When the clouds gather over the Sahyadri mountain range, Maharashtra transforms into a emerald paradise. Cascading streams, lush green valleys, and mist-covered peaks make monsoon the most magical season of the year. If you are looking to escape the daily hustle, planning a trip to the best waterfalls near Pune to visit by rental car is the ultimate weekend getaway. Renting a chauffeur-driven vehicle from Pawar Travels lets you enjoy the scenic beauty of Western Ghats without the stress of navigating slick mountain roads, heavy rain, or tricky parking spots.
Riding with a local professional driver allows families, couples, corporate teams, and photography enthusiasts to sit back, relax, and savor every moment of the road trip. Whether you are searching for a peaceful one day trip from Pune or an adventure-filled weekend getaway near Pune, taking a comfortable private vehicle is the smartest, safest, and most flexible way to explore these cascading natural wonders.
Which are the best waterfalls near Pune to visit by rental car?
The best waterfalls near Pune to visit by rental car include Devkund Waterfall, Tamhini Ghat Waterfalls, Kune Falls, Bhivpuri Waterfall, Thoseghar Waterfalls, Lingmala Waterfall, Vajrai Waterfall, Nanemachi Waterfall, Zenith Waterfall, Randha Falls, Bhaje Waterfall, and Madhe Ghat Waterfall. Renting a chauffeur-driven car from Pawar Travels ensures safe navigation through misty mountain passes, flexible travel itineraries, and zero parking stress during the peak monsoon season.
Why Visit Waterfalls Near Pune by Rental Car?
Exploring monsoon destinations near Pune in a rental car offers unmatched convenience, comfort, and safety. Here is why booking a chauffeur-driven private car is superior to public transport or self-driving:
- Flexible Timings: You set your own schedule. Stop for authentic Maharashtrian kanda bhajji and garam chai at roadside dhabas whenever you like.
- Stress-Free Mountain Driving: Monsoon roads in Ghat sections can be foggy, slippery, and narrow. Professional drivers from Pawar Travels are well-versed with Western Ghat topography.
- Multiple Waterfalls in One Day: With your own private vehicle, you can combine multiple nearby spots—like Tamhini Ghat, Mulshi, and Devkund—in a single road trip.
- Comfort for Families & Elderly: No long waits at overcrowded bus stops. Passengers enjoy air-conditioned comfort, cushioned seats, and clean interiors.
- Ideal for Groups & Corporate Outings: Large groups can travel together seamlessly by choosing spacious vehicles like Tempo Travellers or SUVs.
- No Parking or Route Hassles: Drop off right at the entrance points while your driver takes care of vehicle parking in crowded monsoon spots.
- Safe Luggage Storage: Keep extra dry clothes, towels, trekking gear, and camera accessories safely secured inside the vehicle trunk.
Top 12 Waterfalls Near Pune to Visit by Rental Car
1. Devkund Waterfall
Tucked away near Bhira, Devkund is a majestic plunge waterfall where three streams merge to create a pristine blue-green pool. It is famous among trekkers, youth groups, and nature lovers seeking an adventurous road trip from Pune.
- Overview: A hidden gem nestled deep inside the forests of Mangaon.
- Distance from Pune: 100 km
- Travel Time: 3 hours 15 mins via Tamhini Ghat Road
- Best Time to Visit: July to November
- Entry Fee: ₹50 per person (Guide fee extra: ₹300–₹500)
- Parking Availability: Available at Bhira Dam base village
- Difficulty Level: Moderate (3-hour forest trek)
- Things to Do: Trekking through dense forests, photography, river crossing
- Nearby Attractions: Bhira Dam, Plus Valley, Tamhini Ghat
- Travel Tips: Hire a local guide at the base village; wear sturdy trekking shoes with good grip.
- Ideal For: Trekking enthusiasts, adventure seekers, friend groups
- Why Visit by Rental Car: After a challenging 6-hour round-trip trek, resting comfortably in a private chauffeur-driven Pune car rental vehicle makes the journey home relaxed and painless.
