Kataldhar Waterfall, situated in the picturesque Ulhas Valley near Lonavala on the way to Udhewadi Village, serves as a remarkable destination for nature enthusiasts. Journey commences from Fanasrai Village, with a singular route leading to the captivating Kataldhar Waterfall.
It’s important to note that these waterfalls are seasonal and can only be witnessed during the monsoon season when the rains grace the region. Intensity and volume of the waterfall are entirely dependent on the rainfall received. Waterfall may recede or even cease to flow.
Both Kune Waterfall and Kataldhar Waterfall contribute to the nourishment of the Ulhas River, which meanders its way towards Thane and eventually merges with Vasai Creek. Harmonious interplay between these waterfalls and the river showcases the interconnectedness of nature’s elements.
Kataldhar Waterfall Trek Visiting Tips:
- 🕒 Open Hours: 24 hours
- 🏞️ Waterfall Height: 350-foot waterfall with a 100-foot overhang
- 🚶♂️ Base village (start point of trek): Fanasrai Village
- 🌄 Region: Ulhas Valley, Lonavala
- 🛤️ Kataldhar Waterfall Trek Distance: 9 km
- 📍 Kataldhar distance from Pune: 70 km
- 📍 Kataldhar distance from Mumbai: 95 km
- ⏳ Time required for the Waterfall hike: 3 hours one way
- 📍 Kataldhar Waterfall Trek Location: Rajmachi, Lonavala, Maharashtra
- 🌧️ Best Time for Kataldhar Waterfall Trek: Monsoon Season
- 🚉 Nearest railway station to Kataldhar waterfall is Lonavala.
- 🏔️ Kataldhar Waterfall Trek Difficulty: Medium to Hard
- 🏋️ Kataldhar Waterfall Trek: Endurance Medium
- 🌳 Trekking Route: Dense Forest Trail
- 📸 Kataldhar Photos: available in the photo gallery
- 💪 Trekker Fitness and Endurance: Medium and BMI under 30
- 📍 Kataldhar waterfall distance from Lonavala: 12 km
- 🚻 Washroom available at Base Village
- 🧗 Traveller Types: Adventure Seekers, Nature Lovers, Photographers
- 📏 Distances: Approximately 5 km from Lonavala Railway Station, 75 km from Pune Airport, 2 km from Rajmachi Village
- 💡 Tips: Carry water and snacks, wear sturdy footwear, avoid visiting during heavy rains
Kataldhar Waterfall Trek Batches
- July: 1st, 2nd, 8th, 9th, 15th, 16th, 22nd, 23rd, 29th, 30th,
- August: 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 19th, 20th, 26th, 27th,
- September: 2nd, 3rd, 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th, 23rd, 24th,30th
- October: 1st, 7th, 8th, 14th, 15th, 21st, 22nd, 28th, 29th
- November: 4th, 5th, 11th, 12th, 18th, 19th, 25th, 26th
Best Time to Visit Kataldhar Waterfall: Weather and Months
Optimal time to visit Kataldhar Waterfall is during the monsoon season, when the waterfall is at its most vibrant. To help you plan your visit:
Ideal Months
- Monsoon Season (June to September):
- Peak Activity: This period sees the highest rainfall, making the waterfall gush with water and enhancing the surrounding greenery.
- Lush Scenery: Monsoon transforms the valley into a lush, verdant paradise, providing a picturesque backdrop for your trek.
Weather Conditions
- Rain-Dependent Flow: Flow of Kataldhar Waterfall is directly linked to the amount of rainfall. More rain means a more spectacular waterfall.
- Temperature: During the monsoon months, the temperature in the Lonavala region ranges from 20°C to 25°C, providing a cool and comfortable climate for trekking and outdoor activities.
Tips for Visiting During Monsoon
- Safety First: Wear appropriate trekking shoes with good grip to navigate the slippery and muddy trails.
- Stay Updated: Keep an eye on the weather forecasts as heavy rains can sometimes lead to landslides or difficult trekking conditions.
- Carry Essentials: Bring rain gear, water, snacks, and a first-aid kit to ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.
Visiting Kataldhar Waterfall during the monsoon season will offer you the best experience, with the waterfall in its full glory and the surrounding nature at its most vibrant.
Kataldhar Waterfall Location
RC33+MGX, Trek to Rajmachi Village, Lonavala, Maharashtra 410405
Things To Do Kataldhar Waterfall
Kataldhar Waterfall, there are several exciting activities to engage in.
- Trekking: Embark on an exhilarating trek through the lush greenery of the surrounding Ulhas Valley. Trek to Kataldhar Waterfall offers a thrilling experience, with stunning views and challenging terrains that will test your endurance and reward you with a sense of accomplishment.
- Photography: Capture the awe-inspiring beauty of Kataldhar Waterfall through your lens. The cascading water, the vibrant flora, and the serene surroundings provide ample opportunities for photographers to capture breathtaking shots. Don’t forget to bring your camera and unleash your creativity in this picturesque setting.
- Bird Watching: Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature and indulge in bird watching. Area surrounding Kataldhar Waterfall is home to a variety of bird species, making it a haven for bird enthusiasts. Keep your binoculars handy and witness the graceful flight and melodious tunes of these feathered creatures.
