Amboli Hill Station: A tranquil one in Maharashtra
Amboli Hill Station: Amboli in the Sahyadri hills of Maharashtra, is a small hill station surrounded by dense flora, waterfalls, and a variety of animals. As a high rainfall area, Amboli is often called “Cherrapunji of Maharashtra”, perfect for those seeking a peaceful holiday away from city life. We shall provide you a guide to Amboli – its location and history; places to visit; local food; tips to travel to Amboli.
How to Reach Amboli hill station
Amboli is a hill station in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra, at an altitude of approximately 690 meters. Amboli is located about 83 kilometers from Belgaum; 90 kilometers from Goa; and 490 kilometers from Mumbai. There are good roads connecting Amboli to cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Goa.
There is a railway station called Sawantwadi Road which is the nearest railway station to Amboli (around 30 kilometers). A taxi can be hired from Sawantwadi or a bus can be boarded to travel to Amboli. The nearest airport from Amboli is Dabolim Airport and Belgaum Airport (approximately 100 kilometers from Amboli).
History of Amboli
Amboli has a fascinating historical context, with legends claiming that there are more than 100 ancient Shiva temples in the area, and while some have been unearthed, many have yet to be found. Also, as part of the former British Empire, (Amboli) was a nice summer vacation for British officials because of its climate. Amboli is also known for its contributions to the Indian Army because many locals joined the Army.
Major Tourist Attractions
There are quite a few natural and historical sites in Amboli, that attract tourists:
1. Amboli Waterfalls
The most popular site in Amboli is the Amboli Waterfalls, especially during the Indian monsoon. The water drops a great distance from above through the dense forest. A beautiful spot for photographs or laying back and relaxing.
2. Hiranyakeshi Temple
You can visit Hiranyakeshi Temple about 5 km from the bus stand. It is dedicated to Goddess Parvati. It is also the source of Hiranyakeshi River, which flows out of a cave next to the temple. A great place for meditation and nature walking.
3. Shirgaonkar Point
This point is a popular viewpoint for the location, with unobstructed views of the valley. It is also an excellent picnic and photography spot, especially at sunrise and sunset.
4. Parikshit Point
Parikshit Point is reachable through a short trek and is the highest point in Amboli. As it is higher, it offers more extensive views of the surrounding area.
5. Madhavgad Fort
Located around 2.5km from Amboli, Madhavgad Fort provides excellent views of the valleys and the Arabian Sea in the distance. The fort is an archeological site and has certainly deteriorated, but the legacy of the fort and the views are worth visiting.
6. Amboli Forest Park
If you like wildlife, then undoubtedly you will find the forest park appealing and full of passion. There are various wildlife species including sambars, bisons, as well a number of birds such as bulbuls and sunbirds!
Amboli Climate and Ideal Season for Visit
Amboli has a pleasant climate year-round, with temperatures between 15°C and 30°C. From June to September, the monsoon season features heavy rain, which makes Amboli a lush green paradise with covered hills and beautiful waterfalls. But the heavy rain sometimes makes it impossible to travel due to roadblocks.
The post monsoon season from October to February is the best time to visit Amboli during cooler temperatures, making it more enjoyable for sightseeing, trekking, and enjoying the natural beauty of Amboli.
Things to do in Amboli
1. Trekking and Nature Walks
There are many trekking trails in Amboli which takes one through the jungle, waterfalls and viewpoints. The trekking are for both novice’s and experienced trekkers.
2. Bird watching and Wildlife Photography
Amboli’s high levels of biodiversity makes Amboli a destination for bird watchers and wildlife photographers. The abundance of unique species include Malabar pied hornbill, the Indian Giant Squirrel, and a variety of reptiles.
3. Visiting Ancient Temples
Visiting the ancient temples in and around Amboli is a great way to observe the local culture and religious beliefs.
4. Picnicking at View Points
At the various viewpoint locations like Shirgaonkar Point or Parikshit Point, visitors can relax and enjoy nature.
5. Shopping for Local Handicrafts
Although shopping is limited, there are some shops in the local markets that provide handmade products, which also include souvenirs, such as wooden toys that reflect local artisanship.
Local Dishes and Specialties
The local dishes offered in Amboli are a fair blend of Malvani, Konkani, and Maharashtrian cuisines. Sea food lovers can enjoy dishes such as fish curry and fried fish; and vegetarians can taste the local food specialties which include misal pav, thalipeeth, and puran poli.
One drink to try is solkadhi, which is a specially prepared drink with kokum with coconut milk. The street and dhabas located just near the bus stand and market area have the freshest of local foods served at lower prices. The local restaurant Vithal Kamat located not too far from Sunset Point is also identified as a good place to eat, where local dishes are often identified as traditional thalis. One of the better places to eat local fish and mutton thalis is Narvekar’s Mess.
Amboli Resorts
Amboli features some varieties of accommodation, from low-rate hotels to homestays:
• MTDC Green Valley Resort
This resort is managed by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation. It offers well-appointed rooms and a restaurant with local cuisine.
• Whistling Woods Amboli
This is popular among nature lovers. The property offers clean and cozy rooms amidst nature, and the hospitality is the star attraction.
• Silver Spring Resort
This resort is located close to the main market and offers clean rooms and essential amenities at reasonable rates.
• Shiv Malhar Hotel
This hotel is close to the bus stand which is convenient while visiting main attractions and offers comfort.
Travel Tips
• Carry light woolen clothing, as evenings can be cool, especially during the winter months.
• If visiting during the monsoon, pack rain gear and be prepared for occasional roadblocks due to heavy rainfall.
• Book accommodations in advance during peak seasons to ensure availability.
• Wear comfortable footwear suitable for trekking and exploring uneven terrains.
• Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and religious sites.
• Carry cash, as some local shops and eateries may not accept digital payments.
Amboli Hill station, with its mesmerizing waterfalls, rich biodiversity, and peaceful surroundings, is ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and individuals looking for peace and quiet. It doesn’t matter whether you are hiking in green pastures, enjoying local food, or relaxing in misty lands, Amboli will always offer the best experience. Whether you plan to visit Amboli soon or not, this is one of Maharashtra’s most beautiful hidden gems you must visit at least once and experience the beauty and charm of this beautiful hill station.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Amboli hill station located?
Amboli is a peaceful hill station situated in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra, close to the Goa border.
What is the best time to visit Amboli?
The ideal time to visit Amboli is during the monsoon season from June to September when the waterfalls are at their peak and the surroundings turn lush green.
Which are the popular places to visit in Amboli?
Popular attractions in Amboli include Amboli Waterfall, Hiranyakeshi Temple, Sunset Point, Mahadevgad Point, and Nangarta Falls.
Q4. How far is Amboli from Goa
Amboli is approximately 90 kilometers from Panaji, Goa, making it a great monsoon getaway from the state.
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