Monsoons are the best time to explore the Sahyadris of Maharashtra. The hills turn green, and the weather is perfect for adventure lovers to explore new terrain. Here’s another way to take it a notch higher. The Durshet Forest Marathon organised by Run Buddies Races starts from Khopoli which is 80 km away from Mumbai.

Arvind Bijwe, founder of the organisation, shares, “We’ve been conducting the Durshet Forest Marathon for the past 10 years. It started in 2015 with a small but passionate group of trail runners who wanted to break away from city roads, and experience running amidst nature. Since then, it has steadily grown into one of the most loved monsoon marathon events in Maharashtra, with participants coming from Mumbai, Pune, as well as from other states. Every year, we’ve refined the experience while keeping the raw, nature-driven charm of the run intact.”

The marathon received a great response in the previous edition. He recalls, “The route was lush, and refreshingly isolated from traffic. Seasoned half‑marathoners clocked personal‑best trail times, while first‑timers completed their very first five and three km with beaming smiles. Every year, there are more returning faces; families turn it into a weekend getaway. What makes it truly special is the sense of community.”