Craving a quick escape from the city's chaos? A road trip around Mulshi Lake offers the perfect antidote. Just a short drive from Pune, this journey into the Sahyadris promises winding roads, lush landscapes, and tranquil waters.
The Journey to the Lake
The drive to Mulshi is
an experience in itself. From Pune, the route via Paud Road is the most common, stretching about 45-50 kilometres and taking around 1.5 hours. The road snakes through small villages and the changing scenery, from urban sprawl to rolling green hills, signals your approach to the serene reservoir. For those coming from Mumbai, the journey is approximately 110-165 kilometres and takes about 3-4 hours, typically via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway before exiting towards Paud. As you get closer, the air feels fresher, the landscape becomes more dramatic, and the anticipation for the lakeside views builds with every turn.
Monsoon and Post-Monsoon Magic
While Mulshi is accessible year-round, it truly comes alive during the monsoon (June to September) and post-monsoon (October to November) seasons. During the rains, the entire region transforms into a vibrant green paradise. The Mulshi Dam reservoir swells, hills are covered in mist, and countless waterfalls cascade down the hillsides, especially along the connecting Tamhini Ghat. The post-monsoon period offers the best of both worlds: the landscape is still gorgeously lush, the waterfalls are flowing, and the weather is pleasant and clear, making it ideal for outdoor activities without the heavy downpours.
Viewpoints and Scenic Stops
The road circling Mulshi Lake is dotted with spots that compel you to pull over and soak in the beauty. The main attraction is the vast expanse of Mulshi Lake itself, formed by the dam on the Mula river. Driving along its periphery offers constantly shifting perspectives of the water against the backdrop of the Sahyadri mountains. For one of the most celebrated drives in Maharashtra, continue towards Tamhini Ghat. This mountain pass is famous for its dramatic valley views and misty, atmospheric drive, particularly during the monsoon. You'll also find numerous small, unnamed pull-outs perfect for photography or simply enjoying a moment of peace.
Beyond the Road: Activities to Try
The Mulshi experience isn't limited to just the drive. The calm waters of the lake are perfect for boating and kayaking, with several local operators and resorts offering rentals. For the more adventurous, the surrounding hills are home to several trekking trails. Nearby forts like Koraigad and Tung offer rewarding, relatively easy treks with panoramic views of the entire region. The area is also a popular spot for lakeside camping, allowing you to spend a night under the stars with a bonfire for company. Birdwatchers can find plenty to enjoy, with many species visible along the lake's shore.
Flavours of the Drive
No road trip is complete without sampling the local food. The route around Mulshi is lined with simple 'tapris' (roadside stalls) and dhabas. During the monsoon, stopping for hot 'kanda bhaji' (onion fritters), roasted corn on the cob, and a steaming cup of chai is a quintessential experience. Several restaurants and resorts have lakeside settings, offering a meal with a stunning view. You can find everything from authentic Maharashtrian thalis at places like Hotel Garva to multi-cuisine options at resort restaurants. Disha's Dhaba, located near the dam, is a popular choice for its hearty and flavourful local dishes.
