Planning to visit Maharashtra’s Malshej Ghat? Enjoy views from the transparent skywalk soon

It is expected to boost tourism, which is a popular travel destination in the monsoon and winters

The scenic Malshej Ghat will soon get another feather in its cap. The Thane district collector has proposed that a transparent skywalk and a viewing gallery on par with international standards be constructed there.

Situated in the western ghats, Malshej Ghat is a series of lush green mountains, from which waterfalls flow during the monsoon. (HT File Photo)

This is expected to boost tourism at the ghat, which is a popular travel destination in the monsoon and winters.

Situated in the western ghats, Malshej Ghat is a series of lush green mountains, from which waterfalls flow during the monsoon. People throng the site to study its unique flora and fauna. It is also a popular birdwatching destination, where one can spot many rare species.

“Through its regional tourism schemes, the district administration has developed viewing points and parking at several places in the Ghat. However, with the increase in number of tourists these facilities are now inadequate. Thane guardian minister Eknath Shinde had asked collector Mahendra Kalyankar to construct a skywalk here,” said Aniruddha Ashtaputre, district information officer.

Kalyankar ascertained how feasible the plan was. The skywalk and gallery will collectively cost Rs5 crore.

“The collector has proposed that along with the skywalk and viewing gallery, lawns should also be developed along the Ghat to boost its aesthetic appeal. The viewing gallery will be the first of its kind in the country. We believe it will give a major boost to tourism,” he added.

Kalyankar has sent his proposal to the state’s tourism and cultural department. It will be implemented following the department’s approval.

Many waterfalls, breathtaking views

Malshej Ghat is 90km from Thane, along the Kalyan-Murbad Nagar road. It is a popular picnic spot during the monsoon, frequented by trekkers and adventurers. Most families visit the spot to enjoy its many waterfalls and breathtaking views of the lush green valley. A few reverse water falls can also be witnessed when there are strong winds and heavy rains.