Locked away in the pristine Sahyadri range is the Vardayini Waterfalls, which is completely free of any signs of commercialization, making it a postcard perfect location to have your wild moment.
A view of the Vardayini Waterfalls from a distance.
Vardayini falls is a huge waterfall cascading elegantly at 135 feet in height.It is a nice, quaint place for a one day trip.
The Vardayini Waterfalls cascading elegantly at 135 feet
Vardayini waterfall is within the Kherwadi village that falls on the Mumbai-Goa highway.
Tourist enjoy themselves at the base of the falls
The falls gets its name from the local Vardayini devi temple, meant to be the local devotee and also famous for attracting huge crowds from places far due to its powers. The Vardayini temple is situated high on the hills and a way different from the waterfall way goes to it.
Youngsters have a good time at the secluded waterfalls
The locals believe that if you ask a wish at Vardayini devi temple it comes true and therefore the name ‘Vardayini’.
Timing: Sunrise to sunset. Duration: 1 day outing Height of the waterfall: 135 feet Best time to visit: During monsoon season from June to September. Entry Fee: N.A. Open days: All days of the week. Visit Duration: 2 – 3 hours.
How to reach
By Road :
Located on the Mumbai – Goa highway, after the Nagothane-Pali junction, and just before the Sukeli Khind, a beautiful waterfall attracts us to come towards it. Keeping the Jindal factory on the left, the very next left turn leads in to Kherwadi village. This is the base village to the huge Vardayini falls. One can park vehicles in this village and with the help of a villager go to the Vardayini falls.
A short trek leads to the waterfalls
The way though not so confusing, but passes from dense vegetation, so it’s better to keep a local company. It takes a 30 minutes uphill walk to reach the waterfall.
Due to its remote location, there are no eating joints near the falls.
There are a few make shift food stalls, and small restaurants a kilometer or two away from the falls . It’s always better to carry your own food and water.
Camping
There is no official arrangement or infrastructure for camping at the falls.
But adventure enthusiast seeking adventure can try their luck and seek permission from the local authorities and enjoy a camp near the falls.
While visiting Vardayini 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.
Vangani Waterfall is one of the most famous historic waterfalls, and is situated in the Bedis village of Ambernath Taluka.The waterfalls is quite close to Vangani town near Mumbai.
The farmlands of Vangani village
It is a serene village with River Ulhas flowing on one side and chain of small hillocks on the other. It consists of mostly farmer population. Therefore everywhere scenic farmlands at the bottom of hills or hill terraces can be seen.
Paddy fields of Vangani village during monsoon
Vangani enjoys heavy rainfall during monsoon, and it leaves the entire region green and pictorially beautiful with mesmerizing views. Vangani Waterfall is as beautiful and safe destination.
The majestic view of the Vangani Waterfalls
The surrounding area around waterfall offers a quiet, calm and peaceful setting, and hence making it ideal place for enjoying a comforting time in the lap of mother nature.
Young and old enjoy their moments at the waterfalls in the lap of nature
In recent times, this is one of the most visited attractions for people living in Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and Thane and is ideal for a day’s picnic especially during the monsoon.
Youngsters enjoy a day’s picnic at the falls
This waterfall is also locally known as Bhagirath Waterfalls, and its legends have been associated with Bhagirath, the ancient character from Hindu mythology, who is believed to bring Maa Ganga (the river Ganga) on earth, with the worship of Lord Mahadev (Lord Shiva).
A view of the falls from the pond below
It is a must visit place for couples and adventure lovers because of its peaceful and romantic location.
Timing: Sunrise to Sunset. Duration: 1 day outing Height of the waterfall: 25 feet Best time to visit: During monsoon season from June to September. Entry Fee: There is a nominal entry to visit the falls. Open days: All days of the week. Visit Duration: 2 – 3 hours.
How to Reach
By Rail:
Vangani station is located on the CST-Karjat railway line and takes about 2 hours to reach from Mumbai.
