To reach Bhandardara, detrain at Igatpuri. If you are traveling by road from Mumbai, you need to turn right just a few kilometers after Igatpuri and enter Ghoti. This small town leads to a long narrow road, which cuts across the lofty mountains and ascends to the marvelous retreat. Although it is just about an hour’s journey, the sights are spectacular. Fluorescent green paddy fields contrast with bright blue skies above and the murky brown streams that crisscross the whole land. When it rains, and clouds descend from the sky to blanket the earth, the sight is truly breathtaking!
Bhandardara has many attractions – from majestic Wilson Dam to wondrous Arthur Lake. As legend has it, Shri Agasti Rishi meditated here for a year, surviving only on water and air. Pleased with this display of devotion. God came down to Earth and blessed Shri Agasti Rishi with a stream of the Ganga river, which is now known as the Pravara River.
Bhandardara provides plenty of opportunity for small treks and hikes for adventure lovers. The most interesting and exciting trek is the small trek to Ratangad fort; to reach Ratangad fort one should take the boat over the small lake near the village Ratanwadi.
Ratanwadi is known for its scenic boat rides. Ratangad is an interesting fortress, situated at the edge of ghats with numerous water cisterns and caves. It also commands an excellent view all around and is said to be the favourite fort of the Maratha king Chatrapati Shivaji.
A popular resort is Anandvaan Resort, located 2800 feet above sea level. The resort boasts both hill and lake views, where visitors reside in private cabins ranging in size and location.
Other Attraction
Wilson Dam: Built in 1910 across River Pravara, Wilson Dam is situated at a height of 150 m above sea level. It’s one of the oldest dams in the country. The opening of sluice gates creates two 60 to 80 feet cascades of water that plummet to the rocks below. It’s a spectacular view. Tourists can amble in the circular garden located at the base of the dam.
Arthur Lake: The clear and placid lake is bounded by thick canopied forests of the Sahyadri hills. The Lake gets its water from the Pravara River. The Lake and its surroundings offer an enchanting spectacle.
Randha Falls: Randha Falls is the third largest falls in India. The roaring River Pravara descends down from a height of 170 ft into a beautiful gorge.
Ghatghar: Located 22 km from Bhandardara, Ghatghar is a popular viewpoint in the area. It offers a panoramic view of the Sahyadri ranges.
Mount kalsubai: from Bhandardara Tourist can see the highest peak of the sahyadri range, mount kalsubai. Kalsubai with its height and view is popular for trekking and so are the hills near kalsubai. The trek is physically demanding, as Bhandardara is located on a hill and to reach this place one has to do lots of trekking.
Ratnagad : Ratnagad fort was captured by chhatrapati Shivaji maharaj. The fort lies near the Maharashtra tourism resort and has ample of grounds to interest trekkers. The fort commands a good view of the surrounding areas.
How To reach
Air – nearest Airport Mumbai 177 km
Rail – Igatpuri on central railway is the nearest railhead
Bus – Mumbai Bhandardara 180km ;Pune Bhandardara 190 km
The monsoon season is a great time to visit Bhandardara.
ReplyDeleteThe whole place is green, there are small waterfalls every where and the weather is lovely.