Wander Freely, Plan Smartly

The Essential 3-Days Luxury Itinerary to Kolad, Maharashtra, India in September (with kids)

Close your eyes and picture the vibrant monsoon-kissed landscapes of Kolad, where the air is alive with the scent of fresh earth and the thrilling promises of nature’s untamed beauty. This luxury journey invites you and your family into an extraordinary realm—one where majestic rivers pulse with energy, ancient hills whisper timeless tales, and the lush Western Ghats embrace you in their tranquil, verdant arms. From the exhilarating rush of cascading rapids to the serene moments of sunset by the water’s edge, every breath you take here is charged with awe and wonder, designed to awaken your spirit and create precious memories together. Imagine mornings filled with joyful laughter as you navigate crystal-clear waters, afternoons steeped in the rich heritage and panoramic vistas of historic forts, and evenings that melt into pure bliss with soothing spa treatments and exquisite regional flavors served with elegant flair. This is not simply a trip; it’s a transformative escape—a chance to slow down, reconnect with nature, and discover a side of life where luxury and adventure intertwine seamlessly. Step into this intimate journey with your loved ones, and let Kolad’s magic kindle a lasting glow in your hearts.

Why You'll Love This Trip

  • Experience the thrilling exhilaration of white-water rafting amidst lush monsoon-fed rivers, perfect for family adventure seekers craving excitement in style.
  • Immerse yourself in the peaceful grandeur of ancient forts and serene caves, where history and nature blend to inspire wonder for all ages.
  • Indulge in sumptuous spa treatments and wellness moments that restore the soul while surrounded by the breathtaking Western Ghats.
  • Savor elevated Maharashtrian cuisine in refined settings, turning every meal into a celebration of local culture and flavor.
  • Enjoy intimate evenings by tranquil riverside resorts, where luxury meets the calming sounds of nature to create unforgettable family bonding.
  • Capture stunning landscapes and vibrant monsoon vistas, creating lifelong memories framed by nature’s most beautiful masterpieces.

Your Trip Map

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Your Journey

1
Main activity for day 1

Majestic River Rafting Thrills

Begin your luxurious adventure in Kolad with a morning of exhilarating white-water rafting on the Kundalika River, its rapids swelling with monsoon-fed waters in September. The river's scenic banks, lush with western ghats greenery, set a stunning backdrop to this unforgettable adrenaline rush. After conquering the rapids, unwind in a premium riverside resort where refined comfort blends seamlessly with nature, preparing you for a day and night of indulgence and relaxation amidst the tranquil surroundings.

Your day ignites with the raw thrill of white-water rafting on the fast-flowing , a spectacular playground shaped by monsoon rains in September that dramatically heighten the rapids' vigor. As you embark on this invigorating journey, the crisp river spray mingles with the fresh scent of wet earth and lush greenery, immersing you in the wild heart of the Western Ghats. Expert guides navigate your group through foamy waves and seemingly playful, yet powerful currents, making this both a safe and enthralling experience suited for luxury travelers seeking excitement wrapped in nature’s magnificence. Post rafting, you’ll retreat to the sophisticated comforts of the , where personalized service ensures you refresh in style and savor local flavors amid the scenic riverbanks. Later, a short drive carries you to the , an elegant sanctuary where lavish amenities meet the tranquil forest ambiance. Here, indulge in gourmet dining under the canopy and relax by the infinity pool as the sun sets, casting a golden glow over the verdant landscape, perfectly capping off your exhilarating day with a touch of graceful repose.