Vangani Railway Station
Once here, the waterfalls is simply 2 km from Vangani railway station and tourist can hire an auto-rickshaw or enjoy a short trek to the falls.
By Road:
By road Vangani can be reached through the Panvel-Karjat route or through Airoli-Sheelfata-Badlapur MIDC route.
Vangani is 13 kms from Badlapur and only 10 kms from Neral(which is en-route to Matheran).
Activities
- It is a beautiful place for a one-day picnic with family and friends especially in monsoon.
- Enjoy a peaceful relaxing day close to nature.
- Trekking.
- Swimming at the base of the waterfalls.
- Enjoy Photography.
- During monsoon, there are a couple of waterfalls that are created on the hilly ranges in this region, a few are accessible, they can be visited after a short trek with the help of local guides.
Where to Eat
There are no tea or snack stalls near the waterfalls, hence tourist are advised to carry their own food and water.
But with a bit of prior planning food arrangements can be made at a local villagers house, and this is an ideal way to savour some home cooked Maharashtrian cuisine.
Camping
There is no official arrangement or infrastructure for camping at the falls.
Overnight Camping
But adventure enthusiast seeking adventure can try their luck and seek permission from the local authorities and enjoy a camp near the falls.
While visiting Vangini 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.
Tamhini ghat is a mountain passage located between Mulshi and Tamhini. Situated on the crest of the western ghat mountain ranges, Tamhini ghat is noted for its surroundings comprising scenic waterfalls, lakes and dense woods.
Tamhini ghat is famous for its waterfalls and endless greenery during monsoons. Some of the waterfalls are very tall that tourist may not even be able to see the top of the falls.
Also called as Valse waterfalls, the waterfalls of Tamhini Ghat are a sight to behold during the monsoon season, between July and September. Being a hilly region the rain water trickles down from the top of the mountains of the Sahyadri’s forming huge waterfalls as the streams cascade down the slopes towards the plains.
A lot of weekenders from Mumbai, Pune and nearby towns drive to Tamhini ghat to enjoy these beauties of nature in the rainy season. A must visit for all nature lovers to get their dose of fresh air, zero noise pollution, fresh greenery and of course natural waterfall flowing from the hilltop.
Though crowded over weekends, this is a perfect getaway for half-day visits and picnics. One can savour on hot tea, sweet corn and kanda bhajji (onion fritters) after getting drenched in the rains and under the waterfall. There are several small waterfalls around it giving this place a sense of calm and natural beauty.
Timing: Sunrise to sunset. Duration: 1 day outing Height of the waterfall: N.A. Best time to visit: During monsoon season from June to September. Entry Fee: N.A. Open days: All days of the week. Visit Duration: 2 – 3 hours. Photography: Allowed.
Bookings for a trip to Tamhini Waterfalls and Ghats PLEASE CLICK HERE
How to reach
From Pune:
A short drive from Pune through lush-green forests over well-laid tarmac road, one can reach the first major waterfall in Tamhini.
Tamhini Ghat is a 50 to 60 km drive from Pune, and may take about an hour or two depending on the traffic. You have to follow the Paud Road route from Chandni Chowk in Pune. After passing Pirangut and Paud villages you will come to the Mulshi Lake. Travel further down the ghat to reach the Tamhini Ghat. Soon you will start seeing small
waterfalls trickling down the hillsides.
There are state buses which ply through the ghat connecting Pune city with places on the Goa highway (NH17).
From Mumbai:
Tamhini Ghat can be accessed from Mumbai via the Mumbai-Goa Highway. Reach Kolad and after crossing the bridge over river Kundalika, take the left turn that leads to Pune via the Mulshi Dam backwaters. Tamhini Ghat is the stretch between Kolad and these backwaters. The gradual climb opens the doors to a different world of green velvety carpets, gushing streams, dark grey clouds stooping low, and the occasional waterfalls.
