Malshej Ghat is a beautiful mountain pass located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. It is about 120 kilometers north of Pune and is famous for its scenic views, waterfalls, and trekking trails. Many travelers from Pune visit Malshej Ghat for weekend trips and nature escapes.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Pune to Malshej Ghat. You will learn about the main transport options, step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and what to expect upon arrival. This will help you plan your trip confidently and enjoy the journey.

Getting from Pune to Malshej Ghat – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a less common but possible option to reach near Malshej Ghat. The nearest railway stations are Kalyan and Kasara, from where you can take local transport to Malshej Ghat. This option suits travelers who prefer train journeys combined with local taxis or buses.

• The closest major railway station to Malshej Ghat is Kalyan, about 50 km away, connected to Pune by frequent trains taking around 2 to 3 hours.

• From Kalyan or Kasara stations, you need to hire a taxi or take a local bus to Malshej Ghat, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Train fares from Pune to Kalyan range between ₹50 and ₹150 depending on the train type, with multiple trains running daily including local and express services.

• Trains can get crowded during weekends and holidays, so booking tickets in advance via IRCTC is advisable to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Monsoon season may cause delays on this route due to fog and landslides near the ghats, so check train status before traveling.

Bus

Buses are a popular and economical way to reach Malshej Ghat from Pune. State transport and private buses operate regularly, offering a direct and scenic route through the Western Ghats. This option suits budget travelers and those who enjoy road trips.

• MSRTC buses depart from Pune’s Swargate bus station to Malshej Ghat several times a day, with journey times around 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Private buses and shared taxis are also available, often leaving when full, providing flexible timing but varying comfort levels.

• Bus fares typically range from ₹100 to ₹200, making it an affordable choice for most travelers.

• The road route follows NH61 and NH222, passing through scenic hills and small towns, with rest stops offering local snacks and tea.

• During monsoon, the roads can be slippery and prone to landslides, so buses may run slower or get delayed; avoid traveling late at night during this season.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Pune to Malshej Ghat is the most flexible and comfortable option. The route is scenic and well-maintained, making it popular for weekend getaways. This suits travelers who want to explore at their own pace and stop at viewpoints along the way.

• The distance from Pune to Malshej Ghat by road is approximately 120 kilometers, taking around 3 to 3.5 hours via NH61 and NH222 depending on traffic.

• The route passes through towns like Bhor and Rajur, with several toll plazas and good rest stops for refreshments and fuel.

• Self-drive or cab services like Ola and Uber are available from Pune, but pre-booking a cab for a round trip is recommended to avoid last-minute fare hikes.

• Driving during monsoon requires caution due to slippery roads and fog in the ghats; carry essential safety gear and check weather updates before starting.

• Parking is available near popular spots in Malshej Ghat, but weekends can be crowded, so arrive early to secure good parking.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Pune to Malshej Ghat. It covers what to do before and during your journey to ensure a smooth trip.

• Book your transport tickets in advance, whether train or bus, using IRCTC or MSRTC online portals to avoid last-minute unavailability and higher fares.

• Pack light but include rain gear and warm clothes if traveling during monsoon or winter, as the weather in Malshej Ghat can be unpredictable and cool.

• Start your journey early in the morning to avoid Pune city traffic and reach Malshej Ghat with daylight for sightseeing and trekking.

• If traveling by train, confirm the local taxi or bus availability from Kalyan or Kasara stations beforehand to avoid waiting long hours.

• Carry sufficient water and snacks, especially if traveling by bus or self-drive, as food options on the route are limited and may close early.

• Upon arrival, use local shared jeeps or taxis to explore the ghats and nearby waterfalls, as public transport inside the area is limited.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a power bank and keep your phone charged, as mobile network coverage can be patchy in the ghats and you may need GPS navigation or emergency calls.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water to avoid stomach issues, especially if you plan to eat at roadside stalls or small eateries.

• Book your bus or train tickets at least 2-3 days in advance during weekends and holidays to secure seats and avoid overcrowding.

• Use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for safer and fair-priced local travel rather than negotiating with local drivers.

• Pack your luggage in waterproof bags during monsoon to protect your belongings from rain and humidity.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling; avoid the route during heavy rains or foggy mornings to prevent accidents and delays.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Malshej Ghat is from October to February when the weather is pleasant and the roads are dry. The monsoon season from June to September offers lush greenery and waterfalls but can cause travel delays and slippery roads.

Winter mornings can be foggy, affecting visibility on the ghats. Planning your departure and arrival times carefully will help you avoid these issues and enjoy a safer journey.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali when Pune city traffic is heavy and transport services are crowded.

• Monsoon rains can cause landslides and roadblocks on the ghats, so check local news and weather updates before starting your trip.

• Early morning departures help you avoid city traffic and reach Malshej Ghat with enough daylight for sightseeing and trekking.

• Late evening travel is not recommended due to poor visibility and limited transport options returning to Pune.

Arrival at Malshej Ghat & What to Expect

When you arrive at Malshej Ghat, you will find limited public transport options, so pre-arranged taxis or shared jeeps are the best ways to move around. The area is popular with tourists, so expect some crowd during weekends and holidays.

Accommodation options range from budget guesthouses to mid-range resorts near the main viewpoints. Staying near the Malshej waterfall or Harishchandragad base village is convenient for exploring the area. Local eateries offer simple Maharashtrian food, but carrying some snacks is advisable.

Conclusion

Traveling from Pune to Malshej Ghat is best done by car or bus for convenience and scenic views. Self-driving gives you flexibility, while buses offer an affordable and regular service. Train travel is possible but requires additional local transport arrangements.

Plan your trip by booking tickets early, starting early in the day, and checking weather conditions to avoid monsoon-related delays. With these tips, you can enjoy a safe and memorable journey to Malshej Ghat’s beautiful landscapes and refreshing nature.