Highlights of the day
Top Activity
Kundalika River
AdventureNatureWater SportsFamily-friendly
A vibrant river teeming with challenging rapids, perfect for white-water rafting adventures during the monsoon season.
Top Activity
Adventures Overland Rafting Camp
AdventureLuxuryGuided ToursFamily-friendly
A renowned adventure operator offering luxury guided rafting experiences and premium riverfront amenities ensuring comfort and safety.
Top Activity
Rainforest Resort Kolad
LuxuryResortNatureRelaxation
An upscale riverside resort nestled in the greenery of Kolad’s Western Ghats, blending luxury accommodations with serene natural beauty.
Where to Eat
Top Restaurant
Rainforest Kolad Riverside Dining
Located within the Rainforest Resort Kolad, this upscale riverside dining offers a luxurious culinary experience designed to perfectly complement the day's adrenaline-packed rafting adventure and subsequent relaxation. It serves refined Maharashtrian and international dishes using fresh local ingredients, allowing luxury travelers and families to unwind in elegant natural surroundings without the need for travel, seamlessly fitting the evening schedule after rafting and resort check-in.
Located within the Rainforest Resort Kolad, this upscale riverside dining offers a luxurious culinary experience designed to perfectly complement the day's adrenaline-packed rafting adventure and subsequent relaxation. It serves refined Maharashtrian and international dishes using fresh local ingredients, allowing luxury travelers and families to unwind in elegant natural surroundings without the need for travel, seamlessly fitting the evening schedule after rafting and resort check-in.
2
Main activity for day 2

Heritage Forts and Scenic Hills

Step into the rich history and natural grandeur surrounding Kolad with a day dedicated to exploring majestic hill forts and panoramic landscapes. Relish a luxurious guided tour of Kondana Caves and Tikona Fort, soaking in mesmerizing views across the Sahyadri ranges, followed by a relaxing excursion through verdant trails. Evenings unfurl with decadent spa treatments amidst the greenery, creating a perfect balance of adventure and indulgence.

Your morning commences with a private chauffeur-driven drive to the ancient , where the artistry of 1st century BC Buddhist sculptors welcomes you into a realm of spiritual tranquility and historical depth. Wander through cool rock-carved chambers that reveal serene sculptures of Mahayana lineage, their delicate carvings illuminated by soft shafts of natural light filtering through cavern openings. This immersive experience connects you to India's rich cultural and religious tapestry while providing a refreshing escape into the quietude of the Western Ghats. Next, an expertly guided transfer whisks you to the iconic , whose triangular silhouette stands proudly against the horizon. Embark on a comfortable yet rewarding trek ascending the fort’s stone steps flanked by verdant flora. Once atop, the sweeping vista of misty Sahyadri peaks and dense forests unfolds like a living painting, perfect for capturing moments and soaking in the mountain's age-old stories. As afternoon unfurls, settle into , where tailored Ayurvedic therapies melt away fatigue while you luxuriate in elegant treatment rooms surrounded by pristine nature. The spa’s holistic approach revitalizes your senses while the tranquil setting ensures a deep connection to Kolad’s timeless landscapes, wrapping your day in absolute indulgence.

Where to Stay
Accommodation
Fariyas Resort Lonavala
Full starFull starFull starFull starHalf star
4.5
(Great)

Located in nearby Lonavala (about 45 km from Kolad), this luxury resort provides lush greenery, poolside relaxation, and spa services, suitable for travelers wanting upscale pampering after day-long excursions.

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Highlights of the day
Top Sight
Kondana Caves
HistoricArchaeologicalScenicCultural
Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves carved in the 1st century BC, showcasing intricate sculptures and peaceful cave sanctuaries perched in the Ghats’ foothills.
Top Sight
Tikona Fort
HistoricTrekkingScenic ViewpointPhotography
A triangular hill fort offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Sahyadri mountains and surrounding lush valleys, perfect for moderate trekking enthusiasts.
Top Activity
Natures Vagary Spa & Resort
LuxurySpaWellnessNature
A boutique spa and resort providing luxurious Ayurvedic treatments and serene relaxation spaces embraced by nature's greenery.
Where to Eat
Top Restaurant
Natures Vagary Spa & Resort Multi-Cuisine Restaurant
Situated at the Natures Vagary Spa & Resort where the group will unwind after exploring historic forts and caves, this restaurant offers a sophisticated multi-cuisine menu with authentic Maharashtrian and Indian specialties served in a serene natural setting. Its luxurious ambiance and wellness-focused approach align perfectly with the day's blend of cultural exploration and indulgent relaxation, providing an elegant yet family-friendly dining option close to the day's final activity.
Situated at the Natures Vagary Spa & Resort where the group will unwind after exploring historic forts and caves, this restaurant offers a sophisticated multi-cuisine menu with authentic Maharashtrian and Indian specialties served in a serene natural setting. Its luxurious ambiance and wellness-focused approach align perfectly with the day's blend of cultural exploration and indulgent relaxation, providing an elegant yet family-friendly dining option close to the day's final activity.
3
Main activity for day 3

