Karjat has all the ingredients of a good travel destination: history, adventure, and, of course, the beauty of nature. Lying picturesquely in the Sahyadri ranges, it can be seen that Karjat is perfect for refreshing and adventurous purposes. The area is full of accessibility to caves, watering places, and forts that have historical importance and are completely configured with natural beauty. Places to visit near Karjat will be quite an experience, whether you are hiking across rolling green slopes or visiting rich architecture carved out of rocks near Karjat.
10 Places To Visit Near Karjat
Some of the most common places to visit in Karjat mainly include:
1. Kothaligad (Peth Fort)
Photo: Heramb Sukhathankar / Wikimedia Commons
This fort extends to about 1.5 kilometres in elevation and bears the names Peth Fort and Kothaligad. The trek has gained popularity for its special design and remarkable scenic landscapes of the nearby peaks. Starting from Ambivali, the path climbs past vibrant foliage and historic caves. On your way to the peak are carefully cut steps that direct you to the fort’s highest point, showcasing old cannons and reservoirs. From the summit, you can admire a stunning 360-degree vista of the valley, especially during the monsoon when clouds blanket the site.
Best Time To Visit: June to September (Monsoon)
Top Experiences: Trekking, photography
Entry Fees: ₹50 per person
2. Kondana Caves
Photo: Shishirdasika / Wikimedia Commons
The Kondana caves are one of the tourist attractions near Karjat, and they lie in an intriguing group of ancient Buddhist caves. Located within a rocky hillside is this cave complex, which goes back to the 1st century BC and reveals stunning sculptures alongside its stupas. People can wander through various caverns and experience a noteworthy chaitya hall. Surrounded by thick foliage and delivering a tranquil setting for contemplation and reflection, the caves are ideal for these activities. Although a few sculptures have endured wear from nature over the years, the unchanged artwork remains intriguing.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Top Experiences: Exploring caves, trekking
Entry Fees: Free
3. Bhivpuri Waterfall
Photo: Manuela Adler / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Speaking of places to see near Karjat, Bhivpuri Waterfall becomes a favourite for picnics close to Karjat during the monsoon months when it turns into a breathtaking waterfall. Surrounded by tall trees and hillsides, the waterfall delivers a relaxing escape from busy city life. People can unwind on the rocky surface while basking in the natural splendour provided by the waterfall’s abundant beauty. Local trails provide great opportunities for trekking and discovering picturesque views in Bhivpuri’s surroundings.
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Top Experiences: Swimming, picnicking, rappelling
Entry Fees: Free
4. Ulhas Valley
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
With its breathtaking views and peaceful setting, the Ulhas Valley is another one of the other attractions near Karjat, which is an outstanding destination for relaxation. In the monsoon time, this beautiful valley features lush green hills and flowing streams alongside colourful plants. People visiting can meander on scenic routes or aim to photograph marvellous landscapes. The valley is an excellent starting point for several hiking trails that connect to nearby hills and forts. In Ulhas Valley, you can find both peace and thrill if you are after a break from your routine.
Best Time To Visit: Monsoon for vibrant greenery; winter for clear skies
Top Experiences: Trekking, nature walks
Entry Fees: Free
5. Bhor Ghat
Photo: Ameyawiki / Wikimedia Commons
Bhor Ghat is an important pass in the mountains that unites Mumbai and Pune and is celebrated for its picturesque scenery and diverse flora. This ghat boasts curved roads lined with abundant vegetation and presents amazing views everywhere. It attracts bikers and road trippers because of the great adventure found in attractive views. In season, waterfalls overflow the hillsides and improve their appeal. Bhor Ghat presents impressive surroundings but also reflects a rich history with monuments of ancient fortifications present.
Best Time To Visit: Anytime; best during monsoon for lush landscapes
Top Experiences: Photography, trekking
Entry Fees: Free
6. ND Studio
Photo: Anonymousbananas / Wikimedia Commons
Located in Karjat near the studio is ND Studio, which presents guided tours demonstrating the sets used in Bollywood productions. Gone are traditional museum visits; this place transforms the way people view movies by showcasing filmmaking. Between the studio’s display of prominent scenes from popular films and the option for photography using famous props, it presents appealing opportunities. If you appreciate films or want to learn about Bollywood’s magic, ND Studio delivers a captivating outing that unites imagination with delight.
Best Time To Visit: Sundays
Top Experiences: Studio tours, photography opportunities
Entry Fees: Varies; check in advance
7. Bahiri Caves
Photo: Ömer ÇETİN / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Bahiri Cave, also known as Kotligad, is a remarkable ancient rock-cut cave located approximately 600 metres above sea level near Ulhas Valley. This historical site is perched on a cone-shaped hill and offers stunning views of the Western Ghats, including the Bhimashankar range. The cave features a small shrine dedicated to Lord Bhairoba, attracting many Hindu devotees, especially during the festival of Chaitra Poornima. Historically significant, Bahiri Cave was built by the Marathas as a strategic lookout point, making it a fascinating destination for both history buffs and nature lovers.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Top Experiences: Hiking, exploring caves
Entry Fees: Free
8. Sondai Fort
Photo: Vika Chartier / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Sondai Fort is a little trek through the forest area that gives some of the areas from the top of a hill where valleys can be observed. It has the remains of the historical architecture depicting the historical story of the fort, and tourists can easily move around the fort; they have tracks and take beautiful photos. Trekking difficulty on the trek ranges from moderate to rather strenuous, but it is all worth it since the physical beauty of the place is well the main attraction on this trek.
Best Time To Visit: Monsoon or winter for clear visibility
Top Experiences: Trekking, photography at sunset
Entry Fees: Free
9. Peth Fort
Photo: Ankit Patel / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Peth Fort, or Peth Gad, is another historical site that is easy to trek, as the final point affords awesome views of hills and valleys. It has partly preserved and restored structures that are more dated attractions, and of course, splendid views to lure in those who seek excitement and historical significance in one location. There is a trail to Peth Fort, and this is a good one for taking photographs with beautiful backgrounds. If you are an adventurous tourist who enjoys hiking or if you are going for a Sunday stroll amidst the pink of nature’s onset, then Peth Fort has something exciting in store for you.
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Top Experiences: Trekking, photography opportunities
Entry Fees: Free
10. Bekare Waterfalls
Photo: Rudy Kirchner / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Bekare Waterfalls presents natural scenery that offers a perfect vacation from a regular and busy life similar to any city. This little-known place is especially beautiful during the monsoon when water tumbles down into beautiful pools for people to swim in or sit by while enjoying the serenity of their surroundings and the lush nature that surrounds them! Other facilities made easily accessible by the paths encircling Bekare Waterfalls include several trekking trails that lead up into nearby hills; hence, apart from a relaxation spot, it serves as an excellent starting point for any adventure montage.
Best Time To Visit: Monsoon season when water flow is at its peak
Top Experiences: Swimming, picnicking in nature’s lap
Entry Fees: Free
When it comes to ideal destinations, places to visit near Karjat tops among them. Among the top tourist attractions near Karjat are the stunning Bhivpuri Waterfall, perfect for a refreshing dip, and the ancient Kondana Caves, which showcase remarkable Buddhist architecture. For those seeking adventure, the Kothaligad (Peth) Fort provides a thrilling trek with breathtaking views. Plan a trip with TripXL today
Cover Photo: Aditya Chache / Unsplash