OR
From Mumbai, take the Express way towards Pune, exit at Lonavala. From Lonavala, it’s a scenic drive via Aamby Valley to Tamhini
By Rail:
Tamhini is not close to any railway station. Pune is the nearest junction and smaller stations that are close-by include Lonavala and Kasarwadi.
Places to see near the ghats and falls
Kolad village has become a popular destination with tourists from all over Maharashtra for its water rafting, adventure sports and other attractions.
Vanzai Devi Temple located in the Tamhini village.
Mulshi Lake located at the beginning of the ghat, the Mulshi Lake is a great picnic place with lush greenery on one side and endless water on the other.
Activities
Waterfall rappelling arranged here in the post-monsoon months when the water flow reduces
You can enjoy the scenic beauty of waterfalls and surrounding areas.
Best place for nature photography.
Get a glimpse of diverse range of local and migratory birds
Bookings for a trip to Tamhini Waterfalls and Ghats PLEASE CLICK HERE
Where to eat and stay
One can savour on hot tea, sweet corn and kanda bhajji (onion fritters) from the make shift food stalls near the falls.
Make shift food stalls near the waterfalls
There are several resorts and hotels on the ghat stretch and nearby the falls where you can stop for a meal or for an overnight stay.
Camping
Several adventure companies organize camping activities post monsoon on this ghat or near Mulshi Lake. For enquiry Please Click Here.
But adventure enthusiast seeking adventure can try their luck and seek permission from the local authorities and enjoy a camp near the falls.
A humble request
While visiting Tamhini Waterfalls and Ghat 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.
Sukeli is a tiny hamlet in the Raigad district of Maharashtra. This entire region is blessed with natural luxuriant foliage and greenery and is a popular holiday spot close to Kolad village.
Tourist walking towards the falls as they reach Sukeli village
Come monsoon and everyone thinks of waterfalls, so Sukeli Waterfalls is one place, which is a must visit during this time.
A view of the majestic Sukeli waterfalls.
A visit to the falls, and a view of the gushing waters and surging sprays, will keep your mind and soul refreshed and rejuvenated.
During this time the region is home to a number of migratory birds and apart from the waterfalls, Sukeli offers beautiful views, a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Tourist having a good time at the falls
The surroundings of the waterfalls have lush green forests and unexplored valleys, making it ideal for adventure activities like trekking, rappelling and having a picnic with buddies.
Timing: Sunrise to sunset. Duration: 1 day outing Best time to visit: During monsoon season from June to September. Entry Fee: N.A. Open days: All days of the week. Visit Duration: 2 – 3 hours. Photography: Allowed.
Waterfall Rappelling at Sukeli
Activities
Trekking
Waterfall Rappelling
Family Picnics
Photography for nature lovers
Watching rare species of birds
Rare birds which can be seen near the falls and surrounding greenery
How to reach
Located on Mumbai – Goa highway, Sukeli waterfalls is about 7 km from Kolad village. On Mumbai Goa National Highway 17.
A part of Mumbai – Goa highway
Distance by road: Mumbai to Roha (116 km) i.e. 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Pune to Sukeli: 135 km i.e. 2 hours and 30 minutes.
A view of the Roha Railway Station
By Rail: Roha railway station is nearest to reach Sukeli after which travelers can take local transport or State Transport buses to reach Sukeli.
Places near Sukeli
Kolad village has become a popular destination with tourists from all over Maharashtra for its water rafting, adventure sports and other attractions and is 7 km from Sukeli waterfalls.
River rafting in Kolad
Tourists visiting the falls can enjoy an extended vacation to Kolad village.
For more details about Adventure activities in Kolad PLEASE CLICK HERE
Since Sukeli is a secluded hamlet there are no proper hotels and restaurants, only make shift snack and tea stalls. So, it is advisable to carry your own water and snack items.
Camping
There is no official arrangement or infrastructure for camping at the falls. But adventure enthusiast seeking adventure can try their luck and seek permission from the local authorities and enjoy a camp near the falls.
