In the Ahmednagar district in Maharashtra lies a scenic village called “Bhandardara” which is located at a distance of about 185 km from Mumbai. This village is a popular tourist destination in Maharashtra and is known for its natural beauty, beautiful waterfalls, mountains, clean air etc. This village is situated alongside the Pravara River. According to folklore, it was at this village that ShriAgasti Rishi meditated for a year. This village also houses Maharashtra’s highest peak called Mount Kalsubai which is elevated at an altitude of 1646 above sea level. This hamlet is also a trekker’s paradise due to its landscape. So if you are a true nature lover as well as an avid trekker then Bhandardara is certainly a destination that you need to visit.
Read More: CHIKALDHARA TOURISM FESTIVALS: A FEW IMPORTANT FACTS
How to reach Bhandardara ?
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Bhandardara Map
By train:
This village does not have its own railway station and the nearest station is in Igatpuri located at a distance of 35 km. The Igatpuri railway station is well connected to all major cities and town. Taxis and bus services are available from the Igatpuri station to Bhandardara.
By road:
There are number of ST i.e. State Transport Buses operating from many villages and towns in Maharashtra to Bhandardara. Igatpuri and Mumbai are starting points connected in close proximity to Bhandardara.
a. How to reach Bhandardara from Mumbai : The shortest route to reach from Bhandardara to Mumbai is via MH SH 44 and NH160 as depicted in the map above. Alternatively, click on the Google Maps link here to view on Google Maps.
b. How to reach Bhandardara from Igatpuri : The fastest route from Igatpuri to Bhandardara is via MH SH44 and the route map is depicted above. Alternatively, click on the Google Maps link here to view on Google Maps.
By flight:
The nearest airport is the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai. This airport is well connected to all major cities and towns in the country. Taxi services are available from the Mumbai airport to Bhandardara.
Climate and best time to visit Bhandardara
The climate of this scenic village ranges from extremely hot summers to extremely pleasant and cool winters with, temperatures during the summer months from March to May reaching a maximum of 40 degrees. The rainfall received during the monsoon season which begins in June and extends to September is heavy with the climate in general during this period being pleasant although with high humidity. The winter months of November to February are extremely cool with the minimum temperature dropping to about 10 degrees. Since the overall climate is cool during the winter it is the ideal season to visit this village.
Places To Visit Around Bhandardara?
There are a number of tourist attractions in this village and they are
Wilson Dam: This Dam was built across the River Pravara in 1910. It is elevated at a height of 150m above sea level and is amongst the oldest dam in the country. This dam possesses a spectacular view and is a pure tourist delight.
Arthur Lake: This lake is surrounded by thick forests of the Sahyadri Hills. It is the surroundings of the lake that makes it such an enchanting spot for tourists.
Randha Falls: Is a beautiful waterfall that must be visited. A beautiful sight of the roaring Pravara River from a height of 170 ft into a gorge can be witnessed and is a real treat to the eyes.
Mount Kalsubai: Is considered to be the highest peak in Maharashtra. This peak with its height is very popular for trekking.
Ratnagad: Was a fort that was captured by the great Maratha Emperor Shivaji. Apart from the scenic view that this fort offers it is a perfect spot of avid trekkers.
Angling: This village is also famous for angling as a number of large fishes can be spotted over here.
Accommodation – Hotels, Resorts and Home Stays in and around Bhandardara :
Click on the link here to check out the places to stay near Bhandardara, Maharashtra on Google Maps.
Also Read: TOP 10 HILL STATIONS IN THE WESTERN GHATS