Kharghar Hills – Navi Mumbai | Full Details
There are places you stumble upon once… and they stay with you.
Kharghar Hills is one of those.
Just about 54 km from the chaos of Mumbai, it doesn’t scream for attention. But if you’ve ever been here during the monsoon — you know. The smell of rain hitting the soil, the distant echo of waterfalls, that faint temple bell somewhere in the background — it’s all strangely calming. Almost poetic, even if you’re not the poetic type.
Nestled quietly in Navi Mumbai, Kharghar Hills is more than a trekking spot or a weekend escape. It’s where greenery meets divinity. On one side, you’ve got seasonal waterfalls like Pandavkada and Arjun Kada, gushing to life when the skies open. On the other, you’ll find the Shiv Mandir, tucked peacefully in the same hills — a place where even non-religious folks pause for a moment.
And if you’re someone who usually finds “nature” a bit overrated — trust me — you may change your mind here.
The vibe? Raw. Real. Refreshing.
Kharghar Hills Photos
Kharghar Hills Location
Kharghar Hills – Main Trekking Entry (Sector 35 Entry Point)
A little challenging but this path is the most recommended by me. The Kharghar Trekking entry which is in front of Hyde Park Society of sector 35G, is the best because it gives you a little challenging trek, and the view from here is also very good. There is also a trek path, a little ahead of the Taloja Jail Road, but use it if you want to reach the Kharghar Tekdi Shiv Mandir ort Paalishwar Shiv Mandir, use it but it is also connected to the kharghar hills trek.
Exact Address:-
Trek Point – Hyde Park, A1 Block, Sector 35G, Forest Area, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra 410210
Entry 2: RBI Colony (from Belapur)
The journey to the trek point starts from below of the RBI Colony Metro Station from where you move from the roads to 5.2 km to CIDCO Nature Tourism Centre, Fanaspada, which will take nearly 1 hour 15 minutes to cover, then the real trek starts from there and then you can reach to top in few minutes. The view from there is really good, and will make your hardwork to reach here, worth it. This is the most easiest path, but takes much more time than the path I told you before.
Exact Address:-
Starting Point – Kharghar Hills, Sector 3A, CBD Belapur, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra 400614
Trek Starts – 323W+HFQ, Forest Area, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra 410210
Must-Visit Kharghar Hills Attractions
Pandavkada Falls and Arjunkada Falls
Monsoon in Navi Mumbai can be messy, to be honest. But in Kharghar Hills? It becomes magic.
It is then that monsoon in Navi Mumbai can be dirty, to be honest. But in Kharghar Hills? It becomes magic.
It is then that Pandavkada Falls and Arjun Kada Waterfall are in full swing. Not merely flowing–roaring. They are seasonal, and they are active between June and September, and frankly, they are not only waterfalls. They’re moments. You are there, wet perhaps, your shoes are wet, the wind is slapping your face, and yet, all you feel is peace.
The two waterfalls are named after the Pandavas of the Mahabharata, which gives it that slight touch of mythology to the already dramatic landscape. The more popular brother is Pandavkada, a strong dive that cannot be ignored. Arjun Kada, however, is more silent. It is less crowded and, to some, even more beautiful, tucked in a deeper corner.
Local tip: Go early in the morning, especially if you are a photographer. The fog, the sun, and those little rainbows that peek through, it is worth it.
However, let us be realistic. These falls are not playthings.
Personally, I have experienced that the rocks become slippery especially when it is raining heavily, which is very dangerous. And the present? Tougher than it appears. Warnings are given every monsoon… and still people take the risk. The waterfalls are wild and beautiful, but they should be respected, so yeah. Do not get too near. Don’t swim. And certainly, make sure that there are no restrictions issued by local authorities. They tend to do so, particularly at the height of monsoon.
Kharghar Shiv Mandir
You won’t find it marked boldly on tourist maps. No ticket counters. No loudspeakers. Just a quiet corner inside the Kharghar Hills, where the air feels different — calmer, heavier with silence.
Jay Bholenath Mandir Paalishwar, as locals call it, is nestled deep within the forest trail near Pandavkada Waterfalls. This isn’t your typical temple. It’s not commercial. There are no queues, no priests pushing for donations. What you’ll find instead is simplicity — a raw, grounded kind of devotion that sits in the middle of nature, unbothered by the outside world.
To reach it, you’ll need to walk a bit — around 10 to 15 minutes through a trail just off the path to Pandavkada. The way is narrow and slightly overgrown, but manageable. Ask the locals if you get confused — most of them know about it. You’ll know you’re close when you hear nothing but birds and your own breath.