A humble request
While visiting Sukeli 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.
Located in the Igatpuri region of the Sahyadri’s, is the ‘Randha Waterfalls’. A visit to the falls will guarantee you a hair – raising adventure, and you will find yourself squealing with joy at the gush of waters as they hit the rocks below.
The Randha falls at its glory during monsoon
Randha Waterfalls is known to be one of the prominent waterfalls in India, and a visit to the falls can be clubbed during a visit to the pretty hill town of Bhandardara.
The serene Pravara River that flows and forms into the waterfalls
These falls are formed by the cascading waters of the Pravara River, that plunge from height of 170 feet deep into a deep gorge.
A view of the falls from a distance
The beauty of the rocky sides of the deep gorge is, that it is home to a colony of bees, and one can see huge hanging hives under the rocky ledges adding to the beauty of the falls.
The sound of the falls can be heard from a distance, and once here tourist can enjoy the views of the falls from 2 observatories. The first observatory is situated at the top of the falls, giving a beautiful view of the falls. The second observatory is located further away, and from here one can get a whole look of the grand falls in one glimpse.
There is a smaller waterfall in the close vicinity, and during monsoons this entire area turns into a popular picnic spot for people from all over Maharashtra.
The falls is 11 km away from the Wilson dam, and its water is the chief source of hydro power to the Bhandardara region.
Timing: Sunrise to Sunset Duration: 1 day outing (Ideal on a trip to Bhandardara) Height of the waterfall: 45 meters (148 feet) Best time to visit: During monsoon season from June to September. Entry Fee: There is a nominal entry fee to the falls and car parking charges extra Open days: All days of the week Visit Duration: 2 – 3 hours Photography: Permitted
Randha Waterfalls is located on the Ranjur – Bhandardara Road, and is about 10 km from Shendi village. So a visit to the falls can be clubbed with visit to Bhandardara.
By Car
Distance from Mumbai: 185 km i.e. 3 hours 30 minutes.
From Pune there are regular buses from Shivaji Nagar to Bhandardara.
Nearest Railway Station: Igatpuri (41 km).
Activities
Spend time in the lap of nature admiring the beauty of the falls away from the noisy city life.
Enjoy views of the thundering falls from the 2 observatories
Enjoy a family picnic
Enjoy Photography
Visit the nearby Gorpada Devi Temple
Precautions
Overall the falls is a safe place to spend time in the company of family, and there are guards that ensure safety of tourist, but on a few sections there are no barricades which one needs to be careful about while viewing the falls from the observatories.
No changing rooms and wash rooms.
Places to see near Randha Waterfalls
Bhandardara Lake
Randha waterfalls is on the way to Bhandardara i.e. about 11 km away, hence tourist can club their visit as there are many attractions within the quaint hill station of Bhandardara i.e. Bhandardara Lake (Arthur Lake), Wilson Dam, Umbrella Falls, Amruteshwar Temple and treks to the nearby forts and peaks.
It is advisable to carry your own water and snacks as there are no proper restaurants near the falls, besides a few make shift tea and food stalls.
For proper meals tourist can travel to Bhandardara i.e. 11 km away.
Rajur Pedas are very popular do buy some on the way.
Camping
There is no official arrangement or infrastructure for camping at the falls. But adventure enthusiast seeking adventure can try their luck and seek permission from the local authorities and enjoy a camp near the falls.
A humble request to all tourists
While visiting Randha 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.
With the monsoon season setting in and greenery everywhere, it is time to explore the Pandavkada waterfalls, one of the true beauties of Navi Mumbai.
Beauty of the monsoons
Located in Kharghar, a suburb of Navi Mumbai, the Pandavkada waterfalls plunges from a height of 107 meters (350 feet), and is surrounded with green vibrant hills while kissing the cloud laden skies.
