Bhandardara is a peaceful and scenic hill station situated in the Sahyadri mountains of Maharashtra’s Ahilyanagar district. Surrounded by lush green hills, rivers, and valleys, it’s the perfect place for nature lovers and adventure seekers. It is located 175 km from Pune and 185 km from Mumbai, making it easily accessible for travelers looking to explore scenic landscapes and serene surroundings. Bhandardara is the starting point for many famous treks like Kalsubai Peak (the highest in Maharashtra), Ratangad Fort, Alang-Madan-Kulang (AMK), and Sandhan Valley.
The area is also known for its beautiful waterfalls, especially during the monsoon-Randha Falls, Vasundhara Falls, Wilson Dam and many small seasonal cascades that appear all around. Whether you’re unwinding by the tranquil Arthur Lake or trekking through the surrounding hills and forts, Bhandardara offers a refreshing escape into nature. In this article, I’m excited to share some of the beautiful locations I explored during my visit which make Bhandardara my favorite place in the Western Ghats, each filled with stunning views, peaceful vibes, and unforgettable moments.
➥Randha Waterfall
Randha Falls is one of the most beautiful and powerful waterfalls in Maharashtra, located near Bhandardara on the Pravara River. In the monsoon season, the waterfall becomes a huge, roaring stream that drops from a height of about 170 feet into a deep valley. People often call it a mini Niagara Falls because of its size and strength.
A nicely built bridge lets you walk across and enjoy the amazing view from up close. The sound of the water, cool mist, and green hills around make it a perfect spot to visit. Just nearby is the peaceful Ghorpade Devi Temple, which adds a spiritual touch to this natural beauty.
➥Wilson Dam & Umbrella Waterfall
Built in 1910, the Wilson Dam also known as Bhandardara Dam is one of the oldest and tallest dams in India, standing at a height of 150 meters across the Pravara River. Located in Bhandardara, the dam creates the serene Arthur Lake, adding to the area’s natural charm.
During the monsoon, when the dam overflows, water is released through gates behind the dam, creating the stunning Umbrella Falls-named for the umbrella-like shape the water forms as it splashes over rocks. A viewing bridge offers the perfect spot to watch this magical sight. It’s a great blend of natural beauty and historic engineering.
➥Arthur Lake
Also known as Bhandardara Lake, Arthur Lake is a large, serene reservoir formed by the backwaters of the Wilson Dam on the Pravara River. Surrounded by lush green hills, it offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and campers.
During the monsoon, the lake fills to its brim, and strong winds create high waves that resemble sea tides crashing against a shore-a rare sight in a hill station. Boating is popular here in the drier months, while the misty monsoon views make it picture-perfect. The lake is the lifeline of Bhandardara’s beauty and a must-visit spot year-round.
➥Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary
The Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary, near Bhandardara, is a vast and scenic forest reserve that wraps around the tranquil Arthur Lake. Rich in dense woods, rice fields, misty waterfalls, and wildlife, it offers a 50-55 km circuit trail perfect for cycling, nature walks, and off-road drives.
It’s also a trekking paradise, with iconic routes like Harishchandragad trek, Ratangad Fort, the thrilling Sandhan Valley, and the challenging AMK (Alang-Madan-Kulang) trek-known for its rugged terrain and high adventure level. The trail also passes tribal villages, offering a cultural glimpse of rural Sahyadri life. Whether you seek adventure, biodiversity, or serenity, this sanctuary is a perfect escape into Maharashtra’s natural heartland.
➥Vasundhara Waterfall
Hidden in the serene hills of Bhandardara, Vasundhara Waterfall is a breathtaking natural wonder surrounded by lush greenery and misty valleys. The waterfall cascades gracefully from a great height, creating a tranquil and refreshing atmosphere. It is best visited during the monsoon season (June to September) when the flow is at its peak and the landscape turns vibrant green. Unlike the crowded Randha Falls, Vasundhara offers peace and solitude, making it ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and trekkers.
