Pawna lake is a beautiful place to visit near Mumbai. It is one of the most popular places for picnics and outdoor activities in Maharashtra. Located at a distance of 45 km from Pune, it is an ideal place to enjoy some quality time with your family and friends. The best part about Pawna lake is that it has a lot of tourist attractions nearby which will keep you busy during your trip. It’s surrounded by picturesque mountains and is full of scenic beauty.
After camping in Pawna Lake, there are also many places near that are worth visiting. If you’re looking for a great place to visit near Pawna lake, then read on. We have listed the top 5 places to visit in and around Pawna lake, so that you can decide where to go and what to do.
1. Dinosaurs Park
Dinosaurs Park is a small amusement park located at Pawna lake. It has all the attractions that you’d expect from an amusement park, including rides and food stalls. The park was started in the year 1994 by the National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC). A dinosaur park was built near the lake to protect this natural heritage. The park has fossils of 50 species of dinosaurs including some that are not found anywhere else in the world. This place is full of natural beauty and is a good place to spend some quality time with your family.
Lohagad fort in Visapur, a small village in Pune district, is a well-known tourist spot. Situated in a forested area, this fort was built by King Yashwantrao Holkar III during the Maratha rule. It has been declared as a heritage site and is being developed as an ecotourism destination by the state government.
Lohagad fort is a fort built in the 14th century near the PandavLeni lake. It has been considered as one of the most significant forts in Maharashtra. Lohagad fort is an important landmark and a tourist spot. The fort was built on a hilltop, which provides views of the surrounding areas from here. It also includes a temple complex within its walls. Lohagad has a beautiful lake that looks very serene and picturesque. It attracts tourists from all over the country.
Dudhiware waterfall is located in the village of Pawna, around 2 km from the city. The falls are 8.2 m high and 3 km long. This waterfall is very scenic and peaceful; it can be seen from a distance as well as close up, so it is a very popular tourist spot. The waterfall can be reached by trekking through the dense forest area.
The waterfall is 6 km from the main road on the way to the Mall. Dudhiware means “the place where you get light”. It has an average height of 7 m, with a drop of around 30 m, and can be spotted at a distance of 300 meters. It is a narrow rocky gap between two tall mountains. The gap which has been shaped by the glacier over the years looks like a narrow passage with big rocks on both sides.
Prati pandharpur is an amazing place near pawna lake. The view of this place is amazing. There are lots of small lakes around here and it is really soothing to walk in the woods when the wind blows through them. This place is quite popular amongst the villagers, especially in winters. You can see lots of people around here during winters because it has a great scenery and is also easy to access from anywhere in Pune.
5. Bhaja Waterfall
The Bhaja waterfall is located near the village of Chinchwad, on the outskirts of Pune. It has a height of 9 m and can be seen from quite a distance. This waterfall is very picturesque as it flows down over several rocks which makes it look like a cascade. The waterfall is on the Bhaja River and hence its name, as the river flows from the hills of Bhaja in Solapur district to Pune district.
It’s an excellent place for a picnic with family and friends. The best time to visit this waterfall is between June to August. But if you are not so worried about taking a dip in the waterfalls then there is no harm in visiting it during the monsoon season as well.
Final Words
These places have lots of beautiful nature and amazing sceneries. The rocks are the main attraction there. There are lots of folklores about these places too which you can read in the guide book at Pune station or even online on wikipedia. All of them are good places to have a picnic with family and friends. To have better experience, you may buy packages from camping providers like Small Step Adventure near Pawna Lake. There are lots of packages and you have to choose the right one for you.
Forts are portals to another time and place. They exist to remind us that great principles were upheld through great wars. And that a good defense can prove as important as pressing the attack. Mumbai has seen its fair share of militant moments throughout history. Visitors who come here searching for places to visit near Mumbai are often provided forts and similar attractions to check out.
Below are a handful of outstanding forts in Mumbai that are absolutely worth visiting. They hold significant historical and cultural value for India.
