Bhandardara Camping- Everything You Need to Know

Bhandardara Camping- Everything You Need to Know
5 min read
31 January 2023

Bhandardara is a picturesque hill station located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, India. It is situated in the Ahmednagar district and is known for its serene beauty, lush green surroundings, and pleasant climate throughout the year. It is an ideal destination for Bhandardara camping, trekking, and other outdoor activities.

About Bhandardara 

The main attraction of Bhandardara is Arthur Lake, which is the largest lake in the district. The lake is surrounded by beautiful hills and offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake, which provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy the tranquil surroundings and spot various types of birds such as cormorants and kingfishers.

Another popular attraction in Bhandardara is the Wilson Dam, which is located just a few kilometers from the lake. The dam is situated on the Pravara River and is a popular spot for picnicking, fishing, and swimming. Visitors can take a stroll along the dam and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding hills and the water cascading down the dam.

The area around Bhandardara is also known for its rich biodiversity and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can take a trek through the dense forests and explore the various species of plants and animals that inhabit the region. Some of the popular trekking trails include the Ratangad Fort, Sandhan Valley, and Kalsubai Peak, which is the highest peak in Maharashtra.

Camping and resorts

There are many camping options available in Bhandardara, from luxury resorts to basic tents. Campsites are located in close proximity to the lake and the dam, providing visitors with easy access to the main attractions. Many campsites offer a variety of amenities such as toilets, showers, and kitchens, which makes camping in Bhandardara a comfortable and convenient experience. Some campsites also offer activities such as bonfire, bird watching, and stargazing, which makes it a perfect place for family and friends to spend time together.

However, visitors should be prepared for the possibility of rain as the Western Ghats receive a significant amount of rainfall each year. Monsoon season is from June to September, camping during this time can be a bit challenging but the serene beauty of the place and the misty clouds make it more enchanting.

In addition to camping, Bhandardara is also known for its spiritual significance. The region is home to several ancient temples, such as the Amruteshwar Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the Bhandardara Dam Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Ram. Visitors can take a tour of these temples and learn about the history and culture of the region.



Getting to Bhandardara:

All of Maharashtra's major cities are easily accessible from the Bhandardara. By car and train are the main ways to get to Bhandardara.

By Road

Bhandardara is located 103 miles (166 kilometers) from Mumbai, while it is 106 miles (140 kilometers) from Pune (172 Km). Both public and private buses are available to get you there. A private cab can also be rented from Mumbai or Pune in addition to this. It will also be great if you want to travel there in your car.

In a train:

The closest large city to Bhandardara, which also has a railhead, is Igatpuri. On the rail line connecting Mumbai and Nashik is the Igatpuri railroad station. So, go there by getting on a train first. Igatpuri and Bhandardara are 45 kilometres apart. To get to the Bhandardara Campsite, leave the station and board a shared jeep or hire a private car. If you want to use the train to get to Pune, you must first take the Indrayani SF Express up to Kalyan Junction, and then you must join the Ratnagiri SF Express to get to Igatpuri.



By Plane:

The airports in Mumbai and Pune are convenient if you're coming to Bhandardara from elsewhere in the nation.

Activities at Bhandardara Lake:

If you have extra time, you can explore the area alone after checking out of the campsite. The following are some of the Bhandardara tourist attractions:

  • Sandhan Valley
  • Kalsubai Peak
  • Pawna Lake
  • Randha Waterfall
  • Umbrella Waterfall
  • Amruteshwar Mahadev Temple
  • Samrad Village 
  • Ratangad Fort
  • Bhavali Dam
  • Wilson Dam
  • Alang Madan Kulang
  • Fireflies at Purushwadi



Conclusion

In conclusion, Bhandardara is an ideal destination for those who are looking for a peaceful and serene vacation in the lap of nature. The Arthur Lake, Wilson Dam, and the surrounding hills and forests provide visitors with a wide range of activities and sights to explore. With its comfortable camping options, rich biodiversity, and spiritual significance, Bhandardara is a must-visit destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts.







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abhi kumawat 0
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