Mumbai weekend getaway to Bhandardara: journey to an unparalleled world!
So close to the hustle bustle of one of India's busiest cosmopolitan, Mumbai, lies an abode truly rustic, hardly explored, majestic in its full glory during monsoons is small hill station Bhandardara.
Why to go?
Living up to its name, a valley of treasures, Bhandardara is an excellent choice to unwind over a long weekend. Surrounded all sides by huge mountains, including Mt. Kalsubai, the highest peak of Maharashtra, and lakes in the middle- Bhandardara is a treat for eyes. There are hikes and trails nestled in every nook and corner, rainfalls coming into the view while driving, greenery at its utmost best and above all, a very tranquil environment for re-invigoration.
What to see?: There are a lot of attractions apart from soakinng in the all the beauty around and seeking visual pleasures. There are water bodies like Wilson dam, Arthur lake and Randha falls where locals come for picnics on holidays, hikes for panoramic view Kalsubai, Ghatghar, Ratnagad fort. Sandhan valley for awe inspiring natural architecture and Amriteshwar temple for a spiritual connect. If nothing is your calling, you can just chill around near the villages sit by the lake or wild grasslands and ponder about life!
How far/When?: Connected very well via road, it is a 185 kms journey from Mumbai and is detour from the Mumbai Nasik Expressway at Igatpuri. The road is good and drive is mostly smooth. You will also encounter ghats along the way so just be a little cautious. Igatpuri, is again the nearest railway station. The best season to visit Bhandardara is monsoons of course when the lakes are full, waterfalls are gushing with its full velocity, green is splendid and the clouds add the touch of drama to the view.
Where to stay?: There are a few options to stay - MIDC resort being the obvious first choice. But keep in mind to book in advance since it is highly likely to get booked in monsoon weekends. Apart from the regular other small resorts and hotels near the lake, one can also opt a home stay in any of the villages surrounding the lake. We had a wonderful experience of an overnight in a small room with a bed and small bathroom just at the edge of the Arthur lake- home cooked simple but delicious meal served hot, and bonfire under a full moon. I would definitely recommend trying this one out if you are game to taste the village lifestyle and culture. Just connect with any eager locals you meet to inquire about such stays.
Why to go?
Living up to its name, a valley of treasures, Bhandardara is an excellent choice to unwind over a long weekend. Surrounded all sides by huge mountains, including Mt. Kalsubai, the highest peak of Maharashtra, and lakes in the middle- Bhandardara is a treat for eyes. There are hikes and trails nestled in every nook and corner, rainfalls coming into the view while driving, greenery at its utmost best and above all, a very tranquil environment for re-invigoration.
What to see?: There are a lot of attractions apart from soakinng in the all the beauty around and seeking visual pleasures. There are water bodies like Wilson dam, Arthur lake and Randha falls where locals come for picnics on holidays, hikes for panoramic view Kalsubai, Ghatghar, Ratnagad fort. Sandhan valley for awe inspiring natural architecture and Amriteshwar temple for a spiritual connect. If nothing is your calling, you can just chill around near the villages sit by the lake or wild grasslands and ponder about life!
How far/When?: Connected very well via road, it is a 185 kms journey from Mumbai and is detour from the Mumbai Nasik Expressway at Igatpuri. The road is good and drive is mostly smooth. You will also encounter ghats along the way so just be a little cautious. Igatpuri, is again the nearest railway station. The best season to visit Bhandardara is monsoons of course when the lakes are full, waterfalls are gushing with its full velocity, green is splendid and the clouds add the touch of drama to the view.
Where to stay?: There are a few options to stay - MIDC resort being the obvious first choice. But keep in mind to book in advance since it is highly likely to get booked in monsoon weekends. Apart from the regular other small resorts and hotels near the lake, one can also opt a home stay in any of the villages surrounding the lake. We had a wonderful experience of an overnight in a small room with a bed and small bathroom just at the edge of the Arthur lake- home cooked simple but delicious meal served hot, and bonfire under a full moon. I would definitely recommend trying this one out if you are game to taste the village lifestyle and culture. Just connect with any eager locals you meet to inquire about such stays.
Rarely we come across places which are so bountiful and complete within itself, that travel may even seem an intrusion and disturbance to the perfect balance it maintains. Every where around you see a harmony with nature, mankind in a rural setting - friendly and content. This place transports you to another world - Bhandardara is perfect to unwind, relax and replenish yourself with all the good energies mother earth can provide you with. Do have your share of paradise in the next monsoon trip you plan!
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