The Nanemachi Waterfall Trek is a fantastic monsoon adventure, very different from the Aadrai Jungle Trek. It’s a short, exhilarating trek focused on reaching a stunning, hidden waterfall.
Here is a comprehensive guide to the Nanemachi Waterfall Trek.
What is the Nanemachi Waterfall Trek?
The Nanemachi Waterfall Trek is a popular monsoon trek located in the heart of the lush Tamhini Ghat, near Pune. The trek is a relatively short descent into a dense, green valley to reach a magnificent waterfall that cascades into a large, natural pool. The name “Nanemachi” is locally believed to mean “Nane” (a small girl) and “Machi” (forehead), derived from a local legend about a girl who found water here.
Unlike long endurance treks, this is a half-day excursion focused on enjoying the raw beauty of the monsoon and the thrill of the waterfall.
Quick Facts at a Glance
Highlights of the Trek
- Breathtaking Waterfall: The main attraction is a powerful, multi-tiered waterfall that creates a picture-perfect scene.
- Natural Swimming Pool: The pool at the base of the waterfall is deep and inviting, making it perfect for a refreshing swim (with extreme caution).
- Lush Green Scenery: The entire trail and the drive through Tamhini Ghat are covered in vibrant shades of green during the monsoon.
- Short and Sweet: It’s an ideal trek for beginners and for those who want a quick adventure without a long, strenuous climb.
- Offbeat Charm: While it has gained popularity, it still retains a more “hidden gem” feel compared to the mainstream tourist spots.
Typical Itinerary (Half-Day Trip)
This trek is usually done as a road trip from Pune or Mumbai.
- 7:00 AM: Start from Pune. The drive itself is beautiful, especially as you enter Tamhini Ghat.
- 9:00 AM – 9:30 AM: Reach the parking spot near the waterfall. You’ll see a small bridge and a board indicating “Nanemachi Waterfall”. Park your vehicle on the side of the road.
- 9:30 AM – 10:15 AM: Begin the descent. The path is clearly marked but is steep, rocky, and extremely slippery. Take your time and use the support of trees and rocks.
- 10:15 AM – 12:30 PM: Reach the waterfall! Spend time marveling at the view, taking photos, and swimming in the natural pool. Be extremely cautious while swimming and on the wet rocks.
- 12:30 PM – 1:15 PM: Start the ascent back to the road. This is the more strenuous part of the trek.
- 1:15 PM onwards: Have packed lunch or drive to a nearby restaurant in the Mulshi area. Head back to Pune, reaching by late afternoon.
Difficulty Level Explained
- Why Easy? The trek is very short in distance and doesn’t require high levels of endurance.
- Why Moderate? The terrain is the main challenge. The path is a steep, muddy trail with loose rocks and exposed roots. During the monsoon, it becomes incredibly slippery. The climb back up is a proper workout for your legs.
Conclusion: It is suitable for fit beginners. Good trekking shoes with excellent grip are mandatory. It is not recommended for elderly people or very young children during peak monsoon.
Best Time to Visit
- Peak Monsoon (July – September): This is the absolute best time. The waterfall is in its full, majestic flow, and the entire region is a paradise for nature lovers.
- Post-Monsoon (October): The water flow might reduce, but the weather is pleasant, and the path is less slippery.
- Winter & Summer: Not recommended. The waterfall almost completely dries up, and there’s very little to see.
How to Reach the Starting Point
The starting point is a roadside parking area on the Tamhini Ghat road.
- From Pune: Drive via Chandni Chowk -> Pirangut -> Paud -> Mulshi. Continue on the Tamhini Ghat road towards Lavasa. Google Maps is quite reliable if you search for “Nanemachi Waterfall”. Look for a small bridge where other vehicles are parked. The trek starts from the side of the road here. The total drive is about 60-70 km.
- From Mumbai: Take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, then follow the route from Pune mentioned above. Alternatively, take the Mumbai-Goa Highway (NH66) and turn towards Mulshi. The total drive is about 150-170 km.
What to Carry (Packing List)
Essentials:
- Trekking Shoes: The most important item. They must have a rugged sole and excellent grip.
- Raincoat/Poncho: It will be raining in the ghat.
- Extra Pair of Clothes: You will get wet, either from the rain or the waterfall. Pack them in a dry bag.
