Bhandardara: A Hidden Sahyadri Gem Just Hours From Mumbai

Discover Bhandardara: A Hidden Sahyadri Gem Just Hours From Mumbai, Where Nature's Beauty and Tranquility Await. (Image: Canva)

Just five hours from Mumbai, nestled in the lush folds of the Sahyadri range, lies Bhandardara—a quiet, often-overlooked escape that’s big on beauty and rich in stories. Here, rivers leap off cliffs, forests light up with fireflies, and ancient temples whisper tales older than time.

If you're looking for a summer escape to swap city chaos for starlit skies and mist-draped mornings, Bhandardara in May offers a perfect retreat. It's not just a destination—it's a mood, a peaceful haven to unwind and reconnect with nature.

A Lakeside Dream: Arthur Lake & Wilson Dam

Begin your Bhandardara story at Arthur Lake, a mirror-still water body framed by velvety hills and dense forests. It owes its existence to the Wilson Dam, a British-engineered marvel built in 1910. Come monsoon, the dam transforms into a dramatic spectacle as Umbrella Falls roar to life, cascading in full force beneath the arching overflow—a natural theatre of sound and spray that you won’t soon forget.

The Wild Side: Randha Falls

If raw power thrills you, head to Randha Falls, where the Pravara River dives 170 feet into a rugged canyon. The thundering plunge is awe-inspiring, especially during monsoon, and the surrounding landscape—craggy rocks and green forests—adds to the drama. It’s a haven for photographers and nature lovers, and a reminder that untamed beauty is often the most mesmerizing.

Climb the Clouds: Trek to Kalsubai, Maharashtra’s Highest Peak

Adventurers, meet your match. The Kalsubai Peak trek is not for the faint-hearted, but those who reach the top are rewarded with sweeping views that stretch for miles. At 1,646 meters, it’s Maharashtra’s highest point—and its rooftop. The route weaves past wildflowers, rocky staircases, and iron ladders, with forts like Harishchandragad and Ratangad dotting the horizon. At the summit sits a modest temple to goddess Kalsubai, standing guard over the clouds.

A Night of Fireflies: Kajwa Mahotsav

As the summer heat gives way to the monsoon breeze, something truly magical unfolds in the forests around Bhandardara. Millions of fireflies gather for a luminous spectacle, flashing in synchronized beauty during their mating dance. Known as Kajwa Mahotsav, this short-lived festival of light transforms the trees into twinkling wonders, making time feel like it has stopped. If you’re planning a visit to Bhandardara in May or early June, the Kajwa Mahotsav in 2025 will take place from May 17, 2025, to June 22, 2025, making it the perfect time to experience this breathtaking phenomenon.

Ancient Echoes: Ratanwadi & Amruteshwar Temple

Far from the tourist trail, Ratanwadi village offers a slice of old-world Maharashtra. Cobbled paths lead to the Amruteshwar Temple, an exquisite 12th-century shrine carved in black stone, still standing strong after centuries. Time seems to slow down here, as the chants of pilgrims mingle with birdsong and the occasional cowbell. It’s also the base for the rugged trek to Ratangad Fort, perfect for those chasing sunrise views with a side of history.

Beyond the Map: Other Hidden Treasures

Bhandardara isn’t just about lakes and peaks—it’s also home to lesser-known wonders that reward the curious traveller. Venture a little off the beaten path to uncover these unforgettable gems:

1. Sandhan Valley – Maharashtra’s own canyon, where adventure meets silence

2. Agastya Rishi Ashram – A peaceful hermitage with mythical roots

3. Harishchandragad Fort – For seasoned trekkers chasing dramatic cliff views

4. Umbrella Falls – Only during monsoon, but worth the wait

When to Go

Whether you're chasing thundering waterfalls, cool trekking weather, or the magical glow of fireflies, Bhandardara has a season for every kind of traveller. Here's when to plan your escape:

• Monsoon (June–September): Waterfalls at their wildest, forests at their greenest
• Post-Monsoon (October–February): Crisp air, clear skies, perfect for hiking
• Early Summer (May–June): Come for the fireflies, stay for the peace

Getting There

Reaching Bhandardara is part of the charm—whether you’re cruising down scenic highways, hopping off a train at a misty hill station, or flying in from afar. Here’s how to make your way to this hidden gem with ease:

• By Road: A scenic drive via NH3 from Mumbai. Turn off at Ghoti and follow the signs.
• By Train: Nearest station is Igatpuri (45 km). Taxis or local buses available.
• By Air: Mumbai International Airport is around 177 km away.

Why Bhandardara Deserves Your Weekend Bhandardara isn’t your typical hill station with souvenir stalls and selfie points. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect—with nature, with history, and with yourself.

Whether you’re pitching a tent under the stars, listening to the roar of a monsoon waterfall, or watching fireflies flicker in the darkness, one thing is certain: this underrated weekend getaway from Mumbai will leave a mark on your soul long after the trip ends.