Khandala, Lonavala, Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani

I am exploring various tourist places in Maharastra. I have shortlisted few (Khandala, Lonavala, Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani) to begin with..

I have read various threads in this Forum about whether this is the right time to visit these places or wait till monsoon gets over...

I have shifted to Maharastra recently and would like to seek advice from experienced friends here.. Typically how long the monsoon lasts in Maharastra? Does it rain even in September?

Also If I intend to cover good tourist spots in Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani how much minimum time I should plan for? Whether I should plan for Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani over a normal weekend? I can start early from Pune on Sat and can plan returning back late Sunday evening. Will it be too hectic during normal weekend?

Right time is the Season which you like, If you like Green, Come in Monsoons..
Of course, it will be a Off-season, and thus a chance to witness the Isolation!

Rains last till September mid, and can extend till Sept end.
I would suggest 3 days for Mahabaleshwar and panchgani..
Khandala and Lonavala are one day excursion from Pune and Mumbai.

For details on Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani, This thread might just help you;
Travel Guide: Mahabaleshwar- Jewel in Sahyadri's Crown!!

Thanks. I like enjoying scenic beauty.. So would be fine with any time when the place is beautiful... However my only doubt is if it rains during the day will we be able to roam around and visit any tourist attractions? Also will the roads be in good condition or will they be muddy?

Roads are well developed, so no muddy roads..
Rains shut off all the Points, due to Reduced visibility, only point accessible would be Mahabaleshwar market, Old Mahabaleshwar and the Venna lake..
Closed points doesn't mean they will be Fenced or walled, simply means that Locals would advise you to NOT to go..

However, Lonavala and khandala actually come ALIVE during Monsoons..
It is perfect gateway for Monsoons..

Ok Thanks. Which places are worth visitng at Lonavala and Khandala? And how much time I should plan for these places respectively? I can tailor my plan (in case its better to start early and stay till late evening) accordingly. Is there any other good place near Lonavala and Khandala which can be clubbed along with them over a weekend?

Also which places are good at Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani? If I plan for a long weekend (2 Night / 3 days) then how much time I should plan for these places? I would also be interested in adventurous activites (Like Parasailing) if they are available? Do we have other options as well?

See if u want to cover whole of Lonavala and Khandala, Which also include Caves and Forts, 3 dayz would be ideal..
You can have a search of Points in Lonavala..

I have mentioned the Points in my travel guide.
Paragliding wouldn't be possible in Rainy season, try in Winter or summers..
One full day is enough for Sightseeing in Mahabaleshwar, but i'll sugest one more day, so you can relax a bit, and also cover Pratapgad.
Then Another half day for Panchgani..

How about visiting Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani in mid october? I guess there would be less chance of rain by then?

Also any suggestions about good Restaurants in both Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani?

mahabaleshwar and panchgani would be wonderful in october. No rains and lot of green. Best view of vally. There are many good hotels in M'SHWR. starting from budget to upmarket. MTDC can be checked. Try staying in M'SHWAR insted of Panchgani.

During the tour you can vist Pratapgad fort.

gautam,
try sherwood resorts in M'shwr. My favourit. Bit costly but value for money.
check this on http://www.sherwoodresorts.in/default.htm

Thanks mmlele. Yeah the resort looks nice.

Have you visited Tapola Lake ? How is the feedback?

And how is Pratapgarh? I understand that this is around 40-45 km from Mahabaleshwar. I don't mind spending extra time provided the place is worth visit.

Is Paragliding possible in Oct? Which is the best option (Reasonable and Reliable Agencies) to enjoy Paragliding? Also could you please suggest some other activities worth trying?

In October paragliding should be possible. If you are going to Mahabaleshwar from Wai then you will see people paragliding on the way. Around 2 years ago the rate was around Rs 1500/- for one session.

gautam,

while travelling from Pune by Road you can reach M'shwr in 2 comfortable hours. On the way after you left NH4 you will find a small and beautiful town Wai. Look for some temples and Ghats around the river. One could be Dholya Ganpati. Ask for a facotry of clay toys and idoals in bazar. you will get beautiful clay toys and idoals. pasarni Ghat will take you to Panchgani. visit table top and a small cave restaurant. Paragliding option in available in panchgani. i am not sure about October. There are 2-3 other points in panchgani. Thereafter you can proceed to M'shwar. On the way you should not miss the Mapro Garden. Aprat from jam, syrups, strawberry big grill Sandwhich and strawberry with cream is must. Then can reach to M'baleshwar. Evening you can walk around and vist some points. Next early Morning start for Pratapgad. You will be able to retun by lunch.
you can visit tapola if you are interested in some boating etc. Otherwise just ok. However beautiful view of Madhu MakarandGad (connect to my name Makarand) can be seen here.
3 days and 2 nights would be more than enough to cover this.

Yes, it is the Perfect time to Visit.
Restaurants are in Plenty around, No worries about it.

Tapola lake is Nothing Exceptional, You'll Be dis-hearted..
If you have Ample of time, then only go for it.
Tapola is on Mahabaleshwar Satara Road, En-route, is KAAS PLATEAU, also called as VALLEY OF FLOWERS of Maharashtra. iDeal for Shutter Bugs!

Pratapgad is a Beautiful place in Monsoons,
If ur a History buff, (A little Bit, will also do) then It is a MUST GO..
Also, hire a Guide, without which, the HISTORICAL Feel would go Missing.
PS: You will be DROWNED in History and Eye balls are Sure!

Paragliding will depend on Rains.

vic,

Is the "Kas" on the on the way to Tapola From M'shwar? i am not sure. In my view Kas is on the way from Satara to Bamnoli - Vasota.

please clarify.