The first spell of rain in Ahmedabad changes everything. The air feels fresher, chai suddenly tastes better, and almost every group chat has that one message: “Weekend plan?” If you’ve been looking for a reason to get out of the city, the monsoon is it.
The best thing about these locations is that you don’t need to make any detailed plans to reach these destinations. You just need your travel gang and leave from your work to see misty mountains, waterfalls, and beautiful roads. So, here are some go-to list for your monsoon mood.
Polo Forest (150 km | 3-3.5 hours)
One of the major destinations to make your monsoon road trip from Ahmedabad would be Polo Forest. The journey from Himmatnagar to Vijaynagar is an easy one, and after reaching the forest, you’ll encounter some very ancient Jain & Shiva temples.
With the start of the rains in the monsoon, there is some water in the Harnav River, and the beauty of river crossings and forest tracks is increased manifold. Don’t forget Vanaj Dam and Abhapur temples on your way.
Bakor (140-145 km | 2-2.5 hours)
If you would rather have quiet places to visit, then Bakor is a good place to go to. It may not be as popular as other places where tourists usually go, but this place is still as quiet even when it rains. There are activities such as trekking through nature, boating, depending on the water levels, and areas where you could enjoy your picnic.
Saputara (400 km | 8 hours)
When it comes to the hill stations of Gujarat, the first thing that would pop into our minds is Saputara.. But then, what makes us happy isn’t the fact that we are there; it is the journey that we take on our way from Waghai to Saputara.
Ghats, forests, and mist make this particular journey one of the most beautiful monsoon drives in Gujarat. You should stay for at least a night, since the morning is the best time of the day
Wilson Hills (370 km | 7-8 hours)
If you are looking for a peaceful break from all the hustle and bustle, Wilson Hills is the spot for you. The journey through the Sahyadri ranges, waterfalls on the way, and a beautiful view of valleys would suit those who prefer something off the beaten track.
The Statue of Unity, Kevadia (200 km | 3.5 – 5 hours)
The Statue of Unity is not the only reason why many tourists visit this place, as the whole town of Kevadia has now become a complete day’s destination due to other tourist spots that include the Valley of Flowers, Jungle Safari, Glow Garden, Ekta Cruise, and Zarwani Waterfall.
Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary (180 km | 4 hours)
If you like to drive through forests in peace, then the Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary would be great for you. Though sighting wildlife isn’t always guaranteed here, the silent roads, waterfalls, Kada Dam, and Jhand Hanuman Temple sure add value to the trip.
Hathni Mata Waterfall (150 km | 3 hours)
The blend of spiritual elements and nature can be experienced in Pavagadh and Hathni Mata Waterfall. First, make your way to the Mahakali Temple and then to the waterfall, which becomes truly magnificent after rainfall.
Another equally significant but underestimated pull factor is Phulwari ni Naal, which is 300 km and 6 hours away from here, located very close to the border region of Gujarat and Rajasthan. The truth of the matter is that the road journey itself is the destination point.
Kandana backwaters (150 to 160 km | 3.5 – 4.5 hours)
Kandana backwaters are created by the Kandana dam in the Mahisagar district of Gujarat. The main focus for you, if you are visiting the Kandana backwaters, is the green-blue waters, the tiny islands, and the surroundings of the Aravalli hills.
This extensive body of water spreads across a whopping area of 166sqkm and is said to be one of the most picturesque places to visit, similar to the Bahubali Hills of Udaipur. The best viewpoint of this scenic place can be viewed from a hill located near the dam. Visitors need to take a turn towards the right side of Shri Hari Restaurant and climb the hill for a stunning view of the dam and backwaters.
Girmal Waterfall (39- km | 7.5 – 8 hours)
& Gira Falls (350 km | 6 – 7 hours)
Last but not least, if you are on the road trip, then you have to visit the Girmal Waterfall and Gira Falls in Dang District. Both waterfalls are near each other. And so, people get confused about them. The Girmal Waterfall is believed to be the highest waterfall in Gujarat, whereas the Gira Falls is famous for its cascading waterfall covering a vast area. Both have their own beauty to be captured.
It only needs a few rainy days and an empty road to bring back memories of how much there is out there for you to see outside the hustle of urban city life. There are stories in the monsoon of Polo’s forests, Saputara’s roads, and Girmal Falls.
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