At times, it seems that a landscape with a roaring waterfall, gushing waters from a dam, towering hills in the background and greenery all around can only belong to the movies or the imagination of a writer. Not really! All this comes true at Bhandardara where green paddy fields create a colourful symphony with the bright blue skies and the waterfall provides a musical rhythm while you soak in the beauty of nature at its best.
At 185 kilometers from Mumbai and about the same distance from Pune too, Bhandardara is located to the north of Ahmednagar district in Akole tehsil and is considered a trekker’s paradise. While coming from Mumbai take a turn at Ghoti after Igatpuri and the road will lead you to Bhandardara via Bari, the village at the foothills of Mount Kalsubai. From Pune there is a diversion at Sangamner which will take you to Bhandardara via Akole. The nearest rail head is Igatpuri.
It is also a favourite with families who want to take a short break from the pressures of urban living. Bhandardara is also a hot-spot for the religiously inclined who visit the Amruteshwar Temple which is an ancient Shiva Temple. The temple also offers an interesting study of its unique architecture.
Distance from Mumbai: 165 kms.
How to reach
Rail
The nearest railway station is Igatpuri.
Road
Bhandardara is 185 km. from Mumbai and almost the same distance from Pune. While coming from Mumbai take a turn at Ghoti after Igatpuri
What is included in the tour
- To & Fro Transportation by Personal Car
- 2 Night Hotel stay
- Meal as per Hotel Plan
- Sightseeing by Personal car
What is NOT included in the tour
Hill Station Entry Tax (Rs.XX /- Per Person)
Breakfast of Check in or check out day ( As per Hotel )
Transfer from hotel to bus stand or Bus Stand to Hotel
Any other which is not included in Package Inclusions
Day 01 : Mumbai/Pune Bhandardara
Departure from Mumbai / Pune to Bhandardara on arrival check into Hotel / Resort day is free to explore city on your own o/n halt.
Day 02 : Bhandardara
After B/F proceed to sightseeing. overnight stay at Hotel.
Day 03 : Bhandardara-Pune/Mumbai
After B/F return back to Mumbai / Pune on arrival drop at residence / Airport /
Railway Station with memorable experiences.
Importanat Points :
Wilson Dam
Built in 1910 on the Pravara-River and standing 150 mts high, Wilson Dam is the largestearthen dam in India . At the base of Wilson Dam there is a garden endowed with thick greenery, streams and gigantic trees- the latter, home to hundreds of harmless fruit batsthat hand precariously from the branches all through the day. During the monsoon, whenthe level of the lake rises, the dam opens its gates to release a torrent of water that findsits way down to the plains below. You could stand at the edge of the garden embankmentandenjoy the cool spray, or visit the picturesqueUmbrella Falls , which are another majorattraction during the monsoon.
Arthur Lake
The lake is fed by Pravara River and is around 10 Km from the town. Boating in deep and clear water of the wondrous lake with sights of clouds covered mountains on the background is truly breathtaking. Local people ply row boat for the tourists and per rideper person they charge Rs.20/-
Mount Kalsubai
At 1,646 mts, Mount Kalsubai is the highest peak in Maharashtra A favorite of trekkers; ithad great strategic importance during the Maratha wars as an observation post. There is asmall temple at the top with an old well in its backyard. It is said that the water level in the well has never dropped below 3ft.The peak can be seen on the way from Ghoti to Bandardara, full of fog and clouds it’s a delight to watch it and lose yourself in its beauty.
Ratangarh Fort
This ancient fort was captured by Shivaji and is believed to be one of his favorite. It’s verypopular among trekkers and nature lovers and offers breath taking views from thetop.The trek starts from a small and ancient temple, Ratanvadi. According to local legend, thewater in the temple never falls below 3 ft and the Shivlinga is always covered with waterthroughout the year. It’s also believed to be source of a river.Hire a guide from the temple (Rs. 200). Guide is the only person who knows the way tothe top. Without him you will be a rudderless ship. More than 5 streams have to be crossed on the way to the top. Take something to eat preferably candies to give instant energy and water is a must unless you are comfortable drinking stream water. The wholetrekk takes around 5-6 hrs and its worth going for it. It’s a once in a life time experienceand you will get refreshed on reaching the top. There is small temple in a cave just beforethe most difficult terrain begins.The top of the mountain offers breathtaking view of the whole valley.
Tour Ends
Note : Mentioned Prices are just Indicative. Prices may vary as per Travel Date and Hotel availability.
