Situated in the Raigad district, Kolad is an immensely beautiful village located in Maharashtra. It is majorly famous for its natural beauty which is inclusive of cascading waterfalls, green meadows along with a vivid backdrop of the Sahyadri mountain range. Apart from that what makes Kolad a worthwhile destination is the monsoon season, a time when the beauty of this place seems heavenly. Perhaps it is due to the monsoon and its ethereal beauty, why Kolad is also known as the Rishikesh of Maharashtra.
For any adventure seeker, this place is a haven as one gets to taste that adrenaline rush by indulging in several activities like rafting, rappelling, and kayaking on the river Kundalika. Apart from the water sports activities, one also gets to indulge in paragliding and trekking here.
Best Time to Visit Kolad
Coming on to the timings, the best time to visit Kolad would be the monsoon season, .i.e., the months between June and October. During this time, this place looks absolutely stunning. Avoid traveling here during the summer season owing to the hot and humid weather conditions.
Major Attractions In and Around Kolad
1. River Rafting
The fun of river rafting on the Kundalika river is just an out-of-world experience. The best time to indulge in this adrenaline-pumping sports activity would be the monsoon season when the downpour provides that extra thrust of adventure to the 14 kilometer stretch of river.
2. Tamhini Ghat Waterfalls
These ghats are again one of the best places to visit in Kolad. Also known as Valse, the bewitching beauty of these waterfalls lies in witnessing the powerful torrent of water falling down. One can also enjoy swimming in the pure water of the pool.
3. Ghosala Fort
Majorly known for its architecture and design, this fort is a great tourist attraction truly meant for history buffs. It is the architecture and the design of the fort that attracts a great number of tourists on an annual basis. The premises of the fort consists of prisons, two temples, dargah, parapets, stores as well as chambers.
4. Sutarwadi Lake
It is a pristine lake with beautiful surroundings and a charming atmosphere. It won’t be wrong to refer to the lake as a perfect destination for bird watchers and nature lovers.
Adventure Activities in Kolad
White Water Rafting: The Kundalika River, flowing through Kolad, is renowned for its exhilarating white water rafting experiences. Fed by the Bhira Dam, the river's rapids provide year-round rafting opportunities suitable for both novices and seasoned rafters. The monsoon season, in particular, amplifies the river's flow, offering more challenging rapids.
- Kayaking and Canoeing: Beyond rafting, the tranquil stretches of the Kundalika River are ideal for kayaking and canoeing, allowing visitors to paddle through serene waters and soak in the lush surroundings.
- Trekking and Hiking: The verdant Sahyadri hills surrounding Kolad present numerous trekking and hiking trails. Popular treks include routes to the ancient forts of Tala and Ghosala, which offer panoramic views and a glimpse into the region's rich history.
- Camping: Kolad's natural landscapes provide perfect settings for camping. Several campsites along the riverbank offer tents and cottages, enabling visitors to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy activities like bonfires and stargazing.
Natural Attractions
- Tamhini Ghat Waterfalls: A short drive from Kolad, the Tamhini Ghat is adorned with numerous waterfalls, especially during the monsoon season. The cascading falls amidst dense forests make it a must-visit spot for nature lovers and photographers.
- Sutarwadi Lake: This serene lake is a haven for bird watchers, with migratory birds frequenting the area. The calm ambiance makes it ideal for picnics and relaxation.
Cultural and Historical Sites
- Kuda Caves: These ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves, located near Kolad, date back to the 1st century B.C. The intricate carvings and stupas provide insights into early Buddhist architecture and art.
How to Reach Kolad
To reach Kolad in Raigad district, Maharashtra you will need to cover a distance of about 1,513, 113, 2,048, 965 km from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru respectively. Here are the following details on how you can reach here by the following means of public transport.
By Air
Deboard at the Mumbai Airport (BOM) which is located at a distance of 100-150 km. The Mumbai Airport aka Chattrapati International Airport is well connected with other Indian cities via direct and connecting flights. Once off the airport, consider booking a taxi to reach here.
Here is a list of Indian cities from where flights are available to Kolad
By Train
If traveling by train, then you will need to deboard at Kolad Railway Station (KOL). It is fairly well-connected to nearby cities and towns. From the station, you can easily find a cab or a local means of transport like an auto-rickshaw to reach your destination.
By Road
Depending on your geographical location, you can also consider traveling here via well-maintained networks of roadways and national highways. For traveling, you can choose to reach here by state-run/private buses, taxis, or your own vehicle.
- From Lonavala - 70-80 km via SH92
- From Lavasa - 129 km via Tamhini Road
- From Pune - 113 km via Tamhini Ghat Road
Conclusion
Kolad seamlessly blends natural splendor with adrenaline-pumping activities, making it a versatile destination for tourists. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, Kolad promises an enriching experience amidst Maharashtra's scenic landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kolad
Q. Where is Kolad located?
A. Kolad is a small town located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, India.
Q. When is the best time to visit Kolad?
A. Kolad is accessible year-round, but the monsoon season (June to September) enhances its natural beauty with lush greenery and gushing waterfalls. For milder weather, the post-monsoon and winter months (October to February) offer pleasant conditions.
Q. What are the popular tourist attractions in Kolad?
A. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Kolad include the Kundalika River, Tamhini Ghat, and Tala Fort.
Q. Are there any age or health restrictions for rafting?
A. Generally, participants should be above 14 years of age. It's recommended to be in good health, but swimming skills are not mandatory as safety gear is provided.
Q. What should I pack for a trip to Kolad?
- Clothing: Light, quick-drying clothes for water activities; comfortable attire for trekking.
- Footwear: Waterproof sandals or shoes with a good grip.
- Essentials: Sunscreen, insect repellent, personal medications, and a waterproof bag for valuables.
You can plan your trip and create your own route to the city with Adotrip’s technically driven circuit planner.
