When the rains sweep through Maharashtra, Mumbai transforms. The dusty cityscape gives way to fresh air, cloud-kissed hills, and monsoon-soaked greenery. But nothing signals the arrival of the season quite like the gushing waterfalls tucked in the nearby Western Ghats. If you’re craving an escape from city life, there’s no better time to explore the waterfalls near Mumbai worth a weekend drive.
This guide brings you the most scenic, accessible, and rewarding waterfalls to visit within a 2–5 hour drive from Mumbai. Whether you want a peaceful picnic by a stream, a short trek to a hidden cascade, or a full-day adventure, we’ve got options for every kind of monsoon traveler.
Bhivpuri Waterfalls Near Mumbai
Distance from Mumbai: ~80 km
Location: Near Karjat
Tucked in the lush valleys of Karjat, Bhivpuri Waterfalls are among the closest and most accessible waterfalls from Mumbai. A favorite for beginners and weekenders, the falls flow down wide rocky steps, making them safe for short dips and great for photos. Book 8-Day Maharashtra Heritage & Temple Tour Now
Why Visit:
- Great for first-time monsoon trekkers
- Accessible via train (Bhivpuri Road station)
- Small eateries and homestays in nearby villages
Travel Tip: Reach early on weekends as it can get crowded post-noon. Combine with a visit to Kondana Caves or a short trail to the Dhom Dam. Explore Maharashtra Hill Stations – 7-Day Scenic Escape
Kondeshwar Waterfall
Distance from Mumbai: ~65 km
Location: Near Badlapur
Less commercial and more serene, Kondeshwar Waterfall near the Kondeshwar Temple is a peaceful weekend escape near Badlapur. Uncover Top 16 Things to Do in Lonavala – Start Your Journey
Highlights:
- Ideal for those looking to avoid crowds
- Small hike through forest and rice fields
- Visit the ancient Kondeshwar Shiva Temple nearby
The waterfall is part of a larger stream system and looks especially beautiful during mid-monsoon when mist wraps around the surrounding hills.
Pandavkada Waterfall
Distance from Mumbai: ~45 km
Location: Kharghar, Navi Mumbai
If you want something even closer to home, Pandavkada Waterfall is a tall, powerful fall cascading over vertical basalt cliffs. Named after the Pandavas, this natural marvel is perfect for a half-day outing.
Why It’s Famous:
- Falls from a height of nearly 100 feet
- Set against the backdrop of lush Kharghar hills
- Easily accessible by road or train (Kharghar Station)
Note: Entry is sometimes restricted by the forest department during high-flow days for safety reasons, so check ahead before planning. Top Waterfalls Near Bangalore Within 200 km
Zenith Waterfalls
Distance from Mumbai: ~75 km
Location: Khopoli
Zenith Waterfalls are one of the most visited waterfalls near Mumbai and are especially known for their postcard-like views.
Features:
- A wide and tall waterfall surrounded by thick forest
- Requires a short 15–20 minute walk from the parking area
- Ideal for group travel, with photo spots and shallow streams nearby
Safety Tip: While the base is safe for standing, do not attempt to climb the rocks or stand directly under heavy flow.
👉 Related: Top Waterfalls Near Delhi Within 200/300 km
Vihigaon Waterfall (Ashoka Falls)
Distance from Mumbai: ~115 km
Location: Nashik District, near Kasara
This one’s for thrill-seekers. Vihigaon Waterfall, popularly known as Ashoka Falls (filmed in the Bollywood movie Asoka), is a plunge waterfall surrounded by lush jungle.
Why Visit:
- Popular for rappelling and adventure sports
- Water cascades down a near-vertical cliff
- Located near Kasara—can be accessed via train + rickshaw
Travel Tip: Adventure groups organize waterfall rappelling here every monsoon. Book in advance for a safe, guided experience.
Dabhosa Waterfall
Distance from Mumbai: ~170 km
Location: Jawhar
Dabhosa Waterfall, located in the tribal hill station of Jawhar, is a majestic sight. It’s one of the few perennial waterfalls in Maharashtra, making it beautiful year-round.
