Three and a half hours out of Mumbai towards Saralgaon, a heavenly white cover of rain-laden clouds greets visitors. Just before you reach Malshej Ghat traffic slows to 10 kmph crawl because a dense cover of clouds reduces visibility to mere a 5 m.
Flying low over the valley of Malshej, the migratory pink-legged flamingoes are an absolute bird watchers' delight. Attracted by the backwaters of Pimpalgaon Joga Dam these graceful creatures flock in large numbers here during the monsoons between July to September and can be spotted just 4 km from Flamingo Hill Resort.
Located about 15 km from Malshej is the birthplace of the warrior king Shivaji. One of the few well-preserved forts of Maharashtra, the restored citadel of Shivaji Maharaj is open for tourists. The medieval water tanks and 3rd century Buddhist caves are also worth a look.
An ancient temple and mosque at the top of fort shows how religions have peacefully co-existed in the past.
How to get there
Malshej is about 150 km away from Mumbai and 160 km from Pune. Take the NH 3 via Bhiwandi to Kalyan. From Kalyan head towards Saralgaon and further to Vaishakhare, which is near Malshej Ghat.
Where to stay
Flamingo Hill Resort
Khubi Phata
Web site: http://www.maharashtratourism.gov.in
Photograph: Suraj S
Also see: Visiting the Holy and High Abode of Shiva!
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