Bandra Fort
Certainly, one of the most offbeat places in Mumbai, this age-old Portuguese fort stands in the Land’s End region of Mumbai. The fort is also called ‘Castella de Aguada’, and enjoys an altitude of 24m above sea level. The fort is no stranger to Bollywood movies, owing to its magnificent setting that takes one back to the glory days. It is seen in a more romantic light now, though J. Panoramic views of the wide-open seas can be enjoyed from atop the fort. A park tailored to the needs of fitness enthusiasts is also present, calling up symbols of strength and fortitude. If you’re seeking a relaxing spot for some calm meditation, the Bandra Fort has that in abundance.
Aka Bombay Castle Fort, it enjoys status as Mumbai’s oldest defensive structure. Its outstanding architecture and historical importance have been points of pride for Indians, especially Mumbaikers. British design went into its original making. The fort has a strong Portuguese influence that can be seen in the ‘Manor House’, which was built by a Portuguese nobleman named Garcia de Orta. Mumbai’s first governor Gerald Aungier called this fort home. To date, Bombay Castle is a symbol of renaissance (rebirth) and transformation.
Sewri Fort
Tracing its roots back to the 1600s, this Portuguese fort contains plenty of historical value. It was taken over by the British who used it as a strategic watchtower. The way the inner entrances stand placed perpendicular to the main entry show an eye for defense, and repelling invaders. February draws flocks of pink flamingos here. Currently owned by Maharashtra’s Department of Archaeology and Museums you will find several heritage-value spots to explore inside Sewri Fort. Restoration work has been done over the years to maintain the integrity of this unique tourist attraction. The fort overlooks Mumbai Harbour, granting visitors some scenic views.
Its inconvenient location is precisely what does this fort credit. The Brits built it in the 17th century to keep a lookout for enemy ships and pirates. Then again, there’s an alternate historical account that says the fort was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. It affords you amazing views of Mumbai’s Mahim Bay. Outside the fort stretches the Bandra-Worli Sea link that once held cannons ready to fire. The bustling Worli Fishing Village is a stone’s throw away from here, and is home to some of Mumbai’s oldest fishing communities.
Mahuli Fort in Mumbai
An intimidating hill-fort located in Thane, Mahuli stands 2700 feet above ground level, granting unobstructed views of the surrounding area. An amalgamation of 2-3 hills, this fort is in ruins and no longer in use. But it makes for an excellent trip down history-lane. Water tanks and cisterns can still be seen up here. A collection of caves spreads to the left of the hill-fort. A small Shiva temple stands proud atop the fort proper. Mahuli Fort has long been a protected monument. Even the surrounding forests have become sanctuaries.
A visit to Mumbai’s forts is a visit to the past itself. There is so much to soak up at these powerful historical testaments to India’s history. The forts detailed above are by no means the only ones that Mumbai calls its own.
Igatpuri is an astounding beauty and a quick escape from the busy life of the city. A perfect weekend getaway destination surrounded by beautiful green hills from all sides, Igatpuri is a charming hill station especially during the monsoon season with many exotic locations to visit. There are numerous homesteads in Igatpuri that are extraordinary picnic spots for you and your loved ones, and one can have a memorable holiday in this exceptionally beautiful town.
What Igatpuri famous? In Igatpuri, Vipassana International Academy teaches ancient meditation techniques known as Vipassana. It is one of the best places to visit in Maharashtra during the rainy season. The hill station is on the Mumbai-Agra NH3 highway just 45 kilometres from Nashik and 130 kilometres from Mumbai.
Why Igatpuri is a tourist attraction?
Igatpuri is a wonderful getaway from the trials of daily life in a metropolis, thanks to its range of tourist attractions catering to a variety of visitors. Besides being a paradise for nature enthusiasts, the town is home to several historical forts and pristine waterfalls, in addition to offering a range of adventure activities, including rock climbing, trekking, camping, and more.
What is the Good time to visit Igatpuri?
In December, January and February, the best time to visit Igatpuri is busy. June, July, August, September, October and November are the least crowded months.
Which food is famous in Igatpuri? The local cuisine of Igatpuri is based on Maharashtrian cuisine with a blend of South and North Indian cuisines. From Idli-Dosa to Parathas and Tandooris, you can find them all here. Vada Pav is a must-have.
