside camping

Tasting local Maharashtrian delicacies

Your visit to Kolad must not go incomplete without tasting the delicious Maharashtrian cuisines. Below are some of the popular local foods that you should try.

• Kothimbir Vada
• Keri Aamti
• Pudachi Vadi
• Bombil
• Misal Pav
• Puran Poli
• Pandhra Rassa
• Thalipeeth
• Modak

Best time to visit Kolad

June to September is the ideal time to visit Kolad, as the weather during these months is pleasant, with monsoon rains that enhance the natural beauty of this hidden gem of Maharashtra. Moreover, due to rising water levels, it is the appropriate time to indulge in river rafting. So this is the best time to visit Kolad during the monsoon season. 

How to reach

Since Kolad is well-connected with major cities of Maharashtra, including Mumbai, Pune, & Lonavala, you won’t find it challenging to reach it by road. The nearest railway station to this place is Roha & Kolad Railway Station. Many trains are running from Mumbai to Roha & Kolad. If you want to come by flight, the nearest airport to Kolad is Pune (PNQ) Airport, which is 75.2 km & Mumbai (BOM) Airport, which is 87.1 km from the city. 

Where to book your homestay in Kolad

To experience various tourist attractions & adventure activities in Kolad, you should plan your stay in this Raigad district region. There is no need to look for ample choices when booking your stay at jüSTa Rudra Resort & Spa. It is one of the best resorts in Kolad, providing ultimate luxury facilities ranging from room services to other miscellaneous ones. The resort features 58 spacious rooms with modern amenities. Another reason to stay here is its other luxury facilities, including a multi-purpose court, swimming pool, spa, & gymnasium. 

You can even plan a destination wedding in Kolad, as the resort is equipped with spacious banquet halls RAIGADH at 2683 sq. ft & SURGAD at 1100 sq. ft with all the possible seating arrangements. It also has a tennis court lawn spread at 5,650 sq. ft, & a pool lawn covering 2,900 sq. ft. With all the equipped facilities, your wedding will surely turn into a grand event. 

The resort also has an in-house restaurant named Konkan Cafe & Bar. It is one of the top-rated dining restaurants in Kolad, where you can savour the regional Maharashtrian cuisine. Apart from delicious cravings for food, you can also try out beverages, both alcoholic & non-alcoholic. You can enjoy having them while enjoying the best views. In the evening, the resort lets you hang out with your loved ones at its enchanting bonfire while sipping hot cups of tea or coffee along with snacks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kolad Thrilling Journey

Q. What makes Kolad a famous travel destination in Maharashtra?

A. Kolad is a small village in Raigad district of Maharashtra. In recent years, this place has become famous for its white river rafting adventure sport. 

Q. How far is Kolad from Pune?

A. The total distance from Kolad to Pune is 120 km. 

Q. How far is Kolad from Mumbai?

A. The total distance from Kolad to Mumbai is 120 km. 

Q. How far is Kolad from Lonavala?

A. The total distance from Kolad to Lonavala is 100 km. 

Q. Is river rafting sport suitable for all age-groups?

A. Yes, the river rafting sport is absolutely suitable for all age groups. But people with chronic asthma, physical disabilities & pregnant ladies must avoid it. 

Q. Is it safe to do river rafting in Kundalika River?

A. Yes, it is entirely safe to experience river rafting in the Kundalika River, one of the fastest rivers known in India. 

Q. What are the timings for river rafting in Kolad?

A. The timings for river rafting in Kolad depend much on water released from the dam to Kundalika River for the water sport activity. The water is released every day at 8:00 AM. But during the monsoon, the water is sometimes released around 2:00 PM. 

Q. How long is the stretch for Kundalika River rafting?

A. The Kundalika River rafting stretch is 12 km. It is completed in about 2 to 2.5 hours.

The post Kolad: The Most Popular Travel Destinations In Maharashtra For Vacation first appeared on jüSTa Hotels & Resorts.

Kolad is a very close-by destination, from two of the major cities in Maharashtra: Mumbai and Pune. Hence, it is a very popular destination for thrill seekers, and it is advisable to pre-book your white river rafting packages well in advance especially during the monsoon season. 

Kolad river rafting is the only adventure activity that is open all year around in India. The ripples and waves in the river are abundant year-round due to the Rawlje Dam water. This adventure activity at Kolad can be categorised as moderate to difficult. 

Kolad White River Rafting Itinerary

You can reach the destination by 7:45 am, that is when they start briefing you with the guidelines and preparing you for the rafting experience, and by 8:00 am you will be all set to take on the waves. It is important that you pre-register before joining the group in the morning as the slots and seats fill up fast.

Details of White River Rafting at Kundalika River

White river rafting is a famous adventure activity that has made Kolad a renowned travel destination among adventure junkies. So, if you are interested in exploring this water sport, let us brief you on some essential details.

