If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting Kashmir but haven’t made it there yet, Tapola : the Mini Kashmir of Maharashtra, might just be your perfect weekend escape. Just a few hours from Pune and Mumbai, this hidden gem is known for its scenic lake, lush greenery, misty hills, and calm surroundings. Nestled near Mahabaleshwar, Tapola offers the ideal mix of peace and adventure, which is perfect for nature lovers, couples, and weekend explorers alike.
In this Tapola travel guide, I’ll share everything from how to reach, best time to visit, places to stay, where to eat, things to do, nearby attractions, and a weekend itinerary with budget details.
Table of Contents
How to Reach Tapola
From Pune:
- By Car: Tapola is around 150 km from Pune and takes about 4.5 to 5 hours via Wai and Mahabaleshwar. The route is scenic, passing through hills and valleys, perfect for a road trip.
- By Bus: You can take a bus to Mahabaleshwar (₹400–₹700), then hire a cab to Tapola (₹1,000–₹1,500).
From Mumbai:
- By Car: The distance is around 270 km and takes 6 to 7 hours via the Mumbai–Pune Expressway. The drive is long but filled with stunning views.
- By Train/Bus: Take a train or bus to Mahabaleshwar or Satara and then a local cab to Tapola.
Tip: The last 25 km from Mahabaleshwar to Tapola are narrow and winding, so drive carefully or hire an experienced local driver.
Best Time to Visit Tapola : The Mini Kashmir of Maharashtra
- Monsoon (June – September): The hills turn lush green, waterfalls come alive, and the weather stays misty which is perfect for photography.
- Winter (October – February): Pleasant climate (10–25°C), ideal for boating, camping, and sightseeing.
- Avoid: Summer (March – May), as it can get quite hot during the day.
Best Season: Monsoon and Winter are the best time to visit Tapola, the Mini Kashmir of Maharashtra.
Where to Stay in Tapola
Tapola offers a mix of homestays, lakeside resorts, and eco-farms:
- Shivsagar Agro Tourism – Lakeside cottages with great views and local food. (₹2,000–₹3,000/night)
- Tapola River View Cottages – Cozy stay surrounded by nature. (₹1,500–₹2,500/night)
- The Lake Paradise – Beautiful resort near Shivsagar Lake with boating facilities. (₹3,000–₹4,500/night)
- Nisarg Agro Tourism – Great for families and budget travelers. (₹1,200–₹2,000/night)
Budget Tip: You can also stay in Mahabaleshwar (25 km away) and do a day trip to Tapola.
Where to Eat in Tapola
Tapola doesn’t have fancy restaurants, but local homestays and dhabas serve delicious Maharashtrian food. Some popular spots include:
- Shivsagar Boat Club Canteen – Try their local thali and pakoras.
- Hotel Tapola View – Known for simple veg meals and tea.
- Homestay Meals – Most stays serve home-cooked local food like pithla bhakri, varan bhaat, and spicy chicken curry.
Things to Do in Tapola
1. Boating in Shivsagar Lake
Tapola’s biggest attraction — boating on the serene Shivsagar Lake. You can hire motorboats, speedboats, or kayaks. The calm waters and surrounding hills make it a magical experience.
- Cost: ₹500–₹1,000 per boat depending on duration.
2. Visit Bamnoli Village
A quiet lakeside village near Tapola, known for scenic boat rides to Vasota Fort and Nageshwar Temple.
3. Trek to Vasota Fort
An adventurous jungle trek through Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary. You’ll need a forest permit (₹50–₹100) and a boat ride from Bamnoli.
Also Read: Kalpa – The most beautiful village of Himachal
4. Nature Walks and Camping
Tapola is perfect for walking through green paths, birdwatching, and camping under the stars.
5. Explore the Strawberry Farms of Mahabaleshwar
Just a short drive away, you can enjoy strawberry picking and taste jams, syrups, and juices.
6. Water Adventures
Try kayaking, swimming, or just dip your feet in the lake. Some resorts offer adventure activities like ziplining and rope climbing.
Nearby Places to Explore
- Mahabaleshwar (25 km) – Famous for viewpoints like Elephant’s Head Point and Venna Lake.
- Panchgani (45 km) – Known for Table Land, Mapro Garden, and scenic cafes.
- Thoseghar Waterfall (70 km) – One of the most stunning waterfalls in Maharashtra.
- Kas Pathar (80 km) – The Valley of Flowers of Maharashtra (best in August–September).
Weekend Itinerary for Tapola
Day 1: Pune/Mumbai to Tapola
- Leave early morning.
- Breakfast on the way (₹150).
- Reach Tapola by afternoon, check in to your stay.
- Lunch and relax by the lake.
- Evening boating at Shivsagar Lake (₹500–₹800).
- Dinner at your stay, enjoy campfire or stargazing.
Day 2: Sightseeing and Return
- Early breakfast.
- Visit Bamnoli and go for the Vasota Fort boat ride (₹800–₹1,200 per person).
- Lunch at a local dhaba.
- Visit Mahabaleshwar market or strawberry farms on your way back.
- Return to Pune/Mumbai by late evening.
Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
| Expense | Budget | Mid-Range |
|---|---|---|
| Travel (Train/Car) | ₹800 – ₹1,500 | ₹2,000 – ₹2,500 |
| Stay (1 night) | ₹1,200 – ₹2,000 | ₹3,000 – ₹4,000 |
| Food | ₹600 – ₹1,000 | ₹1,200 |
| Activities (Boating, Trek, etc.) | ₹800 – ₹1,200 | ₹1,500 |
| Miscellaneous | ₹300 | ₹500 |
| Total | ₹3,500 – ₹5,500 | ₹7,000 – ₹9,000 |
Final Thoughts
Tapola truly lives up to its name, the Mini Kashmir of Maharashtra. From boating on peaceful waters to camping under starry skies, this small village gives you a refreshing break from city chaos. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or a group of friends, Tapola is the perfect weekend getaway to relax and reconnect with nature.
So pack your bags, plan your road trip, and experience the hidden beauty of Tapola before everyone else does!
