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A serene abode in the peaceful shadow of the Sahyadris

Nestled in the serene curves of the Sahyadri mountains, Bhandardara is a beautiful village in Maharashtra’s Ahmednagar district, known for its pristine lakes, misty mornings and mesmerizing sunsets. Less known for camping and glamping, this place combines natural beauty and a serene atmosphere filled with stars – making it the perfect weekend getaway from Mumbai and Pune.

Here, the sparkling Arthur Lake, babbling brooks and lush greenery create an ideal backdrop for campers, nature lovers and photographers.

Location and Access

• Location: Ahmednagar district, near Igatpuri
• Elevation: Approximately 750 metres

How to reach:

• By road: 165 km from Mumbai, 172 km from Pune, 45 km from Igatpuri
• By train: Nearest well-connected station – Igatpuri
• By air: Nearest airport – Nashik (90 km)

Camping and Glamping in Bhandardara

Bhandardara is especially known for lakeside camping, where you can wake up to the sound of rippling water and sleep under a sky full of stars.

Camp Types:

• Lakeside Tent Camps: Close to nature and comfortable, with campfire facilities
• Luxury Glamping Tents: Queen beds, lamp-lit walkways and private seating
• Family and Group Camps: With shared kitchens, washrooms and activity zones

Highlights:

• Views of Arthur Lake and Mount Kalsubai
• Musical bonfires, star trails and barbecue nights
• Kayaking and lakeside nature walks

Natural delights and adventure activities

Short treks and hikes:

• Kalsubai Peak: Highest point in Maharashtra (1,646 m)
• Ratangad Fort: Best for sunrise trekkers and history buffs
• Sandhan Ghat: Known as the "Valley of Shadows" – great for rappelling and rock climbing

Unparalleled water views:

• Randha Falls: Monsoon-fed and powerful waterfall
• Umbrella Falls: Beautiful seasonal waterfall near Wilson Dam

Leisure activities:

• Boating and kayaking in Arthur Lake
• Bird watching and lakeside meditation
• Fishing (seasonal)

Local cuisine specialties

After a day outdoors, savor traditional Maharashtrian cuisine:

• Thecha with bhakri, misal pav, and pithla-bhakri
• Freshly spiced tea by the bonfire
• Local pickles and jaggery-based sweets

Many camp organizers also offer vegetarian/non-vegetarian barbecues and regional thalis under the stars.

Best time to visit

• October to March: Cool and pleasant – best time for camping
• Monsoon (June to September): Green and lush – but be prepared for rain
• Sweltering heat (April-May): Advice to avoid

Things to pack:

• Warm clothes for the night, sleeping bag if necessary
• Rain gear for the rainy season
• Trekking shoes, torchlight and portable charger

Unexpected peace and responsible camping tips

The true experience of Bhandardara is only achieved when we preserve it:

• Don’t litter – bring everything back with you
• Avoid loud music – respect the peace
• Support eco-friendly camps and local businesses

Peace, tranquility and visual solitude

In a world that is constantly running, Bhandardara offers you a chance to stop, listen and feel – in the lake Listen to the clatter of pedals, the crackling of wood in the full moon moonlight, and the laughter echoing in the mountains.

Whether it's your first time camping or your tenth, the serenity of Arthur Lake, the thrill of nearby treks, and the soul-stirring sunsets will make Bhandardara your own corner of the universe.