Bhandardara Dam: Famus Tourist Attraction In Maharashtra

Bhandardara Dam

About:

Built in 1926, Bhandardara Dam, noted for its vantage points for nature watching, lies across the Arthur Lake in Ahmednagar District. It is one of the oldest dams in Asia, situated at a height of 750 m from mean sea level. The dam is also known for its Umbrella Falls which provides an awe-inspiring sight to visitors. About 11 km from the dam is another waterfall known as the Randha Falls.

Bhandardara is accessible from Nasik which is at a distance of about 70 km from here. The nearest airport is at Mumbai and the nearest railhead is Igatpuri on Central Railway (45 km).

Location info:

Address:70 km from Nasik

District: Ahmednagar

Nearest City: Nasik

Best time to visit: Any Time

Climate/Weather:

Since it is in the interior regions of Maharashtra, the place experiences extreme climatic changes. The summers are very hot and the winters quite cold.

History:

Interesting things to do:

Interesting things to Visit:

Wilson Dam is a lovely site for picnicking. Built in 1910 on the Pravara river, the dam is almost 150 meters above the sea level and attracts crowds from all over the country. The cool placid waters of the river run by the miles.

The umbrella falls are also in the vicinity, Unfortunately, these picturesque falls are enjoyed only during the monsoons when the water level in the lake is considerably high.

Streamlets from the lake cascade down 45 meters as the Randha Falls - an ideal place to relax and enjoy nature. Besides being a scenic spot, these falls are also used for hydro power generation.

Mount Kalsubai
Overlooking Bhandardara, you can see Mt. Kalsubai, the highest peak (1,646 meters) in the Sahyadri range. During the Maratha rule, this peak point served as the watchtower. It is an ideal place for those who enjoy trekking, as are the surrounding hills. There is a small temple at the top, with an old well in its backyard. Legend has it that the level of the well water never drops below 3 feet.

Agasti Rishi Ashram
Situated on the bank of the Pravara River, this legendary dwelling finds a place in the scripts of the Ramayan. It is said that Lord Ram, Laxman and Sita visited Agasti Rishi. The Rishi had then given Lord Rama a miraculous arrow which was used to kill the devil, Ravana, in order to rescue Sita.

The ashram, although under renovation, manages to attract crowds from all over.

Ratangadh
The fort lies only a few kilometers away from the MTDC resort. It was captured by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and was only of his favorites. The fort is a breathtaking view and provides ample grounds for trekkers.

Amriteshwar
This temple dates back to 1100 AD. Built in a distinct Hemadpanti style, the intricately carved temple still stands proud. Other places worth visiting are Konkan Kada (another trekker's delight), a small garden and a swimming tank.

Mobile range info:

How to reach?

Nearest Railway Station: railhead is Igatpuri on Central Railway (45 km).

Nearest Airport:Mumbai International Airport

Road Transport:Bhandardara is accessible from Nasik which is at a distance of about 70 km from here.

Nearest Visiting places:

Bhandardara Lake - Bhandardara Lake is also known as Lake Aurthur Hill. It is formed by the dammed up waters of the Pravara river. It is a major tourist attraction. It is located amidst the dense green forest. Shri Agasti Rishi meditated continuously for a year at this place so it has a religious importance too. The lake was built in 1910. The lake is a reservoir for Wilson dam and is 34 km long.

Nearest Petrol Pump:

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:

The MTDC holiday resort at Bhandardara is in a prime location. The rooms have spectacular views of the Wilson Dam at one end, and of 22 Kms. of backwater (the Arthur Lake) at the other.

Things to carry:

Tips & Suggestions:

Help Line/Phone Number:

Police Station:100

Nearest Hospital:At the nearest City.

Society/Community Phone Number

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