It started like any regular Friday evening. We were out shopping—just me and my friends—thinking of what to do over the weekend when one of us randomly said, “Let’s go to Kundmala Waterfall tomorrow.” You know the one—two weeks ago, the bridge near it had collapsed. But we read somewhere that it was open again, and honestly, we were in the mood for an adventure.
So, the plan was set.
The Scenic Drive that Led to a Roadblock
The next morning, we packed up, grabbed a speaker, filled up fuel, and set off.
The drive was magical. Monsoon in Pune does something to the mountains—you see mist, fog, and rolling green hills as far as your eyes go. Add to that a long road, rain tapping on the windshield, and your favorite playlist. It felt like something out of a movie.
But when we finally reached the Kundmala spot, we were hit with a bit of reality.
It was closed.
Yep, just like that. Some local folks standing nearby told us it’s still restricted for tourists due to safety reasons. We were disappointed—but not ready to go back home.
Half the day was still left, and we wanted to make the most of it.
Change of Plans
We considered Bird Valley next—but with rains picking up, we thought, “Let’s keep this for a sunnier day.”
That’s when one of our friends casually mentioned, “Let’s go to Lonavala Mapro Garden instead?”
It wasn’t planned. But oh boy—what a decision.

Mapro Garden, Lonavala: A Hidden Gem on a Rainy Day

The drive to Lonavala from Pune during monsoon feels like you’re entering heaven.
Green all around, clouds rolling over the ghats, wind in your hair, friends laughing—it’s hard to explain how perfect it all felt.
Somewhere in the middle, we stopped for tea and vada pav—because nothing beats that combo in the rain. 45 minutes later, we reached Mapro Garden.
And guess what welcomed us?
Heavy, dreamy rain.
Umbrellas out, jackets zipped, and excitement full on—we entered.

How Was the Journey?

Well, if you’re lucky enough to live in Pune and find yourself stretching your neck out on a Friday evening, wondering where to head this weekend—Lonavala should definitely be on your list. Let me tell you why…
As soon as we hit the highway, everything changed.

The air felt cleaner, the mountains started playing hide and seek behind the clouds, and the greenery along the roadside literally begs you to pull over and just breathe it all in. There’s something about monsoon drives that makes you forget all your to-dos and timelines.
The roads twist gently through the hills, and every few minutes, you’ll come across aesthetic cafés and dhabas tucked in the greenery, offering panoramic views of valleys dressed in fog. They don’t just serve food—they serve you vibes.
We played music, rolled the windows down, felt the rain mist on our hands, and laughed for no reason.
The kind of journey where the drive becomes the destination.
That’s what makes Lonavala special.
It doesn’t wait to impress you when you arrive—it starts winning you over the moment you leave the city behind.

Things we did at Lonavala Mapro Garden

When we say Mapro Garden, don’t just think of sipping shakes and buying jams. It’s an entire experience! Here are all the activities that made us love every rain-drenched moment:

1. Game Stalls & Fun Challenges

Right at the entrance, you’ll find carnival-style game booths—win a soft toy if your aim hits! We couldn’t resist taking a shot, and let me tell you: walking away without anything? Not an option. Whether you win or lose, it’s a blast.

2. M Café Delights

We headed straight to M Café, where flavors took over. Strawberry shakes, cheesy grilled sandwiches, crisp French fries, and thin-crust pizza—yes, we probably over-ordered, but every bit was devoured. Sitting there, windows fogging up, rain pouring outside… that cozy vibe? Unforgettable.

3. Insta-Worthy Moments

The garden itself looks like a picture-perfect postcard. With a quaint pond, vibrant strawberry-themed props, a waterfall feature, and lush Sahyadri mountains in the background, this place begs for a mini photoshoot. We clicked photo after photo—seriously, hundreds.

4. Explore & Shop at the Factory Outlet

A walk through the Mapro outlet is like entering a flavor festival: jams, syrups, chocolates, crush bottles—you name it. Free samplings are a treat, too. We ended up buying chocolates and syrups for the road. That little factory-tour vibe? Super fun.

5. Kid‑Style Activities

If you’re with friends or family, there’s more than food and photos. Think mini trampolines, kids’ play area, and even cultural stall setups—tattoo booths, mehndi, and occasional folk music or dance performances during festivals. We joined in for faster fun and ended up laughing like kids ourselves.

6. Strawberry Sampling & Tasting

There’s often fresh strawberry tasting, sometimes even festival events. While we visited during the monsoon, the tasting counter was still tempting. The famous strawberry-and-cream dessert is Chef’s Kiss—a must-try.

7. Guided Short Tour (DIY Style)

Though not a formal factory tour, walking through the gardens, watching jams being packed, and stopping at informational signboards—you get a nice behind-the-scenes feel. The lush plantation sprawls and informal guides highlight how local strawberries are nurtured.

8. Picnic-style Seating & People Watching

Scattered café tables—some under the canopy, others open-air—are perfect for chilling. We parked ourselves with shakes, and watched families, couples, and lone travelers soak in the atmosphere. Rain pattering on leaves, friends laughing—pure monsoon joy.

Why It Stole Our Hearts

• All-round fun: Games, food, shopping, photography, culture—all in one spot.
• Family + Friends: Perfect for everyone—kids, couples, squads.
• Monsoon magic: The rains amplified the atmosphere—greener, mistier, happier.
• Easy & breezy: No major trekking or planning—just drive, arrive, and dive into fun.

Like we said—things we did (but in a way you should too):

• Tried our luck at entrance arcade stalls
• Got cozy at M Café with shakes, pizza, fries
• Clicked endless photos with scenic backdrops
• Explored and shopped at Mapro’s jam & chocolate factory outlet
• Enjoyed kid-like activities—trampolines, craft stalls, mehndi & folk beats
• Savoured strawberry-and-cream & other treats
• Relaxed at open garden seating with rain all around

Final Thoughts

If you’re in Pune and looking for places to visit on weekend looks dull or rainy, don’t overthink.
Just drive to Mapro Garden in Lonavala.
You don’t always need a perfect plan—sometimes, the best memories come from unexpected turns.
And this?
This was that kind of day.
Quick Tips for Your Visit to Mapro Garden, Lonavala:

Location: Just before Lonavala main town on the old Mumbai-Pune Highway.
Best Time to Visit: Monsoon (June–September) for that dreamy, misty vibe.
Entry Fee: None.
What to Try: Strawberry shake, pizza, fries, chocolate syrups, and crushes.
What to Carry: Umbrella, jacket, and a fully charged phone—you’ll want pictures!
If you’ve ever visited Mapro Garden or plan to soon, let me know in the comments what you loved the most—or if you discovered a spot we should check out next!