Bhandardara Hill Station
Bhandardara is a peaceful hill station located in the Sahyadri mountains in Maharashtra. It has a calm body of water, trees, and a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal getaway from busy city life. Bhandardara has small villages, forts, lakes and waterfalls for all the nature enthusiasts, adventure enthusiasts, and families to enjoy. We will explore Bhandardara’s location, history, main sites, weather, things to do, food, accommodation, travel tips, and more in a down to earth manner.
Location
Bhandardara is located in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra at an elevation of around 740 meters above sea level. It is roughly185 kilometers from Mumbai, 105 kilometers from Pune, and 55 kilometers from Nashik. Bhandardara is located on the banks of the Pravara River and in the surrounding of the beautiful Arthur Lake;.
How to Reach
By road, Bhandardara can be reached from Igatpuri–Bhandardara road. Using the local transport, it is best to drive to Bhandardara from Mumbai or Pune. From Mumbai, you can drive to Nashik on the Mumbai–Nashik Highway, and then take the winding mountain road from Igatpuri to Bhandardara. From Pune, you can take the Pune–Ahmednagar and then head north to Bhandardara. State transport buses and private coaches run to Igatpuri and Nashik and from both areas taxis can be hired, or you can also take a local bus to Bhandardara.
The nearest railway station is Igatpuri, about 45 kilometers away, on the Mumbai–Chennai line. Igatpuri is regularly connected to Mumbai, Pune, and major cities. The nearest airport is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai. From the airport, you can hire a car or take a bus to reach Bhandardara.
Bhandardara History
Bhandardara’s history is intertwined with the dams and forts that exist in the area. The hill station developed in prominence after the Bhandardara Dam (Wilson Dam) was built in the early twenty-first century across the Pravara river. The dam is named after Sir M. V. Wilson and created the Arthur Lake, which improved the beauty of the area and attracted visitors.
Long before the modern development, the area has been ruled by the Yadavas, Bahmanis, and Marathas. The forts in the area such as Ratangad and Kalsubai were crucial in Maratha defence tactics. There have also been tribal populations and farmer communities living in this valley dependent on agriculture for centuries, who practiced agriculture growing crops on terraced fields and using the river for irrigation. Over the years, as a quiet niche of the valley, it attracted holiday makers to escape heat to spend time in nature and embrace the spectacular views. It continues to remain a quiet location today.
Places to visit in Bhandardara
1. Arthur Lake
Arthur Lake, the focal point of Bhandardara, is calmed by the dam and mirrors the green hills above. It gives visitors the opportunity to walk along the shore, watch the local fishermen fish, or just relax by the waters edge. In the winter, the early morning mist over the lake creates a magical scene.
2. Randha Falls
A few kilometers downstream of the dam, the Pravara River plunges into a gorge to create Randha falls, one of the widest waterfalls in Maharashtra. The roar of the water and rainbow produced from its spray is a sight to behold. There is a viewing platform and steps going down for a closer look but be cautious during peak flow.
3. Ratangad fort
Located on hill overlooking the valley, Ratangad Fort is a popular trek. Ratangad in Marathi means “jewel of the chariot”, and it has a unique rock pinnacle at the The fort also contains several water tanks, ancient temples, and caves. The trek route passes through dense forest and is best attempted in cooler months.
4. Wilson Dam
The Wilson Dam or Bhandardara Dam is one hundred years old and was built of masonry and has 35 gates. Water spilling over the gates creates a wide curtain of falling water during monsoon. When you walk along the top of the dam you will get panoramic views of the lake and hills.
5. Kalsubai Peak
At 1,646 meters, Kalsubai is the tallest peak in Maharashtra. Some adventurous hikers will be able to climb straight up and over a few steep rock steps and ladders to reach the top where you’ll find a small temple to goddess Kalsubai. Those who make it to the top are rewarded with views of the whole mountain range down to the coastal cities in the distance, especially during sunrise or sunset.
6. Amruteshwar Temple
At the foot of Ratangad Fort is this 11th-century Shiva temple. Being that it’s built within the Hemadpanti design style, the stone carvings and architecture may attract a crowd from history and photography. It is also located in paddy fields and coconut groves, adding to the values of the temple…
7. Sandhan Valley
A very unique gorge that is often regarded as the “Valley of Shadows” which you can only properly experience by a full-day of canyoning or canyon trekking. Some adventurers (with special permissions) will climb over boulders using ropes, often wade through pools, whilst repelling down a rock face. Although you may find it quite challenging , it is necessary to plan ahead and to use a guide about scenery and permits. Regardless of whether you climb on rocks or stay in the natural amphitheater outcomes combined with the mist valley = unforgettable scenery.
Bhandardara Weather
Bhandardara has a tropical monsoon climate. The warmest months are summer (March to May), with daytime temperatures ranging from 25 celsius to 35 celsius. While it can be hot, it tends to be more comfortable by the lake or waterfalls in the afternoons.
Monsoon Season (June to September) includes torrential rains and heavy precipitation. The forests and hills become lush and green, rivers rise, and waterfalls become roaring torrents. Rain generally presents problems of mudfalls or slippery roads, so it is always wise to do some research on the weather and travel conditions prior to travelling. However, beautiful monsoon scenery is commonly considered the best time to see Bhandardara.
Best Time to visit bhandardara
Winter (October to February) is the ordinarily the most comfortable time to visit. During winter months the day time temperature will be ranging in high’s 15 °C and 28 °C. The coldest nights can be around 10 °C. Since there is no sun, the weather is quite pleasant and good for trekking, boating and sight seeing.
All in all, the best time in Bhandardara is from September to February. If you want to view the magnificent waterfalls, then plan to visit at some point between July and August – with safety precautions in mind.
Bhandardara Resort
| Resort Name | Specialty / Highlight |
|---|---|
| Anandvan Resort | Luxury cottages with lakeside views |
| Yash Resort | Budget-friendly stay with pool |
| Wanderlust Resort | Nature stay with garden and valley views |
| MTDC Resort Bhandardara | Government stay option near Arthur Lake |
| Nature Leap Resort | Cozy cottages with bonfire facilities |
| Shagun Resort | Peaceful environment with mountain views |
| Rainforest Resort | Eco-friendly resort with adventure options |
| Holiday Seeker’s Resort | Affordable stay near Randha Falls |
| The Grand Gardens Resort | LakThings To Do in Bhandardara1. Trekking: Ratangad Fort trek, Kalsubai Peak (highest peak in Maharashtra 2. Photography Spots: Arthur Lake,Randha Falls, Umbrella Falls, Wilson Dam 3. Boating: At Arthur Lake 4. Camping: Lakeside camping near Arthur Lake and Ratangad base 5. Visit Waterfalls: Randha Falls and Umbrella Falls during monsoon 6. Sunset Points: Sunset Point at Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary 7. Temple Visit: Amruteshwar Temple: an ancient Shiva temple Often considered the lesser-known neighbour by the hill stations of Maharashtra, Bhandardara is so serene with its placid lake and thunderous waterfalls, impregnable forts, and colorful tribal culture that it forms an exquisite blend of relaxation and adventure for any traveller. Whether you want to attempt an early dawn boat ride on Bhandardara or an all-night starry camping under the skies after a challenging climb to the highest peak, Bhandardara does have some memories to cherish for you. So get your bags packed, wave goodbye to the hurried city life, and step into the quiet charisma of this Sahyadri jewel. Frequently asked questions
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