If you've been planning a monsoon trek or waterfall trip near Pune this weekend, there's something you need to know before you leave home.
With extremely heavy rainfall across the Pune district over the past few days — the IMD has issued a heavy to very heavy rainfall warning for the Ghats of Pune running through July — the district administration has stepped in with prohibitory orders restricting entry at several of the most popular monsoon spots. Two separate orders are currently in force, and the consequences for ignoring them include legal action under the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, 2023.
Here's a clear breakdown of what's restricted, what's still open, and — most importantly — where you can still have a safe, memorable monsoon weekend.
What's Currently Banned Near Pune (July 2026)
Order 1 — Lonavala Belt: Active until July 31, 2026
The Pune district administration has issued a prohibitory order covering the Lonavala region in response to continuous heavy rainfall and swelling waterfall zones. Entry to the following is currently restricted:
- Bhushi Dam waterfall area
- Tiger Point and Lion's Point
- Bhaje Waterfall
- Lohagad and Visapur Forts (waterfall and water entry zones)
- Tikona Fort (water zones)
- Karla and Bhaje Caves (water entry areas)
- Pawana Dam
What is banned specifically: entering or swimming in fast-flowing water, sitting under waterfalls, taking selfies near cliff edges or slippery curves, alcohol consumption at tourist sites, and reckless driving or stopping at unsafe roadside locations. The forts and cave structures themselves remain walkable in many cases — it's specifically the water-related activity and dangerous vantage points that are restricted.
Order 2 — Tamhini Ghat / Bhira Dam Belt: Active until September 30, 2026
A separate order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, issued on June 17, 2026, restricts the following until the end of September:
- Devkund Waterfall
- Tamhini Ghat waterfall zones
- Bhira Dam
- Bekare Waterfall
- Secret Point
Additionally, please note:
- The popular Rajmachi trekking corridor near Lonavala is currently under high-risk status following the latest IMD heavy rainfall warnings, with landslide debris, waterlogging, and falling stones flagged as active hazards.
- Kalsubai Peak, Sandhan Valley, and Alang-Madan-Kulang forts have been under seasonal closures in recent years during peak monsoon for similar safety and ecological reasons — always verify current status before heading out.
The key point: These bans exist because of real incidents — the 2024 Lonavala waterfall tragedy among them. These aren't bureaucratic hurdles; they reflect genuinely dangerous conditions on the ground right now.
What's Still Safe and Open Near Pune
The good news is that not everything is restricted. Several of the best monsoon treks in the Sahyadris remain open, operating with forest permits and guided access — which is actually the safer and better way to experience them anyway.
Andharban Forest Trek (Tamhini Ghat, ~70 km from Pune)
One of the most loved monsoon treks in Maharashtra remains accessible to trekkers this season — though it requires a forest department permit (limited daily quota) and a guide, both of which a good trek operator arranges for you. The 13 km descending trail through dense jungle, with views of the Kundalika Valley and multiple stream crossings, is at its absolute best right now. Importantly, the Andharban trail itself is separate from the banned Devkund and Bhira Dam waterfall zones nearby.
Note: Entry timings are strictly enforced — trekkers must exit the forest by 4:30 PM. Do not attempt this solo; going with a registered operator is both the rule and the sensible choice in current conditions.
Book the Andharban Forest Trek with Zipp My Trip
Harishchandragad Trek — Pachnai Route (~160 km from Pune)
The Pachnai route to Harishchandragad remains one of the safest options for a monsoon fort trek right now. It's the shortest and most well-marked of the three main routes up, with barriers installed at exposed sections. The trail passes through forests and open hillsides before reaching the plateau with the ancient Harishchandreshwar Temple, the Kedareshwar Cave, and the famous Konkan Kada cliff.
One honest note: during peak monsoon, Konkan Kada is typically wrapped in thick mist, so the panoramic view isn't guaranteed — but the misty forest climb and the ancient fort architecture are stunning in their own right.
Avoid the Nalichi Vaat and Belpada routes entirely during July–August — these technical routes pass through natural drainage channels with real flash-flood risk during heavy rainfall.
Book the Harishchandragad Trek with Zipp My Trip
Aadrai Jungle Trek — Malshej Ghat region (~125 km from Pune)
For anyone who wants a quieter, less-crowded jungle escape, the Aadrai Jungle Trek near Khireshwar village is one of the more peaceful options this monsoon. The trail winds through dense Sahyadri forest to Kalu Waterfall, with stops at an ancient Nageshwar temple and natural rock formations. It's an easy-to-moderate trail — manageable for beginners and families — though the mud and stream crossings make proper footwear non-negotiable, and going with a local guide is strongly recommended given the density of the forest.
Book the Aadrai Monsoon Jungle Escape with Zipp My Trip
Other Open Options Worth Knowing About
Malhargad Fort (Sonori, ~25 km from Pune) — One of the closest and easiest fort treks from Pune city, ideal for a quick half-day outing. Several small waterfalls appear around the fort during monsoon. A strong choice for families or absolute beginners who want a genuine taste of monsoon trekking without a full day's commitment.
Rohida Fort (Bhor region, ~65 km from Pune) — A quieter, less-crowded fort trek with flowing streams and good Sahyadri views. Far fewer crowds than the Lonavala belt, making the experience more relaxed and the trails less chaotic.
What to Keep in Mind Before You Go
Even for the treks that are currently open, monsoon conditions mean the rules of the trail change. A few things that matter more in July and August than any other time of year:
- Always check IMD forecasts the night before and the morning of your trek — heavy-rain alerts can close trails at short notice, even ones that were open the previous day
- Go with a registered trek operator or guide — for Andharban, it's actually mandatory; for the others, it's the single most effective safety decision you can make
- Wear proper non-slip trekking shoes — sneakers and chappals are not monsoon footwear on Sahyadri trails
- Carry a rain jacket and pack everything electronic in waterproof pouches
- Do not enter fast-flowing streams or stand under waterfalls, even at "open" locations — the current bans exist because people ignored this rule
For a full monsoon safety checklist including what to pack and what to avoid on the trail, see our Monsoon Travel Safety Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which places near Pune are currently banned for tourists this monsoon?
As of July 2026, entry to waterfall, dam, and river zones in the Lonavala area (including Bhushi Dam, Tiger Point, Lion's Point, Lohagad, Visapur, Tikona, and Pawana Dam) is restricted till July 31. Devkund Waterfall, Tamhini Ghat waterfall zones, Bhira Dam, Bekare Waterfall, and Secret Point are restricted till September 30, 2026.
Are any treks near Pune still open during the current ban?
Yes — the Andharban Forest Trek, Harishchandragad (Pachnai route), and Aadrai Jungle Trek are all currently operational with proper permits and guides. Malhargad and Rohida Forts near Pune are also accessible.
Is the Andharban trek affected by the Tamhini Ghat ban?
The Andharban trail itself is separate from the banned Devkund Waterfall and Bhira Dam zones. However, it requires a forest department permit and guide, and is subject to daily entry limits and exit timing rules. Always book with a registered operator who manages these permits.
When will banned spots near Pune reopen?
The Lonavala area restrictions are in place till July 31, 2026. The Tamhini Ghat / Bhira Dam belt restrictions run till September 30, 2026. Always confirm directly with the Pune district administration or your trek operator before planning, as orders can be extended if rainfall continues.