2. Tamhini Ghat Waterfalls
Tamhini Ghat comes alive during the rainy season with dozens of large and small cascades pouring down dark basalt rock faces right beside the highway.
- Overview: A scenic mountain pass connecting Mulshi to the Konkan belt.
- Distance from Pune: 70 km
- Travel Time: 2 hours
- Best Time to Visit: July to September
- Entry Fee: Free
- Parking Availability: Roadside parking spots available along designated viewpoints
- Difficulty Level: Easy (Roadside access)
- Things to Do: Scenic drives, photography, soaking in natural showers, tea stops
- Nearby Attractions: Mulshi Dam, Plus Valley Viewpoint, Kolad River Rafting
- Travel Tips: Drive slow due to dense fog and sharp curves; stay away from fast-flowing streams.
- Ideal For: Families, couples, photography lovers, quick one day trips
- Why Visit by Rental Car: A dedicated driver allows everyone in your family to enjoy the breathtaking monsoon valley views without worrying about heavy fog and slick highway curves.
3. Kune Falls
Located near the Lonavala-Khandala hill station belt, Kune Falls is the 14th highest waterfall in India, cascading down three dramatic tiers against a backdrop of lush vegetation.
- Overview: A stunning three-tiered waterfall reaching a height of 200 meters.
- Distance from Pune: 70 km
- Travel Time: 1 hour 30 mins via Old Mumbai-Pune Highway
- Best Time to Visit: July to October
- Entry Fee: Free (Viewable from designated public access points)
- Parking Availability: Paid parking available near Lonavala/Khandala viewpoints
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Things to Do: Sightseeing, photography, visiting local chikki outlets
- Nearby Attractions: Tiger Point, Khandala Ghat, Bushi Dam, Della Adventure Park
- Travel Tips: Combine this visit with a day trip across Lonavala's scenic spots.
- Ideal For: Families, short weekend outings, corporate day trips
- Why Visit by Rental Car: Avoid heavy weekend traffic on the Pune-Mumbai expressway corridor by booking an experienced car hire Pune
4. Bhivpuri Waterfall
Located near Karjat, Bhivpuri Waterfall is a cascading rush of water flowing down rugged cliffs, making it a popular hub for waterfall rappelling and adventure sports.
- Overview: A roaring cascade set amid green paddy fields and quiet village trails.
- Distance from Pune: 120 km
- Travel Time: 2 hours 45 mins
- Best Time to Visit: August to October
- Entry Fee: Free
- Parking Availability: Village parking available near base area
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Things to Do: Waterfall rappelling, nature walks, rural exploration
- Nearby Attractions: ND Studios, Sondai Fort, Karjat countryside
- Travel Tips: Carry waterproof bags for your smartphones and electronic devices.
- Ideal For: Thrill-seekers, corporate team outings, young travelers
- Why Visit by Rental Car: Going with an outstation car rental Pune service lets you store gear safely and change into dry clothing comfortably post-rappelling.
5. Thoseghar Waterfalls
Thoseghar is a network of magnificent waterfalls near Satara ranging from small quiet cascades to a massive 200-meter drop located within a protected sanctuary area.
- Overview: A well-maintained scenic waterfall zone with well-paved viewing galleries.
- Distance from Pune: 140 km
- Travel Time: 3 hours via NH 48
- Best Time to Visit: July to November
- Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
- Parking Availability: Ample dedicated parking space
- Difficulty Level: Easy (Paved steps and railed platforms)
- Things to Do: Viewpoint photography, bird watching, nature walks
- Nearby Attractions: Kaas Plateau (Valley of Flowers), Chalkewadi Windmill Farm
- Travel Tips: Follow safety barriers closely; swimming in the plunge pool is strictly prohibited.
- Ideal For: Elderly travelers, family outings, nature photographers
- Why Visit by Rental Car: Combining Thoseghar Waterfalls with Kaas Plateau in a single day is seamless when you rent a comfortable SUV from Pawar Travels.
6. Lingmala Waterfall
Situated near the Mahabaleshwar-Panchgani highway, Lingmala Waterfall presents a dramatic view as the Venna River plunges into a deep forest gorge.
