The Kansai Waterfall is located near Nagothane and is over a 2 hour drive from Mumbai and Pune. It is one of the most hidden waterfalls in Maharashtra and can be reached after a short jungle trek.
The hidden waterfalls of Kansai
The 45 minute trek is loaded with adventure all along where one can enjoy a wonderful time amidst nature.
Cold streams flow at the falls
Once tourists reach the waterfalls they can enjoy memorable moments on the clear cold streams of water which is knee deep or at waist height at some points. Tourists can soak themselves in the waterfalls or enjoy sitting on the rocks besides the falls.
A view of the Kansai Waterfalls from the base
Since this waterfall is not known to many, it remains a secret waterfall and an ideal one day picnic spot to enjoy with friends and family members.
Timing: Sunrise to Sunset. Duration: 1 day visit. Height of the waterfall : N.A. Best time to visit: June to December. Highly recommended during monsoon Entry fee: N.A. Open days: All days of the week. Visit duration: 2- 3 hours. Photography: Permitted. Distance from Mumbai: 110 km (2 hours 15 minutes). Distance from Pune: 135 km (2 hours 25 minutes).
Kansai Waterfalls is located 2 km before Nagothane village on Mumbai – Goa highway. Tourists from Mumbai or Pune can board any state transport moving towards Nagothane, Ratnagiri, Roha, Pali, Srivardhan, Mahad, Chiplun.
If tourists are planning their visit by a private vehicle then they can drive down the Mumbai – Goa highway and reach the outskirts of Nagothane and follow the directions to the base village leading to the falls.
A trekkers makes his way to the Kansai waterfalls
Hiring a local guide at the village is advisable as the trek to waterfalls can be confusing.
Activities: Trekking, Water Rappelling, Rock Climbing.
Nagothane is a tourist paradise in itself as it is home to temples (Pali Ganesh Mandir, the Birla temple), Bhira Dam, Alibaug Beaches, Murud Janjira Fort, Usarvardhane Waterfalls are some of the interesting places to visit in Nagothane.
Tourist spend some time at the banks of the Amba River
Nature lovers could enjoy nature trails, fishing walking along Amba River.
Where to eat:
Since the falls are located deep into the jungle there are no food stalls or shops, hence it is advisable to carry sufficient amount of snacks and water.Tourist can enjoy a meal of their choice at nearby Nagothane, which is a famous town in rural Maharashtra and has many restaurants and hotels.
Travelers who are planning an overnight stay can choose from the several hotels, lodges and guest houses at Nagothane.
While visiting Kansai Waterfalls please do not litter and help keep the nature and surroundings clean by carrying back your thrash and disposing it in a decent manner.
Kindly support nature as these small actions by each one of us will help preserve our beautiful waterfalls.
Bhivpuri is a small village situated in the outskirts of Mumbai in Karjat Taluka and is popular with Mumbaikars for its waterfalls.The Bhivpuri waterfalls is an ideal place to visit during monsoon for all those who wish to spend time in the lap of nature and at the same time do not wish to travel too far away from Mumbai.
The waterfalls is more than 20 feet high and consists of three smaller waterfalls merging together to form a single waterfall that lashes over huge rocks, making it a breathtaking sight.
The best time to visit the falls is during monsoon i.e. June to September. During weekends the waterfalls is bustling with people of all ages who come here to spend a day while chilling in the cold icy water.
Timing: Sunrise to sunset. Duration: 1 day outing Height of the waterfall: 20 feet Best time to visit: During monsoon season from June to September. Entry Fee: There is nominal entry fee taken for the upkeep of the Waterfall and surrounding areas. Open days: All days of the week. Visit Duration: 2 – 3 hours. Things to do: Trekking and Rappelling. Photography: Permitted. Distance from Mumbai : 80 km Distance from Pune: 120 km
This is the best and cost effective way to reach Bhivpuri.
Nearest Railway Station: Bhivpuri Road Station or Karjat Station (Central Railway).
Bhivpuri Road Railway Station
Bhivpuri Waterfalls is 10 minutes from Bhivpuri Railway Station and 20 minutes from Karjat Railway Station by auto rickshaw.