- Towel: A quick-dry microfiber towel is ideal.
Clothing:
- Quick-Dry T-shirt & Shorts/Trekking Pants: Avoid jeans as they get heavy when wet.
- Cap/Hat: To protect from rain.
Safety & First-Aid:
- First-Aid Kit: With band-aids, antiseptic, and pain relief spray.
- Personal Medication: If you have any.
Food & Water:
- Water & Snacks: Carry enough water and some energy bars or fruits. There are no shops nearby.
Important Things to Keep in Mind
- Safety is Paramount: The rocks near the waterfall are extremely slippery and covered in algae. Do not jump into the pool without checking its depth and current. Many accidents happen here due to carelessness.
- Leave No Trace: This is a beautiful, fragile ecosystem. Do not litter. Carry all your waste (including plastic wrappers and food packets) back with you.
- Avoid Weekends: The place gets very crowded on weekends. For a more serene experience, plan a trip on a weekday.
- Check Road Conditions: Tamhini Ghat is prone to landslides during heavy rainfall. Check the latest conditions before you leave.
- Go in a Group: It’s always safer to go in a group, especially during the monsoon.
Nanemachi vs. Aadrai: A Quick Comparison
Enjoy the monsoon magic at Nanemachi, but please be a responsible trekker
Nanemachi Waterfall trek is easy and beginner-friendly, located in Raigad district, and typically starts early morning around 7 AM. From Mumbai, take a train to Veer or Sape Wamne stations near Mahad, then hire a local taxi to the base village.
Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you plan your trip:
🥾 Trek Difficulty
- Difficulty Level: Easy — suitable for beginners and families.
- Trail Type: Mostly flat with a short walk of 30–45 minutes from the base village. Only the final stretch involves climbing a few rocks.
- Endurance: Low to medium; no steep climbs or technical challenges.
🕖 Trek Timings
- Start Time: Most organized treks begin around 7:00 AM from the base village.
- Duration: The trek takes about 1 to 1.5 hours one way. Visitors typically spend 2–3 hours enjoying the waterfall before heading back.
- Entry Deadline: Access is restricted after 4:00 PM due to forest darkness.
📍 Location & District
- District: Raigad, Maharashtra.
- Taluka: Mahad.
- Base Village: Gugulshi or Nanemachi village, surrounded by dense forest and scenic valleys.
🚆 How to Reach from Mumbai by Train
- Nearest Railway Stations: Veer and Sape Wamne, both near Mahad.
- Route:
- Take a train from Mumbai to Veer or Sape Wamne.
- From the station, travel to Mahad by local transport (bus or shared auto).
- From Mahad, hire a rickshaw or taxi to Nanemachi base village (approx. 25 km).
- Alternative: You can also take an ST bus to Mahad and follow the same route from there.
Let me know if you’d like help booking transport or joining a guided trek group!
The Nanemachi Waterfall Trek is a fantastic monsoon adventure, very different from the Aadrai Jungle Trek. It’s a short, exhilarating trek focused on reaching a stunning, hidden waterfall.
Here is a comprehensive guide to the Nanemachi Waterfall Trek.
What is the Nanemachi Waterfall Trek?
The Nanemachi Waterfall Trek is a popular monsoon trek located in the heart of the lush Tamhini Ghat, near Pune. The trek is a relatively short descent into a dense, green valley to reach a magnificent waterfall that cascades into a large, natural pool. The name “Nanemachi” is locally believed to mean “Nane” (a small girl) and “Machi” (forehead), derived from a local legend about a girl who found water here.
Unlike long endurance treks, this is a half-day excursion focused on enjoying the raw beauty of the monsoon and the thrill of the waterfall.
Quick Facts at a Glance
Highlights of the Trek
- Breathtaking Waterfall: The main attraction is a powerful, multi-tiered waterfall that creates a picture-perfect scene.
- Natural Swimming Pool: The pool at the base of the waterfall is deep and inviting, making it perfect for a refreshing swim (with extreme caution).
- Lush Green Scenery: The entire trail and the drive through Tamhini Ghat are covered in vibrant shades of green during the monsoon.
- Short and Sweet: It’s an ideal trek for beginners and for those who want a quick adventure without a long, strenuous climb.
