Chasing the monsoon
While monsoon showers mischievously play peek-a-boo with city slickers, it has already spread a green blanket amidst ice-cold waterfalls and fresh air of stunning crests around Maharashtra. As city dwellers prepare to head to the mountains for a walk in the clouds, WSP’s Mayank Soni will give you a preview of one new destination every week, to make this monsoon memorable.
Mayank Soni
Name: Malshej Ghat
Distance: 150 kms
Northeast of Mumbai
Height: 3500 feet
A three and a half hour drive from Mumbai, on the scenic NH3, winding its way up the mountain is just a prelude to the experience that lies ahead. June to September is the best time to visit Malshej Ghats as the monsoon works magic to this place. Drive carefully as you approach Malshej as the road is covered in mist. You can enjoy the beauty of the towering peaks and deep valleys as you stand on the edge of the mountain on Malshej. However, to enjoy these sights, you are at the mercy of the clouds that reveal magnificent glimpses at intervals.
The best place to stay around is the MTDC Hotel, located not far from the edge of the plateau, also known as the Flamingo Hill Resort. There are many waterfalls around Malshej, where you can laze and soak yourself to the bone, shiver due to chills, but still not want to get dry. A cup of cutting chai and hot bhajias from a roadside vendor will make the experience even more wonderful.
For bird lovers there is no better place to watch the pink-legged flamingos, who make Malshej their home between July to September. They come here in good numbers and are mostly spotted in the backwaters of Pimpalgaon Joga Dam, about 4 km from Flamingo Hill Resort.
Caution
As you enjoy the beauty of the mountains and forests, you also need to be cautious of leopards, which are regularly spotted in the Malshej-Narayangaon belt. Do not wander in the forest or fields after dark. If you are travelling on a two-wheeler, leave the place before sunset, as bikers are more vulnerable to attack by leopards.
How to get there
By road – Take the National Highway 3 via Bhiwandi to Kalyan. From Kalyan head towards Saralgaon and further to Vaishakhare, which is near Malshej Ghat.
Where to stay
-Flamingo Hill Resort (near Khudi Phata). You can book your accommodation on 28775016/ 28775026.
-Sushant Holiday Resort Contact – 02732-57108
Where to eat
Flamingo Resort serves good Maharashtrian food besides, South Indian, Punjabi and Chinese.
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