Many travellers prefer to alight at Karjat Railway Station only to enjoy some mouth watering hot and spicy vada pav’s which are sold all over the platform of Karjat Railway station.Travelers can enjoy an early brunch at Karjat and move towards the Bhivpuri waterfalls.
By Road:
Travelers from Mumbai can drive down to Bhivpuri.
During monsoon the drive is memorable as travelers will pass by scenic paths and will enjoy the beauty all the way.
But a word of caution here, since Bhivpuri is a small town and the roads leading to it may not be in the best condition, hence inquire about the road condition in advance before venturing out in your own vehicle.
Activities:
Waterfall Rappelling at Bhivpuri Waterfalls
Water Rappelling is conducted during monsoon and this adventure activity attracts a lot of adventure sport enthusiast from all over Maharashtra. Water Rappelling is different from normal rappelling as the rocky patches are slippery making it difficult and challenging.
When at the falls be careful of some dangerous points. Do not venture deep into the hole created by the waterfall as there have been a few cases of drowning in the past.
Places to see in Bhivpuri:
If tourist have some extra time they can visit
Ashram of Sai Baba of Shirdi
Hydro power generator plant near Bhivpuri dam
ND Studio
Rambaugh point
Where to eat:
On the way to the waterfall there are a few food stalls selling corn, chips and other snack items along with cold drinks.
The villagers offer to bring lunch to the waterfall but only on advance payment. They offer both vegetarian and non vegetarian fare which generally includes Biryani or Vegetarian Thali.
But it is advisable for tourist to carry their own snacks and water.
Camping:
Overnight camps are organized by professional groups post monsoon and tourist from Mumbai who would like to enjoy an overnight camp near the falls can enjoy activities like camp fire, star gazing and mid night masti with friends to the fullest.
While visiting Bhivpuri Waterfalls please do not litter and help keep the nature and surroundings clean by carrying back your thrash and disposing it in a decent manner.
Kindly support nature as these small actions by each one of us will help preserve our beautiful waterfalls.
The Bhushi dam is a popular picnic spot for Mumbaikar’s and Punekar’s. This is not a natural waterfall but gets created during monsoons when the water from the dam (Indrayani River) overflows on the series of steps on the side of the dam.
It is relatively safe place to enjoy a waterfall experience hence it is a great place for families and kids. Every year during monsoons one can expect a large number of crowds from neighboring cities during weekends or on holidays.
After spending time at the Bhushi dam, visitors can visit small natural waterfalls near the dam which are also popular with tourist during monsoon.
There is no arrangement for changing clothes at dam so you need to hire change room at INR 20/- person on roadside hotels. They also offer car parking at a nominal cost.
Timing: Sunrise to Sunset. (During weekends due to excessive crowd, entry to the dam is closed by 3:00 p.m.). Duration: 1 day visit from Mumbai and Pune. Height of the waterfall: N.A. Best time to visit: June to October. Entry fee: No entry fee Open days: All days of the week. Visit duration: 2-3 hours. Photography: Permitted. Distance from Mumbai: 90 km (1 hour 40 minutes). Distance from Pune: 75 km (1 hour 30 minutes).
From Mumbai and Pune there are several trains that halt at Lonavala Railway Station. There are also several State Transport and private buses that halt at Lonavala.
From Lonavala Railway station, Bhushi dam is at a distance of 6 km. Tourists can hire local transport available to reach the dam.
Tourist coming by road can reach Lonavala via old Mumbai- Pune highway or exit the Expressway at Lonavala and drive further 8 km to reach the dam.
Spend a good amount of time sitting on the steps of the dam getting wet while the water flows down with great force. Enjoy a hot cuppa tea or coffee along with local delicacies like vada pav, kanda bhaji, and poha.
Good place for nature lovers and families to spend time and enjoy some memorable moments.
Best place to have fun with friends specially playing in flowing water and clicking photographs.
Beware:
Do not swim in the dam as there have been several incidents of drowning.
During weekends and public holidays there is a large crowd, so planning your visit on a week day is ideal in case you want to avoid the excessive crowds.
Attractions near Bhushi Dam:
A visit to Bhushi dam in Lonavala can be clubbed with other attractions of Lonavala and Khandala i.e. (Tiger Point, Kune waterfalls, Pavana Lake) etc.
