Bhandardara

BACKGROUND

Situated on the bank of Pravara River, having a place with the locale of Ahmednagar, Bhandardara is, without even batting an eye, a value visiting travel of Maharashtra. Enhanced with a mélange of cascades; nirvana calm mountains; breezy breezes; thick vegetation, and an impeccable air inspiring sentimentalism and rapture, Bhandardara invests heavily in being the residence of the much renowned Kalsubai Mountains. This mountain boasts about its status as the most high top in Maharashtra, with a stature of about 5,400ft from ocean level. It is clearly a firm bond between a traveler and a trekker. 

Ghats here have known to witness some immense battles to control of territories. Chhatrapati Shivaji, a Maratha king, built forts to watch these trade routes' movements. Hence, Bhandhardara is also famous as the jewel of Maharashtra. The terrains open the doors to the vast history of western ghats. 

Historic Importance:

People believe that Shri Agasti Rishi meditated for a year only on air and water. Then, pleased by his devotion, God blessed him with a stream of Ganga river, now known as the Pravara River. 

Another ancient legend has its mention in the scripts of Ramayana. Locals also believe that Lord Ram and his brother Lakshman visited Shri Ahasti Rishi to seek his blessings. The Rishi gave lord Rama an arrow which he used to kill Ravana and rescue his wife, Sita. The Ashram situated on the bank of the river is a famous point of attraction for visitors.

THINGS TO DO

Positioned on the Western Ghats, Bhandardara brags a massive number of vacation destinations in and around the spot. Bhandardara Lake and Randha Falls top the rundown of being the most amazing destinations that hypnotize voyagers from the nation over. The richness of Randha Falls delightfully mixes during the rainstorm. Pravara River in Randha Falls faints into the pit with much fierceness. 

Wilson Dam, which sits on the raised tallness of 150 meters, orders a stunning perspective on the seething water plunging on the rocks under to the vacationers who are allowed to dally at the beautiful base of the dam.

The lovely Arthur Lake overshadowed with the woods of the Sahaydris is the following most visited site when in Bhandardara. Bhandardara is home to lots of touring places: Ghatghar, Ratnagad, Sandhan Valley, Angling, Agasti Rishi Ashram, Amriteshwar Temple, Ratanwadi, Anandvaan Resort, to give some examples.

There are numerous camp holders on the banks of the river, providing the experience of stargazing. A treat for astrophotography lovers, they can capture stunning photos of star trails and the Milky Way. These camps also provide you with entertainment packages which include a bonfire, barbeque, and fun activities. During May and June, you can enjoy fireflies in this area. These flies decorate the trees, making them look magical.   

Cuisine of Bhandardara

There are very few yet delicious options for eating out in Bhandardara. The local staple of varan bhat (dal-rice) is readily available but can be spicy. Some tandoori and non-veg food is available but should be ordered in advance, or you can expect a long wait while it is prepared for you.

If you are lucky, freshwater fish and shrimp are sometimes on the menu or ordered in advance. In MTDC's Nath restaurant, the freshly caught fish they cook up is the only exciting item among Indian, Chinese, Gujarati, and Punjabi menus. But like elsewhere in Bhandardara, anything you want needs to be ordered in advance here as well. Nath is open from 6.30 am to 11.30 pm. In addition, the Maharashtrian regular fare of usal pao, misal pao, and vada pao are all readily available.

The area is famous for a rather sweet peda that one can find being sold everywhere. It is even used to sweeten the tea you drink at the local chai stall. Some of the newer hotels also have restaurants where you can get fresh food.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Bhandardara uncovers its alluring appeal in June till September, when the atmosphere is relaxed and windy instead of the mid-year when it's scalding and sticky. Temperatures range between 20 degrees C to 30 degrees C. Thus, the months between June and March will, in general, be an ideal opportunity to visit Bhandardara. The storms during these months make amazing sights for one to investigate.

AVAILABILITY OF ACCOMMODATION

There are quite a few places to stay in Bhandardara, and these include hotels and homestays. It isn't costly to stay in Bhandardara, and one can find an excellent place to stay at reasonable prices. They also offer camp stays. Those are different experiences; one must try if one can.