From Mumbai
Mumbai offers many an escape into little
known hill stations in the Ghats, but perhaps none so unpretentious and charming as
Bhandardara in Maharashtra's Ahmednagar district. Bhandardara is comfortably close to
Mumbai - just a short train journey - making it a delightful weekend getaway. The best
thing about this resort is that it is uncrowded and peaceful, with the kind of
"back-to-nature" environment that helps you connect with yourself.
The serene Arthur Lake
glimmers at Bhandardara's core, the forests of the Sahyadri hills huddling protectively
around. The Pravara River waters Arthur Lake. Bhandardara is justifiably proud of its 150
m high Wilson Dam that bridles the river, as it is not just an
engineering marvel but also the lifeblood for the paddy fields nearby. The ancient Agastya
Rishi Ashram on the banks of the Pravara River is another attraction. The ashram
is mentioned in the Ramayana as the spot where Ram met Agastya Rishi.
Nearby, the Randha Falls
hurtle down a 45 m granite gorge, its spray splattering the rock face. The Ghorpada Devi
temple nestles in a dry hollow and remains mysteriously protected from the rising water
levels even during the monsoons.
If you are energetically inclined, hike up to
Mount Kalsubai, Mahrashtra's highest peak at 1646 m. This is a day's trek
that can be combined with Ratanwadi, 22 km away; the 8th century Amruteshwar
temple; and the 400-year-old Ratangad Fort where the Maratha
warrior Shivaji rested on his laurels.
Drink in the solitary splendour of the area
from the cliffs of Konkan Kada - where you can see the Sahyadri peaks
staggering up to the sky. The entire region is a wildlife sanctuary and the forests
shelter a host of jungle birds and mammals.
Once you discover Bhandardara, it's a cert
that you will be drawn by its tranquillity again and again!
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