• The rapid levels range from Level 1 to Level 4
• The rafting distance, or the river rafting span is somewhere between 10 km to 12 km
• Depending on the speed of water, weather and the season, the duration of river rafting can vary between 2 hours to 2.5 hours
• The grade and endurance level are medium
• You don’t require swimming skills to participate in this whiter river rafting experience
• It is not necessary to be skilled in white river rafting or to have a previous experience before embarking on this rafting trip

Important Things to Keep in Mind

To enjoy the river rafting in Kolad, there are essential things that need to be considered to make your adventure fun, safe & exciting. Here are the points to follow.

• Transportation from Rafting end point to beginning point is not provided
• You will have to share an auto or hire a jeep with other teammates to get back to the start point, in case you have a driver, they can pick you up from the end point
• It is best you change and reach the destination, as there are no changing rooms available on the site
• Make sure you keep a water bottle with yourself, as there is no drinking water availability on site
• Wear comfortable clothes that you would be comfortable staying soaking wet in for 2 hours or more
• It’s best to avoid denim and any kind of tight outfit
• Wear goot fitting shoes or sandals, and avoid slippers, as there is a possibility that you will lose them in the fierce waterbody while rafting
• You should carry a set of dry clothes and towels to dry up later, but please keep in mind that there are no changing rooms in close proximity
• You can carry a camera, but carry it at your own risk. During rafting you can either leave your belongings with the guide or if you have your own personal vehicle then you can keep it inside that
• Apply generous amounts of sunscreen and wear full sleeve clothes to avoid tanning
• Carry a waterproof bag for all your essentials, and gadgets

Book Your Luxurious Stay in Kolad

If you are excited to enjoy the white river rafting sport in Kolad, you must book your stay at one of the best luxury hotels & resorts in this small hamlet in the Raigad district of Maharashtra. Now, scrolling for multiple options may swallow most of your time; hence, to value your time, we suggest you book jüSTa Rudra Resort & Spa. This luxury resort features all kinds of luxury facilities that any guest would expect. Let us have a brief overview of them starting from:

When choosing for your staycation, every guest would be interested in knowing the room facilities provided by a hotel or resort. Talking about jüSTa Rudra Resort & Spa, this luxury resort in Kolad has 58 rooms in total comprising 4 different room categories, including:

Superior Room: Spread at 220 sq. ft, this room is facilitated with all kinds of modern amenities that make it a suitable option for both business & leisure trips. Coming to its interiors, you have a choice to pick for either twin or king-sized beds. The white hues of the room bring a calm ambience, & the beautiful scenic painting adds more charm to it. From your room, you can have wonderful views of mountains & lush green gardens, making your stay worth memorable. 

Premium Room: Premier rooms are another example of the epitome of luxury at jüSTa Rudra Resort & Spa. These rooms are spacious at 220 sq. ft. & are stuffed with all modern amenities that make it a perfect place to untwine. With the provision of a private seating room, LED TV & seamless Wi-Fi service at your service, it gives guests a great time enjoying their favourite television programs & watching buffering videos on their mobile. For dining out with your loved ones, there is a private patio attached with all rooms encircled with lush green surroundings. If you are an art lover, the beautiful painting here cannot go unnoticed from your vision. 

Deluxe Room: If you are searching for a luxury stay in Kolad, then staying at a Deluxe room spacious at 322 sq. ft can make you experience luxury with all modern amenities. The beautiful floral patterns & amazing artwork within the room will make you acknowledge the unusual creativity of underrated artists worldwide. Having the private balcony attached with all rooms, you can enjoy the natural beauty of Kolad including its gorgeous mountains. With the unmatched hospitality services here, you will enjoy your stay at the Deluxe room.

Cottage Room: You can also opt for a private Cottage room spread at 125 sq. ft. This room is exceptionally cosy & luxurious to enjoy a perfect staycation in Kolad. The rustic interior charm of this room is filled with luxurious amenities with a modern touch. Providing an attached private bathroom makes you spend a great time under the shower, releasing all the stress in your mind. With the white hues’ tones, the room’s aesthetics beautifully represent the natural charm of Kolad. 

Other facilities

Apart from room facilities, jüSTa Rudra Resort & Spa facilitates its guests with other range of services, including a wellness spa, a swimming pool, an in-house dining restaurant named Konkan Café & Bar, a banquet hall (equipped with different-seating style arrangement), & a multi-purpose sports complex to enjoy games of your choice. 

Conclusion

Planning a trip to Kolad & experiencing a thrilling white river rafting adventure sport here will surely make your travel journey memorable. To experience a hassle-free stay in this small hamlet of Maharashtra, we have suggested the best luxury resort that would satiate you with all the luxurious facilities it is stocked with. So, time to pack your bags & get ready to embark on your journey to Kolad. 

