Visual Storytelling

Why you Should Trek in a Dark Forest During the Rainy Season?

Hiking in the rain in a remote forest along the Western Ghats can reveal other-worldly beauty

I love the rain! Hiking in the forest during rainfall brings joy like no other. Last year, I had the chance to hike in Andharban (or Dark Forest) during the monsoon.

A 5–6 hours of easy hike in Andharban (dark forest) along the views of Kundalika Valley is worth spending the time in monsoon (the rainy season).

There are reasons why trekking in the dark forest was satisfying:

Hide and seek between the clouds and the hills

Nimbus clouds blow over the hills, revealing hidden gems — waterfalls and verdant surroundings.

View from the entry point of the forest. Photo by Priyadarshi Ranjan

Numerous cascading waterfalls

The rain brings to life numerous streams that flow down into cascades; some eventually forming waterfalls.

Sometimes you walk over the cascade, sometimes under the fall. The cool water soothes the feet and keeps it fresh. Photo by Priyadarshi Ranjan

The soothing verdant surrounding

The long summer dries the forest but incessant rain rekindles the greenery which leaves an everlasting impression on the mind.

The monsoon has brought greenery all around. Photo by Priyadarshi Ranjan

About this trek: Andharban (The Dark Forest)

The Andharban is a dense forest located near Pimpri in Maharashtra, an hour and a half away from Lonavala. This is an evergreen Sahyadri forest, covered in mist and dreamy forest landscape in the Tamhini Ghats. Andharban trek is an ideal monsoon trek, shaded for the most part. Being a descending trail, it is easy on the feet.

Due to the clouds, the light was playing games in the forest giving it a mystical appearance. Photo by Priyadarshi Ranjan

Rain brings up cascading waterfalls in the western ghat. A sojourn into Andharban (dark forest) is enchanting and refreshing.

Scenic route

The best time to visit is from July to October. The trail is filled with cascading waterfalls as well as fresh ponds with still water.

The stunning views of Kundalika Valley all along the serpentine trail will please you. The flora and fauna of the valley are rich and enchanting. Photo by Priyadarshi Ranjan

About the trail

· Location: Pimpri, In Tamhini Ghat, Maharashtra

· Altitude: 2160 feet

· Trek Time: Approximately 5–6 hours (13 kilometers)

· Difficulty level: Easy

The trek ends at hypnotic Tamhini Ghat. Photo by Priyadarshi Ranjan

Overall, the hike was a surprise to me. I highly recommend it.

Photos of the hike are available at Adobe Stock.