Bhandardhara Hill Station

About:

Bhandardara is 180 km north east of Mumbai. It is located on the banks of the Parvara River. It is the nearest of all the hill stations to the highest peak in the Sahyadaris, Mt. Kalsubai. Bhandardara, is the most calm and rustic hill station among all. Here you get the real taste of the rural Maharashtra and coming here definitely cuts you off from the hectic city life. With the cleanest of air and water, you well get the most refreshing trips of your life in Bhandardara. A walk in the nature along the shores of the lakes will give you the best possible relaxation.

Bhandardara is located at a distance of 70 km from Nashik.This hill station is popular for fun loving and picnic lovers. Radha Falls, a deep valley, a clean and large Arthur Lake, a historical Ratangadh Fort, an ancient temple - Amritheshwar Temple, a peaceful Agasti Rishi Ashram, Wilson Dam also known as Bhandardara Dam, and Viewpoints are the important destinations at Bhandarda. It also has a trekking destination - Mount Kalusubai.

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.

The largest earthen dam in the country and one of the oldest dams in Asia, Wilson Dam or Bhandardara Dam is at Bhandardara. The height of the dam is nearly 150 m. The overflowing water makes the Umbrella Falls, which is a picturesque sight during the monsoon season.

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There is also a lake with serene beauty called Arthur Lake. One can also visit the site from where the lake originates at Pravara River. Streamlets from this lake flow down to 45m heights at Randha Falls. Not only a heart catching scenic spot, these falls also serves as a hydropower generation.

Agasti Rishi Ashram is on the bank of the Pravara River, which attracts huge crowds.

One can also visit Amriteshwar Temple at Bhandardara.

Wilson Dam/ Bhandardara Dam : The Wilson Dam also known as Bhandardara Dam at a height of 150m is the largest earthen dam in the country and one of the oldest in Asia. At the base of the dam is a circular garden & a swimming pool. It is a beauty in itself and a very serene spot for the regular picnickers. An attraction of this place is the Umbrella Falls, which provides a most picturesque sight. The falls are best enjoyed in monsoon, when the water level is amazingly high.

Arthur Lake : Bhandardara hosts an extravagant Arthur Lake amidst the dense greenery. The lake water originates from the Pravara River. Streamlets from the lake gush down 45m and are known as the Randha Falls. A scenic spot, these falls have a great significance of being used for hydropower generation. On the bank of the Pravara River is the Agasti Rishi Ashram. The ashram attracts crowds from all over.

Mount Kalsubai : Mount Kalsubai is the highest peak of Maharashtra, on the Sahyadri range. Standing at an altitude of 1,646m above sea level, this mountain is famous for trekking. It also gives breathtaking views of the Arthur Lake and the Wilson Dam. 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.

Ghatghar : It is one of the famous viewpoints. It is situated 22kms from Bhandardara and offers excellent views of the Sahyadri ranges.

Mobile range info:

How to reach?

Nearest Visiting places:

• Amruteshwar temple built in 8th century
• Ratnagad Fort
• Konkan Kada sky rising peaks of the Sahyadri hills
• Trimbakeshwar
• Shirdi
• Nashik

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Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:

• Anand Van Resort
• Patang Hotel
• Vaity Ropeway Resort
• Savshanti Hotel
• Hotel Anando

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