- Overview: A forest department-managed waterfall with scenic trails and dual cascades.
- Distance from Pune: 115 km
- Travel Time: 2 hours 45 mins
- Best Time to Visit: July to December
- Entry Fee: ₹30 per adult
- Parking Availability: Dedicated forest department parking area
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate (Short paved forest walk)
- Things to Do: Nature walks, photography, exploring local strawberries in Panchgani
- Nearby Attractions: Venna Lake, Mapro Garden, Elephant's Head Point
- Travel Tips: Visit early morning to avoid peak weekend tourist crowds.
- Ideal For: Couples, families, weekend break seekers
- Why Visit by Rental Car: Enjoy a smooth, scenic climb up the Pasarni Ghat in a luxury sedan or spacious SUV without engine strain or driving fatigue.
7. Randha Falls
Formed by the Pravara River plunging 170 feet into a gorge, Randha Falls in Bhandardara is a powerful, roaring spectacle during the monsoon height.
- Overview: A massive hydro-power and natural waterfall site near Igatpuri/Bhandardara.
- Distance from Pune: 190 km
- Travel Time: 4 hours 30 mins
- Best Time to Visit: July to October
- Entry Fee: ₹50 per person
- Parking Availability: Dedicated parking lots near the main entrance
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Things to Do: Photography, visiting Arthur Lake, Wilson Dam exploration
- Nearby Attractions: Umbrella Falls, Kalsubai Peak, Bhandardara Lake
- Travel Tips: Prepare for heavy winds near the edge; keep children close to safety railings.
- Ideal For: Long road trips, corporate weekend getaways, nature lovers
- Why Visit by Rental Car: Long-distance highway travel requires reliable, clean vehicles with expert drivers who handle long stretches with ease.
8. Vajrai Waterfall
Located near Satara, Vajrai Waterfall plunges down three steps from a height of 560 meters (1,840 feet), making it one of the tallest waterfalls in India.
- Overview: A magnificent high-altitude waterfall sourced from the Urmodi River.
- Distance from Pune: 140 km
- Travel Time: 3 hours
- Best Time to Visit: August to November
- Entry Fee: Free
- Parking Availability: Village parking available at Bhambavli
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Things to Do: Trekking, rural tourism, visiting flower-lined trails
- Nearby Attractions: Kaas Lake, Thoseghar Waterfalls, Sajjangad Fort
- Travel Tips: Wear footwear with strong traction; the red clay paths get slick when wet.
- Ideal For: Eco-tourists, photography groups, trekkers
- Why Visit by Rental Car: Allows you to bundle Satara's top three attractions (Vajrai, Thoseghar, and Kaas Plateau) smoothly into a single custom road trip.
9. Nanemachi Waterfall
A hidden paradise near Mahad, Nanemachi Waterfall features an emerald green plunge pool surrounded by towering rocky cliffs and dense woods.
- Overview: An offbeat, serene waterfall hidden inside deep Konkan foliage.
- Distance from Pune: 135 km
- Travel Time: 3 hours 30 mins
- Best Time to Visit: August to December
- Entry Fee: Free
- Parking Availability: Limited space near the trail base village
- Difficulty Level: Moderate (20-30 min hike through forest paths)
- Things to Do: Offbeat exploration, landscape photography, stream wading
- Nearby Attractions: Raigad Fort, Varandha Ghat, Shivthar Ghal
- Travel Tips: Carry your own snacks and water as tourist commercialization is minimal here.
- Ideal For: Offbeat travelers, solo explorers, small friend groups
- Why Visit by Rental Car: Navigating rural Konkan interiors requires an experienced local driver familiar with off-the-beaten-path routes.
10. Zenith Waterfall
Located close to Khopoli, Zenith Waterfall is a well-known waterfall spot surrounded by lush greenery, shallow streams, and picturesque hills.
- Overview: An accessible weekend waterfall destination popular for group day trips.
