Pune: The Katraj Ghat area is currently a spectacle of natural beauty, drawing residents and tourists from South Pune.

The landscape features lush green mountains, a tarred ghat road, a verdant carpet of grass, babbling brooks, an overflowing weir, a cascading waterfall, and the melodious chirping of birds.

This enchanting scenery is prompting many travelers to pause and appreciate the view, with some making special trips to Katraj Ghat to experience it.

The southern gateway of Pune is home to the Katraj mountain ranges and the Bhilarewadi forest department's 900-hectare expanse of rich forest.

The historic Katraj old tunnel, Ambil Dhag Matha, streams flowing down the hills, and the filled-to-capacity weirs of Gujar-Nimbalkarwadi and Bhilarewadi offer stunning views from the ghat. Additionally, a tall waterfall along the ghat road is a focal point for tourists.

Morning fog enhances this natural beauty, with the calls of peacocks adding to the atmosphere. The monkeys near the old Katraj tunnel also attract visitors.

During the monsoon season, locals favor the Katraj Ghat area for tourism, as monsoon travel is a popular activity. The Katraj Ghat and Bhilarewadi forest area also provide habitat for wildlife such as leopards. The forest department has advised visitors to be cautious due to the busy ghat road.

Despite the area's allure, forest department negligence has led to tourists parking their vehicles dangerously by the roadside. There is a pressing need for signboards and barricades at hazardous spots along the road.

Pratik Kadam, a local resident says, "Often, we seek distant destinations for tourism, but such delightful experiences can be found close by. The current scenes at Katraj Ghat are truly captivating."