When the city's hum becomes too loud, the open road calls. In Maharashtra, the roads leading to its many dams offer more than just a drive; they promise a quiet escape into nature, especially in the calm post-monsoon months.
Bhandardara: The Classic Getaway
Roughly a 165 km drive from
Mumbai, Bhandardara is a well-established destination for a reason. The journey itself, particularly after the monsoons, is a visual treat of green landscapes. The main attraction is the Wilson Dam and the serene Arthur Lake it created. For nature walks, there aren't many formally marked 'trails', but the pathways around the lake offer a peaceful stroll with rewarding views. For those wanting a genuine trek, the trails to the nearby Ratangad fort or Mount Kalsubai, Maharashtra's highest peak, are challenging but popular options. A walk to the roaring Randha Falls is another easy and accessible activity. The experience here is about soaking in the grand scale of the Sahyadris without needing to be an expert trekker.
Pawna: Camping and Gentle Hikes
Closer to Pune (around 60 km) and also accessible from Mumbai, Pawna Lake has become synonymous with lakeside camping. The 'nature trail' here is often the simple, enjoyable walk around the periphery of your chosen campsite, watching the sun set over the vast expanse of water. It’s relaxation more than rigorous hiking. However, for those with an appetite for more, the area is surrounded by historic forts. The treks to Tikona, Lohagad, and Visapur forts are popular day activities that offer panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape. These are proper treks, varying in difficulty, and provide a more structured adventure compared to a simple lakeside walk. Pawna's appeal is this very combination: relax by the water, or use it as a base for a more strenuous climb.
Mulshi: A Drive-Focussed Experience
The road trip to Mulshi Dam, especially from Pune via Tamhini Ghat, is often considered the main attraction. During the post-monsoon season, this route is famous for its lush greenery and scenic viewpoints. The area around Mulshi Lake itself offers plenty of opportunities for leisurely nature walks rather than defined trekking trails. You can simply park and walk along the backwaters, enjoying the cool breeze and calm atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for those who want to enjoy nature from the comfort of their car, with short walks to stretch their legs. While there are more intense treks in the broader region, like the Andharban trail, the immediate vicinity of the dam is about serene, unstructured exploration.
Khadakwasla: The Convenient Outing
As Pune's primary water source, Khadakwasla is an incredibly accessible destination, located just 21 km from the city center. It's often called 'Pune's Chowpatty' due to the numerous food stalls lining its banks. The 'nature trail' here is the long, paved embankment of the dam itself, which is perfect for a morning or evening walk. It’s a popular spot for locals to watch the sunrise or sunset over the water. While it might lack the wild, remote feeling of other dams, its convenience is its biggest strength. For a more adventurous outing, you can continue the drive to the nearby Panshet Dam, which offers water sports, or trek up to the historic Sinhagad Fort, which provides a commanding view of the entire region.