There are many Butta (Maize) and Vada pav stalls on the road that leads to the dam. Tourist can enjoy these snack items along with piping hot tea.
There are also many restaurants and hotels in the near vicinity of the dam where tourist can enjoy a proper meal of their choice.
A humble request to all tourists:
While visiting Bushi Dam please do not litter and help keep the nature and surroundings clean by carrying back your thrash and disposing it in a decent manner.
Kindly support nature as these small actions by each one of us will help preserve our beautiful waterfalls.
The beautiful waterfall of Lingmala is located just 6 km away from Mahableshwar at the top of the Venna Lake.
During monsoon the shinning water from the lake is at its best where water plunges from a height of around 600 feet which is a beautiful site. The entire spot is surrounded by rainbows making it feel of being in heaven.
Many tourists visit this place during this time as it is an amazing place to spend time with friends and family.
Timing: Sunrise to Sunset. Duration: 1 day visit (Tourist can visit the falls with their trip to Mahableshwar). Height of the waterfall: 600 feet. Best time to visit: June to December. Highly recommended during monsoon. Entry fee: There is a nominal entry fee to the waterfall. Open days: All days of the week. Visit duration: 2- 3 hours. Photography: Permitted. There is an additional charge for camera. Distance from Mumbai: 260 km. Distance from Pune: 120 km.
Tourists can first reach Mahableshwar from Mumbai or Pune. The Lingmala Waterfalls is about 6 km from Mahableshwar and can be reached by boarding a local bus, share taxi or private vehicle.
The other option is for adventure enthusiast who can trek all the way to the waterfall from Mahableshwar and enjoy the picturesque views all the way, but the only problem is that one may find it difficult to find local transport at times during their return.
The Lingmala waterfalls is a must see place for all nature lovers and photographers. The spot serves as a great picnic spot because of its natural beauty where one can enjoy a wonderful time in the company of friends and family.
One can also enjoy a quite day at the falls doing nothing but hearing the sounds of the waterfall and admiring the beauty of the falls and clicking some of the best shots that nature can offer.
Places to see nearby:
Other than the Lingmala waterfall during monsoon there are many other small and big waterfalls in and around Mahableshwar like the Dhobi Waterfall and Chinaman’s Waterfall which are the most popular waterfalls.
Apart from Waterfalls, there is a lot to explore in Mahableshwar like Panchgani table land, Sunset point, Lodwick point, Arthur point and many more attractive points.
Where to eat:
At the waterfalls there are no food stalls or restaurants so tourists are advised to carry a few snack items and water.
Mahableshwar is a popular hill station and there is no dearth of restaurants hotels and food stalls to suit every budget.
Furthermore, Mahableshwar is famous for its strawberries which are available at every nook and corner during post monsoon and winter seasons.
While visiting Lingmala waterfalls please do not litter and help keep the nature and surroundings clean by carrying back your thrash and disposing it in a decent manner.
Kindly support nature as these small actions by each one of us will help preserve our beautiful waterfalls.
Here is some thrilling news for all Mumbaikars, especially for those, who are planning to enjoy their weekend, in the lap of nature near the Western Ghats. As the monsoons this year is in full throttle, huge streams and waterfalls have come alive and are turning the rural landscape of Maharashtra into a beautiful paradise.
What better than a visit one of the numerous waterfalls near Mumbai, which offer lush greenery and ice cold waters, where one can enjoy a good time in the company of friends and family.
Here we take a look at some of the best waterfalls near Mumbai that offer the best environment to enjoy your weekend.
Bhivpuri Waterfall
The Bhivpuri waterfall is situated near Karjat, and is an ideal place to start your weekend, and return on the same day, without having to travel too far away from Mumbai.
Bhivpuri Waterfalls
Monsoons and winters are the best time to visit Bhivpuri as holiday makers can enjoy a short trek amidst the green hills and spend some memorable moments amidst the picturesque waterfalls.
Also known as the Bhagirath waterfalls, this sleepy town of Vangani in Maharashtra receives heavy rainfall, which creates many beautiful waterfalls in the region.
