<p>The monsoon has well and truly set in, and our feeds are already overflowing with dreamy reels of the Western Ghats. But rain has a way of changing its nature faster than people expect, experts say. A gentle stream can become a raging river within minutes and rocky paths can turn deadly overnight. Choose your monsoon trek wisely with this handy expert-approved guidebook.</p>
<h2>Proceed safely</h2>
<h2>Kothaligad</h2>
<p><img src="http://images.mid-day.com/images/images/2026/jul/Kothligad_e.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p>
<p>This beginners&rsquo; trek is split in two parts. A trail from Ambivli to Peth village features a gentle gradient and views of waterfalls. The second trek to the fort requires you to follow precise directions from the expert accompanying you.<br />Log on to: treksandtrails.org</p>
<h2>Avchitgad</h2>
<p><img src="http://images.mid-day.com/images/images/2026/jul/Avchitgad_e.jpg" alt="An old cannon at Avchitgad. PICS COURTESY/Wikimedia" width="1280" height="720" /><br /><strong><em>An old cannon at Avchitgad. PICS COURTESY/Wikimedia</em></strong></p>
<p>Located near Roha, this trail is for the leisurely trekkers. You&rsquo;ll find remnants of old bastions, broken walls, water cisterns, and scattered stone foundations.<br />Log on to: treksandtrails.org</p>
<h2>Naneghat</h2>
<p><img src="http://images.mid-day.com/images/images/2026/jul/Reverse-waterfall_e.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p>
<p>During the monsoon, the waterfall at Naneghat appears to flow in reverse as strong winds push its mist back up the cliff, creating the illusion of water rising upward. Bring a poncho; you&rsquo;ll need it to stay dry. &nbsp;<br />Log on to: mischieftreks.com</p>
<h2>Leave Lohagad alone!</h2>
<p><img src="http://images.mid-day.com/images/images/2026/jul/Lohagad-fort_e.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p>
<p>&gt;&gt; Lonavala-based group Shivdurg Mitra has been carrying out rescue operations in the Sahyadris for nearly two decades, including the recent case of 26-year-old Ketan Agarwal in Lohagad on June 18.</p>
<p>&gt;&gt; Sunil Gaikwad, secretary, tells mid-day that the incident&rsquo;s widespread popularity has led to a sharp rise in visitors wanting to see the infamous &lsquo;viral spot&rsquo;.</p>
<h2>Do it right</h2>
<p><img src="http://images.mid-day.com/images/images/2026/jul/Trek_e.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p>
<p>According to rescuer Sunil Gaikwad, most accidents can be prevented if you follow these thumb rules.<br />&gt;&gt; Don&rsquo;t stray from the focal point of the trek. A calm waterfall can be deepen a few metres in.<br />&gt;&gt; Always trek with a guide. Do not rely on Google Maps, as many areas have zero connectivity.<br />&gt;&gt; Do not video call your friends while trekking. It diverts your attention and tips your balance.<br />&gt;&gt; Wear proper trekking gear including high-grip shoes and a trekking pole.</p>
<p><strong>Helpline:</strong> 9822500884&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Wait it out</h2>
<h2>Kalavantin</h2>
<p><img src="http://images.mid-day.com/images/images/2026/jul/Kalavantin-trek_e.jpg" alt="Steep steps at Kalavantin Durg. PICS COURTESY/treksandtrails" width="1280" height="720" /><br /><strong><em>Steep steps at Kalavantin Durg. PICS COURTESY/treksandtrails</em></strong></p>
<p>During the monsoon, Kalavantin in Raigad is at its most spectacular. Ironically, this is also when it is at its most dangerous, as rain transforms the exposed narrow ledges into slippery hazards.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Best time to visit:</strong> November to February</p>
<h2>Harihar Fort</h2>
<p><img src="http://images.mid-day.com/images/images/2026/jul/Harihar-Fort_e.jpg" alt="PIC COURTESY/VINAYAK MAHADIK" width="1280" height="720" /><br /><strong><em>PIC COURTESY/VINAYAK MAHADIK</em></strong></p>
<p>This fort near Nashik is famous for its dramatic near-vertical rock-cut staircase. Dense fog and sudden downpours can reduce visibility to a few metres, making navigation&nbsp;<br />difficult.</p>
<p><strong>Best time to visit:</strong> December to April</p>
<h2>Moroshicha Bhairavgad</h2>
<p>Described as &ldquo;breathtakingly dangerous&rdquo; &nbsp;and &ldquo;most thrilling&rdquo; in reviews online, this trek near Malshej Ghat is extremely technical, and must not be attempted by beginners, experts say.</p>
<p><strong>Best time to visit:</strong> October to February</p>
<p><strong><em>Information courtesy: Vinayak Mahadik, trekker and former trek manager, Trek Panda</em></strong></p>

Monsoon treks may sound exciting, but they come with their share of unexpected surprises. A trekker and a seasoned rescuer share how to do it right

Rain, trails and reality checks

Proceed safely

Kothaligad

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