- Distance from Pune: 80 km
- Travel Time: 1 hour 45 mins
- Best Time to Visit: July to September
- Entry Fee: Free
- Parking Availability: Parking available at Khopoli village base
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate (Short 20-minute hike across shallow streams)
- Things to Do: Shallow stream wading, picnicking, photography
- Nearby Attractions: Imagicaa Theme Park, Duke's Nose, Lonavala
- Travel Tips: Wear light quick-dry clothes and rubber-soled footwear.
- Ideal For: College groups, corporate day outings, families
- Why Visit by Rental Car: Perfect for quick, spontaneous weekend getaways with zero stress on highway driving or toll management.
11. Bhaje Waterfall
Located right near the historic Bhaja Caves in Malavli, this picturesque waterfall cascades down rocky steps, creating cool, refreshing pools at the base.
- Overview: A cultural and natural tourist combination spot near Lonavala.
- Distance from Pune: 60 km
- Travel Time: 1 hour 15 mins
- Best Time to Visit: July to September
- Entry Fee: Free (Cave entrance extra)
- Parking Availability: Paid parking space near the Bhaja Caves base road
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Things to Do: Explore ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves, splash in water steps
- Nearby Attractions: Visapur Fort, Lohagad Fort, Karla Caves
- Travel Tips: Pair your waterfall fun with a historical visit to Bhaja Caves.
- Ideal For: Families with kids, history enthusiasts, budget travelers
- Why Visit by Rental Car: A quick short-distance drive from Pune that is best enjoyed in a comfortable hatchback or sedan for a relaxed half-day trip.
12. Madhe Ghat Waterfall
Located near Velhe, Madhe Ghat offers dramatic views of the Konkan valley with a stunning waterfall plunging down into deep forest ravines.
- Overview: A rugged, high-cliff waterfall point deeply tied to Maratha history.
- Distance from Pune: 70 km
- Travel Time: 2 hours 15 mins
- Best Time to Visit: July to October
- Entry Fee: Free
- Parking Availability: Open village grounds near the view point
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Things to Do: Valley view trekking, historic trails, rustic Maharashtrian food
- Nearby Attractions: Torna Fort, Rajgad Fort, Panshet Dam
- Travel Tips: Narrow rural roads mean slow driving speeds; double check brake systems before leaving.
- Ideal For: Trekkers, photography enthusiasts, history lovers
- Why Visit by Rental Car: Steep, winding rural roads demand experienced mountain drivers to ensure a smooth, safe trip.
Comparison Table: Waterfalls Near Pune
|
Waterfall
|
Distance from Pune
|
Travel Time
|
Difficulty
|
Entry Fee
|
Ideal For
|
Rental Car Recommended?
|
|
Devkund Waterfall
|
100 km
|
3h 15m
|
Moderate
|
₹50
|
Trekkers, Youth Groups
|
Yes (Post-trek relaxation)
|
|
Tamhini Ghat Waterfalls
|
70 km
|
2h 00m
|
Easy
|
Free
|
Families, Couples
|
Highly Recommended (Foggy driving)
|
|
Kune Falls
|
70 km
|
1h 30m
|
Easy
|
Free
|
Families, Corporate Outings
|
Yes (Expressway comfort)
|
|
Bhivpuri Waterfall
|
120 km
|
2h 45m
|
Easy-Moderate
|
Free
|
Adventure Groups, Rappelling
|
Yes (Safe gear storage)
|
|
Thoseghar Waterfalls
|
140 km
|
3h 00m
|
Easy
|
₹20
|
Elderly, Families, Photographers
|
Highly Recommended (Long highway drive)
|
|
Lingmala Waterfall
|
115 km
|
2h 45m
|
Easy-Moderate
|
₹30
|
Couples, Nature Lovers
|
Yes (Ghat section comfort)
|
|
Randha Falls
|
190 km
|
4h 30m
|
Easy
|
₹50
|
Group Travel, Long Trips
|
Yes (Long distance fatigue relief)
|
|
Vajrai Waterfall
|
140 km
|
3h 00m
|
Moderate
|
Free
|
Eco-tourists, Photographers
|
Yes (Multi-spot coverage)
|
|
Nanemachi Waterfall
|
135 km
|
3h 30m
|
Moderate
|
Free
|
Offbeat Explorers
|
Highly Recommended (Remote navigation)
|
|
Zenith Waterfall
|
80 km
|
1h 45m
|
Easy-Moderate
|
Free
|
Groups, Weekend Trips
|
Yes (Quick hassle-free trip)
|
|
Bhaje Waterfall
|
60 km
|
1h 15m
|
Easy
|
Free
|
History Buffs, Families
|
Yes (Half-day excursion)
|
|
Madhe Ghat Waterfall
|
70 km
|
2h 15m
|
Moderate
|
Free
|
Trekkers, Nature Enthusiasts
|
Highly Recommended (Steep terrain)
|
Why Choose Pawar Travels for Your Waterfall Trip?
