Entry Banned At Popular Maharashtra Trekking Spots Till August 10. Check Details
Entry Banned At Popular Maharashtra Trekking Spots Till August 10. Check Details
Pune, June 25, 2025: In view of slippery forest trails caused by heavy rains and the rising number of tourists, the Maharashtra Forest Department has imposed a temporary ban on entry to several popular trekking and monsoon travel destinations — Kalsubai, Ratangad, Alang, Madan, Kulang forts, and Sandhan Valley — until August 10.
The restriction has been implemented for tourist safety and ecological conservation. These spots, especially in Nashik district, attract thousands of visitors from Pune and Mumbai during the monsoon season. However, due to past incidents and overcrowding, officials have decided to curb access.
Additionally, the Forest Department has capped daily tourist entry to 500 visitors at other scenic locations and waterfalls in the Bhandardara Forest Range. Tourists arriving for overnight stays in sanctuary areas will not be allowed entry after 3 PM.
New Restrictions:
- No selfies or reels at dangerous spots in open forest areas.
- Prior permission required for photography in wildlife sanctuaries.
- Strict action will be taken against those arguing with forest staff or violating rules.
Conservation Alert:
Forest officials are also working to preserve the rare Sahyadri Croton (Croton gibsonianus) — a plant species recently rediscovered after 180 years, and found only in the Kalsubai-Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary. To protect this endangered plant, the sanctuary will remain closed to trekkers during this sensitive time.
According to the forest department, “To ensure visitor safety and to protect fragile biodiversity, especially the Sahyadri Croton, we are temporarily closing off certain areas. Tourism-related pressure could hamper our conservation efforts.”
Tourists planning monsoon treks are advised to check local guidelines and avoid restricted zones to ensure their own safety and support ecological preservation.
