Bhandardara: The Undiscovered Monsoon Gem Outside of Mumbai

Hidden away in the picturesque Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, Bhandardara is a treasure of the Western Ghats. The hill station is surrounded by lush flora and immaculate lakes, with the majestic Sahyadri mountain ranges providing a stunning backdrop. Mumbai is 185 km away, Pune is 161 km away, and Nashik is 72 km away. The large reservoir known as Arthur Lake, created by the Wilson Dam, is the primary draw of Bhandardara. Its serene waters create a captivating vista as they reflect the nearby hills and woodlands.Marvelous in its engineering, the dam offers breathtaking views of the valley below. Nestled on the banks of the River Pravara, the hill station of Bhandardara attracts naturalists from far and wide. They come to witness the stunning Randha Falls, where the Pravara River plummets dramatically from a height. The monsoon season transforms the landscape, giving rise to the aptly named Umbrella Falls, known for its distinctive round shape. Tons Of Scenic Beauty Awaits! (Source: Google Images)  Historical Background and Legends Revolving Around ~ Legend has it that the sage Agastya spent a year in meditation here. The gods granted him a stream of the Ganga, now known as the River Pravara, as a reward for his penance. Trekking trails go through Bhandardara, and forts are scattered throughout the area. Trekkers particularly like climbing Maharashtra's highest peak, the well-known Mount Kalsubai. Rich in vegetation, the hilltop forts of Ratangad and Harishchandragad provide expansive views. At the summit of Ratangad Fort is a unique natural rock formation that overlooks the valley below and has a hollow that resembles an arch. In addition, Bhandardara is a well-liked destination for travelers heading to Shirdi and Nashik. Visitors looking for a getaway from the city are drawn to it because of its lush surroundings and temperate climate, which make it perfect for hiking and nature hikes all year round. Bhandardara enthralls with its untainted appeal whether you're boating on Arthur Lake, hiking historic forts, or just taking in the peace. Mount Kalsubai, Maharashtra's highest peak at 1,600 meters, is also located there. An important part of Bhandardara's history is the Wilson Dam, built in 1910 as part of a British irrigation project for the region. It led to the creation of Arthur Lake, opening a major chapter in the growth of the area's agriculture and tourism. The yearly Kajwa Mahotsav is held at Bhandardara in May or June, during the height of the firefly season. Millions of fireflies blink in synchrony at this event, casting their radiance over the night. The Amruteshwar Temple in Ratanwadi is located approximately 17 miles from Bhandardara. Built-in the ninth century CE by the Shilahara dynasty, it is an elaborately sculpted Shiva temple that dates back more than 1200 years. One of the twelve Shiva temples that King Jhanjha ordered, this one's shikhara is still very ornate despite the mandapa's roof having vanished and revealing the ceiling's inner lintels. According to the Archaeological Survey of India, this monument is significant to the country. At Bhandardara, indigenous tribal communities practice farming and fishing. The local communities enrich the tapestry with dance, music, and handicrafts. The top attractions at Bhandardara are: 1. Arthur Lake: Serene reservoir behind Wilson Dam, ideal for boat rides and scenic views. 2. Wilson Dam: British-era engineering marvel offering panoramic Sahyadri views. 3. Reverse Waterfall: Some distance away is homely Samrad village, which is the base village for some of the most beautiful treks in the region. However, a little treasure is that it has a magnificent view of Konkankada and a massive reverse waterfall nearby! It is shrouded in clouds during monsoon.  4. Randha Falls:  The most famous waterfall in the Bhandardara region, it falls from a height of 170 feet and is jaw-dropping spectacular! There are multiple falls on either side of the viewpoint and flow in full blast in monsoon. It is one of the best sights in the state! 5. Umbrella Falls:  The magnificent Umbrella fall is located below the dam. On the days when the water in the dam overflows or reaches full capacity, its gates are opened. This results in huge cascades of water and is called Umbrella Falls. It is enormous, and tourists can have a full view of the fall by walking down a bridge that goes around it. 6. Amruteshwar Temple: It is an ancient Shiva temple located in Ratanwadi. It has beautiful stone carvings and is made in the Hemadpanthi architectural style. Peaceful and lost in time, it is believed to have been made in the 9th century by King Jhang of the Shilahara dynasty. The idol gets submerged in water during monsoon. The ride to the temple, along the banks of Arthur Lake, is filled with views but long in duration. However, one sight of the temple makes the ride uphill worthwhile. 7. Agastya Rishi Ashram: Mythologically linked ashram on the Pravara River's banks, serene and spiritual. 8. Kalsubai Peak: Western Ghats' highest peak, challenging trek with panoramic rewards. 9. Sandhan Valley: Trekking paradise with gorges and water-carved rocks. 10. Bhandardara Dam: Scenic spot contributing to the region's natural beauty, perfect for photography and relaxation. 11. Naanhi and Necklace Falls: En route to Amruteshwar temple, there are many beautiful spots full of greenery and valley views. Pitstop for tea and snacks is strategically located right opposite scenic Naanhi Falls. There is a small bridge to enable tourists to get a closer view. One can also spot picturesque Necklace fall. It’s a tiered waterfall, naturally formed in the shape of a necklace (circular), hence it is named that way. The location is ideal for a family day excursion because of its laid-back and enjoyable atmosphere. Create your favorite memory by sipping tea and eating spicy bhutta while admiring the rain-soaked lush valleys. You will be quite happy to see these breathtaking natural phenomena up close!