With the rise of responsible tourism, many hidden gems that cater to nature and tourism have gained recognition, and new ones are also coming up. Case in point? Goa is suddenly seen as a prime destination for Eco-tels. Yet, if you are a monsoon lover who wants to experience the season in the lap of nature, Maharashtra’s scenic spots are the place to go, provided they remain safe and open for visitors.
Maharashtra Monsoon Destinations
- Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani
With ample farm stays, though you’ve to do your due diligence in ensuring yours is a great stay, Mahalbaleshwar offers attractions like Mapro Strawberry Farms and Devri Art Village. Alongside, there are many sustainable spots for the responsible tourists here, such as scenic locations like Arthur’s Seat, but we have to be firm to not participate in Animal Exploitation. Since Mahabaleshwar has become popular as a nature-based tourist spot, we must practise not littering, prioritise supporting local industries, and keep more tenets of responsible tourism in mind. Also, if you do visit during monsoons, chances are that you won’t be able to participate in adventure sports since those might be closed for safety, given the heavy rains the State has been seeing.
- Wai
With several responsible tourists who prioritise a farm-to-table experience and have eco-friendly entertainment as some of their attractions, this small village’s ghats are a favourite of Bollywood. Not far is the Dhoom Dam with a variety of water sports, but again, monsoon means they might be inaccessible, as is likely the same for the beauty of the Khass Plateau. It’s filled with colourful flowers, but they usually bloom after July. In Wai, religious folks can go visit the iconic mandirs and temples of Wai, and for history buffs, there are many traditional Maharashtrian experiences and cultural structures like Nana Pandavas Wada, alongside forts which hold significance for Mahabharat enthusiasts. In a nearby village are several Buddhist caves, known as the Wai Caves, which can be fun for those interested in cave systems and the Earth.
- Lonavala
Holidify agreed with the popular wisdom that Lonavala is one of the best places to visit in Maharashtra. With farmstays becoming popular, one might stay there, but going to a green-certified or an agrotourism resort is more aligned with social sustainability compared to corporations whose values might not align with yours, unless we can research what a company supports. Places for nature lovers in Lonavala include the wildflower field, aka Kamshet Plateau, which we just mentioned for Wai, since the two places are close by. Several valleys can also be found close to the iconic holiday spot that is Lonavala.
Whether it’s Arthur’s Seat or the waterfalls Maharashtra is famous for, monsoon tourism can be risky and hence following government guidelines is essential, especially in years of heavy monsoon, as was seen in 2025. Whether we go camping at Dhoom Dam, decide to see the iconic forts in Bhor, or be a nerd in Mulshi’s Hobbit homes, ensuring that we go on hikes and trails that are respectful of local culture and ecology is paramount. Listening to the wisdom of those who live in these places and supporting their businesses is another way to be a sustainable tourist, alongside popular tips such as carrying your own cutlery, eating local cuisine when viable, dressing appropriately, and not leaving too much trash behind.
For more eco-friendly tourism ideas, stay tuned to NB News.