Vangani Waterfalls
During this time the entire region turns into a beautiful piece of heaven on earth and is an ideal place to enjoy fun-filled picnics with friends and family. Above all, this place is lesser crowded and gives a chance to visitors to explore the natural beauty and soak in the absolute calmness of the region.
Pandavkada Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall situated in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai. Due to its location and easy accessibility it has become a favorite destination of most Mumbaikars, who like enjoying a picnic on weekends in the lap of nature.
Pandavkada Waterfalls
Apart from being a natural splendor, the waterfalls has some strong mythological connections and it is believed that the Pandavas had bathed under this fall and spend time in this region during their exile.
The Randha waterfall is located in the pretty hill town of Bhandardara, and is known to be the third largest waterfall in India.
Randha Waterfalls
Once at the falls; visitors will feel the embrace of nature with cloud capped mountains all around, and milky water flowing in full vigor. The waterfall is formed over the Pravara River and cascades down from a height of 170 feet into a beautiful gorge.The best time to visit this waterfall is during monsoon, so make sure you do not miss this opportunity this monsoon.
Located in Bandardara, the Umbrella waterfall is a beautiful fall, in the shape of an Umbrella and is situated at the Wilson Dam. This waterfall can be viewed only during monsoon season when the Wilson dam reaches its full capacity.
Umbrella Waterfalls
It is one of the main attractions in Bhandardara, and one of the best waterfalls in Maharashtra. Furthermore, the falls have been in the backdrop of several Bollywood movies and every visiting tourist will enjoy the breathtaking views from here.
The Tungareshwar Waterfall is located in the Tungareshwar National Park and is also locally known as Chinchoti Waterfalls.
Tungareshwar Waterfalls
The waterfall is located in the dense forest and can be reached after a short trek. There is one large waterfall and many smaller waterfalls in this area.Above all, this attraction is not far away from the Mumbai city and travelers can reach Tungareshwar from Vasai or Naigoan and enjoy a fun-filled weekend within the city limits.
The Bhushi dam is not a natural waterfall, but visitors can enjoy the same kind of experience when here.
Bhushi Dam
The dam is located in Lonavala and is very popular with tourists from Mumbai and Pune during weekends where they can get wet, enjoy splashing water and enjoy a good time with friends.
Malshej Ghat is amongst the most visited destinations in Maharashtra during monsoons.
One of the many waterfalls at Malshej Ghat
The sheer magnificence of the waterfalls in this area can be enjoyed during monsoons, when the falls swell up with rain water, and cascades down the rocks adding to the beauty of the surroundings. Rain, mist and cascading waterfalls surrounded by woody forest make it a wonderful sight, where visitors can enjoy some of the most memorable moments of their life.
Zenith waterfall is located at Khopoli and is a popular destination with picnickers during the monsoons. To reach the falls one has to wade through a shallow stream and walk through a forest area.
Zenith Waterfall
All this adds to the charm of the visiting the Zenith falls. Post monsoon tourist can enjoy adventure sport activities like rappelling and rock climbing here.
Situated on the crest of the Western Ghats, the Tamhini Ghat is popular for its scenic waterfalls, lakes and dense forests.
Tamhini Waterfalls
The waterfalls of Tamhini Ghat are a sight to behold during monsoon season i.e. between July and September. During this time it offers breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere surrounded by lush greenery and a diverse range of birds, a must visit for all nature lovers.
The Dabhosa Waterfall is located in Thane district in Dabhosa village on the Jawhar – Silvassa Road.
Dabhosa Waterfall
This waterfall is popular with tourist for its campsite where they can enjoy the views of the sunset and also enjoy their stay during the night when the ambience of the falls is just beautiful. The fall is about 300 feet and apart from sightseeing, there are multiple adventure sport activities to enjoy like kayaking, rappelling, trekking, fishing, boating, laddering and valley crossing.
The Kune Waterfall is located on the old Mumbai – Pune highway, in the center of the twin hill stations of Lonavala and Khandala. Kune falls lies at an altitude of 622 m, and is set against the backdrop of the famous Sahyadri hills.
Kune Waterfalls
It is a 3 – tiered waterfall cascading down from a height of 200 m and is divided into 2 sections. Furthermore it is believed to be the 14th highest waterfall in India and is surrounded by lush green vegetation and provides a great visual experience for visiting tourist.