➥Koltembhe Waterfall
Located close to the famous Vasundhara Waterfall, Koltembhe Waterfall in Bhandardara is a magnificent natural attraction often called the “Bahubali Waterfall” because of its grand size and powerful flow. Surrounded by dense forests and green valleys, it offers a breathtaking sight, especially during the monsoon season, when the waterfall roars with full force. The misty spray, cool breeze, and scenic backdrop make it a paradise for photographers and nature lovers. Still untouched by heavy crowds, Koltembhe retains its raw charm, offering visitors a peaceful escape into nature’s grandeur and one of Bhandardara’s most stunning hidden treasures.
➥Nhani Waterfall & Necklace Waterfall
Among Bhandardara’s many natural wonders, Nhani Waterfall and Necklace Waterfall stand out for their breathtaking beauty and tranquil charm. Nhani Waterfall, known for its gentle yet steady flow, offers a serene setting surrounded by dense greenery and rocky cliffs.
Just a short distance away, Necklace Waterfall gets its name from its unique shape—multiple streams cascading side by side, resembling a sparkling necklace. Both waterfalls are best visited during the monsoon season, when they come alive in full glory. Ideal for photography, picnics, and quiet reflection, these twin falls showcase the untouched natural beauty of Bhandardara’s valleys.
➥Beautiful Rice Fields
During the monsoon season, the rice fields of Bhandardara turn bright green and come alive with beauty. The rain fills the fields, and the young rice plants grow fresh and vibrant. You can often see farmers planting rice by hand, working patiently together in the gentle rain-a scene that reflects the simplicity and harmony of rural life. The cool breeze, soft drizzle, and greenery all around make the place peaceful and refreshing. For travelers, the rice fields of Bhandardara offer a perfect glimpse of nature’s beauty and the charm of traditional farming during monsoon.
➥Shri Amriteshwar Temple
Located in Ratanwadi village, deep inside the Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary, Shri Amriteshwar Temple is an ancient and revered temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its age-old architecture and peaceful surroundings reflect the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the region. The temple also serves as the base village for the famous Ratangad Trek, making it a key stop for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts. Surrounded by dense forests, rugged hills, and scenic views, the temple offers a serene and spiritual experience before embarking on the challenging trek. Visiting Shri Amriteshwar is not just a spiritual journey but also a gateway to nature and adventure in Bhandardara.
Bhandardara truly comes alive during the monsoon season, making it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Maharashtra. The entire region turns into a green paradise, with cascading waterfalls, the serene Wilson Dam and Arthur Lake, mist-covered hills, and vibrant rice fields adding to its charm. The nearby Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary offers breathtaking natural beauty and a peaceful escape for nature lovers. Whether you’re an adventurer, nature lover, a photographer, or simply someone seeking calm, Bhandardara never disappoints. It’s a place to breathe fresh air, reconnect with nature, and feel truly alive. My personal suggestion-avoid weekends, as it can get quite crowded, and instead visit on weekdays to enjoy the tranquil side of this heavenly monsoon retreat.
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➜ Don’t Miss in Bhandardara: Experience the serene beauty of lakes, waterfalls, and lush green hills that come alive during the monsoon. Take a leisurely walk around Arthur Lake and Wilson Dam, explore the mist-covered valleys, and enjoy panoramic views of the Western Ghats. For adventure enthusiasts, trekking to Ratangad or Harishchandragad offers breathtaking vistas and a closer connection with nature. Don’t miss the vibrant rice fields and rural villages that showcase the simple, picturesque life of the region.
➜ How to Reach Bhandardara: Bhandardara is about 185 km from Mumbai and 90 km from Pune, well connected by road. Regular buses, private taxis, and cabs operate from nearby cities. The nearest railway station is Igatpuri, and the closest airports are in Mumbai and Pune.
➜ Best Time to Visit Bhandardara: The monsoon season (June-September) is the most enchanting, with waterfalls at full flow and hills turning lush green. Winter months (October–February) are also pleasant, ideal for trekking, boating, and exploring the countryside. Avoid visit in weekdays due to crowd. If travelling during weekends try to explore as early as possible in the morning.
➜ Time Required to Explore Bhandardara: Minimum 2 days trip is recommended to enjoy the lakes, waterfalls, treks, and villages. For trekkers or nature lovers, spending 2-3 days allows a more relaxed exploration of hidden trails, viewpoints, and natural beauty.
Information Source: Authentic information sources available on internet, Various Articles and books on the subject, official sources of govt & Interaction with local public.