Introduction
Bhandardara is a beautiful hill station located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, India. It is an ideal place for camping as it offers a serene environment and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The best time to visit Bhandardara for camping is during the monsoon season when the area is lush green and the waterfalls are in full flow.
You drift off to sleep in a cosy slumber while taking in the glittering stars in the sky in low light. And the next morning, hear the birds chirping before the sun rises. Why not spend this time in a peaceful setting? Camping at Bhandardara is similar to that. There are numerous things you may do to have an unforgettable experience there.
Serene Camping Experience:
The location offers you a genuine, unadulterated camping adventure experience in the middle of nature. You can achieve a high level of comfort here and go back to the essentials of living by staying a while. You can experience chirping birds across lush forests, hills reflected in the water, a calming waterfall, starry nights, a cosy bonfire, and brisk winds all in one place. To put it simply, the Bhandardara camping area offers a calm and tranquil setting that will let you reconnect with nature.
An Ideal Location for Astrophotography Fans:
The night sky that is the darkest and has the least amount of pollution. Get the joy of viewing the milky way and a variety of galaxies and stars with your own two eyes, something you would never be able to do from a congested cityscape. And that is what astrophotography enthusiasts long for. You too may take breathtaking photos of the Milky Way and star trails.
Fireflies Camping:
One of the top tourist attractions in Bhandardara is fireflies camping. It offers you an unforgettable camping experience and is located in the Purushwadi area. Camping under the starry night sky as the fireflies light is captivating enough to take over your mind and soul and leave you with a genuine smile on your face.
One of the most popular camping spots in Bhandardara is near Arthur Lake. The lake, surrounded by lush greenery, offers a perfect setting for camping under the twinkling stars. The lake is fed by the Pravara River and is a popular spot for fishing and boating. The nearby Umbrella falls is also a must-see attraction.
Another popular camping spot in Bhandardara is at the base of the Ratangad fort. The fort, built in the 17th century, offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trek to the top of the fort is challenging but worth the effort. The fort is also known for its ancient sculptures and carvings.
About bhandardara
Camping in Bhandardara also offers an opportunity to explore the local culture and traditions. The local village of Bhandardara is home to the Koli tribe, who are known for their warm hospitality and simple lifestyle.
Bhandardara is also known for its rich biodiversity. The area is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rare species of birds, mammals, and butterflies. Campers can explore the surrounding forests and spot a variety of wildlife.
The camping experience in Bhandardara is enhanced by the cool and pleasant climate. The area is also well-connected by road and is easily accessible from major cities like Mumbai and Pune.
In terms of facilities, there are many camping sites which offer various amenities such as toilets, showers, and basic kitchen facilities for cooking. You can also find many camping gear rental stores where you can rent camping gear like tents, sleeping bags, and camping stoves.
How to reach
The location is best reached by road in a private vehicle. Poor road conditions may make travelling by public transportation exhausting, but there are many eateries and facilities located along the highway, making the trip bearable.
Reaching from Mumbai: Bhandardara is roughly 160–190 kilometres from Mumbai and requires 3.5–4 hours to travel there by car. The NH3 roadway connects the campground to Mumbai.
Reaching from Pune: Bhandardara is 170 kilometres from Pune, and it takes about 4.5 to 5 hours to travel there. Take either the SH 21 or NH 50, the two connected roads.
Public transportation:
Bhandardara is accessible via public transportation and is located 45 kilometres from the Igatpuri Station and 60 km from the Kasara Station. You can also take one of the trains running from CST to Igatpuri, such as the Mahanagari Express, Howrah Mail, Nandigram Express, or Kolkata Mail.
Overall, camping in Bhandardara is a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and culture. The serene environment, breathtaking views, and rich biodiversity make it a perfect destination for campers looking for a peaceful and rejuvenating experience. So pack your bags, gather some friends or family, and head out to Bhandardara for a camping experience you will never forget.