The western region of Pune city is home to the talukas of Bhor, Mulshi, Velha, and Maval, nestled amidst the rugged terrain of the Sahyadri mountain range. These talukas are not only known for their historical significance from the era of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj but are also regarded as areas abundantly blessed by nature. Among them, Mulshi stands out as the closest to Pune city and is often referred to as the “Kashmir of Pune district” due to its breathtaking natural beauty.

Mulshi’s scenic landscape captivates urban dwellers from across the globe, making it a favored tourist destination. Towering mountains covered in lush green forests throughout the year, massive reservoirs like Temghar, Varasgaon, and Mulshi that supply water to Pune city and the eastern parts of the district, and pollution-free, ever-flowing rivers like Mula and Mutha enhance the region’s charm. Additionally, historic forts like Tung and Tikona, standing on the Maval-Mulshi border, provide a glimpse into Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy, further attracting history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Mulshi is also renowned for its agricultural produce, supplying premium rice varieties such as Indrayani and Ambemohar, along with high-quality mangoes like Hapus (Alphonso) and Raywal to cities like Mumbai and Pune. Traveling along the Pune-Mahad highway, one encounters the ever-changing beauty of the Tamhini Ghat region—soaring cliffs on one side and deep valleys on the other.

During the monsoon, the region experiences heavy rainfall comparable to the Konkan, while in winter, the mountains are draped in thick fog. Even in peak summer, the vast water body of the Mulshi Dam provides a cooling effect. The picturesque Palase waterfall in this region sees a surge of visitors during the rainy season. Summer offers the delight of wild berries like karvanda, jamun, and wild apples.

Apart from large-scale residential projects, Mulshi is home to spiritual centers like Chinmay Vibhooti and Hadshi, agritourism initiatives, and the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation’s (MTDC) water tourism project at Malhar Machi. Traveling to the westernmost part of the taluka offers an elevated viewpoint, from where the Konkan region, shrouded in mist during the monsoon and winter, becomes clearly visible in summer.

To accommodate the growing number of tourists, several renowned business groups have established international-standard hotels in the region. Many city dwellers seeking a break from their hectic schedules visit Mulshi, especially on weekends, making it a popular getaway.

A Second Home for City Dwellers

The stress of city life, pollution, and traffic congestion have led many to seek weekend retreats. As a result, people are increasingly opting for rental homes or purchasing properties in Mulshi to escape urban chaos. This has spurred the development of several high-end residential projects by national and international real estate firms. Additionally, those desiring a closer connection with nature are purchasing farmland and building farmhouses based on their financial capacity. Consequently, land prices in the region have skyrocketed.

The 1980s saw the establishment of an international IT park in this taluka, followed by the rise of the MIDC (Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation) in the Pirangut area, leading to a concentrated population in these regions. Large-scale land acquisitions in these areas have resulted in extensive construction, replacing once-thriving green hills with concrete jungles.

Despite urbanization, the government has recognized the need for environmental conservation. To protect Mulshi’s natural beauty, biodiversity, and ecological balance, the government has designated thousands of hectares of the Tamhini region as a Green Zone to ensure its preservation for future generations.