Have you ever visited a secret waterfall? If the answer is No, then visit the Kansai Waterfall which is one of the most hidden waterfalls near Mumbai and Pune.
Kansai Waterfalls
The waterfalls can be reached after a short adventurous trek and it is one of the falls which is the least crowded giving visitors a chance to enjoy a good time in the privacy of family and friends. The trip is loaded with adventure all the way and is ideal for a one day picnic. The best time to visit the falls is during monsoon up till December.
Sukeli is a tiny village in Raigad district that is blessed with natural foliage and lush greenery.
Sukeli Waterfalls
The waterfalls here attracts tourists from all over Maharashtra, and apart from the majestic waterfall, the area offers amazing views of nature and offers a peaceful and calm environment. Furthermore, during monsoon migratory bird visit this area, adding to its beauty. Trekking, Rappelling and Picnicking are popular activities that visiting tourist can enjoy at the falls.
Thoseghar Waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls in India, and is located in a scenic spot near Satara, and is one of the most visited attractions during monsoon season.
Thoseghar Waterfalls
Here there are a series of waterfalls, some of them 15 to 20 m, while the main fall is about 500 m high. The area surrounding the waterfall is calm and quiet with clean lakes and dark woods.There is a small picnic area and a platform which gives a good view of the waterfall to visiting tourists.
After a tiring week of work and stress it is time to relax and take a break from the regular schedule. This years monsoons have been good and has rained more than normal making the weather pleasantly wonderful all over Maharashtra.
Tourist enjoy a weekend by a waterfall near Pune
With famous hill stations being congested during monsoon, Puneri’s can visit scenic waterfalls near Pune and enjoy a wonderful time in the company of friends and family. Not only do these places make a wonderful picnic spot, but also are the best places to enjoy the thrill of adventure sport like waterfall rappelling and trekking.
Puneites enjoy a family picnic at the falls
Here we take a look at some of the best waterfalls near Pune that offer the perfect environment to enjoy your weekend.
Thoseghar Waterfall
Thoseghar Waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls in India, and is located in a scenic spot near Satara, and is one of the most visited attractions during monsoon season.
Thoseghar Waterfalls
Here there are a series of waterfalls, some of them 15 to 20 m, while the main fall is about 500 m high. The area surrounding the waterfall is calm and quiet with clean lakes and dark woods.There is a small picnic area and a platform which gives a good view of the waterfall to visiting tourists.
Located in the pristine Sahyadri mountain range, the Vardayini Waterfall is well known for its breathtaking beauty.
Vardayini Waterfalls
Untouched by commercialization, the waterfall is around 135 feet in height and has gentle slope making it an ideal place for a picnic with friends and family. The Vardayani falls, gets its name from a local deity ‘Vardayani Devi’. The falls can be reached after a short trek through the woods. A nice, quaint place is ideal for a day’s trip.
Have you ever visited a secret waterfall? If the answer is No, then visit the Kansai Waterfall which is one of the most hidden waterfalls near Mumbai and Pune.
Kansai Waterfall
The waterfalls can be reached after a short adventurous trek and it is one of the falls which is the least crowded giving visitors a chance to enjoy a good time in the privacy of family and friends. The trip is loaded with adventure all the way and is ideal for a one day picnic. The best time to visit the falls is during monsoon up till December.
The Chinamans fall is located in the scenic hill station of Mahableshwar. To reach the waterfalls, one has to take a short trek through the forest which is embedded with scenic beauty and is a paradise for walkers.
Chinaman Waterfalls
The waterfall cascades down from a height of 500 feet into the deep valley, and further flows into 2 different routes, and merges into a single stream. The calm surroundings and the exotic fall render’s a perfect holiday spot for visitors.
The Kune Waterfall is located on the old Mumbai – Pune highway, in the center of the twin hill stations of Lonavala and Khandala. Kune falls lies at an altitude of 622 m, and is set against the backdrop of the famous Sahyadri hills.
Kune Waterfall
It is a 3 – tiered waterfall cascading down from a height of 200 m and is divided into 2 sections. Furthermore it is believed to be the 14th highest waterfall in India and is surrounded by lush green vegetation and provides a great visual experience for visiting tourist.
