Monsoon transforms the Indian landscape in ways that are hard to describe but easy to fall in love with. Dry, dusty hills turn into emerald waves, rivers swell with new life, and waterfalls cascade with dramatic power. For those new to trekking, the monsoon season offers a perfect window to begin this journey. The environment is cool and comfortable, the scenery is exceptionally beautiful, and the trails come alive with color and sound. Unlike the scorching summer or the icy winters, the monsoon makes hiking more pleasant while presenting mild challenges that can help build a trekker’s confidence. This article is a curated guide to help first-time trekkers embrace monsoon trekking through easy yet visually stunning trails, especially accessible from urban hubs like Mumbai, Pune, and Bangalore.
Why Monsoon is Ideal for Beginners
The Indian monsoon doesn’t just bring rain, it breathes life into everything it touches. For new trekkers, this season acts as an ideal introduction to the world of hiking for several reasons. First, the temperatures are cooler, which reduces fatigue and makes walking uphill easier. Second, the trails during monsoon are often less dusty and more scenic, providing an almost magical experience with clouds drifting across the mountains and vibrant flora lining the paths. Most importantly, the shorter treks available during this season require minimal physical training, making them perfect for first-timers who want to test their stamina and comfort in the wild. The experience can be deeply immersive and rewarding, without being too physically taxing.
1. Lohagad Fort Trek, Maharashtra
Location: Near Lonavala
Duration: 2-3 hours (one way)
Difficulty: Easy
Lohagad Fort is one of the most accessible and beginner-friendly treks in Maharashtra. Just a short drive from Lonavala, the trek involves a gradual ascent with well-laid stone steps leading up to the fort. The total elevation is manageable at around 3,400 feet, making it suitable for individuals of all ages. During the monsoon, the entire path is enveloped in greenery, and small waterfalls spring up along the way, creating a fairytale-like setting. The view from the top is nothing short of spectacular, with Pawna Lake shimmering below and clouds often floating around you. It’s also a great spot for history buffs, as the fort has deep ties to Shivaji Maharaj’s Maratha Empire. You get nature, history, and a workout, all in one.
2. Devkund Waterfall Trek, Maharashtra
Location: Bhira Village, near Kolad
Duration: 2-3 hours (one way)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
The Devkund Waterfall trek is a hidden gem located near Bhira village, and it leads to one of the most picturesque plunge waterfalls in Maharashtra. The trail takes you through a dense forest, alongside river streams, and through narrow muddy paths. In the monsoon, this route is teeming with flora and small wildlife, enhancing the overall natural experience. While the terrain is mostly flat with a few undulating sections, the rain can make it slippery, so proper trekking shoes are essential. The final destination is a natural pool formed at the base of the waterfall, where many trekkers enjoy a refreshing break. This trek is a perfect mix of forest exploration and waterfall chasing, giving first-timers a rewarding sense of adventure.
3. Bhimashankar Jungle Trail, Maharashtra
Location: Bhorgiri Village
Duration: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
This trail offers more than just a walk in the woods, it’s a spiritual and ecological journey. Located in the Sahyadri Hills, the Bhimashankar trail meanders through thick jungle canopies that form part of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO-recognized biodiversity hotspot. Trekkers can expect to walk through slippery forest paths, moss-covered rocks, and wooden bridges over small rivulets. The monsoon accentuates the greenery, making every step feel like a walk through a rainforest. The trek ends at the Bhimashankar temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India, adding a layer of cultural and spiritual significance to the adventure. For beginners, this trek offers the perfect combination of scenic beauty, physical activity, and soulful tranquility.
4. Skandagiri Trek, Karnataka
Location: Near Chikkaballapur (60 km from Bangalore)
Duration: 4-5 hours (round trip)
Difficulty: Easy
The Skandagiri trek is popular for a reason. Located just 60 km from Bangalore, this hill fortress offers a moderately easy climb with well-marked trails. Although night trekking is restricted during the monsoon for safety reasons, early morning treks can be equally captivating. Starting before sunrise, trekkers are often rewarded with a mystical ‘sea of clouds’ phenomenon where the peaks rise above the fog, creating a floating-island illusion. The trail passes through ruins of an old fort, small shrines, and rocky patches, making it a mini-adventure close to the city. It is a great starting point for those living in Bangalore who want to break away from routine without venturing too far.
5. Tadiandamol Trek (Base Route), Karnataka
Location: Coorg
Duration: 3-4 hours (base to mid-point)
Difficulty: Easy
Tadiandamol is the highest peak in Coorg and the third-highest in Karnataka, but don’t let that intimidate you. The base route leading up to the first few viewpoints is ideal for beginners. The trail starts near Nalknad Palace and gradually ascends through coffee plantations, shola forests, and grassy ridges. During the monsoon, mist floats across the path, creating an atmosphere that feels both eerie and enchanting. While seasoned trekkers may go all the way to the summit, beginners can enjoy the mid-level views and head back safely. The manageable inclines, scenic beauty, and clean air make this trek a soothing experience.
Tips for First-Time Monsoon Trekkers
- Footwear: Invest in waterproof trekking shoes with good grip to navigate muddy trails.
- Rain Gear: Carry a poncho or rain jacket and always use a backpack cover to protect your belongings.
- Backpack: A 20-30L backpack is sufficient. Pack light but don’t forget essentials.
- Clothing: Avoid cotton; wear synthetic or dry-fit clothes that wick away moisture.
- Nutrition: Bring ORS packets, energy bars, and dry fruits to stay hydrated and energized.
- Group Travel: Trek in a group or hire a local guide; it’s safer and more enjoyable.
- Check Forecasts: Always check the weather report and avoid treks during heavy rainfall alerts.
Embarking on your first trek can be both thrilling and nerve-wracking. But the monsoon season, with its natural beauty and serene atmosphere, offers a gentle yet unforgettable introduction to hiking. These beginner-friendly treks prove that you don’t need to conquer a Himalayan summit to feel the joy of the climb. With each step, you gain confidence, perspective, and a deeper connection with nature. Whether it’s the misty cliffs of Skandagiri or the forested paths of Bhimashankar, monsoon treks allow you to start your trekking journey with awe and ease.
So tie those laces, zip up your raincoat, and step into the wild. Your journey as a trekker begins here, and there’s no better season to start than the monsoon.
