The short answer
Devkund Waterfall, Bhira: what visitors should know first
Go only after the monsoon, with a local guide and sturdy shoes, and check official closure notices first. The trek is moderate, the monsoon stretch has been closed since accidents, and it is not suitable for elderly or unsteady walkers.
History and context
The story behind Devkund Waterfall, Bhira
Wikipedia describes Devkund as a plunge waterfall near Bhira in Roha, Raigad district, at the confluence of three falls and said to be the origin of the Kundalika River.
After accidents, the site was closed to tourists in 2017, access was prohibited from 12 July to 12 September in 2018, and the falls were closed from June to 30 September in 2025 for public safety. The article also notes that Section 144 restrictions were imposed after two trekkers died.
Useful facts
Devkund Waterfall, Bhira facts at a glance
- Location
- Near Bhira, Roha taluka, Raigad district
- Experience type
- Guided forest trek to a plunge waterfall
- Known for
- Three-fall confluence; said to be the source of the Kundalika
- Time or schedule
- Locals say September to mid-November is best
- Access note
- Monsoon closures in force in recent years
Why it matters
Why Devkund Waterfall, Bhira is worth your time
Devkund is one of the most photographed waterfalls in the Kundalika valley and is said to be the source of the river that gives Kolad its rafting. The three-stream confluence, forest approach and pool make it a popular excursion for Mumbai and Pune walkers.
It also shows what the monsoon does to this part of the Sahyadris. The same volume that makes the falls impressive makes the approach dangerous, and Wikipedia records closures after accidents and a public-safety ban on monsoon visits. A visit here is as much about respecting those limits as seeing the water.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The three-stream confluence
Three falls meet above one pool; after the monsoon the water volume is high but the stream crossings are more manageable.
- 02
Dam backwater walk
The first stretch of the route runs along reservoir backwater, with forest on the other side. It is the easiest part of the trek.
- 03
Close to the river's source
Standing here gives a sense of where the Kundalika begins, even though the stretch downstream is shaped heavily by dams.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Treat Devkund as a seasonal trek rather than a casual stop. The base is near Bhira, about 35 to 40 km from Kolad, and the approach follows the dam backwater and forest paths before dropping to a pool beneath a three-fall cascade. Sources quote the trek at roughly 1.5 to 3 hours each way depending on the starting point, so ask the local guide how long it will actually take from where you park.
Go after the water has settled. Locals consider September to mid-November the best window, and official orders have barred monsoon visits in recent years. Streams that are trickles in winter become dangerous crossings during heavy rain, and dense forest means you should not attempt the route without a guide. Carry water, wear shoes with grip, avoid cotton-heavy clothes and start early so you are back before dusk.
Because the route is restrictive, plan Devkund as the main event of a day, then add Tamhini Ghat views on the return rather than squeezing in several stops.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Check closure orders locally before you leave
- Hire a local guide; the forest is dense
- Wear grip shoes and carry water
- Start early and leave the pool well before dusk
- Do not attempt it in heavy rain
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Near Bhira, Roha taluka, about 35-40 km from Kolad by road
- Time needed
- Most of a day including the drive and trek
- Best time
- September (after closure ends) to mid-November, when flow is strong but safer; confirm current rules
- Walking level
- Demanding
- Senior comfort
- Not suited to older or unsteady visitors. The route is long, crosses streams, passes through forest and needs a guide; sources describe it as dangerous in heavy monsoon. Seniors can enjoy Tamhini Ghat viewpoints from the road instead.
- Tickets and access
- Authorities have restricted access after accidents: Wikipedia records closure to the public in 2017, a ban from 12 July to 12 September in 2018, and a monsoon closure from June to 30 September in 2025. Check current orders locally and hire a guide.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Devkund Waterfall, Bhira
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Prices are live on the partner site.
Travelling with parents?
Not suited to older or unsteady visitors. The route is long, crosses streams, passes through forest and needs a guide; sources describe it as dangerous in heavy monsoon. Seniors can enjoy Tamhini Ghat viewpoints from the road instead.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Is Devkund open in the monsoon?
Often not. Wikipedia records a monsoon closure from June to 30 September in 2025 and earlier bans, so check current orders before planning a rainy-season visit.
How long is the trek?
Sources give roughly 1.5 to 3 hours each way depending on the starting point. Ask your guide to confirm the plan on the day.
Can elderly visitors go?
The route is demanding and crosses streams, so it is better suited to fit walkers. Older family members can enjoy Tamhini Ghat views instead.
Sources and further reading
- Wikipedia: Devkund Waterfall
- Wikipedia: Kundalika River
- Outlook Traveller: two-day monsoon guide to Kolad
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