Let us look at the top 15 places to visit during the Rainy Season.
1. Vaitarna Dam in Igatpuri
Vaitarna Dam makes a majestic sight, especially when the rain falls. During this time and is located near the JenJon Lake Vaitrana. It stands on the banks of the dam and offers various activities to tourists like boating, bird-watching, fishing and makes for a heavenly abode for children to just play around.
The best time to visit Vaitarna Dam in Igatpuri is between June to mid-September, as this is the best time when the dam is enveloped by the green canopy of Nature.
Vaitarna dam was built in the early years of 1950 and is the chief source of water and electricity for people living in major parts of Mumbai city. It is renowned as the first gravity dam in Igatpuri of its kind and is one of the most popular places to visit in Igatpuri.
It has the western ghats in its background and is in close vicinity to cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Nashik.
Kalsubai Trek Peak is the highest peak in Maharashtra, where the mountain lies in the Sahyadri range. It is a delight to watch Nature get drenched in the droplets of the majestic rain. This is one of the most renowned and sought-after places to visit in Igatpuri during monsoon and is located near the Kalsubai Harishchandragad wildlife sanctuary. This peak offers trekking trails and stunning views.
This is an ideal place for families, especially children, for a guaranteed holiday getaway. This cascading and beautiful waterfall, which falls over 1,000 feet, is situated 58 km away from Nashik. For the adventurers, this place is an ideal destination for water rappelling and other sports to have fun with. The best time to visit is during the monsoon season to enjoy this awe-inspiring waterfall featured with lush green terrains and a pool of clean water. Do check out highest waterfalls in India.
4. Tringalwadi Fort in Igatpuri
Tringalwadi Fort, built at an elevation of 3000 feet, was constructed in the 10th century. This is one of the most enduring places for trekkers and hikers. Enthusiasts make their way here to explore the enchanting view of Kalsubai and the Kulang mountain ranges from this fort. Monsson offers even a more spectacular look and ambiance, and you can also visit the Talegaon Lake that is located a few km away from this area.
5. Vipassana International Academy near Igatpuri
Igatpuri is proud to be home to the world’s largest meditation center – Vipassana Institute. This is a must-visit place out of all the destinations that make the list of places to visit in Igatpuri. Various travelers and tourists across the globe visit this place for residential courses. It has great commuting connectivity of trains and buses that connect the Academy to various cities like Pune, Mumbai, and Nashik. The most attractive part of this Academy is that food, accommodation, and instructions on meditation are provided for free.
6. Amruteshwar Temple Near Igatpuri
Amruteshwar Temple is a primeval Shiva temple, about 1200 years old, that is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India. Situated in Igatpuri, it’s located on the banks of the holy river Pravara at Ratanwadi village. This temple is quite famous among religious people. It is famous for its walls of the temple with a beautiful mural, the stone-carved design, the ceiling, and the flowers. All these features of this architectural property are a major attraction for tourists.
Ghatandevi Mandir is a temple that is dedicated to Ghatan Devi – popularly known as the protector of hills. The temple is in a stunning valley with the grandiose peaks of Durvar Utvad, Harihar, and Trimbak forming a royal backdrop. The serene environment here has made the Ghatandevi Mandir a widespread attraction and has been included in the list of best places to visit in Igatpuri during monsoon. The Tringalwadi Fort is right behind this temple, which can be visited on the same day for more adventure and sightseeing. The best way to commute to this Mandir is by taking a local train from Mumbai to Kasara and from there, taking a shared auto-rickshaw or a cab to visit the grand temple.
Sandhan Valley, popularly known as ‘Maharashtra’s Grand Canyon’, is situated in the Sahyadri region. This place is no less than heaven on Earth where both the canyon and the valley coincide. For adventurers and enthusiasts, the monsoon is the best time to visit Sandhan Valley as it makes the whole experience of trekking extremely challenging and fun. Sandhan Valley is surrounded by majestic mountain ranges, like Kulang, Alang, Ajoba, Madan, and Ratangad. It is located 180 km from Mumbai, near the Bhandardara region of Northern Maharashtra.