- Offbeat Charm: While it has gained popularity, it still retains a more “hidden gem” feel compared to the mainstream tourist spots.
Typical Itinerary (Half-Day Trip)
This trek is usually done as a road trip from Pune or Mumbai.
- 7:00 AM: Start from Pune. The drive itself is beautiful, especially as you enter Tamhini Ghat.
- 9:00 AM – 9:30 AM: Reach the parking spot near the waterfall. You’ll see a small bridge and a board indicating “Nanemachi Waterfall”. Park your vehicle on the side of the road.
- 9:30 AM – 10:15 AM: Begin the descent. The path is clearly marked but is steep, rocky, and extremely slippery. Take your time and use the support of trees and rocks.
- 10:15 AM – 12:30 PM: Reach the waterfall! Spend time marveling at the view, taking photos, and swimming in the natural pool. Be extremely cautious while swimming and on the wet rocks.
- 12:30 PM – 1:15 PM: Start the ascent back to the road. This is the more strenuous part of the trek.
- 1:15 PM onwards: Have packed lunch or drive to a nearby restaurant in the Mulshi area. Head back to Pune, reaching by late afternoon.
Difficulty Level Explained
- Why Easy? The trek is very short in distance and doesn’t require high levels of endurance.
- Why Moderate? The terrain is the main challenge. The path is a steep, muddy trail with loose rocks and exposed roots. During the monsoon, it becomes incredibly slippery. The climb back up is a proper workout for your legs.
Conclusion: It is suitable for fit beginners. Good trekking shoes with excellent grip are mandatory. It is not recommended for elderly people or very young children during peak monsoon.
Best Time to Visit
- Peak Monsoon (July – September): This is the absolute best time. The waterfall is in its full, majestic flow, and the entire region is a paradise for nature lovers.
- Post-Monsoon (October): The water flow might reduce, but the weather is pleasant, and the path is less slippery.
- Winter & Summer: Not recommended. The waterfall almost completely dries up, and there’s very little to see.
How to Reach the Starting Point
The starting point is a roadside parking area on the Tamhini Ghat road.
- From Pune: Drive via Chandni Chowk -> Pirangut -> Paud -> Mulshi. Continue on the Tamhini Ghat road towards Lavasa. Google Maps is quite reliable if you search for “Nanemachi Waterfall”. Look for a small bridge where other vehicles are parked. The trek starts from the side of the road here. The total drive is about 60-70 km.
- From Mumbai: Take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, then follow the route from Pune mentioned above. Alternatively, take the Mumbai-Goa Highway (NH66) and turn towards Mulshi. The total drive is about 150-170 km.
What to Carry (Packing List)
Essentials:
- Trekking Shoes: The most important item. They must have a rugged sole and excellent grip.
- Raincoat/Poncho: It will be raining in the ghat.
- Extra Pair of Clothes: You will get wet, either from the rain or the waterfall. Pack them in a dry bag.
- Towel: A quick-dry microfiber towel is ideal.
Clothing:
- Quick-Dry T-shirt & Shorts/Trekking Pants: Avoid jeans as they get heavy when wet.
- Cap/Hat: To protect from rain.
Safety & First-Aid:
- First-Aid Kit: With band-aids, antiseptic, and pain relief spray.
- Personal Medication: If you have any.
Food & Water:
- Water & Snacks: Carry enough water and some energy bars or fruits. There are no shops nearby.
Important Things to Keep in Mind
- Safety is Paramount: The rocks near the waterfall are extremely slippery and covered in algae. Do not jump into the pool without checking its depth and current. Many accidents happen here due to carelessness.
- Leave No Trace: This is a beautiful, fragile ecosystem. Do not litter. Carry all your waste (including plastic wrappers and food packets) back with you.
- Avoid Weekends: The place gets very crowded on weekends. For a more serene experience, plan a trip on a weekday.
- Check Road Conditions: Tamhini Ghat is prone to landslides during heavy rainfall. Check the latest conditions before you leave.
- Go in a Group: It’s always safer to go in a group, especially during the monsoon.
Nanemachi vs. Aadrai: A Quick Comparison
Enjoy the monsoon magic at Nanemachi, but please be a responsible trekker
Nanemachi from Mumbai:
- How to get there? The primary modes are private vehicle (car/bike) and organized trekking groups.