A view of the fall from a distance
The cascading waterfalls are a popular spot for a one day picnic for Mumbaikar’s during monsoon, offering a wonderful splash worth enjoying in the company of friends and family.
A walk to the falls
During monsoons the area is gets naturally beautified with greenery and visitors can experience a wonderful feeling of walking on a natural carpet of grass towards the falls.
Birds eye view of the fall
According to a local legend it is believed that the Pandavas (Of the Mahabharata Fame) during their exile had roamed through these forests and reached the waterfalls and saw it in its full glory.
The pond at the base of Pandavkada waterfalls
It is believed that they bathed in the pool under the falls, since then it has been considered as a scared fall.
Youngsters having a good time at the falls
It is further believed that there is a big tunnel within the Pandavkada from where the Pandavs has come therefore it is known as Pandavkada Ankit.
Timing: Sunrise to sunset. Duration: 1 day outing Height of the waterfall: 107 meters (350 feet) Best time to visit: During monsoon season from June to October Entry Fee: There is a nominal entry fee to the falls Open days: All days of the week. Visit Duration: 2 – 3 hours Photography: Permitted
Amazing views of the falls
Best Time to visit
The best time to visit the falls is during monsoon (June to October) when the falls are in its full glory.
College students enjoying themselves at the falls.
Be it weekdays or weekends, the waterfalls always has visitors coming from all parts of Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane and other nearby areas.
Under the falls
Please note: During a series of heavy rainfall, entry to the falls is restricted by local villagers or authorities, so kindly make a few enquiries a few days in advance before leaving for the spot.
The waterfalls are easily accessible by road and rail, here’s how:
By Train:
Kharghar is a suburb of Navi Mumbai and can be easily accessed on the Harbour railway line.
Kharghar Railway Station in Kharghar a suburb of Navi Mumbai
Travelers can board a train from any station (CST, Kurla, Andheri, Thane) that connects to the Harbour Railway line and reaches Kharghar station on the route of Panvel.
For Example: A train from CST railway station to Kharghar on the Harbour line will take about 1 hour 30 minutes.
After alighting at Kharghar station, tourist can take a rickshaw and reach the falls. Tourist can also get down at Nerul station and take a bus or taxi to the falls. After reaching, tourists will have to walk for a short distance to reach the spot where the waterfall is located.
By Road:
Tourist planning to travel down to Pandavkada by car can take the Sion – Panvel highway and reach Kharghar.
There is a designated place for car parking and once there tourist have to walk a short distance to reach the spot where the waterfall is located.
NMMT buses
There are also many buses run by KDMT, NMMT and BEST that connect Kharghar to Kalyan, Thane and Mumbai.
(Please Note: Kindly inquire about the buses that ply to Kharghar as there is constant change in bus timetables and routes).
- During a heavy rainfall avoid bathing under the falls.
The path leading to the falls is rocky and slippery
- Elderly or unfit travelers must avoid this place as during monsoon the approach road towards the falls is very slippery and pebbled, making it difficult to walk.
Youngsters enjoying themseleves
- Always keep basic first aid, dry clothes and wear shoes with good grips in order to avoid wild grass, insects and small reptiles that lurk around.
Places to see near Pandavkada Falls
- Buddhist Caves in the close vicinity.
- Belapur Fort, at Belapur, Navi Mumbai built by the Siddis of Janjira.
The Utsav Chowk in Kharghar
- Utsav Chowk a popular landmark in Kharghar that has been built in Graeco Roman Style with fountains, open spaces and gardens.
Where to Eat
There is no proper arrangement of tea or food stalls near the falls, hence it is advisable to carry your own water and snacks.
Restaurant in Kharghar are available at every budget
Tourist can enjoy proper meals in Kharghar that has hotels for every kind of budget.
Camping
There is no official arrangement or infrastructure for camping at the falls. But adventure enthusiast seeking adventure can try their luck and seek permission from the local authorities and enjoy a camp near the falls.
While visiting Pandavkada 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.
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