Darna Dam in Igatpuri is surely a must-visit place when in Igatpuri as it is an ancient masterpiece which was built in 1916 by the British Government. It still looks spellbinding in the rain as it enhances the greenery and spreads positivity and abundance in all directions during monsoon. The nearby lake flows in its fast motion making it an attractive sight. This place, which is situated on the Nasik-Mumbai National Highway, is quite popular in Igatpuri because of the natural aspects it holds.
Bhatsa River Valley lies in the basin of the majestic Bhatsa River in the Igatpuri region and is quite famous amongst travelers and tourists. The hills in the valley provide a perfect trekking trail for adventurers and enthusiasts. It is not difficult to walk on, and it is a great opportunity for everyone to be in such a wonderful location filled with greenery and hillocks. Besides its spectacular beauty, the valley also holds a temple dedicated to the goddess of the Ghat called Ghatandevi Mandir. To visit the glory of this place, the monsoon is the best time. The valley is near the Camel valley, so visiting both the valleys in one day makes for an ideal choice when in Igatpuri.
Must Read: Dive into the World of Prati Kedarnath Nashik – Must visit in 2022
11. Camel Valley
The Camel Valley is located just 4 km away from the Igatpuri town. This is located just a few km ahead of Bhatsa river valley, which is a heavenly abode with exotic and lavish waterfalls in Igatpuri near the valley and lush greenery contributing to an outstanding view. Camel Valley is a must-visit tourist spot in Igatpuri, as adventure-lovers and nature lovers would love to invest their time in exploring the scenic beauty of this valley. Activities like river rafting and river crossing will further make your trip perfect.
12. Madangad Mountain
Madangad Mountain, which lies in the Kalsubai Range, tops the charts as a popular place to visit in Igatpuri. It is remarkably famous for its fort and an exciting adventure around the Sahyadri mountain range. The mountains are at the height of around 4700 ft and rainfall amplifies the beauty of the dense forest that surrounds the mountain. This place offers a holistic beauty and scenic wonder and is a mind-blowing adventure for the trekkers. Madangad Mountain reflects the Sahyadri Mountain Range and the Kalsubai Range near Nashik and can be spotted on the Mumbai-Nashik highway.
13. Dhamma Giri
Dhamma Giri is renowned as the ‘Hill of Dhamma.’ Dhamma Giri is located in Igatpuri, which is 45 km away from Nashik and 136 km away from Mumbai. It is prominent as one of the world’s largest meditation centers and is the epicenter of a rapidly growing global Vipassana organization. Dhamma Giri is dedicated to the teaching of Vipassana Meditation. The extraordinary experience of being here can be truly cherished by tourists and travelers who strive for a peaceful environment. Dhamma Giri is surrounded by beautiful architecture and enchanting Nature can be listed as one of the best and most spectacular places to visit in Igatpuri during monsoon season in India.
14. Karoli Ghat
Long drives with your loved ones, in monsoon, are a heavenly experience which can be derived while driving all the way to Karoli ghat. Once the adventurer reaches there, he can start with his trekking journey that is of approximately 2 hours and takes you to the astounding peak. The highway and lavish greenery make Karoli Ghat one of the most popular places to visit in Igatpuri. This is situated in the western ghats.
15. Talegaon Lake
Talegaon Lake is one of the most stunning places in Igatpuri, which offers a picturesque view of the hilly region. You can spend quality time with your friends, family, and loved ones, and it is a low-key place where one can enjoy the serenity of Nature grasping the stunning view. You can get very close to Nature with beautiful lakes, spectacular mountains, and the vast open sky around. In close vicinity to the lake, there are popular hotels and resorts with world-class amenities.
