30 July,2010 06:20 AM IST | | Prashant Nawgrahe
The Guide checked out some unexplored spots in and around the city that make for great monsoon gateways
It's that time of the year when you should head out of the city and embark on some unforgettable monsoon treks. The lush greenery, heavy rains and the beautiful landscape combine to give you a unique experience. Here are 4 offbeat spots to head to for some me-time and to come back refreshed. All the destinations are just an hour away from the city and are thankfully not congested with tourists.
Korigad
A 20 km ride from Lonavala, this fort offers a combination of thick forests and lakes. The fort was included by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in his kingdom. Its advisable to go during the monsoon as it's ideal for trekking. A temple of Goddess Koraidevi is built along with other temples inside the fort.u00a0u00a0
How to get there: You will have to reach Lonavla and then head to Shahpur. The journey will not take more than more than an hour's time by car. From Shahpur, you could reach Korigad in less than half an hour. If you love trekking, you can even walk all the way to Korigad and stay at Lonavla.
Bedsa Caves
Set amidst the rugged backdrop of the Sahyadris, Bedsa has a beautiful manmade Chaitya (Buddhist shrine) in this region dating back to the 2nd century BC. Despite the fact that it takes lots of hard work to reach the spot, those who dare to venture are welcomed by a splendid view of the valley from the caves. The ambience is calm and serene and there is rarely a tourist scouting the area.
How to get there: They are situated near Panshet which is an hour away by car and around 50 km from Pune. You can also go via local train from Panshet or take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway to Panshet.
Madhe Ghat
Situated among the lush green beauty of the Sahyadri mountains, it is surrounded by green mountains. The mountains are 1,950 feet from sea level. Your journey will take you along Velhe village, which gives a splendid view of Rajgad fort from the top. The place is famous for its mountains, waterfalls and ghats and is an ideal spot for trekking thanks to the dense forests.u00a0u00a0u00a0
How to get there: Take the Pune-Satara Highway to reach Nasrapur, which is within an hour's distance from Pune by car. You will have to reach Velhe village from there, which is situated at the base of Madheghat. You can also take the Pabe Khind route, which takes you along the Sinhgad road.u00a0
Kund Mala
Kund Mala is one of those destinations that are best headed to during the monsoon. Kund literally translates to 'pond' while mala means 'chain'. Located around 35 km from Pune, it has numerous ponds around the entire stretch which get filled during the rains. There are not too many stay options though and the nearest destination for hotels and restaurants is Bushi Dam.
How to get there: Head to Lonavla and then to Bushi Dam. The journey to Bushi Dam would take 1.5 hours by car from the city and it will take another half an hour to reach Kund Mala.