Inside the temple, there’s a shivling placed on a circular platform, a hanging copper pot dripping jal, and the quiet hum of flowers, bells, and diya light. On one side, a red-shawled Ganesh idol rests calmly on a wall niche. It’s all very humble — no gold, no show — and maybe that’s what makes it feel so powerful.
This temple doesn’t demand your faith. It simply offers space — to sit, to breathe, to reflect.
🕉️ Why visit this hidden temple?
- It’s an authentic spiritual spot, untouched by crowds or commercialization.
- You get to experience Shiva in nature’s lap, not in marble walls and fluorescent lights.
- It’s perfect if you’re looking for a pause — not just from city life, but from your own overthinking.
⚠️ A few things to keep in mind:
- Go during monsoon or post-monsoon (July–Dec), when the trail is lush.
- Wear proper shoes — the route can be slippery.
- There are no restrooms or amenities nearby.
- Keep your phone on silent. And your speaker off.
- Most importantly — do not litter. Places like this survive only if we respect them.
Want to pair this peaceful visit with something more adventurous?
How to reach Kharghar Hills
One of the best things about Kharghar Hills is that you don’t need a road trip or a complicated travel plan to get here. It’s incredibly accessible — even if you’re coming from Mumbai or somewhere within Navi Mumbai.
By Train
From there, the Kharghar sector 35 trek point of Kharghar Hills is just 5.4 km away. You can either walk it (takes around 1 hour 20 minutes), take an auto-rickshaw, or hop on a local bus.
By Bus
You can take Bus No. 53 or 54, which drops you close to Sector 35, from where you can start your trail or head towards the Kharghar Hills.
By Auto / Cab
They’ll usually drop you near the entry point of Kharghar Hills from Sector 35 or the RBI Colony one, depending on where you want to begin.
By Private Vehicle
Best Time to Visit Kharghar Hills
Let’s get this straight — Kharghar Hills is beautiful all year, but if you really want to see it in its full glory, monsoon is the season to go. We’re talking late June to early September. That’s when the waterfalls are alive, the greenery is at its peak, and even the air feels different — fresher, cooler, quieter.
But here’s the thing no one tells you:
It’s not just about the season. It’s also about the time of day.
If you want to skip the crowd, avoid police restrictions, and actually enjoy the sounds of the forest (and not someone blasting music on Bluetooth), plan your visit on weekday mornings between 9 AM and 1 PM. That’s your sweet spot.
Best Season:
- July to early September – for waterfalls and misty trails
- Post-monsoon (Sept to Dec) – less slippery, still green, good for trekking
Best Time of Day:
- Morning (9:00 AM – 1:00 PM) – less crowd, pleasant weather, better lighting for photos
- Evening (after 4:30 PM) – peaceful, but it gets dark fast in the hills, so be cautious
Avoid weekends if you’re not a fan of noisy groups. Saturdays and Sundays see a flood of bikers, Instagrammers, and—you guessed it—Bluetooth speakers.
One more tip? Check the weather forecast. On days with heavy rain warnings, local authorities sometimes block access to the falls or trekking paths — for good reason.
Trekking Adventures in Kharghar Hills
Trekking here isn’t Everest. But it’s not your average park walk either.
Kharghar Hills offers easy to moderate trails, mostly around Sector 35 and near the paths to Pandavkada Falls. It’s the kind of trek that doesn’t need hardcore gear — just a good pair of shoes, a bottle of water, and a small group that’s okay with getting a little muddy.
What’s the trail like?
- Narrow, sometimes overgrown, often slippery during monsoon
- Mostly shaded, with occasional open patches and beautiful valley views
- Takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the route and your pace
- You’ll cross small streams, mossy rocks, and natural steps formed by the hill itself
If you’re a beginner, this is a great place to start. It challenges you just enough to feel proud afterward, but not so much that it feels impossible. And if you’ve trekked before, you’ll still enjoy the natural rawness of the landscape.
Quick Local tips:
- Wear proper trekking shoes — not sneakers, not sandals
- Avoid solo treks unless you know the area well
- Start early — the heat kicks in by noon even during monsoon
- Carry light snacks, water, and a power bank (network may drop mid-trail)
The best part? The silence.
There are moments on this trail where you’ll hear nothing — no cars, no horns, just your own footsteps and maybe a bird or two. It’s oddly healing.
Safety Tips for Kharghar Hills Visit
Let’s not sugarcoat it — Kharghar Hills is stunning, but it’s also nature, and nature doesn’t always play nice.
Every monsoon, there are reports of injuries — sometimes worse — from people slipping near the waterfalls, getting caught in strong currents, or simply underestimating how unpredictable the hills can get after heavy rains.
So before you lace up those trekking shoes, keep these safety pointers in mind. They’re not meant to scare you — just to help you enjoy your trip without making the news.