Situated on the crest of the Western Ghats, the Tamhini Ghat is popular for its scenic waterfalls, lakes and dense forests.
Tamhini Waterfall
The waterfalls of Tamhini Ghat are a sight to behold during monsoon season i.e. between July and September. During this time it offers breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere surrounded by lush greenery and a diverse range of birds, a must visit for all nature lovers.
The Vajrai falls is a picturesque waterfall, located near the Kaas Flower Valley in Satara district. This 3 – tier perennial waterfall, is a spectacular sight during monsoons, and cascades down from a height of around 850 feet.
Vajrai Waterfalls
Every year during the monsoons, holiday makers from all over Maharashtra flock to these falls to watch the beauty of the waterfall flow down the streams amidst lush green surroundings.
Zenith waterfall is located at Khopoli and is a popular destination with picnickers during the monsoons. To reach the falls one has to wade through a shallow stream and walk through a forest area.
Zenith Waterfall
All this adds to the charm of the visiting the Zenith falls. Post monsoon tourist can enjoy adventure sport activities like rappelling and rock climbing here.
Malshej Ghat is amongst the most visited destinations in Maharashtra during monsoons.
A view of the Malshej ghat waterfalls
The sheer magnificence of the waterfalls in this area can be enjoyed during monsoons, when the falls swell up with rain water, and cascades down the rocks adding to the beauty of the surroundings. Rain, mist and cascading waterfalls surrounded by woody forest make it a wonderful sight, where visitors can enjoy some of the most memorable moments of their life.
The Bhushi Dam is not a natural waterfall, but visitors can enjoy the same kind of experience when here.
Bhushi Dam Lonavala
The dam is located in Lonavala and is very popular with tourists from Mumbai and Pune during weekends where they can get wet, enjoy splashing water and enjoy a good time with friends.
Located in Bhandardara, the Umbrella waterfall is a beautiful fall, in the shape of an Umbrella and is situated at the Wilson Dam. This waterfall can be viewed only during monsoon season when the Wilson dam reaches its full capacity.
Umbrella Waterfalls
It is one of the main attractions in Bhandardara, and one of the best waterfalls in Maharashtra. Furthermore, the falls have been in the backdrop of several Bollywood movies and every visiting tourist will enjoy the breathtaking views from here.
The picturesque hill station of Mahableshwar is home to several scenic waterfalls, and amongst them, the most prominent is the Dhobi Waterfall.
Dhobi Waterfalls
The height of the falls is about 450 feet, and flows into the Koyna River. To enjoy the beauty of the falls, tourists have to visit the Elphinstone point in Mahableshwar. The months between July to December are the best to view and enjoy the beauty of the falls.
The Randha waterfall is located in the pretty hill town of Bhandardara, and is known to be the third largest waterfall in India. Once at the falls; visitors will feel the embrace of nature with cloud capped mountains all around, and milky water flowing in full vigor.
Randha Waterfalls
The waterfall is formed over the Pravara River and cascades down from a height of 170 feet into a beautiful gorge.The best time to visit this waterfall is during monsoon, so make sure you do not miss this opportunity this monsoon.
During monsoons, Mahableshwar acquires a new dimension in its scenic beauty, and during this time it is home to the beautiful Lingmala waterfalls.
Lingmala Waterfall Mahabaleshwar
The scenic fall plunges down 600 feet, and is a visual delight as one can spot rainbows here for most of the times. The waterfall can also be visited post monsoon when the falls are believed to be even bigger and beautiful.
Sandhan valley is a natural wonder, and a hidden gem in the Western Ghats. This water carved valley is a known as the grand canyon of Maharashtra, and is 200 feet deep and 2 km long.
The gorge of Sandhan Valley
Being a combination of a valley, and a canyon, it is thronged by passionate trekkers, avid walkers and photographers. The whole experience of trekking here is like a dream, where you will feel the wilderness to the core as you walk into the ‘Valley of Shadows’.
Samrad village serves as the base to the trek. At the backdrop from left Alang Madan Kulang and Kalsubai peak
Sandhan valley is located at Samrad village near the Bhandardara region and is surrounded by the Alang, Madan and Kulang mountains.
