India has a plethora of destinations to visit for experiencing peace, serenity, and calmness. One such destination is nestled in the Sahyadri ranges of Maharashtra and, i.e., Bhandardara. The destination is the purest blessing of nature for all of us if we need a break or planning a vacation. Bhandardara often called s Queen of Sahyadri, is the perfect destination for nature lovers. Bhandardara knows very well that how to serve its tourists. From the astounding lush greenery, mesmerizing landscape to sparkling waterfalls, Bhandardara has it all. The Denotation of Bhandardara is a valley of treasures, and the destination justifies it well!
The picturesque retreat in the Ahmednagar District possesses some beautiful and fascinating places to explore. Bhandardara never disappoints its tourists but showers them with many memorable moments and spellbinding scenes and sites. Bhandardara is a perfect destination for nature lovers, history lovers, and adventure lovers. It means that the destination leaves no room empty.
The small village of Bhandardara is that hidden gem of India surrounded by the mountains, enchanted by the gurgling waterfalls, and as far away from the hustle and bustle of the cities. All these qualities make the destination the perfect place to visit experience the heaven-like feeling on earth!
If you are looking for a perfect destination for your vacation or a weekend getaway around Mumbai, then trust me, Bhandardara can serve you with its best. Let’s know more about this treasure of valleys to make it easier for you to plan your next trip to Bhandardara.
HOW TO GET IN BHANDARDARA?
Planning of a vacation cannot begin until or unless we don’t know how to get there. Bhandardara is easily accessible by both road and rail from the different parts of Maharashtra. As it is a village in Ahmednagar district, that’s why it has no airport of its own.
The best way you can adapt to reach the hidden destination Bhandardara is either by bus, taxi, train, or vehicle. Bhandardara is 72 kilometers away from Nashik, 161 kilometers away from Pune, and 185 kilometers away from Mumbai. Suppose you prefer to train for the same. In that case, you will have to descend to the Igatpuri railway station, 35 kilometers away from Bhandardara. From the station, public transportation is available that will take you to your destination.
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PLACES TO VISIT IN BHANDARDARA
What is the meaning of vacation when you don’t involve yourself in sightseeing and performing the available activities? Bhandardara is the lovely destination that will make you lost in its essence and has so many visiting places that will fill you with overwhelming emotions and mental peace. Besides scenic views and attractions, the destination offers historical places and so many spiritual places too. Here is the list of some must-visit places in Bhandardara-
MOUNT KALSUBAI
Being in Bhandardara, you can’t miss Mount Kalsubai at all. The ‘Everest of Maharashtra,’ Mount Kalsubai is the highest peak of Maharashtra. The mountain stands at the height of 1646 meters and offers breathtaking and spellbinding views. The mountain serves as the perfect place for trekking. Many adventure groups organize their trek here. But keep in mind that it is not easy to go trekking here, so if it’s your first time, you might want to skip this.
UMBRELLA FALLS
Umbrella falls one of the must-visit places in Bhandardara. If you miss this, you will surely regret it. This spectacular waterfall was flowing over the rocks placed naturally, giving the perfect impression of the umbrella. Umbrella forest offers perfect panoramic views and rejuvenates the mind and soul of its visitors. In monsoon, the view of the falls will leave you numb. The astounding beauty and peace will make you stuck to the falls. Don’t forget to carry your cameras with you, you can thank me later for this!
ARTHUR LAKE
One of the most popular visiting places in Bhandardara is Arthur Lake that attracts so many tourists. The lake offers mesmerizing views and is surrounded by the majestic Sahyadri ranges. The lake gets its water from the Pravara River and offers the best tranquil environment. The place is ideal for picnics, camping, and photography. You can also witness the variety of exotic birds that flock on the sides of the lake. Also, the place is ideal for strolling in the mornings and boating in the evenings. The lake will take you to the world of your imagination for sure!
AMRUTWSHWAR TEMPLE
Amruteshwar temple in Bhandardara is one of the best places to visit. The temple was beautifully built with a black stone about 1000 years ago. The temple is the home to various sculptures of God and a pond. The temple is dedicated to the Lord Shiva Lingam. The tranquillity and positive vibes of the places purify the mind and the soul from within. The main sanctum of the temple gets filled with water during the monsoons. The architecture of the temple is wow! And is worth capturing.
HARISHCHANDRAGAD FORT
How can one miss the chance to witness the pride of Maratha rulers through Harishchandragad fort while being in Bhandardara? The fort, situated in Malshej Ghats, serves the best for adventure and history lovers. The place offers a trekking trail to the fort standing at an altitude of 4665 feet. It seems like the clouds are crossing the path while hiking to the fort. The presence of several temples on the route makes the route even more exciting.
WILSON DAM
The trip to Bhandardara remains incomplete without a visit to Wilson dam/ It is a huge water reserve built in 1910 and is surrounded by majestic mountain ranges. The dam is the largest earthen dam in India and attracts so many tourists every day. There is a garden at the dam base, which offers a pleasing atmosphere and a stunning view of the architectural marvel. The dam makes Bhandardara the green paradise by its water steams.
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RATANWADI VILLAGE
Village connects us to our roots. And while being on a vacation or trip to Bhandardara, you can get the serenity and simplicity of the village too. Ratanwadi village, one of the best tourist places in Bhandardara, takes its tourists to their roots. The village can be visited by boat in Arthur Lake. The village is ideal for trekking and camping. Also, the village offers the best hospitality and homely experience to its tourist.
So, are you excited enough to plan your next trip to Bhandardara? If yes! Then don’t forget to spread your experience with us.