Discover Bhandardara

Nature Lover’s Heaven!

There are some places that never made it onto the center tourism stage; which makes them all the more attractive.

170 km from Mumbai, this hill station sits by the Pravara River “untouched and relatively unheard of as a tourist destination”.

The literal meaning of Bhandardara is a valley of treasures. Here the elements of nature are in perfect harmony – From the highest mountain peak in Maharashtra to one of the largest lakes and oldest dams in the country, completing its journey as the mother of all monsoon destinations with its cascading waterfalls, this locale has it all.

Bhandardara’s easy-going and rustic charm offers a taste of rural Maharashtra, quietness, a rejuvenating climate, and a healthy dose of clean air. Excellent weather throughout the year makes living here a highly pleasant experience.

A world of untouched beauty!

Exploring Bhandardara will provide days of enjoyment, whether your interest be historical, recreational, educational, or simply to indulge yourself in some of the local and fresh produce around.

In & Around

Lake Arthur Hill

Also popularly known as Bhandardara Lake; came into existence when the Wilson Dam was built across the Pravara River. Set like a huge jewel amidst dense canopied forests of the Sahyadri hills at a height of 750 meters, this clear and placid lake is one of the country’s largest lakes.

Wilson Dam

Built-in 1910 across River Pravara, Wilson Dam is situated at a height of 150 m above sea level. It’s one of the oldest dams in the country. The opening of sluice gates creates two 60 to 80 feet cascades of water that plummet to the rocks below.

Ratangad Fort

also called Jewel of the Sahyadri’s, Ratangad Fort was captured by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Situated in Village Ratanwadi, Maharashtra, overlooking the locale of Bhandardara, the fort is about 400 years old. Ratangad has a natural rock peak with a cavity in it at the top which is called ‘Nedhe’ or ‘Eye of the Needle’.

Umbrella Falls

This artificial waterfall is formed when one of the sluice gates from the Wilson Dam is opened. It is vaguely umbrella-shaped as it fans out over the rocks. A pathway takes you from the park at the foot of the dam to within drenching distance of the falls.

Randha Falls

Is one of the leading falls in India. The roaring River Pravara descends from a height of 170 ft into a beautiful gorge.

Agasti Rishi Ashram

Situated on the bank of the Pravara River, this legendary dwelling finds a place in the scripts of the Ramayana. Different mythical stories are associated with Rishi Agasti. According to the one, Agasti Rishi gave lord Rama a miraculous arrow by which he killed Ravana.

Sandhan Valley

Located near Samrad village near the fort of Ratangad it is undoubtedly “The Valley of Shadows”. Surrounded by the mighty and jaw-dropping mountains of Ratangad and Kalsubai, the valley stands at the height of 4255 ft high above sea level, which is the perfect spot for trekking, rapelling, and other adventure activities.

Mount Kalsubai

Situated at an elevation of 1,646 meters, Mount Kalsubai is the highest peak in Maharashtra. A trekker’s paradise, the peak has a small temple dedicated to Devi Kalsu.

Amruteshwar Temple

is an intricately carved Shiva temple located in Ratanwadi. This temple is over 1200 years old. This beautiful temple was built by the rulers of Shilahara dynasty in 9th century CE. This is one of twelve Lord Shiva temples built by King Jhanjha.

Kokan Kada

Located 22 km from Bhandardara, Kokan Kada is a viewpoint in the area. It offers panoramic views of the Sahyadri ranges.