- Private Vehicle: I need to give a realistic travel time. Mumbai to Tamhini Ghat is a long drive. I’ll estimate 3.5-4.5 hours, depending on traffic in Mumbai and Pune. I’ll mention the route: Mumbai-Pune Expressway -> Hinjewadi/Pirangut -> Paud -> Mulshi -> Tamhini Ghat. I should also mention using Google Maps for the final stretch.
- Trekking Groups: This is a very common option. I’ll state that many Mumbai-based groups organize this as a one-day trip. I’ll list the benefits: transport, guide, safety, and sometimes food. I’ll give a rough idea of the pickup points (Sion, Dadar, etc.).
Nanemachi from Pune:
- How to get there? Same modes: private vehicle and trekking groups.
- Private Vehicle: This is a much shorter trip. I’ll estimate 2-2.5 hours. I’ll provide the route: Chandni Chowk -> Pirangut -> Paud -> Mulshi -> Tamhini Ghat. Again, Google Maps is key.
- Trekking Groups: This is also popular from Pune. I’ll mention they provide transport from various points in the city.
Kalu Waterfall Trek?
- Clarification is needed. I know from my knowledge base that Kalu Waterfall is a key point on the Aadrai Jungle Trek, not Nanemachi. This is a common point of confusion. I need to state this clearly.
- I’ll briefly describe the Kalu Waterfall trek in the context of Aadrai: it’s a landmark, a resting point, and the trek to it is part of a much longer, more difficult jungle trail. This distinguishes it from the short, standalone Nanemachi trek. This adds value and prevents the user from mixing up the two treks.
Nanemachi Trek Distance:
- Be specific. Is it one-way or round-trip? I’ll provide both.
- One-way: ~1-1.5 km.
- Round-trip: ~2-3 km.
- I’ll emphasize that it’s a short descent and a steep ascent, not a long walk.
Nanemachi Trek Difficulty Level:
- The answer isn’t just “Easy” or “Hard.” It’s nuanced. I’ll use the term “Easy to Moderate.”
- Why Easy? Short distance, no high endurance required.
- Why Moderate? The terrain is the challenge. I’ll describe it: steep, slippery, muddy, rocky. This is especially true in the monsoon. The ascent is the tough part.
- Conclusion: I’ll summarize by saying it’s suitable for fit beginners but requires good shoes and caution. I’ll explicitly advise against it for the elderly or very young children during peak monsoon.
Nanemachi Trek Price / Cost / Package:
- I’ll combine these three related questions into one section to avoid repetition.
- Self-Planned Trip (Cost Breakdown): This is the most economical option. I’ll list the potential costs:
- Fuel/Petrol: The main variable.
- Toll charges: Mention the Mumbai-Pune expressway toll if coming from Mumbai.
- Food/Water: Packed lunch or a small meal at a nearby dhaba.
- Parking: Usually free, but good to mention.
- I’ll give a rough estimate: “₹500 – ₹1,000 per person” for a group from Pune, and more from Mumbai due to fuel. This makes it tangible.
- Organized Trek Package: This is the other option. I’ll explain what’s typically included:
- Transport (to and from).
- Guide/Expertise.
- Sometimes, breakfast or a basic meal.
- Safety equipment (first-aid).
- I’ll provide a realistic price range. Based on market rates, it’s usually between ₹1,200 to ₹1,800 per person for a one-day trip from Mumbai or Pune. I’ll mention that the price varies based on the organizer, group size, and inclusions.
- Here are the detailed answers to your specific questions about the Nanemachi Waterfall Trek.
Nanemachi Waterfall Trek from Mumbai?
Reaching Nanemachi from Mumbai is a popular one-day monsoon trip, but it requires an early start.
-
By Private Vehicle (Car/Bike): This is the most flexible option.
- Route: Mumbai → Mumbai-Pune Expressway → Take the Hinjewadi/Pirangut exit → Paud → Mulshi → Tamhini Ghat road. The waterfall is located on the Tamhini Ghat road itself.
- Travel Time: Approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours, one way, depending on Mumbai traffic.
- Total Distance: Around 150-170 km one way.
-
By Trekking Groups (Recommended): This is the most common and hassle-free way for Mumbaikars.
- Numerous trekking communities in Mumbai organize one-day trips to Nanemachi on weekends.