About the Trek
Normally every trek starts with climbing and then descending. But in the Sandhan valley trek there is no climbing but only descending till the end.The trek can be done by taking 2 routes and has different itineraries.
Trekkers get a view of the valley
The first route covers the entire route and is a 2 day trek, which starts from Samrad village and ends at Dehne village near Asangoan. This is the most preferred route as during the trek you will be able to explore different beautiful spots in the valley and enjoy breathtaking scenieries all around and above all enjoy an overnight camp under the
stars.
The second route cuts short the Sandhan valley trek and takes you back to Kasara ending the trek in a day. This trek is ideal for trekkers who want to experience the trek in a day and would not prefer to camp at night. In this route trekkers will miss out on many spots and beautiful sceneries around the valley. But is ideal for first timers
Trekking at Sandhan Valley
On reaching Samrad valley, it is absolutely essential to hire a guide from the village. Remember this is not an ordinary trek. A local guide is the only help available in this region, who will provide assistance in rappelling, making arrangements for food, exploring the valley, and bringing you down safely from the valley.
Trekkers walk towards the starting point of the trek from Samrad Village
Without assistance this trek is not safe, as it could be dangerous and risky for most city dwellers. Since the villagers are familiar with this place they make the best guides, so do not hesitate and hire them.
The starting point of the gorge at Sandhan valley
The trek starts from the base village Samrad. Initially the trek is easy as one has to walk on plain ground. After a 10 minute walk trekkers will reach the entrance of the valley. The actual trek starts from here and stretches for 2 km and passes through a deep narrow rock floored ravine which is surrounded by 2 high walls of mountain ranges.
At certain places the width between the 2 walls is less than 3 feet and even sun rays are unable to reach hence this place is also called as the valley of the shadows. This passage is accessible throughout the year except in monsoons.
From here on to the end of the gorge, trekkers will have to cross 2 – 3 water pools. The water levels in these pools changes according to seasons. During winters the level is up to waist height and in summers it is up to knee height.
At the end of the gorge trekkers will get magnificent views of the high cliffs and deep valley. At this point trekkers generally take a lunch break and after that begin with the rappelling activity and descend further.
Here trekkers will experience 2 small rappelling patches of varied length the first being 12 feet and the other 25 feet. After climbing down the second rocky patch trekkers will reach a flat plain (Karli ghat) where trekkers can camp for the night.
Near the campsite (Karli ghat) there is a small stream of fresh water which flows into a huge pond.
Camping at the Sandhan Valley
After a long day of trekking, trekkers can now camp at the campsite (Karli ghat).These campsites have basic amenities such as tents which houses 3 people along with carry mats and a tent light.
Trekkers can spend the evenings around the warmth of the campsite cooking their meals and enjoy deep conversations followed by dance and music making it a memorable night.
Trekkers cook food at the campsite
Furthermore, trekkers can enjoy star gazing activity as the skies above the Sandhan valley are darkest in Maharashtra and offers imposing view of the heavens above thus making it an ideal place for photography and astronomy.
Trekkers enjoy star gazing at night.
Later in the morning, trekkers can freshen up, have breakfast and proceed towards Dehne village, Asangoan. After reaching Dehne village, trekkers can have lunch and then proceed to Asangaon station by public transport. From Asangoan station trekkers can board a train towards Mumbai or Pune(via Kalyan).
Camping at Samrad village
Alternate camping : As an alternative it is possible to return back to Samrad village from the campsite (Karli ghat), which will take 3 hours again to reach Samrad and camp at the village. But make sure arrangements for the stay have been made at the village in advance.
Total trek time: 5 – 6 hours.
Best time to visit: Sandgan valley is accessible from November to May. Not recommended during monsoon.
Duration: 1 day/ 2 day.
Grade & Difficulty: Medium (Not advisable for First Time Trekkers).
Trekkers generally take an overnight journey from Mumbai towards Samrad village by boarding a Kasara local starting from CST (Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Railway Station).
A jeep ride to Samrad village.
