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Planning a Mumbai-Pune road trip? From misty Lonavala to Pawna Lake, here are the top scenic places to explore along the way, especially during the monsoon
Mumbai-Pune Expressway: During the monsoon, the route becomes one of the more scenic drives in Maharashtra, with the surrounding Sahyadri hills turning green and waterfalls appearing along the route.
Mumbai-Pune Expressway: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Monday said the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, which was constructed 27 years ago during his tenure, remains pothole-free to date. “I built the Mumbai-Pune Expressway 27 years ago. It’s still pothole-free, but nobody writes about it,” Gadkari said while addressing the ‘Festival of Thinkers’ organised by Symbiosis International University in Pune.
He also referred to the recent incident involving the Missing Link project on the expressway. He said he was trolled on social media despite the project being a state government project. “Guess social media is good for quality control,” the BJP MP said, adding that the forest department had not granted permission for the Missing Link’s construction at the time.
What Happened At The Mumbai-Pune Expressway Missing Link?
In May, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated the much-awaited 13.3-km Missing Link project on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. The project was designed to bypass the steep mountain-pass section, improve road safety and reduce the travel distance between Mumbai and Pune.
In July, a landslide occurred near Tunnel 2 at the Missing Link entrance following heavy rainfall.
The project has since remained a major talking point, particularly during the monsoon when the Mumbai-Pune route offers dramatic views of the Western Ghats.
Mumbai-Pune Expressway Gets Lush During Monsoon
The Mumbai-Pune Expressway is not just a major road connection between the two cities. During the monsoon, the route becomes one of the more scenic drives in Maharashtra, with the surrounding Sahyadri hills turning green and waterfalls appearing along the route.
Travellers can also make short detours to several popular attractions between Mumbai and Pune.
Top Places To Visit On The Mumbai-Pune Route
Lonavala And Khandala
The twin hill stations of Lonavala and Khandala are among the most popular stops on the Mumbai-Pune route. During the rains, the hills become lush green, while mist, waterfalls and cloud-covered valleys add to the scenery.
Popular attractions include Tiger Point, Rajmachi Point, Bhushi Dam and Kune Falls.
Karla Caves
Located near Lonavala, the Karla Caves are an ancient rock-cut Buddhist site dating back more than 2,000 years. The caves offer a historical stop for travellers looking to break up the road journey.
Bhaja Caves
The Bhaja Caves, located close to Lonavala, are another ancient Buddhist rock-cut complex. The surrounding hills are particularly picturesque during the monsoon.
Rajmachi
For those looking for a trekking destination, Rajmachi Fort offers views of the Sahyadri ranges. The landscape around the fort becomes especially green during the rainy season.
Matheran
Matheran is slightly off the direct Mumbai-Pune route but can be included as a detour for travellers with more time. The hill station is known for its forested landscape, viewpoints and monsoon greenery.
Pawna Lake
Located near Lonavala, Pawna Lake is surrounded by hills and is a popular destination for camping and weekend trips. The area takes on a particularly scenic appearance during the monsoon.
For travellers, the Mumbai-Pune Expressway continues to serve as one of the country’s key road links, and during the monsoon, its route through the Sahyadris offers an added attraction, with green hills, misty valleys and seasonal waterfalls transforming the journey into a scenic road trip.
August 18, 2026, 15:23 IST
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