FAQs

How to commute from the endpoint back to the starting point?

You will be able to find local auto rickshaws that will drop you back to the starting point for 600 rs. You can negotiate further based on the location of your stay, or the location where you have parked your vehicle or left your belongings. You can also get drivers for rs 300 if you have come with your personal vehicle.

Is Kolad River Rafting Safe?

You have nothing to worry about. Although the rafting reaches grade level 3, there are certified trainers who will instruct and teach you how to row and navigate the raft properly. You will also be provided with a helmet and life jacket, for your safety.

How to reach the River Rafting Destination?

You can download the information from Google maps, and easily navigate it with the help of the same. Although it is advisable to download the map and address well in advance, as the location has a bad reception issue.

Are there changing rooms or washrooms available at the start point or the end point?

Although there is no changing room available, there is a basic setup for the washroom at both start and end point. As a bonus you can also find a lot of local dhabas at the end point, where you can enjoy a cup of tea and snacks, before heading back to the start point or back to your hotel or resort.

The post Kolad: Best Place for River Rafting Near Mumbai And Pune  first appeared on jüSTa Hotels & Resorts.

Top 10 Places to Visit in Kolad in 2023

Before we begin with our blog in listing those places in Kolad, let us brief you about this hidden gem of Maharashtra. Kolad is a small hamlet that is nestled in the Raigad district of Maharashtra near the western coast of India in Rohataluka. The place has now started gaining attention for its number of adventure activities, among which white river rafting is the prominent water sport. Now let us list down those top attractions that are worth visiting.

1. Kundalika River

Kundalika River is that famous tourist spot to visit in Kolad to experience white water rafting fun. It flows from the western ghats and is controlled by the Bhira Dam. Being one of the fastest-flowing rivers in India, the Kundalika River is ideal for rafting water sports. Now it has become the main reason for driving the tourist footfall who no longer can hold their craze for rafting fun. 

2. Kolad Museum

Those who have a great interest in arts and crafts must visit Kolad Museum, as it is one of the top spots in Kolad, where you can stroll around and view the sculptures of birds and humans, plus other multiple shapes that are wonderfully designed with bamboo and other different kinds of wood. It is also called Kolad’s Kashta Shilpa which stocks brilliant works of talented Ramesh Ghone. 

3. Sutarwadi Lake

Sutarwadi Lake is a mini getaway for all those who are finding ways to escape from the noisy environment of the city and seek peace in some tranquil destination. It can also be called a paradise for nature lovers who can view so many different birds flying here. You can come here as a solo traveller or as a honeymoon couple. Either way, you will feel better in its serene atmosphere. Nestled in the Konkan region of Maharashtra it is encircled with mountains. There are many homestays to consider for your trip to this winsome lake.

4. Bhira Dam

Bhira Dam is one such dam in Kolad that controls the heavy current of River Kundalika a main spot for white river rafting. Famously called as Tata Powerhouse Dam, it is very helpful in generating electricity for the local areas of the village. It is indeed a famous travel spot for adventure lovers. Here people can be seen boating around and clicking photographs, plus enjoying the serene sound of water flow. 

5. Kuda Caves

Kuda Caves is a great place for history buffs who have a great interest in exploring and discovering old things. Located in Janjeera hills at a height of 200 metres above sea level, this cave is 27 km from Murud and is a batch of 15 rock-cut Buddhist caves that will trace you back to the time of Ellora and Ajanta caves. 

When you visit Kuda caves, you will see two elephants at the entry point. On exploring more you will also see many paintings and stupas of Lord Buddha inside the cave. Your visit to Kuda Caves will help you gain knowledge of its history.

6. Tala Fort

While exploring places to visit in Kolad, do not miss Tala Fort, which is 18 km south of Roha town. Its other name is Talagad Fort. It is erected at a height of 10,000 ft and is nestled on a narrow hill encircled by heavy walls. It is very easy for a beginner to climb this short trek. When you reach its top, you can experience the best views from here. Tala Fort is a must-visit for tourists and history buffs.

7. Ghosala Fort

Ghosala Fort is famous for its spectacular architecture, design, rock-cut water cisterns, caves, and history to be unveiled. This will be a great hangout zone for you with your friends or a family for picnicking. 

8. Avchitgad Fort

Avchitgad Fort also joins the list of forts in Kolad. For your information, it is one of the forts people love to visit the most. This hill fort is located in the Raigad district at Roha town, enveloped with western ghats. It is the best place for trekking, and exploring the fabulous architecture plus unveiling the popular history behind it.

9. Sukeli Waterfalls

Want to be in the lovely atmosphere with cascading waterfalls, chirping sounds of birds, or traversing through dense forests? If yes, then Sukeli Waterfalls is the right place to visit in Kolad. It is just 7 km from the main village. Watching the amazing sight of this waterfall will make your mind free from all the negative clutter in your mind. It won’t be wrong to consider Sukeli Waterfalls a haven for both nature and adventure lovers.