16. Avandha Fort
The Avandha Fort stands at the height of about 4,300 feet and lies in the Sahyadri mountain range. Its construction consists of five water reservoirs and rock-cut caves that can be reached by trekking from Girwadi and Kadwa Colony. The fort attracts tourists and trekking adventurers and is the best option for families. For the enthusiasts, this can be a trekking route of a difficult level. Forts like Mhasoba hill, Patta fort, and Aad Fort can be seen from the top of the Avandha fort and makes for one of the best places to visit in Igatpuri. Also, check what are the famous forts built by Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Igatpuri, a stunning hill station and a mesmerizing beauty in the Sahyadri Hills of Western Ghats, has gained a lot of popularity over a period due to beautiful landscapes and exceptionally alluring views. Igatpuri has been proved itself as a paradise on Earth. It is a stunning hills station with a mesmerizing beauty, alluring scenic beauty, and exceptional landscapes. It is visited by numerous tourists and travellers of India who love Nature and adventure. The old forts, roaring waterfalls in Igatpuri, majestic mountains, and pleasant climate make this place a heaven on Earth.
Ashoka Watefall in Vihigaon, Kasara is open for all tourists. But police is making sure you leave before 3 pm. So, plan your visit accordingly and enjoy the waterfall safely. Also, the entry gate is locked. Local person from the village charged Rs. 50 from each groups and show’s another way to enter.
Do you know any place near the city of Mumbai that reflects the beauty of nature at its best? If you’re tired of the usual trips to nearby locations, then Ashoka falls near Igatpuri, maybe just a place for you to visit on the weekend. Touted as the best seasonal waterfall near Mumbai, this place is a perfect getaway destination with friends and family. Know more about waterfalls in India.
Located in deep forests in the Thane district of Maharashtra, the Ashoka waterfalls attract tourists in droves. A monsoon-fed waterfall is a unique attraction for tourists that watch in admiration gallons of water straddle down the slope to create a majestic view.
Vihigaon waterfall is a seasonal waterfall situated at Vihigaon village at a distance of 13.5 km from Igatpuri and 59 km from Nashik. This is also known as the Ashoka Waterfall and is situated in a deep forest near the Thane district of Maharashtra. Must Know the famous temples in Nashik.
It is a great place to visit during the monsoon wherein greenery spreads like a sheet and you can explore an abundance of flora and fauna in the captivating picnic sport. Visitors and tourists from all over the state and surroundings, don’t miss this fantastic spot to have a rejuvenating and relaxing time with friends and family.
How to reach Vihigaon waterfall?
Thick forests surround Vihigaon/Ashoka waterfall, and the trip to the waterfall is an adventure trip for visitors. You can visit Vihigaon waterfall by:
Road trip from Mumbai
The shortest road trip from Mumbai is via NH160. The distance is 116 km, and the average time to traverse the distance is around 3 hours.
A-Train trip from Mumbai
Many trains are running between the Mumbai city to Igatpuri railway station. It usually takes 2 to three hours to reach Igatpuri from Mumbai, depending upon the train.
Once you reach the local train station, hire a taxi to reach Vihigaon to continue your trip to the waterfall.
Vihigaon is a beautiful locality with small streams and plenty of smaller waterfalls along the way. There are not many eateries, but the ones available offer local cuisines at a modest price. The Vihigaon waterfall became a major tourist attraction after its publicity in the movie Ashoka.
The trip to the waterfall is even more mesmerizing after all; where do you get the chance to experience hiking, bird watching, soaking the nature, and play adventure sports in the middle of deep forests in a single trip? One of the adventure activities you can book yourself for a while visiting Vihigaon is waterfall rappelling. Do check out highest waterfalls in India
Waterfall rappelling at Ashoka waterfall is fun. 120 feet of pure bliss with the gushing sound of water crashing in the pool soothes your nerves. Another adventure activity can be zip-lining or flying fox at Vihigaon waterfall. This is one way to witness the gorgeous Western Ghat’s natural beauty while cruising past on the rope from one end of the forest to another.
On the way to Ashoka Waterfall, there are many smaller versions of these waterfalls which make for a quick break and feast for the roadies. Various modes of transport are available to reach these spectacular falls.
Vihigaon waterfall is in an area that is deeply wooded and forested and has a hoard of small streams and dams, which are fruitfully feeding the waterfall. Many people come for the rich rice fields and green grass and small mountains that surround this beautiful village.