Planning a monsoon road trip demands reliable transportation, well-maintained vehicles, and expert drivers who know how to navigate wet weather condition. Here is why Pawar Travels stands out as the top car rental in Pune:
- Professional & Courteous Drivers: Our drivers have years of experience navigating foggy Ghat roads, heavy rains, and slippery terrains safely.
- Immaculate, Fleet of Vehicles: We offer clean, sanitized, and regularly serviced vehicles equipped with strong brakes and fresh monsoon tires.
- Versatile Fleet Options:
- Sedans (Dzire, Etios): Ideal for couples, small families, and quick day trips.
- SUVs (Ertiga, Innova Crysta): Perfect for larger families needing extra legroom and luggage space on hill journeys.
- Tempo Travellers (13 to 26 seaters): Excellent for corporate team outings, large family reunions, and friend groups.
- Luxury Cars: Ride in high-end comfort for special celebrations and VIP travel.
- Transparent & Affordable Pricing: No hidden charges, unexpected surges, or complicated billing. Clear pricing up front.
- 24/7 Booking Support: Easily schedule, alter, or confirm your outstation car rental Pune bookings whenever you need.
- Customizable Tour Itineraries: Want to combine Tamhini Ghat with Mulshi Dam, or Lingmala with Mapro Garden? We tailor the route to your desires.
Monsoon Travel Safety Tips
Traveling during the rainy season requires careful preparation. Here are 10 essential monsoon travel tips:
- Always Check Weather & Road Conditions: Check local IMD rainfall warnings before leaving Pune.
- Wear Non-Slip Footwear: Use trekking sandals or rubber shoes with good grip on slippery rocks.
- Respect Safety Barriers: Never cross safety railings or jump into fast-flowing plunge pools.
- Carry Waterproof Bags: Keep your cell phones, wallets, power banks, and camera gear inside sealed dry bags.
- Pack Extra Clothes & Towels: Keep a spare set of dry clothes inside your Pawar Travels vehicle trunk.
- Stay Hydrated & Carry Snacks: While roadside stalls sell hot snacks, carry clean drinking water and energy bars.
- Watch Out for Sudden Water Spikes: Flash floods can occur instantly in mountain streams during sudden cloudbursts.
- Carry First Aid Essentials: Keep antiseptic wipes, band-aids, mosquito repellent, and personal medications handy.
- Keep Cash Ready: Mobile internet networks can be weak in deep mountain valleys, so carry physical cash for local stalls.
- Rely on Professional Chauffeurs: Mountain driving in fog and rain requires expert handling—let a seasoned Pawar Travels driver take the wheel.
Sample One-Day Waterfall Itinerary: Pune to Tamhini Ghat & Devkund
- 06:00 AM – Pickup from Pune: Your Pawar Travels chauffeur picks you up from your doorstep in a clean, sanitized rental car.
- 08:00 AM – Breakfast Stop: Enjoy piping hot misal pav, kanda bhajji, and fresh tea at a local dhaba near Mulshi Lake.
- 09:30 AM – Explore Tamhini Ghat Waterfalls: Drive through the mist, stopping at safety-designated waterfall points for showers, photos, and views.
- 11:30 AM – Head towards Devkund / Plus Valley: Enjoy scenic views along the winding roads while taking photographs of green valleys.
- 01:30 PM – Traditional Maharashtrian Lunch: Savor local authentic Pithla Bhakri and Solkadhi at a rustic village eatery.