10. Dholwal Dam

Last on the list is Dholwal Dam, which is nestled in the western ghats and is a great tourist attraction for its majestic aura and multitude of activities including boating and rafting. This is a great place to chill with your beloved partner or friends. The sight of gushing waters and greenery around is just amazing to look at. 

Conclusion

So this ends our list of those top 10 places to visit in Kolad. This latter small hamlet in Maharashtra is worth visiting to make the best of memories with your partner or friends. So don’t miss any opportunity to visit Kolad and witness its natural beauty clubbed with top tourist attractions mentioned in the list. 

Do plan for your comfy staycation at the best luxury resorts in Kolad. One example to suggest is jüSTa Rudra Resort & Spa, a luxurious resort that provides all kinds of world-class amenities to its visitors including a swimming pool, a multi-purpose court, a spa, a yoga and meditation, a poolside bar, a bonfire area, and dining at a multi-cuisine restaurant to have the relishing taste of special Maharashtrian cuisine.

The post 10 Places to Visit in Kolad in 2023: Complete Guide first appeared on jüSTa Hotels & Resorts.

Kolad River Rafting: A famous adventure water sport near Mumbai

Before we begin our article on the Kolad white river rafting sport, it is important to know about the Kundalika River on which this water sport takes place. This is one of the fastest-flowing rivers in the southern region, which makes it perfect for having a multitude of adventure fun. Apart from sightseeing fascinating waterfalls, dams, and forts, Kundalika River is one added feature of Kolad tourism. 

If you wish to experience water rafting fun but have no prior exposure to it, then worry not, as there are experienced raft guides who will help you with instructions and training before ready to explore the sport. Now any beginner would find it important to know when is the best time to do white river rafting on the Kundalika River. Well, there are no such fixed months to do it, as it is open throughout the year. But the monsoon season is considered the best to enjoy any kind of adventure activities.

White River Rafting

White water rafting is a famous adventure water sport in Kolad for many adventure seekers. Now it has become a very popular attraction to welcome tourists to explore it. This water sport is practiced on the fast fast-flowing current of the Kundalika River. After booking the river rafting package the operator will convey you the exact location. 

The time to explore your water sports fun is from 8:45 AM to 12:30 PM. Someone new to this sport need not have to panic as there are safety measures applied with the facility of gears and equipment ensuring the safety of the rafters. You will be under the guidance of an instructor who will lead to 12 km of rafting. The best season to grab your oars and enjoy exciting rafting is from June to October. 

Camping

Besides gaining a wonderful Kolad river rafting experience, you are also at an advantage for camping. If you are looking for a golden opportunity to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, then do come to Kolad and experience water rafting and camping near the Kundalika river that flows through the forested hills and lush greenery. 

If you live in Mumbai, then it is just an hour’s drive to reach this famous spot of Kolad. Due to grade IV rapid current, the river has become very famous and a challenge for an avid water sports buff. If you don’t want any problems to spoil your excitement, then please arrive at the prescribed check-in time. 

During camping, you will be facilitated with tents where 2 to 3 people can be accommodated. Plus, there will be pillows, mattresses, and blankets for your convenience. To quench your taste buds, delicious foods are prepared onsite. So do have a joyous dining with your loved ones. At night, you can become a part of a bonfire session under the sky (depending on the weather) and indulge in a fun time chatting with your mates.

Best months to experience river rafting in Kolad

If you want to beat the scorching summer heat in your city, then we suggest you come to Kolad during the onset of the monsoon season from June to September. Those who are not comfortable with heavy rainfall can experience water rafting during the winter season from October to March.

Price for river rafting adventure sport

The cost of white river rafting in Kolad depends on your weekend or weekday plan. For weekends, the price is Rs 1200, and for the weekday plan, it is Rs 800. The cost also varies for the chosen route, the number of people, and the season. Adding more information about the river rafting sport, it can be as thrilling and challenging as you have to encounter the raging white water during your adventure sport on the Kundalika River controlled by the dam.

Conclusion

Other than Rishikesh in Himachal, you can also enjoy Kolad river rafting and camping with great enjoyment with your friends. Please equip yourself with things like valid ID proof, water bottles, pairs of footwear, clothes, sunglasses, rainjackets, medical kit, waist pouch, cameras, and caps along with you. Plan your comfy staycation at nearby resorts in Kolad like jüSTa Rudra Resort & Spa, a luxury resort equipped with all modern facilities ranging from the swimming pool, gymnasium, spa, yoga and meditation, bonfire area, and multi-cuisine restaurant.

The post Kolad River Rafting 2024: A Detailed Guide for Adventure Water Sport Near Mumbai first appeared on jüSTa Hotels & Resorts.