There are many marvelous places to visit near Mumbailike Lonavala, Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani, Goa, Bhiwandi, and Igatpuri. Located 11-13 km from Igatpuri station, tourists can easily get a private taxi from the station to reach the spot. It is a little adventure ride, just 200-metre climb down to the bottom of the waterfall, and everyone enjoys the cold and crystal-clear water. Any true admirer of nature would truly appreciate every minute spent here and have a memorable time. Ashoka Waterfall is a natural waterfall and an ideal weekend spot from Mumbai and Nashik.
Vihigaon Waterfalls is a monsoon fed waterfall known for its natural vista. The falls cascade down from a height of around 120 feet into a large pool. The place also proudly owns small hiking through hilly forest and visitors may get a chance of bird watching.
Other waterfalls in Igatpuri are Igatpuri waterfall, Bhavli Waterfall, Vihigaon Falls, Umbrella Fall Bhandardhara, Rajur, Maharashtra, Anand Mangal Waterfall, and the Dabhosa Waterfalls. The waterfall is an ideal spot for rappelling especially during the monsoon. It gives the adventurers an opportunity to rappel in the middle of the thick forest, about 120 feet of rappelling height, which is covered in an average of 30 minutes by most people.
Ashoka Waterfall is a perfect adventure weekend getaway that can take visitors and tourists far from the city crowd and life and gives a refreshing experience under the lap of nature. This place attracts people who are looking for exciting and captivating weekend getaways. Vihigaon is a basic Adivasi village. There are not many facilities for food and accommodation, but local eateries can serve sumptuous local meals.
There aren’t many choices available, only a handful of tea stalls offering the basic necessities to tourists. Similarly, the Ashoka waterfall is in an isolated area with no reasonable accommodation facilities for visitors.
This Adivasi village is located in Kasara Taluka and is far away from any hotel or restaurant. You can’t find any place to stay or eat near here, so you’ll need to plan your meals based on what local inhabitants can tell you. If you want to eat, you can buy Maggie, Omelet, and Vadapav from local vendors near the waterfall. You can also get food from Kasara. There are several hotels where you can bring food, so you may do so if you wish.
The Vihigaon waterfall is a hidden gem shrouded in the natural beauty of western ghats. The waterfall is seasonal and located in deep forests as if nature plans to preserve its beauty from prying eyes. The forest’s scenic beauty and the peaceful, clean environment make you fall in love with the place.
Ashoka waterfall is a pleasant getaway for people who want to escape from the chaotic city life into nature’s lap. It is a great place to enjoy your weekend.
Here are five frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Ashoka Waterfall in Igatpuri:
Q: Where is Ashoka Waterfall located in Igatpuri? A: Ashoka Waterfall is located in Igatpuri, a hill station in the Nashik district of Maharashtra, India. It is situated in the scenic Bhatsa River Valley.
Q: How can I reach Ashoka Waterfall in Igatpuri?
A: To reach Ashoka Waterfall, you can take a train to Igatpuri railway station, which is well-connected to major cities in Maharashtra. From the station, you can hire a local taxi or take a shared jeep to reach the waterfall.
Q: Is there an entry fee to visit Ashoka Waterfall?
A: There is no specific entry fee to visit Ashoka Waterfall. However, it is always recommended to check the latest information or inquire locally before planning your visit.
Q: What is the best time to visit Ashoka Waterfall in Igatpuri? A: The best time to visit Ashoka Waterfall is during the monsoon season, from June to September, when the waterfall is at its fullest and the surroundings are lush green. It is advisable to avoid visiting during heavy rainfall or when weather conditions are unfavorable.
Q: Are there any facilities available near Ashoka Waterfall?
A: Facilities near Ashoka Waterfall may vary, but there are usually basic amenities such as parking areas, restrooms, and food stalls available nearby. It is advisable to carry water, snacks, and necessary supplies when visiting the waterfall.
Please note that the availability of facilities and specific details may have changed, so it’s recommended to verify the latest information or consult with local authorities or tourism offices before planning your trip to Ashoka Waterfall in Igatpuri.
