Bhandardara: A valley of treasures

Bhandardara:  a valley of treasures. Bhandardara posses the highest mountain peak in Maharashtra, to one of the largest lakes and oldest dams in the country, completing its journey as the mother of all monsoon destinations with its cascading waterfalls, this locale has it all. surrounded by the Sahyadri Hills, Bhandardara has all the makings of a beautiful holiday resort.  Sky-high mountains, roaring waterfalls and lush greenery throughout the year, attract tourists from all over.

To reach Bhandardara, get down  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.

Like all scenic spots, the magic of Bhandardara has to experience to be appreciated; if you are nature lover, this spot should definitely appear on the top of your holiday destination list.

PLACE TO VISIT
Wilson Dam
Build on Pravara-River and standing 150 mts high, Wilson Dam is the largest earthen dam in India- a powerful testimony to the engineering skills of days gone by. During the monsoon, when the level of the lake rises, the dam opens its gates to release a torrent of water that finds its way down to the plains below. You could stand at the edge of the garden embankment and enjoy the cool spray, or visit the picturesque Umbrella Falls, which are another major attraction during the monsoon.



Arthur Lake
Arthur Lake is fed by waters from the Pravara River.

Mount Kalsubai

At 1,646 mts, Mount Kalsubai is the highest peak in Maharashtra A favourite of trekkers; it had great strategic importance during the Maratha wars as an observation post. There is a small temple all the top with an old well in its backyard. It is said that the water level in the well has never dropped below 3ft.



Agasti Rishi Ashram
This age-old dwelling is mentioned in the scripts of the Ramayana. It is believed that Lord Rama and his brother Laxmana visited Shri Agasti Rishi to seek his blessings. The Rishi gave Lord Rama an arrow, which he used to kill Ravana and rescue his wife Sita. The Ashram, situated on the bank of the Pravara River, continues to attract visitors

Ratangad Fort
This ancient fort was one of Shivaji’s favourites. Very popular with nature lovers and trekkers, it offers spectacular views from its ramparts

Amriteshwar
Built in 1100 AD, this temple has been constructed in the distinct Hemadpanthi style.

HOW TO REACH
Bhandardara is 165 kms. from Mumbai on the way to Shirdi. To get there by road, take the Mumbai Nashik Highway (NH3). Turn right at Ghoti (past Igapturi), cross the railway tracks & take a right at Pimpalgaon and further take the right fork to Bari village.

ByRail: From Igatpuri - 45 Kms
By Road:
From Mumbai - 165 Kms
From Pune - 190 Kms
From Nashik - 60 kms



Climate: Cool and Pleasant
Sea Level: 2800 feet above sea level
Peak Height: 1646 meters
Average Rainfall: 155 inches