The mountains of the Western Ghats in Maharashtra are at their peak of beauty during the monsoon season. Though every inch of this region offers breathtaking views during the rainy season, there are some places that are exceptionally unique. The Sahyadri Range of the Western Ghats is filled with such spots. These places are nothing less than paradise for adventurous trekkers.
One such incredibly beautiful spot is the trekking route to Nanemachi Waterfall. Located in the Mahad taluka of Raigad district in Maharashtra, the trek to Nanemachi Waterfall takes the thrill to new heights. It is approximately 70 kilometers from Pune and 210 kilometers from Mumbai.
After about a 4-hour car journey from Pune, we reached the starting point of the Nanemachi Waterfall trek. Upon arrival, we learned that the road ahead was closed due to poor conditions. We had to park our car 2 kilometers before the designated starting point of the trek. We began trekking at 9 in the morning.
The weather was very pleasant with light rain. Along the way, we saw small waterfalls cascading down the mountains. After walking for a while, we entered a dense forest, and the path became more challenging.
The surrounding views were very beautiful. During the monsoon season, thick fog often envelops the forests, making it difficult to see far ahead. We saw a group of three people trekking behind us, which made us realize that others were also on this trail. Until then, it felt like we were the only ones in the entire valley.
We continued walking, admiring the natural scenery. In some places, we saw local shepherds who had come to the forests to graze their cows. After walking for a while, we became tired and stopped at a spot to rest.
Here, many water streams converged and flowed down into a gorge. A while later, the same group of three people returned. They told us that the forest ahead was very dense and the path led down towards the gorge.
They also mentioned that it seemed like we were on the wrong path, as the Nanemachi Waterfall was nowhere to be seen. Saying this, they turned back. After discussing among ourselves, we decided to continue forward. Since we had started early in the morning, the risk of it getting dark was low.
Indeed, the forest had become very dense now. It was difficult to discern the path through the bushes. The fog was so thick that we couldn’t see far ahead. In some places, ropes were tied to the bushes to mark the path. We followed these markers to move forward. The strong winds were making very eerie sounds in the forest. Braving our way, we descended into the valley. Now, there was a river in front of us.
Walking along the riverbank, we moved a bit further and heard the sound of the Nanemachi Waterfall nearby. After a short while, we were close to the Nanemachi Waterfall.
The rocks there were very slippery. Carefully, we reached right next to the waterfall. The weather had also cleared up. We were the only ones near the Nanemachi Waterfall.
The view was magnificent. A large river was cascading down from a 400-foot high mountain, forming the Nanemachi Waterfall. Due to the great height from which the water was falling, it appeared like white foam. All around, there were rows of small and large waterfalls on the mountains.
This sight was very soothing to the eyes. After spending some time near the Nanemachi Waterfall, we started heading back. Walking a bit along the riverbank, we stopped at a nice spot and went for a swim in the river.
On the other side of the river, there was a small waterfall. We decided to cross the river to reach it. The river wasn’t very deep, but its current was quite strong. After crossing the river, we bathed in the waterfall for a while. We then spent a good amount of time playing and enjoying in the river. We experienced and appreciated these precious gifts of nature up close. It was now time to head back.
The rain had intensified greatly. The paths we had taken to reach there were now filling up with water. The way back through the jungle’s bushes was confusing us. At one point, we even lost our way. However, we soon realized our mistake and corrected it. Losing one’s way in the dense forest during the monsoon can have dreadful consequences. Thankfully, using our presence of mind, we found the path and made our way back to the car.
The trek to Nanemachi Waterfall was memorable in many ways. The experience of bathing in the river was wonderful. This trek, filled with natural beauty, had everything that makes for an unforgettable trek.
I believe that such monsoon treks should be undertaken in a group. It is even better if you can find a local guide. Starting the trek early in the morning is always a good idea. This gives you the entire day to explore and ample time to return, reducing the risk of getting lost in the dark if you stray off the path.
*****************
➝ Difficulty Level: Easy.
➝ Endurance Level: Easy.
➝ Trekking Time: Approximately 4-5 hours.
➝ How to Reach the Nanemachi Waterfall Trek: The distance from Pune to Nanemachi Waterfall is about 70 kilometers and from Mumbai, it is 210 kilometers. You can easily reach by car.
➝ Best Time to Visit the Nanemachi Waterfall Trek: During the monsoon season, from July to October.
➝ Time Required for the Nanemachi Waterfall Trek: 1 day.
➝ Essential Items to Carry for the Nanemachi Waterfall Trek: Trekking shoes, raincoat, extra dry clothes to wear after trekking, waterproof bag, water bottle with glucose, camera, pain relief spray, snacks, photo ID.
Information Source: Authentic information sources available on internet, Various Articles and books on the subject & Interaction with local public.
For more information & feedback write email at : ikanchan2024@gmail.com
