Places to visit
Following are the spectacular places in the bhandardara basin one must visit. Memories of visits to this places along with stay at Yash Resort would certainly be an icing on cake.
Sandhan Valley - The Valley of Shadow
Sandhan valley is known Wonder of nature & splendid of Sahyadri (Western Ghats). Water carved valley of 200 ft deep and about 2Km long. Sandhan valley is located on the west side of beautiful Bhandardara region, near Samrad village. Valley surrounded with mighty forts Alang , Madan & Kulang (Known as AMK- toughest trek in Sahyadri) fort Ratangad, fort Ajoba & mount Kalsubai (5400 ft. highest peak in Maharashtra) mountain ranges. Brilliant & deep narrow rock floored ravine between the two high walls of mountain range. At some places its width is less than 3 ft so that at some places sun rays unable to reach. So it’s called valley of shadow. You can trek in Sandhan valley and it is accessible throughout the year except monsoon. To reach other side of valley you have to cross 3-4 rappelling points & 2-3 water pools water level changes according to seasons, in winter it is up to waist & in summer it is up to knee height. At the end of valley you get magnificent view of high cliffs & deep valleys. From that point ahead to reach the base of Sandhan Valley & Karoli Ghat you have to go ahead on the same path. This is known as ‘Sandhan Valley to Karoli Ghat’ trek. This is a challenging phase of that trek which has steep descend with big rocks as we reach closer to Karoli Ghat. You have to rappel down 3-4 small patches (max height. 50ft) to reach Base camp. Very few people have taken up this phase as it is considered to be very tough. From base camp its takes 4 hrs trek to reach back to Samrad Village via Karoli Ghat or else from Base camp we can head south towards Dehane village (Base of fort Ajoba) in Thane district.
Wilson Dam
It is a lovely site for picnicking.
Built in 1910 on the PRAVARA RIVER, the dam is almost 150 meters above the sea level and attracts crowds from all over the country.
The cool placid back waters stretch to around 22 km giving the effect of an ocean!!
This is the Arthur lake probably one of the most scenic lakes ever.
A boat ride witnessing the setting sun is indeed a memorable experience.
The umbrella falls are also in the vicinity.
Unfortunately these picturesque falls are enjoyed only during the monsoons.
Randha Falls
Streamlets from the lake cascade down 45 meters as the Randha Falls - an ideal place to picnic.
But besides an ideal place to relax these are also used for hydro power generation.
Even bollywood has taken fancy to this place with some the shooting of film ‘aks’ been done there.
Ghatgar hydroelectric power plant:
An unique hydroelectric power project with Japanese collaboration, in which water is recycled for power generation.
Mount Kalsubai
Overlooking Bhandardara, you can see Mt. Kalsubai, the highest peak (1,646 meters) in the Maharashtra.
During the Maratha rule, this peak point served as the watchtower.
It is an ideal place for those who enjoy trekking, as are the surrounding hills.
There is a small temple at the top, with an old well in its backyard.
Legend has it that the level of well water never falls below 3 feet.
Agasti Rishi's Ashram
Situated on the bank of the Pravara River, this legendary dwelling finds a place in the scripts of the Ramayan.
It is said that Lord Ram, Laxman and Sita visited Agasti Rishi. The Rishi had then given Lord Rama a miraculous arrow which was used to kill Ravana.
The ashram, although under renovation, manages to attract crowds from all over.
Ratangadh Fort
The fort lies only a few kilometers away from the Shendi village.
It was captured by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and was one of his favorites.
The fort is a breathtaking view and is a favourite with the trekkers!!
Konkan Kadais another favourite amongst the trekkers.
Amriteshwar Temple
This temple dates back to 1100 AD. It is built in a distinct Hemadpanti style.
It depicts great ancient Indian sculpture.
Shivtirth Tekad
The place has Jatayu temple, who laid down his life while trying save Sita from Ravan.