College life, often hailed as a treasure trove of memories, holds a special place in everyone’s heart .There is something about packing your bags and venturing out into unknown paths along with like-minded people that makes a trip all the more exciting. To add a touch of uniqueness to our college years, we embarked on an unforgettable spontaneous trip.
Turning to the map for inspiration, the Western Ghats emerged as our guiding star. We opted for Bhandardara village, nestled near Igatpuri, in the Sahyadri range. Situated in Maharashtra’s Ahmednagar district, the village, located 185 kilometers from Mumbai and 155 kilometers from Ahmednagar, provided the perfect backdrop. It’s crucial not to mistake it for the Akola district in Vidarbha. Our journey commenced from Aurangabad to Igatpuri by train, followed by a bus ride to Bhandardara. we found ourselves there like nomads. Initially unsure about exploring the place. Thankfully, we crossed paths with a local who graciously lent us his vehicle, rescuing our adventure.
Places to visit :
- Randha waterfall :
That’s where our journey commenced, and Randha waterfall greeted us as our first taste of Bhandardara. Located just 10 kilometers away, this waterfall takes shape over the Pravara River. Dropping our bags on the premises, we plunged into the water, experiencing a profound realization of life’s sheer simplicity and boundless joy. This spot offers a serene space for relaxation at your leisure.
2. Amruteshwar temple :
After our visit to Randha, we enjoyed lunch and then proceeded to the Amruteshwar Temple in Ratanwadi village, a 17 km journey from Bhandardara. This ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and boasting a history of over 1,200 years, showcases stunning Hemadpanthi architecture adorned with intricate rock carvings. Maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India, the temple stands as a testament to its rich heritage. Despite its proximity to Ratangad Fort, we unfortunately missed the chance to explore the fort during our trip.
3. Sandhan Valley :
Nestled within the lively Sahyadri mountain range, Sandhan Valley is a captivating carved landscape, flanked by the imposing Ratangad and Kalsubai peaks. Standing at an elevation of 4,255 feet above sea level, this spot offers an ideal setting for trekking and various adventure pursuits, boasting a unique blend of canyon and valley features. Situated on the western edge of the Bhandardara region, Sandhan Valley can be found near Samrad village in Maharashtra, India.
4. Arthur lake :
Arthur Lake, also referred to as Lake Arthur Hill, is created by the waters flowing from the Pravara River.
Experience the serene beauty of Arthur Lake through a boat ride, immersing yourself in the surrounding landscape and gaining insights into Bhandardara’s diverse cultures and traditions. The lake’s tranquil blue waters also offer a perfect setting for camping and an essential boat ride experience.
Beautiful evening view of the lake
Other places to visit :
Kalasubai Peak : It is known as the “Everest of Maharashtra,” this peak stands as the highest point in the state; however, our time constraints prevented us from visiting it.
Ratangad Fort : Ratangad is also called Jewel of the Sahyadris. It is situated just 6 km away from Ratanwadi. The fort is about 400 years old.
Bhandardara Captures