Waterfalls and Culinary Elegance

Immerse yourself in Kolad’s verdant landscapes with a refreshing morning trek to the majestic Bhira Waterfall, a spectacular monsoon cascade setting the stage for picnics by its misty banks. Transition into a gourmet experience in the afternoon featuring Maharashtra’s regional cuisine elevated by fine dining flair. Conclude your journey by savoring sunset views alongside the Kundalika River, where tranquil waters and luxury combine to create a serene farewell to Kolad’s natural wonders.

Dawn breaks with a gentle drive to , where the monsoon-fed cascade plunges with dramatic force into lush pools below, filling the air with misty freshness and a gentle roar that celebrates nature’s vitality. As you walk along the well-maintained trekking path, the surrounding foliage bathes in monsoon vibrancy, with wildflowers and ferns glistening in the early light. Pause to take in the sheer scale and power of the falls, capturing photographs that will forever echo this discovery of Kolad’s watery jewels. Following this invigorating start, you transition from nature’s embrace to the refined world of Kolad Shreyas Resort, where a royal spread awaits you. Here, traditional Maharashtrian dishes are reimagined with contemporary culinary artistry — each plate a story of the region’s rich flavors balanced with intricate presentation. As you indulge in sumptuous meals crafted from the freshest local ingredients, the ambiance exudes warmth and elegance befitting a luxury escape. Your final evening unfolds along the tranquil , a serene space where subtle breezes caress your skin and the golden hues of sunset dance on river ripples. Revel in the peaceful tempo of the moment, savoring the connection between this lush landscape and your journey’s soulful end, a perfect culmination to your Kolad adventure.

Highlights of the day
Top Sight
Bhira Waterfall
NatureWaterfallPhotographyMonsoon Special
A splendid waterfall tumbling from the Western Ghats, most impressive during monsoon with a mist-filled atmosphere perfect for nature lovers and photography.
Top Activity
Kolad Shreyas Resort Dining
LuxuryDiningLocal CuisineRomantic
An upscale dining experience specializing in elevated Maharashtrian cuisine that artfully blends traditional flavors with contemporary presentation.
Top Sight
Kundalika Riverside Promenade
NatureRelaxationScenicEvening Walk
A peaceful riverfront area ideal for evening strolls, soaking sunset hues over the water, and enjoying the cool, fresh air of Kolad.
Where to Eat
Top Restaurant
Shreyas Kolad Dining Lounge
Located within the Kolad Shreyas Resort, this restaurant delivers an elevated Maharashtrian fine-dining experience that elegantly concludes the day’s nature immersion and waterfall trek. The contemporary presentation of local flavors complements the luxury travel style and offers a sophisticated, family-friendly atmosphere. Its proximity to Bhira Waterfall and the evening Kundalika Riverside Promenade makes it an ideal choice to fit seamlessly into the day's itinerary for a relaxed yet memorable gourmet meal.
Located within the Kolad Shreyas Resort, this restaurant delivers an elevated Maharashtrian fine-dining experience that elegantly concludes the day’s nature immersion and waterfall trek. The contemporary presentation of local flavors complements the luxury travel style and offers a sophisticated, family-friendly atmosphere. Its proximity to Bhira Waterfall and the evening Kundalika Riverside Promenade makes it an ideal choice to fit seamlessly into the day's itinerary for a relaxed yet memorable gourmet meal.
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