Explore Karjat in Maharashtra: A Complete Travel Guide

Travel Guide to Karjat, Maharashtra

Nestled amidst the lush hills of the Sahyadri mountain range, Karjat is a breathtakingly beautiful town in Maharashtra. Located just a stone's throw away from Mumbai, Pune, and Nashik, this tranquil oasis in the Raigad district is a nature lover's paradise that offers a delightful escape from the chaos and commotion of city life. With its pristine rivers, cascading waterfalls, and verdant valleys, Karjat is a visual feast that will leave you awestruck. Its charming villages, ancient forts, and lush forests add to its allure, making it a coveted destination for travelers seeking a tranquil retreat.

Places to visit in Karjat

The hill-town is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders and cultural attractions. Here are some places to visit in Karjat you can enjoy with your friends and family: 

Kondana Caves: These are a group of ancient Buddhist caves in the heart of Karjat. The caves were built in the 2nd century BC and contain some of the most intricate and well-preserved carvings and sculptures. The Kondana Caves are a must-visit for history buffs and those interested in ancient art and architecture.

Ulhas Valley: This is a picturesque valley in Karjat that offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests. The valley is also home to several waterfalls, including the famous Kondeshwar waterfall, making it a popular spot for trekking and picnicking.

Bhivpuri Waterfall: This is another popular attraction in Karjat, just a few kilometers from the town. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and offers visitors a refreshing and rejuvenating experience.

Peth Fort: A historic fort on top of a hill near Karjat, the fort offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and forests and is a popular spot for trekking and adventure activities.

ND Studios: Any Karjat travel guide will include a tour of this studio. ND Studios is a popular film and television studio in Karjat that has been the shooting location for several Bollywood films and TV shows, such Bigg Boss hosted by Salman Khan. Visitors can take a tour of the studio and get a glimpse of the behind-the-scenes action of the Indian film industry.

Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary: A protected area in the Western ghats, this sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the Indian giant squirrel and the Malabar grey hornbill.

Kondheshwar Temple: A popular temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located amidst a dense forest, which is believed to be over 2000 years old. This is one of the best places to visit near Mumbai.

Also Read: Maharashtra Tourism – Your Travel Guide To Make the Most of Your Holidays in Maharashtra 

How to reach Karjat?

Karjat is a popular weekend getaway destination from Mumbai and Pune, and there are several ways to reach this beautiful town.

By Air: The nearest airport to Karjat is the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai, approximately 70 km away. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to Karjat. The road journey takes approximately 2-3 hours depending on traffic.

By Train: Karjat is well-connected to Mumbai, Pune, and other major cities in Maharashtra by train, and there are several daily trains that run between these destinations. You can choose between local trains, passenger trains, and express trains based on your preferences. Some trains that you can take from Pune to Karjat are Pragati Express, Deccan Queen, or Koyna Express.

By Road: Karjat is on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. If you are traveling from Mumbai, you can take the Eastern Express Highway and then connect to the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. If you are traveling from Pune, you can take the Pune-Mumbai Expressway and then take the Khopoli exit. Once you reach the Panvel-Khopoli exit, follow the signs to Karjat. The distance between the exit and Karjat is around 14 km. You can either drive your own vehicle or hire a taxi to reach the town. Private cars and taxis are easily available for hire in Mumbai and Pune. You can take a bus from Mumbai or Pune to Karjat. Several state-run and private buses operate between Mumbai/Pune and Karjat, and the journey takes around 2-3 hours depending on the traffic and the route taken.

Once you reach Karjat, you can explore the town on foot or hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to visit the nearby attractions. You can also opt for adventure activities like trekking and camping, which local tour operators can organize for you. 

Also Read: Maharashtra Travel Guide - Top 15 Places to Visit in Maharashtra [Updated List]

Best time to visit Karjat

The best time to visit Karjat is from October to February, which is the winter season in Maharashtra. During this time, the weather is pleasant, with the temperature ranging from 12°C to 25°C, making it an ideal time to explore the town's natural beauty and indulge in adventure activities like trekking, hiking, and river rafting.

The monsoon season, from June to September, is also a good time to visit Karjat as the surrounding hills and waterfalls are in full flow and look stunning. However, the heavy rainfall may make it difficult to indulge in adventure activities. If you're looking for a weekend getaway to simply unwind and enjoy, you must consider visiting the town during the monsoon season. The vibrant greenery, refreshing smell of wet earth, cool breeze, and relishing hot samosas and bhajiyas accompanied by a piping hot cup of tea are the perfect recipe for ultimate relaxation. There's nothing quite like it!

Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or a nature lover, a history buff or simply seeking some peace and quiet, Karjat has something to offer everyone. So, pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to explore the hidden gems of Karjat. You're sure to return with memories that will last a lifetime!

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