What to DO:
- Stick to marked or visible trails — going off-route might feel adventurous, but it’s not worth the risk
- Wear grip-heavy shoes — forget those stylish sneakers
- Go in groups, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area
- Check weather forecasts before your visit — orange or red alerts? Better to stay home
- Keep your phone charged (though expect poor signal in some parts)
What NOT to Do:
- Don’t swim or go too close to Pandavkada or Arjun Kada Falls — the rocks are dangerously slippery
- Avoid visiting during or right after heavy rainfall — trails can get muddy and unstable
- Don’t leave behind plastic wrappers, bottles, or food waste — seriously, let’s not ruin what’s left of natural beauty
And remember — police and forest officials often restrict access to waterfalls during peak monsoon days. If you’re told to avoid a spot, don’t argue. It’s for your own good.
Tip from experience: Silence isn’t just peaceful — it’s also how you hear the sound of rushing water or falling debris. Keep your Bluetooth speakers in your bag.
Nearby Places to Visit
After a refreshing trek and a soulful visit to Jay Bholenath Mandir Paalishwar, your body (and spirit) deserves a little rest—and maybe something tasty too. Fortunately, the Kharghar-Taloja belt offers a balanced mix of nature getaways, urban escapes, and great food options. Whether you’re in the mood for a peaceful garden, a family restaurant, or a quick snack before heading home—here are the best nearby picks:
Nearby Attractions (Within 2–6 km)
Pandavkada Waterfalls (~1.2 km from start point)
A seasonal beauty, Pandavkada is one of Navi Mumbai’s most loved monsoon waterfalls. The roar of the fall, the thick mist, and the lush green surroundings make it a top weekend pick. However, it is often restricted by forest officials for safety during heavy rains—so do check before heading.
Quick Tip: You can club your Bholenath Temple visit with this, especially during light rains.
ISKCON Temple, Kharghar (~4.5 km)
A beautifully designed temple with white marble, ISKCON Kharghar offers spiritual calm, devotional bhajans, and a small café with sattvic food. The vibe here is clean, open, and welcoming to all.
Don’t Miss: Their Sunday bhog (free prasad meals) are delicious and generous.
Central Park, Kharghar (~5 km)
Spread across 119 hectares, this is one of India’s largest city parks. With landscaped lawns, musical fountains, jogging tracks, and an amphitheater—it’s perfect to unwind after your trek. On weekends, you’ll find musicians, yoga groups, and families all soaking in the green calm.
Bonus: You can spot the Kharghar Hills from here too—creating a full-circle moment from your morning trail.
Valley Golf Course & Viewpoint (~3.8 km)
A short drive from Kharghar Sector 22 takes you to a lesser-known viewpoint overlooking the sprawling Valley Golf Course and CBD skyline. Best for golden-hour photography and quiet reflection.
Where to Eat Nearby: Cafes & Restaurants in Kharghar
After your peaceful trek to Jay Bholenath Mandir Paalishwar, you might want to recharge with some good food or coffee. Fortunately, Kharghar is full of amazing options for every mood—be it a quiet café to journal your thoughts, or a buzzing restaurant for a hearty post-hike meal.
Top Cafés Near Kharghar Hills
- The Chocolate Room (Sector 7): A cozy café with great hot chocolate and comfy seating. Perfect for winding down after a forest walk.
- Backbenchers Café (Sector 20): Pocket-friendly, student-favorite hangout spot with Maggi, cold coffee, and board games.
- Coffee & Conversations (Near Little World Mall): True to its name—great ambiance, great brews, and even better conversations.
Looking for more cozy corners and hidden gems? Don’t miss our guide to the Best Cafes in Kharghar.
Best Restaurants for a Hearty Meal
- Rasoi Thali (Sector 4): If you’re craving unlimited thali with Gujarati and Rajasthani flavors, this place hits the spot.
- Barbeque Nation (Little World Mall): A buffet lover’s paradise with endless starters and desserts.
- The Mint Leaf (Sector 7): Excellent North Indian cuisine with a touch of class and calm interiors.
For a full list of Kharghar’s food spots—from street eats to premium dining—see our Best Restaurants in Kharghar blog.
Final Thoughts
There are places that show up on Google Maps, and then there are places that show up in your memory every time it rains or every time you want silence.
Kharghar Hills is not just a trekking spot in Navi Mumbai — it’s a pause button in your busy life.
It’s where you’ll hear more birds than humans, where even your phone’s signal gives up, but your inner voice gets louder.
It’s muddy. Messy. Sometimes slippery.
But that’s the charm, isn’t it?
You don’t come here for selfies — you come here to get drenched, to slip and laugh with friends, to see a waterfall you didn’t expect, or to sit in front of a small Shivling and feel… still.
And you know what?
You might leave with wet shoes, aching legs, and no viral reel — but you’ll leave with something better.