- They usually provide a private bus with pickup points in locations like Sion, Dadar, Thane, Navi Mumbai, and Chembur.
- The package typically includes transport, a guide, and sometimes breakfast.
- You’ll leave Mumbai around 5:30-6:00 AM and return by late evening.
Nanemachi Waterfall Trek from Pune?
The trek is much more accessible from Pune and makes for a perfect half-day or full-day monsoon getaway.
-
By Private Vehicle (Car/Bike):
- Route: Pune → Chandni Chowk → Pirangut → Paud → Mulshi → Tamhini Ghat road. You can search for “Nanemachi Waterfall” on Google Maps for the exact location.
- Travel Time: Approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, one way.
- Total Distance: Around 60-70 km one way.
-
By Trekking Groups: Many Pune-based groups also organize this trek, especially on weekends. It’s a good option if you don’t have a personal vehicle.
Kalu Waterfall Trek?
This is an important point of clarification. Kalu Waterfall is NOT the same as Nanemachi Waterfall.
- Kalu Waterfall is a famous landmark on the much longer and more difficult Aadrai Jungle Trek (which I described in a previous answer). It’s a scenic waterfall you pass by during that overnight jungle hike.
- Nanemachi Waterfall is a standalone, short trek focused entirely on reaching a large waterfall and pool.
People sometimes confuse the two because both are popular monsoon destinations in the same general region (near Pune/Mumbai), but they are completely different treks in terms of location, difficulty, and experience.
Nanemachi Waterfall Trek Distance?
The trek itself is quite short, which is why it’s popular.
- One-Way Distance: Approximately 1 to 1.5 km.
- Round-Trip Distance: Approximately 2 to 3 km.
Remember, it’s a steep descent to the waterfall and a steep ascent back to the road.
Nanemachi Waterfall Trek Difficulty Level?
The difficulty is best described as Easy to Moderate.
- Why Easy? The distance is very short and doesn’t require high stamina. It can be completed in a couple of hours.
- Why Moderate? The terrain is the main challenge. The path is steep, rocky, and becomes extremely slippery and muddy during the monsoon. The climb back up can be tiring for your legs.
Conclusion: It is suitable for fit beginners and first-timers. Good trekking shoes with excellent grip are mandatory. It is not advisable for elderly people or very young children during peak monsoon due to the slippery conditions.
Nanemachi Waterfall Trek Price / Cost / Package?
The cost depends entirely on whether you plan it yourself or go with an organized group.
1. Self-Planned Trip (Cost Breakdown)
This is the most economical option if you have your own vehicle.
- Fuel/Petrol: The main cost. For a round trip from Pune, it would be around ₹500-₹800 per bike/car. From Mumbai, it would be significantly higher.
- Toll Charges: Approx. ₹300-₹400 for a round trip from Mumbai (via the expressway).
- Food: If you carry packed food, the cost is minimal. A meal at a nearby dhaba would cost ₹200-₹400 per person.
- Parking: Usually free on the side of the road.
Estimated Cost per Person (from Pune): ₹500 – ₹1,000 Estimated Cost per Person (from Mumbai): ₹1,200 – ₹1,800 (mostly due to fuel and tolls)
2. Organized Trek Package
This is a convenient option that includes transport and guidance.
- What’s Included: Usually includes to-and-fro transport from your city (Mumbai/Pune), a trek leader/guide, and sometimes basic breakfast.
- Price Range: The cost typically ranges from ₹1,200 to ₹1,800 per person for a one-day trip.
- The price varies depending on the trek organizer, the size of the group, and the services offered (e.g., whether meals are included).
Quick Summary Table
Enjoy your trip to the beautiful Nanemachi Waterfall! Remember to be safe and carry back all your waste.
How difficult is the Nanemachi waterfall trek?
What time is the waterfall trek in Nanemachi?
Which district is Nanemachi waterfall in?
How to reach Nanemachi waterfall from Mumbai by train?
Nanemachi Waterfall trek from Mumbai?
Nanemachi Waterfall Trek from Pune?
Kalu waterfall trek?
Nanemachi waterfall trek distance?
Nanemachi waterfall trek difficulty level?
Nanemachi waterfall trek price?
Nanemachi waterfall trek package?
Nanemachi waterfall trek cost?