They reach Kasara Station by 03:00 am and proceed to Samrad village by a private jeep. After a 3 hour drive, trekkers reach Samrad village early in the morning, they freshen up and have their breakfast by 07:00 am and then start exploring the Sandhan Valley.
Detailed Information
The best way to reach Sandhan Valley from Mumbai is to take a Central Railway train bound for Kasara. The train journey will take around about 2 hours and 40 minutes.
Kasara Railway Station
But it is advisable to check the railway time-table in advance about trains going to Kasara.
Another way would be to take a train to Igatpuri; however Kasara would be a preferable option as there are plenty of local trains to choose from as compared to Igatpuri where only out-bound train are available.
Igatpuri Railway Station
Furthermore, it is more convenient to take a jeep from Kasara to Samrad village which is at a distance of 80 kms and would take about 2.5 to 3 hours to reach the base village. Since the train reaches early morning arrangements for a private vehicle should be made before hand to reach Samrad village.
State Transport bus towards Samrad village
There is also an option to take an ST bus from Kasara or Igatpuri station but one should be fully aware about the ST bus timings as it is very important to reach the village early in the morning to start the trek to Sandhan Valley.
Hiring a private vehicle would be the most suitable and suggested way of getting to Sandhan Valley as this place is not well connected and a bit secluded hence getting public transport is difficult.
By Road
From Mumbai
via Igatpuri & Bhavali -> (Total Distance – 181 km)
Pune -> Narayangaon -> Alephata -> Otur -> Bramhanwada -> Kotul -> Kotul Phata -> Rajur -> Randha falls -> Ratanwadi phata -> Shendi Bhandardara -> Panzare -> Udhawne -> Ghatghar Dam -> Samrad village ………The Otur route is single lane route but a scenic pass.
Where to stay
Samrad is a remote village; hence there are no hotels, or lodges here. But the locals at Samrad can help in making arrangements for a home stay.
Trekkers can enjoy a home stay at Samrad village
Most trekkers opt to stay in their own camping tent which is a thrilling experience and undoubtedly the best stay option.
Tented stay in Sandhan Valley
If you have booked your trip with a trek organizer, then they will take care your stay, which will be at a campsite along with other facilities. Furthermore, there are no shops in Samrad, hence it is recommended to carry snacks, packaged drinking water and medicines.
The villagers of Samrad are friendly, hospitable and helpful people, alongside farming they earn a livelihood by making food and stay arrangements for trekkers and picnickers at a very nominal cost.
There is home cooked, local Maharashtrian fare is available consisting of Bhakri, Bhaji, Dal, Usal, Rice, Thecha and pickle.The breakfast menu could be Poha, Upma or Maggi with piping hot tea all cooked on a clay oven.
There are no shops or eateries at Samrad village. Trekkers are advised to make their own arrangements with the villagers before starting for the trek.
Places of Interest near Sandhan Valley
Amruteshwar Temple
Randha Waterfalls
Bhandardara Dam
Amruteshwar Temple at Ratanwadi temple
Kokan Kada (A view point to enjoy the beauty of the Sahyadri’s)
Bhandardara backwater near Samrad village
Ghatghar Dam
Ghatnadevi temple
Giant Swing at the Valley
The Giant Swing is an activity conducted by a trekking group in the valley. It is one of India’s first natural giant swing set-up wherein a participant swings from a height of 500 feet. This is an extreme adventure sport activity and is done under professional guidance and assistance.
Gaint swing at Sandhan Valley
Note: Please check the credentials of the organizers before you indulge in this extreme sport activity.
Things to carry for Sandhan Valley Trek
Camping tents
Toilet tents
Sleeping bags
Mats
Rappelling gear
Basic food items
Utensils for cooking
Safety Equipment’s
First-aid Kit
Rope Harness
Helmets.
Important things to know
Sandhan Valley FULL DESCEND TREK is not advisable for first timers or unfit participants.
Hire a guide and technical support for rappelling activity.
Manage your time well as descending is time consuming here.
Carry ample water as there is no portable water source during the trek, besides a stream of water near the camping site at Karoli ghat.
Do not attempt this trek in monsoon as the valley and the gorge is flooded with water.
Wear good quality trekking shoes.
Trek here in a large group this ensures safety in case of extreme situation.