- 03:30 PM – Relax at Mulshi Dam Backwaters: Take a serene walk along the peaceful backwaters as the rain settles into a cool drizzle.
- 05:30 PM – Evening Tea & Return Journey: Grab fresh snacks and warm chai before starting the smooth journey back home.
- 08:00 PM – Drop-off at Pune: Safely return to your home in Pune, completely refreshed and stress-free.
Rental Car (with Driver) vs Self-Drive Car
|
Feature
|
Chauffeur-Driven Rental Car (Pawar Travels)
|
Self-Drive Rental
|
|
Driving Fatigue
|
Zero Fatigue – Relax, sleep, or enjoy views.
|
High Fatigue – Stressful driving in rain and traffic.
|
|
Ghat Road Safety
|
Maximum Safety – Handled by seasoned drivers.
|
Riskier – Tricky for drivers unfamiliar with terrain.
|
|
Vehicle Damage Liability
|
Zero Risk – No liability for minor scratches/accidents.
|
High Liability – Large security deposits & repair bills.
|
|
Parking Hassles
|
None – Driver handles drop-off & parking.
|
High – Searching for parking spots in crowded areas.
|
|
Group Fun
|
100% Shared Time – Everyone chats and enjoys together.
|
Driver Misses Out – One person is locked onto the road.
|
|
Security Deposit
|
No Deposit Required
|
Heavy Cash Deposits Locked
|
FAQs (People Also Ask)
Q1. Which is the best waterfall near Pune for a one-day family trip?
Tamhini Ghat Waterfalls and Lingmala Waterfall are top choices for family trips. Both offer easy roadside or paved access, safe viewing platforms, and magnificent greenery suitable for children and seniors.
Q2. What is the safest way to visit waterfalls near Pune during peak monsoon?
Renting a chauffeur-driven car from Pawar Travels is the safest option. Professional drivers know how to handle slippery roads, heavy fog, and sudden weather changes safely.
Q3. Are rental cars with drivers expensive for a weekend trip from Pune?
No, booking a rental car with Pawar Travels is cost-effective, especially for groups and families. When you factor in fuel costs, toll taxes, wear and tear, zero security deposits, and convenience, it is very economical.
Q4. Which waterfalls near Pune require trekking?
Devkund Waterfall, Nanemachi Waterfall, and Madhe Ghat Waterfall require moderate trekking through forest trails and streams to reach the main pool.
Q5. Can we visit multiple waterfalls near Pune in a single day?
Yes! With a private Pune car rental service, you can easily combine closely located spots like Tamhini Ghat, Mulshi, and Plus Valley, or Thoseghar and Vajrai Waterfalls in Satara in one smoothly planned trip.
Q6. What vehicle type is best for a group monsoon trip from Pune?
For groups of 4–6 people, an SUV like an Ertiga or Innova Crysta is ideal. For larger groups of 10 to 25 people, a Tempo Traveller from Pawar Travels offers great comfort and space.
Q7. Is parking available near popular waterfalls around Pune?
Most popular spots like Thoseghar, Lingmala, and Kune Falls have designated parking areas. However, during peak monsoon weekends, parking gets crowded, which is why having a personal chauffeur to handle parking is a major advantage.
Q8. When is the best time of day to start a waterfall road trip from Pune?
Starting early morning around 6:00 AM helps you beat city traffic, reach the waterfalls before peak rush hours, and enjoy peaceful nature views.
Q9. Do I need to pay a security deposit when booking a car with Pawar Travels?
No, unlike self-drive rentals that lock up heavy security deposits, Pawar Travels provides transparent chauffeur-driven services without hidden charges or heavy deposits.
Q10. How can I book a rental car for a waterfall trip with Pawar Travels?
You can easily book by calling +91 98225 50396 / +91 9325668721 or by visiting our website at https://pawartravels.com/ to choose your vehicle and get instant confirmation.
Tags :
Pune To Malshej Ghat Cab
Pune To Tamhini Ghat Cab
Pune to Devkund Cab
Pune To Kalu Waterfall Cab