If you want to live in a city that has many getaways near you, then Mumbai is one of the best cities for you. There are many weekend getaways near Mumbai that you can explore with your friends, family, partner and a large group. One of the many great places near the city is Igatpuri. Igatpuri is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Maharashtra. It is located in the Western Ghats and is surrounded by the Sahyadri Mountains. There are many places to visit in Igatpuri.
Igatpuri is a heaven for nature lovers since it is surrounded by lush greenery, waterfalls, water bodies and forts. We have listed some of the best places to visit in Igatpuri to make your weekend even more fabulous!
Places To Visit In Igatpuri
1. Vipassana International Academy
If you want to have a unique, calm experience, the vipassana International Academy is one of the best places to visit in Igatpuri. It is 136 Kilometres from Mumbai and 45 Kilometres from Nashik. The academy was established by SN Goenka in 1976. The academy teaches the ancient art of Vipassana - a meditation technique that focuses on breathing. The place is also known as Dhammagiri - the hill of Dhamma.
Vipassana International Academy is the largest meditation centre in the world. The academy offers a 10-day course and is attended by people across the world. The technique has been in use for 2500 years to treat general illnesses. The course can be attended by anyone, irrespective of caste, religion, and ethnicity. The meditation technique will purify your mind, soul and body; and help you connect with truth and peace.
There are many rules you have to follow during these 10 days. The Participants have to refrain from talking and have to keep complete silence. No contact with the outside world is allowed during those 10 days. This makes it among the best places to visit in Igatpuri.
The course, the accommodations and the food are free of cost. The course runs on the donations given by the teachers and the participants who have completed at least 10 days of the course. This course is perfect for those who want a break from their hectic urban lives and dive deep into purification.
How To Reach Vipassana International Academy
It is 1 Kilometre away from Igatpuri Railway Station. The Academy is located on the Mumbai - Agra Highway and is easily accessible by road also.
2. Vaitarna Dam
Vaitarna Dam is one of the most popular places to visit in Igatpuri. The dam is constructed across the Vaitarna River and is the main source of water and electricity for many parts of Mumbai. It offers a magnificent view of the lush green areas.
It is surrounded by dense forest and a quaint lagoon. It can be visited throughout the week from 9 AM to 4 PM. This dam is a great tourist attraction that shouldn't be missed.
How To Reach Vaitarna Dam
Vaitarna Dam is 45 Kilometres away from Igatpuri Station and an hour's drive away. It is easily accessible by road.
3. Bhatsa River Valley
Bhatsa River Valley is a picturesque valley that lies in the Bhatsa River Basin. The valley is located just before entering Igatpuri. It is the perfect place for those who want to escape the city and take a deep dive into nature. It is among the best places to visit in Igatpuri.
The woods, the foliage, the river and the hills make it a great place to visit near Mumbai. There are many interesting rock formations in the valley due to the river flowing into it. This valley should be visited during the Monsoon season.
Bhatsa River Valley has a temple dedicated to Ghantandevi - the goddess of the ghat.
How To Reach Bhasta River Valley
Bhatsa River Valley is 58.8 Kilometres away from Igatpuri Station and a one hour drive from the station.
4. Tringalwadi Fort
A major tourist attraction, the Tringalwadi Fort is one of the best places to visit in Igatpuri. The fort is located in the Sahyadri Ranges. The fort stands at around 3000 ft above sea level and offers a fantastic view of the region. This fort is perfect for hikers and trekkers. The exact time of the construction of the fort is unknown, although some estimate that it was constructed during the 10th Century. The Mughals captured the fort in 1688.
To reach the fort you will have to walk to the Trigalwadi Lake through a narrow pathway. The Fort has a small temple dedicated to Hanuman. Monsoon is the best time to visit the fort since it will be surrounded by lush greenery. From the fort, you can get a view of the Kulang and Kalsubai Range. If you love greenery, then this is among the best places to visit in Igatpuri.
How To Reach Tringalwadi Fort
The fort is 10 kilometres away from the Tringalwadi Fort. The trek starts from the Tringalwadi Village.
5. Camel Valley
Camel Valley is one of the best-kept secrets of Igatpuri. It is located 4 kilometres from the main town of Igatpuri. The valley lies near the Bhatsa River Valley and is one of the best places to visit in Igatpuri. The valley should be visited during the monsoon season since it becomes greener and is filled with waterfalls. You can indulge in many sports such as river crossing and river rafting. It is one of the best nature getaways near Mumbai, especially for photographers and nature lovers.
How To Reach Camel Valley
Camel Valley is located 4 kilometres from Igatpuri Railway Station. It is accessible by road.
6. Vihigaon Ashoka Waterfalls
If you want to experience the best of Igatpuri, you shouldn’t miss out on Vihigaon Ashoka Waterfalls. It is a seasonal waterfall located in the Vihigaon village. It is one of the best natural waterfalls in Maharashtra and one of the best places to visit in Igatpuri. The waterfalls in 120 feet in height. One way to reach the waterfalls is a small hike through the hilly forests. It is best visited during the monsoon season.
The Vihigoan Falls is the ideal place for rappelling, especially during the monsoon season. The lush green surrounding is a paradise for bird watchers. The waterfalls are known for being a shoot location for the Ashoka movie starring Shah Rukh Khan and Kareena Kapoor. A perfect experience awaits you when you visit the waterfalls.
How To Reach Vihigaon Ashoka Waterfalls
The Vihigoan Waterfalls are located 12.6 Kilometres away from Igatpuri Railway Station. After reaching the hills, you will need to take a small trek.
7. Ghatandevi Temple
Chatandevi Temple is a temple dedicated to Ghatandevi - the protector of the Ghat. It is surrounded by the beautiful peaks of Harihar, Durvar Utvad and Trimak. Many tourists come here to visit the calm and peaceful environment away from city life. It is among the best places to visit in Igatpuri.
How To Reach Ghatandevi Temple
Ghatandevi Temple is 10 minutes away from the Igatpuri railway station. It is easily accessible by road.
With these many places to visit in Igatpuri, you will surely have a great weekend getaway in Mumbai. Read our blogs to know about travel, getaways and destinations!