Kumbhe Waterfall
There’s something magical about waking up to heavy clouds and the smell of rain-soaked soil. I knew it was the perfect day for a spontaneous trip. So I packed my essentials and took off on a monsoon journey to one of Maharashtra’s hidden gems Kumbhe Waterfall, nestled deep in the Sahyadri ranges.
It was early morning when I left Panvel, the sky still gray, holding back its rain for the perfect moment. The city slowly faded in the rearview mirror, replaced by fresh greenery and the occasional splash of monsoon showers. The road stretched ahead like a winding ribbon, lined with palm trees, sleepy villages, and smiling locals going about their day.
As I drove through Pali, the atmosphere shifted noticeably. This quaint town, known for the sacred Ballaleshwar Ganpati Temple, radiated a peaceful energy that perfectly complemented the moody, overcast skies. I decided to take a short spiritual pause and stepped into the temple.
Reaching the base village near Kumbhe, I felt like I had stepped into another world. The landscape was wildly alive. Clouds were hanging low, the trees were heavy with rain, and the red soil paths were slippery, but beautiful. The trail was narrow and drenched, winding through the dense Western Ghats forest. Every step was a discovery mossy rocks, tiny frogs hopping across my path, and vibrant green all around.
And then, as I turned a bend, I heard it. A deep, thundering roar. A few more steps and there it was Kumbhe Waterfall, in all its glory. A mighty, majestic fall pouring down into a natural rock pool, surrounded by a fortress of green cliffs. The mist from the waterfall hit my face and instantly cooled every inch of exhaustion.
I spent a long time at the base, just watching the water, letting the rhythm of nature replace the usual chaos in my head. I even meditated for a while, and for those few minutes, I felt truly disconnected from the world and deeply connected to myself.
Safety and Precautions
Trekking to Kumbhe Waterfall monsoon trek is a thrilling experience, but it demands caution. Wear sturdy trekking shoes as the red soil and mossy paths get extremely slippery. Protect your essentials with waterproof gear, and don’t forget to carry water and light snacks, as there are no shops on the trail. With no mobile network, inform someone about your plan and use offline maps. Be mindful of hidden roots and loose rocks, and most importantly trek responsibly.