- Nature Walks: Take a leisurely stroll along the trails surrounding the waterfall and immerse yourself in the serenity of nature. Enjoy the fresh air, listen to the soothing sounds of the flowing water, and appreciate the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this ecosystem.
How to Reach Kataldhar Waterfall?
Kataldhar Waterfall is situated near the renowned Rajmachi Fort in Lonavala, a popular hill station in the Pune district of Maharashtra. Lonavala is well-connected to Mumbai, Pune, and other nearby cities by road, rail, and air. Various modes of transportation you can use to reach Lonavala:
By Train:
- Lonavala Railway Station: Lonavala has its own railway station, a major stop on the Mumbai-Pune route.
- Travel Time: It takes around 2 to 3 hours by train from Mumbai or Pune.
- Fare: Approximately Rs. 100 to Rs. 200, depending on the type of train and class of seat.
- Booking: Tickets can be booked online through IRCTC or other ticketing apps.
By Bus:
- State-Run and Private Buses: Many buses run between Mumbai, Pune, and Lonavala.
- Boarding Points: Major bus terminals or stops in Mumbai and Pune.
- Travel Time: About 3 to 4 hours.
- Fare: Around Rs. 200 to Rs. 300, depending on the type of bus and seat.
- Booking: Tickets can be booked online through RedBus or other bus booking apps.
By Car:
- Routes: Mumbai-Pune Expressway or Mumbai-Pune Highway.
- Distance: Approximately 90 km from Mumbai and 65 km from Pune.
- Travel Time: Around 2 hours.
- Toll Charges: Approximately Rs. 200 to Rs. 300, depending on the vehicle type and route.
- Navigation: Use Google Maps or other navigation apps.
By Bike:
- Adventure Option: Ride a bike to Lonavala from Mumbai or Pune.
- Travel Time: Around 3 hours.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy views of hills, valleys, and waterfalls along the way.
- Fuel Cost: Around Rs. 500 to Rs. 700, depending on the bike and mileage.
- Rental Options: Rent a bike through apps like Bounce or Drivezy.
Reaching the Trek Start Point
Once you reach Lonavala, you need to get to the starting point of the trek, which is Udhewadi Village near Rajmachi Fort.
- Distance: Approximately 15 km from Lonavala.
- Transport Options: Local taxi, auto-rickshaw, or bus.
- Fare: Around Rs. 100 to Rs. 200, depending on the mode of transport and your bargaining skills.
- Alternative: Also walk or cycle to Udhewadi Village if you’re feeling energetic and adventurous.
Kataldhar Waterfall to Lonavala Railway Station Distance:
Distance from Kataldhar Waterfall to Lonavala Railway Station is approximately 10 kilometers.
How to Reach Kataldhar Waterfall from Mumbai?
- By Car: Drive through the Mumbai-Pune Expressway to Lonavala. From Lonavala, take the route via Khopoli and Pali to reach Fanasrai Village, where the trek to the waterfall begins.
- By Train: Take a train from Mumbai to Lonavala. From Lonavala Railway Station, hire a shared jeep or rickshaw to the start point of the trek.
How to Reach Kataldhar Waterfall from Bangalore?
- By Flight: Fly from Bangalore to Pune or Mumbai. From Pune or Mumbai, follow the respective routes to Lonavala and then to Fanasrai Village.
- By Train: Take a train from Bangalore to Pune or Mumbai, then proceed to Lonavala by train or bus. From Lonavala, hire a shared jeep or rickshaw to the start point of the trek.
How to Reach Kataldhar Waterfall from Pune?
- By Car: Drive to Lonavala via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. From Lonavala, proceed towards Udhewadi Village, which serves as the base for the Rajmachi Fort trek. Continue to Fanasrai Village, where the trek to Kataldhar Waterfall begins.
- By Bus: Take an MSRTC bus from Pune to Lonavala. From Lonavala, hire a shared jeep or rickshaw to the start point of the trek.
FAQs
What is the height of Kataldhar Waterfall?
Kataldhar Waterfall has a height of approximately 350 feet.
Where is Kataldhar Waterfall located?
It is located near Lonavala in the Ulhas Valley, Maharashtra, India.
How can I reach Kataldhar Waterfall?
Waterfall is accessible via a trek from Lonavala. Take a train or bus to Lonavala and then hire a shared jeep or rickshaw to the start point of the trek.
Is the trek to Kataldhar Waterfall difficult?
Trek is considered moderately difficult due to the dense forest and the need to navigate through a rugged path.
Is there an entry fee for Kataldhar Waterfall?
No, there is no entry fee to visit Kataldhar Waterfall.
Can I swim in Kataldhar Waterfall?
Swimming is not recommended due to the strong currents and the rocky terrain.
Kataldhar Waterfall is a mesmerizing natural wonder that offers a delightful escape into the lap of nature. With its cascading waters, lush green surroundings, and serene ambiance, it provides a perfect setting for adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, and photography enthusiasts alike.
Kataldhar Waterfall offers a rejuvenating experience for all. It is a place where one can immerse themselves in the beauty of the outdoors and create lasting memories. So, make sure to include Kataldhar Waterfall in your travel itinerary for an unforgettable and enriching experience.
