Weekends are all about unwinding and relaxing. What better way to do that than being amongst nature? Choose any of the weekends of your liking and plan a trip to these two iconic hill stations located in the Nashik District and Ahilyanagar District (formerly known as Ahmednagar). We’ve created just the perfect Igatpuri-Bhandardara itinerary for you!
Places To Visit In Igatpuri On Day 1
1. Dhamma Giri
Start your day with an empowering spiritual experience as you visit Dhamma Giri, or the Hill of Dhamma. You’ll know you are close to your destination when you spot the golden pagoda. Dhamma Giri is one of the world’s largest meditation centers where thousands of people come in search of inner peace and a calm mind.
The pagoda has over 400 cells for individual meditation and hosts 10-day shibirs (camps). If you are drawn to the vibe of the place, you should apply for the 10-day discourse!
2. Ghatandevi Temple
This temple is dedicated to Ghatandevi, who is believed to be the protector of Igatpuri’s ghats. The temple is enveloped by nature on all sides and extremely close to the highway.
From the temple, you can also view the Harihar, Durvar Utvad, and Trimak peaks. So, blend a little bit of spirituality with nature and let go of your worries.
Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
3. Camel Valley Viewpoint
Try to spot the head of a camel that’s formed by the rocky cliffs. Located near Bhatsa River Valley, this viewpoint is an underrated gem that gives you a beautiful panoramic view of the deep valley. During monsoons, the lush greenery and the waterfalls make it a paradise for all those who have a soft spot for nature and are in search of a temporary escape.
4. Vihigaon Waterfalls
Also known as the Ashoka Falls, this 120-ft seasonal waterfall is a sight to behold. Some parts of Shah Rukh Khan’s movie Aśoka were shot at these waterfalls, making them quite renowned in Maharashtra.
It’s also a great adventure spot as you can engage in activities like hiking, trekking, and water rappelling. You can even take a dip or swim in the plunge pool of Vihigaon Waterfalls.
Also Read: Beyond The City Lights: The Ultimate Guide To Lakeside Camping And Stargazing In Igatpuri
Places To Visit In Bhandardara On Day 2
Now that you’ve explored the best places in Igatpuri, take this day to enjoy everything the neighboring Bhandardara has to offer.
1. Amruteshwar Temple
17 km from Bhandardara, this temple stands on the riverbanks of the Pravara. It was built by the Shilahara rulers and is adorned with rock carvings. You can also reach the temple by boat and a 4 km walk from Bhandardara.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, you’ll find a Shiva lingam that attracts many devotees. There’s even a fresh rainwater spring below the lingam, and during monsoon, when the level rises, the main sanctum gets filled with water. You can also see the beautiful sculptures made out of black stone in the pond that surrounds the temple.
2. Kalsubai Peak
Your trip and our Igatpuri-Bhandardara itinerary are incomplete without the mention of Kalsubai Peak. Trek to Maharashtra’s highest peak, Kalsubai at 5,400 feet, for an adventurous escapade near Bhandardara. Panoramic views, lush greenery, and a mix of easy-to-challenging trails await you. Don’t miss the option of climbing man-made stairs for a unique ascent! Kalsubai is also known as the Everest of Maharashtra, and for very fair reasons!
3. Arthur Lake And Wilson Dam
Get a little bit of private time with your friends or family and plan a picnic at Arthur Lake – one of the famous spots in Bhandardara. Surrounded by mountains, it’s among the best camping spots near Mumbai. You’ll find tents lined up, so you can explore around and go boating, exploring, and unwinding in nature, and then return to one of them for relaxation.
4. Umbrella Falls
Witness the stunning seasonal waterfall near the Wilson Dam. During heavy rains, the waterfall is known to overflow, forming a picturesque cascade over a rock. It’s best viewed from a bridge and is accessible by a short walk from Bhandardara bus station. We strongly recommend that you plan your visit during monsoons for the best experience.
Also Read: Mumbai To Bhandardara: How To Reach, What To Do, Where To Stay & Your Ultimate Monsoon Guide
Author’s Note
Bhandardara and Igatpuri are some of the best budget getaway destinations from Mumbai as well as Pune. If you’re craving a quick or budget-friendly break from your daily life, these are the places you should consider. Depending on your free time and budget, you can comfortably cover either or both of these destinations without breaking your bank!
Summing Up
All of these places in Igatpuri and Bhandardara will get you in touch with nature by the end of it. From getting your tranquillity in a pagoda to being on the highest point of Maharashtra, this 2-day Igatpuri-Bhandardara itinerary makes sure you get to experience the best of both these hill stations.