What Makes It Special:
- Falls from a height of over 300 feet
- Surrounded by thick forest and rock cliffs
- Jawhar itself is home to tribal art, heritage palaces, and eco-lodges
You can stay overnight at one of the forest resorts and explore nearby lakes and local Warli art villages.
Devkund Waterfall
Distance from Mumbai: ~130 km
Location: Bhira Village, near Tamhini Ghat
A shimmering turquoise pool, fed by a single towering stream—Devkund Waterfall is one of the most photogenic waterfalls in the Sahyadris.
Things to Know:
- Requires a moderate 2.5-hour trek through dense forests and river crossings
- The base pool is sacred—swimming was allowed earlier but is now restricted during high flow
- Ideal for trekkers and offbeat travelers
Start early and trek with local guides for safety, as mobile networks are patchy here.
Umbrella Falls (Bhandardara)
Distance from Mumbai: ~165 km
Location: Bhandardara
Located right below the Wilson Dam in the hill town of Bhandardara, Umbrella Falls is formed when the dam overflows during the monsoon. Discover 12 Stunning Waterfalls Near Delhi – Plan Your Escape Today!
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
- Dramatic water flow under a semi-circular bridge—like an umbrella
- Combine with a stay at Arthur Lake or a visit to Randha Falls
- Ideal for photographers and nature lovers looking for peaceful monsoon destinations
Best Time: Mid-July to September, when the dam gates open and the falls are at full strength.
Randha Falls
Distance from Mumbai: ~165 km
Location: Near Umbrella Falls, Bhandardara
Often overshadowed by Umbrella Falls, Randha Falls is equally spectacular. Here, the Pravara River drops into a giant gorge, creating thunderous spray and mist. Uncover Hidden Waterfalls in Rishikesh – Explore Now!
Ideal For:
- A scenic stop while exploring Bhandardara
- Photography and dramatic monsoon visuals
- Peaceful viewing from designated railings
Kune Falls
Distance from Mumbai: ~85 km
Location: Between Lonavala and Khandala
Tucked between Lonavala and Khandala, Kune Falls is a tiered cascade falling from nearly 200 meters, surrounded by rich greenery.
Attractions:
- Visible from the highway but accessible by internal roads
- Great for monsoon drives and spontaneous stops
- Less crowded compared to Bhushi Dam or Tiger Point
Photography Tip: Carry a wide-angle lens for capturing the full vertical span of the fall.
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Best Time to Visit Waterfalls Near Mumbai
The ideal time to explore these waterfalls is during the monsoon (July to early September). However, some (like Dabhosa and Umbrella Falls) continue to flow till October.
Month-by-Month Overview:
- June: Early showers begin, light flow
- July–August: Peak season for most waterfalls
- September: Good weather, fewer crowds, steady flow
- October: Diminishing flow but ideal for trekking and photography
Related: Monsoon Travel Guide to Goa
Travel Tips for Your Waterfall Weekend
- Start early to avoid weekend rush and enjoy the best light
- Pack light, but include rainwear, waterproof bags, and trekking shoes
- Avoid alcohol and risky swimming—waterfall accidents are common in peak season
- Respect nature: no plastic, no loud music, and no littering
- Carry cash—many rural areas have limited network and card payment options
- Always check weather and safety updates from local authorities, especially before visiting tall or remote falls
Suggested Itinerary (Weekend Plan)
Adventure & Trekking (Devkund + Tamhini)
- Day 1: Drive to Bhira, trek to Devkund, overnight camping
- Day 2: Visit Tamhini Ghat, photography, return via Mulshi
Nature & Staycation (Bhandardara)
- Day 1: Drive to Bhandardara, explore Umbrella & Randha Falls
- Day 2: Hike to nearby points, boat in Arthur Lake, return
Short Drive (Zenith + Bhivpuri)
- Day trip covering both waterfalls, breakfast en route, lunch in Karjat
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about chasing waterfalls near Mumbai during monsoon. The roads become lush, the air feels lighter, and every bend seems to hold a new surprise. Whether it’s the thrill of Devkund, the peaceful flow of Kaas Plateau’s seasonal streams, or the roaring thunder of Umbrella Falls, each destination offers a different kind of escape.
So fuel up, pack light, and let the mist guide you. Mumbai may be surrounded by concrete, but just a few hours away, nature is in full, glorious motion.
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