Are you willing to travel to a less travelled destination just like Robert Frost did in his poem “The Road not Taken”? Igatpuri is a beautiful tinsel hill station located in the western part of India. The state of Maharashtra boasts of this place for being one of the less visited but best weekend getaways with friends and family. It is no doubt that nature lovers will fall in love with nature once again after being to this hill station. The picturesque beauty will take one’s breath away. It is also a place for adventure loving enthusiasts. The district in which Igatpuri falls is Nashik and is known for housing some of the highest peaks. These peaks are said to be in the Sahyadri range. Have you decided on whom to travel with or would you wanna go on a solo trip? Igatpuri will be the place that will blow your mind away. The place also boasts of a few popular spots that people would definitely want to visit.
Distance
If you wish to travel from Mumbai to Igatpuri by national highway, you cover a distance of 121 kilometers approximately. The distance from Pune is 245 kilometers approximately. Travelling from Delhi by bus? The distance is 1200 kilometers approximately. There are different routes to reach the destination from the origin. The distance may vary by a few kilometers depending on those routes.
Things to do in Igatpuri
1. Camel Valley
The valley is famous for the view of five waterfalls that gives an impression of falling on one below the other. Families plan a weekend getaway from Mumbai considering that they can visit this valley. If you travel by train, you may be able to view it from there too.
2. Vipassna Centre
Igatpuri is famous for this academy which is Vipassna centre for meditation. People flock to this spot to get themselves a certificate in meditation or simply get a course on meditation done. The founder is S.N. Goenka. When you are here, you will be mesmerized by the attractive golden pagoda. The centre is not only visited by Indians, but from people all across the globe.
3. Vaitarna Dam
People willing to go on an adventure trip to Igatpuri makes it a point to be here and enjoy their time. The unpolluted air, beautiful scenery complements the vibe in the humans. JenJon Lake is close by in case you want to have a look around. The water for this dam is received from the Upper Vaitarna. Enjoy fishing, boating and bird watching in this place. With panoramic views of the grandiose lagoon and Western Ghats in the backdrop, this is an ideal location for setting a camp.
4. Tringalwadi Fort
This fort is at an altitude of 3000 feet and behind the temple Ghatandevi. As it is at a great height, once you reach the fort, you can have a 360-degree view of Igatpuri. Don’t forget to carry your camera for some great pictures.
6. Kalsubai Peak
It is a sight to watch for any traveler. Located in Bhandardara, Kalsubai peak is the highest peak of the Sahyadri range. Being the highest peak, it is also popularly known as the Everest of the state. This peak is also famous for other activities that attracts adventurous travelers like hiking, camping, and sight-seeing. It is, therefore one of the best places to visit for those who are on an adventure trip with friends or even with family. The trek to the peak is tricky and even give some of the experienced trekkers run for their money. Do share the experience with us if you trekked to the peak.
7. Bhatsa River Valley
If you like a valley that is a perfect amalgamation of vegetation and rocks, Bhatsa River Valley is where you should be. The place lies just before reaching Igatpuri. It is very close to the hill station and a must visit for the picturesque view it offers.
8. Ghatandevi Temple
People who like to find peace wherever they go can visit this temple. It is a peaceful temple with greenery every side. The temple can be reached through a lean road and a famous one in Igatpuri. The locals find it a temple that has been protecting the Ghats for ages. Therefore, the locals have named it as “the protector of the Ghats”.
9. Kalungadd Trek
When you are on an adventure trip, you need to have a few adventure spots on mind. This is one of them. Trekking is loved by everyone. You will want it to be a never-ending experience when you choose the Kalungadd Trek. Being a hill fort, this place has several caves and ancient things to look for.
There are more treks and sight-seeing places in Igatpuri that may be of your interest. Both type of travelers are welcomed by this place with its beauty and activities; families and friends.
Budget
We all know that the topic budget is subjective. You may spend more or spend less; that entirely depends on you and the place you are travelling from. If it is a weekend getaway from Mumbai for two days, your budget should be around Rs 4500. On the other hand, if you are travelling from Delhi for an adventure trip with friends, your budget will be on the higher side; most probably Rs 7000 for two days. The maximum amount depends on your bucket list and the luxury you choose. In short, you should be ready to spend a minimum of Rs 4500 – Rs 7000.
How to Reach Igatpuri?
Unlike many hill stations in India, Igatpuri boasts of its well connectivity. You can reach here by train, air or by road. The choice is yours.
If you are travelling by air, the nearest airports are Mumbai Airport which is 135 kilometers from the destination, Pune Airport which is 238 kilometers and Aurangabad Airport which is 237 kilometers. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to Igatpuri.
If you are travelling by train, you need to deboard at Kasara and take a local transport from there. In case you feel like travelling by train, you can change at Kasara and take a local train to Igatpuri. Although the latter will be time consuming.
Most of the buses travelling to Igatpuri from other cities take you to Kasara. From this city, you take another local transport and reach Igatpuri.
Driving by car will be the best option if it is a trip from Mumbai, Pune or Aurangabad.
Best Time to Visit Igatpuri?
Being located in the western part of India, like most places, Igatpuri also blooms to its max during Monsoon. Even winter is the time that will ensure that you have the best time of your trip. You need to visit this place during Monsoon or Winter. (August to Early March)
Have you decided by now if this winter is the time for you?
Places Nearby to Igatpuri?
When you are in Igatpuri for a family trip or an adventure trip, you must visit a few places nearby. These places include Mumbai, Pune, Aurangabad, Khandala, Lonavala and even Alibaug. It is like killing two birds with one stone.
